Car Maintenance

DRAMATIC footage shows the moment a pensioner was rescued from the sunroof of his sinking Bentley after it plunged into the sea.

Retired funeral director Robert Hill had driven to a waterside car park before his motor suddenly accelerated and careered down concrete steps in Sandbanks, Dorset.

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The expensive bronze-coloured motor worth £50,000 hit the water after rolling down from the car park at around 5pm on Monday.

Mr Hill, 74, said he was unable to unwind the electric windows or open the door and feared he was about to drown as the interior started to fill with water.

But footage captured three brave shore fishermen jumping into the harbour and swimming to the car.

Two were seen clambering onto the bonnet of the semi-submerged car as they desperately tried to get a hold of Mr Hill.

Video captured the moment the 74-year-old was then pulled through the sunroof by the courageous strangers.

The brave trio then helped escort him back to shore as worried bystanders watched on.

But just moments after returning him to land, the Bentley sank to the seabed at the entrance to Poole Harbour.

Mr Hill, who was taken to hospital to be checked over, said: “To the men who swam into the water to get me out, I can’t thank them enough for saving my life.

“I would have died within five minutes if it hadn’t been for those chaps.”

Mr Hill recounted how he was slowly driving towards the kerb when “all of a sudden the engine revved up” and despite putting his foot on the electric brake,.

He added: “It was too late and my car did a dive into the water like a submarine.”

However, the 2013 Bentley was later winched from off the seabed by the Poole Harbour Commissioners as it posed a potential hazard to shipping.

It remains in the car park on the end of the Sandbanks peninsula.

Sandbanks is an affluent neighbourhood known for its high property prices.

Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and ex-Premier League boss Harry Redknapp live nearby.

In 2005 it was reported to have the fourth highest land value by area in the world.

A Poole Harbour Commissioners spokesperson said: “A car entered the water from the car park adjacent to the Sandbanks Ferry’s ramp at Sandbanks.

“The vehicle entered the water directly from the Ferry Way Car Park.

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“A number of local anglers and passers by sprang to their assistance and the sole occupant was assisted from the vehicle before it submerged.

“Divers and a crane were mobilised for recovery and the vehicle was lifted safely ashore at 10.30pm.

“We would like to take this opportunity to commend the swift and selfless efforts of those individuals on the quayside who assisted the gentleman from his car before it sank.

“We would also like to thank PHC staff, partner agencies and our contractors who worked late into the night, recovering the vehicle to ensure the safety of navigation and protection of the environment.

“We would like to take this opportunity to commend the swift and selfless efforts of those individuals who assisted the gentleman from his car.”

DRIVERS have been urged to make changes to their car’s air con that will save them thousands of pounds.

Experts have warned that not using your motor’s air con this winter could see drivers dealing with costly repairs or even fines of up to £1,000.

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Air conditioning isn’t just for cooling off in those hot summer months.

Many drivers may think switching off their air con in the winter will help save money – but the opposite is true.

It also works as a dehumidifier, preventing mould, odours, and health risks but only if it is used regularly.

If you don’t use it for a period of time it can lead to moisture build up, bacteria thriving and repairs can become costly.

And a misted windscreen can prove more than just a nuisance – it could land you with a £1,000 fine and three points on your license.

Using your air con is the quickest way to clear it and it will also regulate your heating and cooling to keep the motor’s cabin comfortable.

Car maintenance experts at Fixter have shared six expert tips on how to properly use your air con system during the colder months as well as maintenance tips.

Run your AC regularly

Their first tip is to run your air con regularly, even on cooler settings, a small habit that can save you from those costly long-term repairs.

Experts at Fixter recommend to use your air-con for 10 to 15 minutes once a week and occasionally on a colder setting.

This will keep seals lubricated, prevents mould growth and stops the compressor from seizing.

Demist your windscreen

They also advise that you demist your windscreen fast to stay legal and avoid that hefty £1,000 fine.

They say that the quickest and safest way to clear fog or frost is by combining warm air with your air con.

This will reduce humidity while the heat will speed up defogging.

You should direct airflow at the glass and avoid using your recirculation mode.

Don’t skip your winter service

Even if you’re not blasting cold air, your air con is still working hard behind the scenes, experts at Fixter say.

A regular servicing will keep the air con system efficient and will prevent bacteria building up.

It will also reduce the risk of breakdowns when you need it most, they added.

Check your cabin filter and airflow

If your filters are clogged, your air con is going to have to do more work to demist your windscreen.

Fixter says a clogged pollen or cabin filter will restrict airflow, make your demisting slower and get your air con working harder.

And if your vents feel weak, it could also men your refrigerant is low – both are quick fixes if caught early but are expensive if ignored.

Don’t ignore unpleasant smells

If there are some unpleasant smells in your cabin, it may be a sign of a bigger problem.

Musty odours when you turn on your air con are usually caused by mould or bacteria, Fixter says.

This will affect cabin air quality as well as your health and can be fixed with a clean or filter replacement.

Clear your vents before driving

Fixter says that clearing your vents before driving is also crucial.

Snow or ice blocking your cars external vents can stop your air con from circulating air properly, forcing the fan to overwork.

You should always brush them clear before setting off.

More on motors

Whether it’s a weird noise or a check engine light, every driver knows the dreaded feeling of another costly trip to the mechanic.

Thankfully, a new middle aisle buy from Lidl can help to save you money by ensuring one part of your car is always in perfect shape.

What should be in your winter car kit?

By Jacob Jaffa, Motors Reporter

Here’s what should be included in your winter car kit, according to the RAC:

1. Ice scraper
2. Torch
3. Paper maps
4. Phone charger
5. Warm clothes/blankets
6. High-vis clothing
7. Jump cables
8. Jerry can
9. Warning triangles
10. Food and drink
11. A shovel
12. Sunglasses

A major car brand recently recalled another 10,000 motors in the UK over a serious safety flaw.

Another brand recalled five models in UK over a defect that increases risk of crash.

And a huge UK car dealership has announced its sudden closure.

Plus a small parking mistake that could land drivers a hefty fine of up to £1,000.

A LUXURY car is now able be unlocked without even using keys thanks to a hi-tech new feature.

The motor has left fans shocked as hands are not even needed at all to open the doors.

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Mercedes has unveiled their jaw-dropping new Mercedes-Benz Vision V, which has gained attention on social media.

One influencer shared the exciting new motor on TikTok with a tour of the Vision V.

The display of the car’s door lights up as she walks towards the vehicle, and reads: “Hi Tuesday Le Roux.”

Le Roux then says, “We’ve got face recognition. Let’s scan.”

A camera appears as it scans Le Roux’s face.

This enables the passengers doors of the Mercedes slide open and the front door swings out.

And illuminated side step also comes out making it easier for passengers to climb into the vehicle.

The interior of the Mercedes reveals fully white leather seats and an illuminating floor.

A 65-inch television screen is also able to emeberge from behind the front seats.

“We also have seven projectors all over the car creating a fully immersive experience, including projecting on the windows,” Le Roux adds.

Other features inside the Mercedes is a chessboard that folds out between the passenger seats which are zero gravity, have extendable leg rests, and can be fully reclined.

On the outside, the front grill can light up along with a “world’s first illuminated” Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet.

And there is no glass at all along the front headlights, which actually contain crystal.

The rim of the wheels also illuminate.

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On the roof are several solar panels, and the back light is illuminated with a ring all around the back of the car – this contains the indicators.

Commenting on the video posted by car and technology influencer Tuesday Le Roux, fans shared their shock by this new motor.

One wrote: “Mercedes Vision V is like my living room.”

Another added: “Is this one car or heaven?”

A third said: “There is only two cars in the world, Mercedes Benz and the other cars.”

The Mercedes-Benz Vision V is set to be a range of luxurious people carriers to launch in 2026.

It will come in a variety of different models, from ultra-luxurious “CEO transport” to seven-seater family cars.

THIS is the moment the new world’s fastest car hit its record breaking speed of 308mph.

The Yangwang U9 Xtreme from BYD has now officially been crowned the new world’s fastest car – and it’s electric.

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It follows a test drive that was carried out at the German Automatic Testing Papenburg, driven by Marc Basseng.

Yangwang has now released the footage of this record-breaking run on the ATP Papenburg’s high speed oval that was achieved last week.

Basseng can be seen sitting calmly in the car with his helmet on, as the car seems to be rapidly accelerating through the track.

He exits the 49.7 degree banking at over 186mph (300kph).

Then floor it down the main straight to reach the peak speed of 308.4mph.

Basseng can then be seen celebrating the amazing milestone.

He gives a shout, a clap, and removes both hands off the wheel while still going at at 218mph.

The new Yangwang U9 Xtreme is a special edition of the Yangway U9 hypercar which is currently on sale in China.

Basseng also reached the 233 mph in the original Yangway U9 in 2024, and 292mph over the summer.

The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ is the only other one that remains above it in speed, after being driven at 304.7mph.

Following the drive, Basseng said: “This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme simply has incredible performance.

“Technically, something like this is not possible with a combustion engine.

“Thanks to the electric motor, the car is quiet, there are no load changes, and that allows me to focus even more on the track.”

Yangway has said it will sell “no more than 30” of these vehicles.

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It is the first in any production car to run a 1,200-volt electrical system.

The standard is 800-volt.

It also has a lithium ion phosphate battery with the familiar blade configuration of BYD models.

To exceed speeds of 300mph on the track, the car has revised DiSus-X suspension and semi-slick tyres.

And a hefty kerb weight of 2,480kg.

The Yangwang U9 Xtreme may usher a new era of electric supercars to challenge traditional petrol vehicles known for hitting top speed records 

TEN of the cheapest new cars on sale right now in the UK have been revealed.

Experts have also outlined their thoughts on the selection of new vehicles.

Top Gear gave advise on the list of the ten cheapest cars currently on sale, which includes a bizarre “micro car”.

1. Citroen Ami – £7,695

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At the top of the list is the Citroen Ami that is being sold for “the price of a well-used BMW 3 Series”.

It appears to have the “bones” of a quadricycle with a very boxy shape.

This Citroen comes with an 8bhp electric motor, and 5.5kWh.

Top Gear analysts said it was “fun to use and an entirely loveable object” which can reach top speeds of 28mph.

2. Leapmotor T03 – £14,495

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This is a small Chinese electric car that appears well built.

And its price of £14,495 includes a Leapmotor grant of £1,500.

Even though it is small, the interior is still quite roomy and reasonably comfortable.

“The Dacia Spring has already shown that cheap cars like this can have character, something the T03 severely lacks,” reviewed Top Gear.

3. Dacia Sandero – £14,715

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When it first came into the UK, the Dacia Sandero actually cost just £8,000.

However, it is still the cheapest “proper” petrol-powered car that can be bought in the country at the moment.

The vehicle has been described as “simple”, “spacious”, and one that “absolutely nails the brief” for allowing passengers to get from one place to another.

Top Gear’s verdict on the Dacia Sandero was: “If you don’t in the least bit care about cars, this is probably what you should buy.”

4. Dacia Spring – £14,995

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This car is small, electric and cheap for new cars generally.

It has also been considered “simple” but “fun” like its bigger sibling.

Top Gear stated: “It proves to everyone else it is possible for a BEV to weigh largely the same as its petrol equivalent.

“Well done Dacia.”

5. Kia Picanto – £16,695

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The latest Picanto from Kia is aligned with the maker’s belief in The Small Car,

While looking great, it has a fun motor that offers enough practicality for urban life.

“For a first car or something that’s just needed as a runabout, you can’t go at all wrong with the Picanto,” said Top Gear.

6. Toyota Aygo X – £16,845

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This is a 1.0L, three-cylinder-engined car ideal for the city.

It also has a 71bhp that comes through the front wheels for an exciting 0-62 mph in 14.9 seconds.

For the city, this is surely sufficient because it is unlikely you will going faster than 5mph much.

Top Gear’s verdict on the Aygo X was: “It rides and steers impressively well, although the little three-cylinder engine can feel a little gutless.”

7. Microlino – £16,990

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The Microlino is said to be “becoming the cutest, most adorable thing on the road at any given point”.

It is a “micro” car though so doesn’t leave any room for passengers.

Basically a life-sized, portable, electric Playmobil toy.

“As a car it’s flawed,” admits Top Gear.

“Think of it more as a pet.

“Not brilliantly house-trained, but somehow kinda loveable.”

8. Hyundai i10 – £17,100

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This Hyundai is thought to be the most sophisticated version of the humble i10 yet.

It offers fairly impressive levels of technology and tools, with some decent space inside.

A good overall small car, especially for the price.

“Well done Hyundai for having come up with a fresh city car when lots of other car-makers have canned theirs,” said Top Gear.

9. MG 3: £17,245

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The third generation of the Chinese car maker is small, but not a bad drive.

It’s simple, with a more refined interior to make a good all-rounder.

There is still room for improvement in the ride as Top Gear suggests: “If you can ignore the badge snobbery, you could do a lot worse.”

10. Fiat Grande Panda (hybrid) – £18,035

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This vehicle marks a return for Fiat in making motors that are cheap but fun and full of character.

Top Gear writes: “It has a cheery countenance and knowing sense of heritage.

“We approve.”

RENAULT’S beloved Clio has been reinvented for its sixth generation – and drivers in France have been left “dumbstruck” by its surprising new look. 

The new Renault Clio 6, unveiled this week in Munich, has sparked outrage in France, with some claiming the car is unrecognisable.

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One critic said it looked like Ford, another likened it to a Nissan and a third claimed it assembled a seat. 

Several compared it to a Mazda, while others thought they spotted hints of Alfa Romeo or Peugeot. 

Yet they all seemed to agree the Clio 6 does not look like a Renault and in a country with a 126-year attachment to the brand, the absence of its typical features has gone down badly. 

“The discovery of this new Renault has left us dumbstruck,” said Caradisac, the car website. 

“Unrecognisable,” said Capital, the financial magazine. “You can detect a bit of Peugeot, a pinch of Ford, a touch of Mazda and a hint of Seat.” It warned the design “risks disappointing” car-loving readers.

“You don’t change a winning team,” said Les Echos, the financial daily. “However, that is what Renault has done with its new Clio.”

Social media erupted with debate, especially over comparisons to Mazda. One Mazda owner joked: “The new Renault 6 does remind me … of a Mazda 3. This can’t be a bad thing, right?”

The row highlights Renault’s cultural and economic significance in France.

The Clio may not match the legendary Renault 4L or Citroën 2CV, but it has been a modern industrial success story and a familiar sight on French roads.

Over 17 million Clios have been sold since its 1989 launch. 

It was Europe’s second best-selling car last year, behind the Dacia Sandero, another Renault group vehicle, and the top-selling model in France in the first half of 2025. 

“It’s an old love story,” said Challenges, the financial website.

The Clio has even inspired clubs, online forums, and, controversially, a survey in 2023 found 25% of respondents had had sex in their car at least once – the Clio topping the list ahead of the BMW 3 and Audi A4.

The new Clio 6 advertising slogan, “Love redesigned,” hints at the “more spacious and generous” interior Capital mentioned.

Politics and economics also loom large. Renault is France’s only remaining national carmaker, with the state holding 15% to ward off takeover attempts. 

Meanwhile, rivals Peugeot and Citroën are now part of Stellantis, headquartered in the Netherlands.

Conservative voices have criticised Renault’s decision to make the Clio 6 in Turkey, while environmentalists are unimpressed by the hybrid, rather than fully electric, engine option.

Renault insists the car is aimed at a fast-changing market. CEO François Provost said his aim was to rival Chinese carmakers, whom he described as “the best.”

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KEYLESS cars are becoming increasingly vulnerable to theft as criminals turn to sophisticated tools like Game Boy-style emulators, experts warn.

Alarmingly, most mechanics now consider traditional car alarms ineffective as deterrents.

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The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) says vehicle theft in the UK has surged by 75% over the past decade, with 130,000 cars stolen annually.

This trend has sparked calls for smarter, tech-based solutions to deter car thieves.

According to Fix My Car, car owners should adopt multiple layered security strategies and modern tools to help protect their motors – including engine immobilisers and GPS trackers.

Indeed, only 5% of mechanics trust traditional car alarms as effective deterrents, although everyday precautions, such as keeping keys hidden, parking in well-lit areas and checking on vehicles regularly remain essential habits.

Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar, said: “Car theft is no longer just about smashing windows or hot-wiring ignitions.

“Criminals are more cyber-savvy than ever, so drivers need to respond with a balanced approach using both smart technology and visible deterrents.”

And he added: “There are definite benefits to using traditional deterrents in your car, and many manufacturers still recommend steering wheel locks despite advances in vehicle security tech.

“I believe drivers returning to these methods are on the right track but we need to use all the tools available.

“That means combining mechanical immobilisers and telematics trackers with visual deterrents like steering wheel locks and alarm stickers.

“And let’s not forget the cheapest and most overlooked measure of common sense.

“Keeping your keys hidden, parking in well-lit areas with CCTV, and checking on your car regularly are all simple habits that still go a long way.”

The rise in car thefts has also exposed vulnerabilities in high-end vehicles, such as Hyundai’s electric Ioniq 5.

A furious driver, Adam Metselaar, threatened to sue the firm last year after his £47,000 keyless car was stolen in just 31 seconds using a gadget disguised as a Nintendo Game Boy.

Despite keeping his car keys in a protective box to prevent cloning, the thieves bypassed the system using a hi-tech “emulator” hidden inside the casing of the gaming device.

The grey Ioniq 5 was traced four miles away using an Apple AirTag, but it had sustained £10,000 worth of damage.

Hyundai admitted that similar thefts have affected at least 26 cars in London, as per September last year.

They later updated their Bluelink software to introduce additional anti-theft features.

As summer holidays prompt many motorists to leave their cars unattended, FixMyCar is encouraging drivers to take proactive measures to protect their vehicles.

A combination of modern tracking devices, visible deterrents and simple precautions can go a long way in safeguarding cars from increasingly sophisticated thieves.

SUN MOTORS’ bank of trusted used car reviews can help you bag a used car bargain.

Even better, its advanced functionality, like AI search and easy finance options, can make purchasing your new car as simple as possible.

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Sun Motors Reviews

Whether you’re shopping for a low-cost family car or a new convertible, buying a new motor involves a lot of decisions.

What make, model, size, and specification is best for you? 

To help narrow down the options and bring clarity to chaos, Sun Motors contains real-world reviews of thousands of vehicles.

You’ll learn everything about the make and model with insights from top automotive experts at AutoCar, Parkers & WhatCar.

Armed with these reviews, you can make the best buying decision.

Here’s why you should ditch other websites, magazines, and social media and check out Sun Motors reviews.

Which car should I buy? Sun Motors Vehicle Reviews

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We know you’re probably sick of searching for a new car, which is why Sun Motors’ reviews are essential.

The whole system has been designed to be as simple as possible to find the reviews you need, so what are you waiting for? 

Start by selecting the make, model, and series of your car. You’ll narrow down your search to the car you want to learn about in a few seconds. You can also search by rating, review age, and other filters.

Every used car review includes in-depth information on:

• Pros: A realistic review of the good points of this used car.
• Cons: An honest appraisal of any bad points you need to know about.
• Driving experience: Learn what the car is like on the road from someone who has driven it, including handling, performance, and fuel economy.
• Safety: The safety features of the used car will be listed with details on what’s included and what’s not – and why that matters.
• Specifications: Learn about the specs, covering everything from engine size to in-car entertainment.
• Alternatives: See a handpicked selection of other used vehicles you should consider that are a similar size, specification, and cost.
• Pricing: And, finally, you’ll get industry insider advice on the all-important price range for the car according to our experts.

Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford

Sun Motors has created the UK’s First Finance-First Marketplace

*Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 21.6%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances

You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget.

Here’s how…

• Soft credit check, with no impact on your score
• 60-second decision, get a real finance decision in less than a minute
• Instant match, only see cars that fit your real budget
• AI-powered help, get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo

Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds here.

Once you’ve picked … shop by what you can afford 

In the used car world, it’s all about the money.

Sun Motors makes it simple to see financing options available, enabling you to compare monthly payments, overall costs, and affordability. 

When you’re serious about securing your new car, you can use the fast and straightforward finance search option to see how much you can borrow, your monthly repayments, and any final lump sum you may need to make at the end of the term.

It makes it easy to:

• Check your budget first: Add some personal details and you’ll get a personalised finance quote in less than a minute.
• Get your approval upfront: Securing a finance approval in principle means you can relax and browse with the knowledge you’re in the driving seat.
• Browse cars in your budget: You can use Sun Motors’ intelligent search only to display cars you can afford, reducing temptation.
• Drive away happy: Secure your new car, sort out finance, and drive away happy!

Access to information on budget and repayments gives you the power to shop for a new car with total confidence you can afford it.

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Five used-car favourites selected by a Sun Motors expert

Low-cost family favourite: KIA Venga 1.4 

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This 5-door family-friendly KIA Venga 1.4 is for sale at a few quid under £2500. OK, so it’s a diesel and it’s nearly 10 years old, but if you’re looking for a reliable runaround, this compact MPV is a great choice. 

For the budget-busting price, you’ll get a no-frills motor that’s spacious, safe, and (hopefully) reliable enough for thousands more miles.

Smooth operator – BMW 2 SERIES 220D XDRIVE

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A bit of a step up from the KIA is the BMW 2 SERIES 220D XDRIVE. It’s a confident, capable, spacious, and safe grand tourer. OK, so this low-mileage model is diesel, but it’s Euro-6, so it’s not going to cost you a fortune in a congestion zone.

The elevated driving position is comfortable, and BMW’s reputation for reliability makes this a great family car that’s also a little fun once you’ve dropped the monsters off somewhere.

Approved & Awesome: Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI EVO Match Edition

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The Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI EVO Match Edition is a bit of a beast. The TSI engine is smooth and super-reliable. Inside the car, the Match Trim feels like a real step-up from the standard spec.

The Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI EVO Match Edition is a super-hot-hatch that comes used-approved. That means it’s been checked by the experts at VW to ensure it’s ready for the road. 

Europe’s most popular car: 2018 Dacia Sandero 1.0 SCe Laureate

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Would you believe that the basic Dacia Sandero is Europe’s top-selling car? Seems everyone from Scots to Swedes loves a bargain. This 2018 Dacia Sandero 1.0 SCe Laureate has fewer than 50,000 miles on the clock, which is nothing for the low-power, high-reliability powertrain.

Bodywork is up together, and it comes in Dacia’s classic gun-metal-gray. This is no-frills motoring available at £100 per month. We love it.

Superior and sporty: LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0

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Be honest, the Dacia isn’t going to impress anyone, but the LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 will. Buy a used model and you’re getting a high-class motor without taking a massive hit on depreciation. 

OK, so £36,000 isn’t cheap, but class costs and the Range Rover Sport have both in spades. It’s a luxury city car that’ll pull jealous looks at the school gate, but a capable off-roader too. We know you won’t want to get it dirty though.

Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you’re looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.

A MAJOR garage has closed down at the worst possible time – after thousands of drivers across the country were ordered to avoid using their cars as part of a huge recall.

A serious fault recently discovered in Citroen and DS3 vehicles has resulted in a nationwide safety notice.

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However, the sudden closure of Duff Morgan Citroen and Peugeot – a widely-used service centre in Norwich – has now left many vehicle owners in the lurch.

According to the Eastern Daily Press, the service centre and its Express Service, located on Whiffler Road, closed its doors several weeks ago.

And while the reason for the outlet’s closure has not been revealed, it does coincide with one of the largest car recalls the country has experienced so far this year.

The recall, first announced back in June, targets certain Citroen and DS3 vehicles due to potentially faulty airbags.

It has left thousands of UK drivers unable to use their cars, as Stellantis, the parent company of Citroen, issued an urgent “stop driving” alert.

The affected models include all Citroen C3 and DS3 vehicles manufactured between 2009 and 2016, as well as some DS3 models produced from 2016 to 2019.

Recently, the recall was also expanded to include C4, DS4 and DS5 models.

Reports suggest the expansion added roughly 9,968 UK cars to the total, meaning nearly 106,000 Citroen or DS vehicles in Britain are covered by the stop‑drive action.

The recall was prompted by concerns over airbags supplied by the now-defunct Japanese manufacturer Takata, whose components have been linked to fatal accidents.

In one incident, a driver in France was killed after a minor collision resulted in metal shrapnel from a faulty airbag hitting them – prompting an immediate reaction from the company.

Consumer protection organisation, Which?, has since slammed Stellantis for their “chaotic” handling of the recall and called on them to make urgent improvements.

Thousands of customers across the country have been left unable to drive their cars, with many having no alternative modes of transport, according to Which?.

No incidents are yet to be reported in the UK, but the consumer group has expressed its concern for the lack of clarity around available compensation for customers.

They outlined how “major upheaval” had been caused for customers who were reliant on their cars.

This has only been compounded for Norwich residents, as the closure of the Duff Morgan service centre means many have been unable to get repairs necessary for them to use their cars to access work, healthcare appointments or essential activities, such as taking their children to school.

Elderly individuals in rural areas have also experienced isolation due to the lack of transportation.

Many owners across the country have already complained of substantial delays in receiving necessary repairs, with garages struggling to source replacement airbags.

Sun Motors has contacted Duff Morgan for a comment, an explanation on why the site has closed, and which alternative locations frustrated car owners can take their cars for repairs.

Citroen & DS models affected by UK ‘stop drive’ action

• Citroen C3 (second gen) – built from 2009 to 2016
• Citroen DS3 – built from 2009 to 2016
• DS Automobiles DS3 – built from 2016 to 2019
• Citroen C4 – built from 2010 to 2018
• Citroen DS4 – built from 2010 and 2017
• Citroen DS5 – built from 2010 to 2018

EUROPE’S car industry is “heading at full speed against a wall” and risks collapsing if the EU doesn’t rethink its ban on new petrol and diesel cars, the boss of a huge car firm has warned.

In a stark intervention, he said a “reality check” was needed before the 2035 ban on combustion-engine sales is locked in.

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Mercedes-Benz boss Ola Källenius told German business paper Handelsblatt: “We need a reality check. Otherwise, we are heading at full speed against a wall.

“Of course, we have to decarbonise, but it has to be done in a technology-neutral way. We must not lose sight of our economy.”

The luxury brand — once gung-ho about going fully electric in Europe — has already dropped its ambitious 2021 pledge to stop selling combustion cars “where market conditions allow” by the decade’s end.

Källenius, who also heads the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), now warns the EU’s policy could trigger a last-minute rush for petrol and diesel cars before the cut-off, which “doesn’t help the climate at all.”

Electric cars remain far from dominating the market.

In the first half of this year, EVs made up just 17.5 per cent of sales across the EU, UK, and EFTA countries, while plug-in hybrids took 8.7 per cent.

Traditional hybrids accounted for 35 per cent, but that figure includes mild-hybrids, which critics say aren’t “true” hybrids.

Mercedes’ own figures show EV sales slipping — just 8.4 per cent of its global deliveries in the first six months of 2025, down from 9.7 per cent last year.

Even with plug-ins included, electrified models made up just 20.1 per cent of shipments.

The EU’s 2035 ban is due for review in the coming months, but Brussels has so far signalled no U-turn, reiterating in March its commitment to zero-emission new cars by the mid-2030s.

It comes as the boss of Stellantis — the giant behind 14 brands including Fiat, Peugeot, and Maserati — warned that unreachable EU CO2 targets could force plant closures.

Europe chief Jean-Philippe Imparato said the Franco-Italian group faces fines of up to €2.5 billion within “two-three years” if it fails to meet emissions rules.

Without a regulatory rethink by year-end, “we will have to make tough decisions,” he told a conference in Rome.

“I have two solutions: either I push like hell (on electric)… or I close down ICE (internal combustion engine vehicles).

And therefore I close down factories,” he said, pointing to the risk for sites such as Stellantis’ van plant in Atessa, Italy.

The warning comes amid fresh turmoil for Stellantis, with its new CEO Antonio Filosa inheriting the fallout from Donald Trump’s 25 per cent US import tariffs and a crisis at Maserati, which has seen sales plunge from 26,600 in 2023 to 11,300 last year.

With EV targets biting, petrol and diesel models under threat, and luxury brands cancelling investments — including Maserati’s £1.3bn electric MC20 Folgore — Europe’s car bosses are sending a clear signal to Brussels: ease off, or risk slamming the brakes on the continent’s auto industry.

Everything you need to know about electric cars

A BELOVED car garage with hundreds of thousands of fans has been forced to close its doors. 

The garage is shutting down after nearly six years, after its famous owner battled with “rising costs”. 

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Joe Betty first set up his famous garage Berrow Motors in 2020, in the sleepy town of Burnham-on-Sea.

During that time, he slowly built up his customer base and started posting videos about motors online – quickly racking up millions of views. 

His YouTube channel Shifting Metal takes viewers behind the scenes of his high-flying lifestyle, as he buys and trades luxury vehicles including Porsches, BMWs and Jaguars. 

However, after becoming one of the most famous motor influencers in Britain, Joe has been forced to close the garage which helped launch his career. 

The petrolhead and influencer says that rising costs are to blame for the sudden closure of Berrow Motors. 

He said: “We’ve had nearly six fantastic years here. 

“We’ve won awards, gained over 100,000 YouTube subscribers and raised over £30,000 for local causes — but have decided now is the time to move on.”

“The cost of running a business is constantly rising and has certainly played a part in my decision, but I also wish to focus more time on fundraising and other business ventures.”

He added: “I want to thank all of our wonderful customers for their business over the last few years and of course the team members who made Berrow Motors what it was.

“I really hope another motor trader takes over the site and makes a success of it – you couldn’t ask for better landlords than the Welland family.”

Fans flooded the comments section on Shifting Metal’s social media, as Joe broke the news. 

One wrote: “sorry to hear that the business is closing down. I wish you and your family all the very best for the future”

Others said they would miss Joe’s hilarious challenges that he would set himself on YouTube. 

In one video, he flipped a coin to set the price of a luxury land rover and, in another, he bought and sold a Mercedes C63 for an eyewatering £35,000.

After letting go of the garage, Joe says that he is going to be focusing on producing even more “car-centric” content online.

The news comes as even major car brands struggle to stay afloat.

Nissan has been forced to accelerate the closure of two of its factories in Mexico, as it slashes its number of global factories from 17 to 10.

The crisis-hit brand has been battling rising debt, which it is hoping to remedy through its Re:Nissan plan.

The UK government even threw the manufacturer a lifeline, by allowing UK Export Finance to underwrite a £1 billion loan for Nissan.

It is hoped that the move will keep the Sunderland factory – Nissan’s only site in the UK – open.

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THE BEST selling cars of 2025 so far have been revealed, featuring a hatchback favourite that has roared back into the lead.

It comes as car manufacturers have updated their sales figures for the year, determining the current most popular new motors for UK drivers.

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At top of the charts again is the Ford Puma, which has continued to be a UK best-selling car in the last two years.

If it maintains this position for the rest of 2025, it could have a second consecutive year as the top model in the country.

This is despite slower start to the year than last, but regained its position in February.

The broader new car market is also experiencing fluctuations, which can be linked to challenges as well as uncertainty about government incentives.

However, a definitive list of the top 10 best-selling cars of the year at the moment has been provided through SMMT data.

1. Ford Puma – 30,764 units

The Puma has secured the top spot in UK sales since February this year, despite having a slow start to 2025.

This may be linked to its appealing features, being engaging to drive, and attractively priced.

There is also the option of a hot Puma ST variant, and soon arrival of the electric Ford Puma Gen-E.

2. Kia Sportage – 27,494 units

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This family SUV from the Korean automobile manufacturer retained second place for the third consecutive month.

At the end of 2022, it entered its fifth generation, and still looks a fresh and modern vehicle.

With mild-hybrid, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the Kia Sportage provides great variety for buyers.

3. Nissan Qashqai – 24,529 units

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The Nissan Qashqai really peaked in 2022 as the UK’s best-selling car.

Since then, it has finished in second in 2023, and third in 2024.

It comes in at third again at the moment, proving to be a continually popular car for buyers.

The British-built family crossover provides excellent practicality, no doubt encouraged by the electrified powertrain that was added to its third generation.

4. Vauxhall Corsa – 22,196 units

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The Vauxhall Corsa has been another car that has fallen in the rankings over the past few years, after being the top in 2021.

Sales of the model fell steadily, to being left completely off the top 10 in 2024.

It has, however, been given a facelift, and proves to be performing well again.

The new supermini offers great value for money, with strong and economical powertrains, as well as some impressive digital tech.

5. Nissan Juke – 21,604 units

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The Nissan Juke finished in fourth place in 2024, and has remained a popular car in the UK.

The small SUV received a refresh in the middle of 2023, after being on sale with its brand new design from 2020.

It subsequently became hybrid powered for the first time.

6. Volkswagen Golf – 18,974 units

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The Golf is a dependable and efficient car that has been a popular one for some time.

It is good all-round family hatchback that has been slowly creeping its way back up the charts.

Autocar have considered this Volkswagen a “handsomely understated” designed car that has an effortless look.

There are options for drivers to customise their vehicle’s interior, though, and the new models can even come with heated seats. 

The German company has provided a wide-reaching technology update, a design revamp, a more powerful GTI hot hatch and a longer-range plug-in hybrid for the model, so it continue to climb in the ranks.

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The MG HS has been described as offering “nothing short of class-leading value for money” to justify its placement on the list.

It is available with a petrol engine or as a plug-in hybrid.

The family crossover also comes with good levels of equipment, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 360 degree parking camera and smartphone mirroring capabilities.

8. Volkswagen Tiguan – 17,750 units

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This is Volkswagen’s popular family SUV, that has consistently been one of its best-sellers in the UK.

It is a practical and versatile option that gets a wide range of powertrains from petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids.

Standard equipment of the vehicle includes a reversing camera, parking sensors, wireless smartphone mirroring and dual digital screens.

9. Peugeot 2008 – 17,605 units

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The French firm offers style, frugal hybrid trains and electric options with this model.

The Peugeot 2008 also provides generation standard equipment for its price.

This includes front and rear parking sensors, a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen and active safety braking.

10. Hyundai Tucson – 17,249 units

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This car has been a regular favourite in the UK’s top 10 list.

The popular SUV is arguably the most premium option on the list, with a eye-catching look and unique lighting arragnement.

It has plush interior and a range of electrified powertrains for many Brits.

ALDI shoppers are racing to the Middle Aisle for a £2.99 car cleaning essential that leaves motors sparkling – with zero smears.

The bargain buy doesn’t just work wonders on windows and bodywork, it also smells amazing.

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This ready-to-use formula is a glovebox game-changer, helping you tackle dirt, bugs and road grime in seconds – with no smears in sight.

PRODUCT DETAILS

The Ride & Go Cherry Scented Screen Wash is just £2.99 for a massive 5L bottle, making it an absolute steal.

And the best bit?

It leaves behind a sweet cherry scent, so your windscreen’s not the only thing getting a freshen up.

Don’t get caught with a filthy screen – stock up while it’s still on shelves.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Shoppers say the streak-free finish rivals big-name brands – but for a fraction of the price.

The all-in-one liquid wash lifts dirt, dust and grime in seconds, leaving your car looking showroom-fresh without the elbow grease.

And with its fresh, clean scent, it’s not just your paintwork that gets a glow-up – your whole motor will smell lush too.

Whether you’re prepping for a road trip or just want to impress on the school run, this £2.99 wonder is a glovebox must-have.

And it’s one of the cheapest screen washes on the market – with some retailers charging up to a tenner for similar products.

Even Halfords and B&Q’s versions come in at £7.49, making Aldi’s deal an absolute bargain for drivers who want a clear view without the hefty price tag.

MORE SPECIALBUYS

Aldi shoppers can scoop cut-price household essentials, as well as beauty dupes for luxury brands, with the latest Specialbuys.

A dual-zone air fryer from Tefal is priced at around £99.99, while a Ninja version of the gadget is £129.99.

Aldi’s high-speed blender with accessories is well-priced at £14.99. A similar gadget from Ninja would set you back almost £50.

Elemis’ pro-collagen marine oil is currently on sale on its website for a whopping £72, while Aldi’s Lacura marine oil is just £3.99.

The luxury oil aims to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with marine ingredients.

And Aldi’s version aims to do the same by using algae extract and golden seaweed.

Aldi’s Lacura Illuminate Setting Spray aims to lock your makeup in place for a “long-lasting airbrushed finish”.

It’s an unmistakable take on Chatlotte Tilbury’s airbrush flawless setting spray which will set you back around £32 on beauty website Cult Beauty.

The supermarket has previously offered several Charlotte Tilbury dupes including eyeshadow palette, and flawless filter foundation and they are typically very popular.

Aldi launches fresh Specialbuys every Thursday and Sunday.

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MOTORING experts have revealed the ten cheapest cars to insure in the UK.

The average insurance premium has increased by a whopping 43 per cent year on year from £284 in 2024 to a shocking high of £941.

Prices have begun to drop over the past few months but the average quote is now sitting around £834, which is still a huge premium.

Experts have now revealed how to get this massive premium down a bit.

They’ve revealed the top ten cheapest cars to insure in the UK to help keep the price of motoring down for everyday Brits.

Not only are the motors cheap to insure but they are affordable for anyone looking to pick up a new car.

The list consists mostly of hatchbacks and super minis but some SUVs do make an appearance.

Skoda Fabia

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The Fabia is reportedly the cheapest of all UK motors to insure.

The little Czech hatchback only costs around £237 a year to insure and can be bought for an impressively low £19,410.

Seat Ibiza

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The Ibiza remains a cheap option since the mark one was introduced to the UK market in 1983.

At only £240 a year and £19,795 to buy the little hatchback remains one of the UK’s best cheap and cheerful models.

Dacia Sandero

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Costing just £240 a year to insure and a very cheap £13,250 to buy, the Romanian motor offers an excellent option for first time drivers.

Only slightly more expensive to insure than the Ibiza the Sandero is a fair sight cheaper to buy than most of the alternatives.

Volkswagen Polo

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The German made Volkswagen Polo is up next with an insurance premium of around £247.

A favourite among first time drivers in the UK the Polo costs just £21,210 to buy.

Volkswagen T-Cross

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Surprisingly the SUV style Volkswagen T-Cross came in next, despite being large it can be insured for just £248.

A Volkswagen T-Cross could be purchased for around £24,895 and offers the most space on the list, perfect for families.

Hyundai i10

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The first Japanese car on the list, the Hyundai i10, can be insured for only £259 and purchased for a modest £16,380.

The most technologically advanced of the motors on this list the i10 offers a slew of futuristic features not available with some of the other options.

Kia Picanto

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The tiny Kia Picanto can be insured for just £250 and bought for only £18,945.

One of the smallest motors on the list the quick little car is a perfect option for the city, learners or first time motorists.

Kia Stonic

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Another Kia, the Stonic, though much larger than the hatchback Picanto, can be insured for around the same at £260.

Buying one is a fair bit pricier though costing motorists around £20,265.

Hyundai i20

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Not to be confused with the much more powerful i20N the Hyundai i20 can be insured for just £282 and purchased for £20,880.

A little larger and more powerful than some other entries on the list the i20 offers a bit of a step up in performance for a bit of a step up in cost.

Toyota Aygo X

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Scraping in at the bottom of the list the Toyota Aygo X can be insured for £307, the only motor on the list to break the £300 mark.

It remains relatively cheap to buy however at around £16,515.

A MAJOR car dealership has suddenly shut down after forty-five years of selling 10,000s of motors.

Customers in Lowestoft, East Suffolk, were shocked by the owner’s statement announcing their closure.

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Stanley Street Motors, run by John Mitchell, has been serving a loyal client base since 1980.

But the boss revealed he will be powering down operations due to health reasons.

In a statement on Facebook, the firm said: “Stanley Street Motors has now ceased trading, due to ill-health and retirement.

“This facebook page is in the process of being closed down, and the automatic updates will shortly cease. Our website will have further details in due course.

“We at Stanley Street Motors want to thank you, our customers and friends, and all our suppliers, contractors and supporters, everyone who bought our cars, liked our posts and recommended us to others.

“For over 40 years we have bought and sold cars from Stanley Street. Over the years we have had tens of thousands of lovely customers, many of whom became, not just repeat customers, but friends.

“We will miss you all. Thank you and goodbye.”

The site will now be up for grabs at auction through Auction House East Anglia, as reported by the Eastern Daily Press.

Bidders will have the opportunity to bag the property on June 18.

A guide price has been listed for anywhere between £200,000 and £300,000.

A spokesperson from the auctioneers said: “Former car sales showroom and forecourt with development potential.

“This showroom with offices and workshop is to be sold vacant and ready for a new operator, or there is potential to change the current use subject to planning.

“The premises has been used successfully for used cars sales and repairs by the current owners for over 40 years but is now being sold due to retirement.

“The premises comprise of a generous showroom, workshop, two offices, presentation suite, kitchen and cloakroom.

“There is a large forecourt for upwards of 30 cars and the premises has three phase electricity and security alarm system.”

This comes as motor dealerships across the UK have been waving goodbye amid a string of devastating closures.

Last month a highly recommended company with excellent reviews shut down suddenly.

The Evans Halshaw location ceased trading quietly with no warning given.

Elsewhere, a pioneering car dealership with over 91,000 vehicles is currently on sale – putting over 100 jobs at risk.

The German online used car marketplace has made heavy losses since opening in the UK in 2019 when it looked to rival Auto Trader and Motors.

Heycar’s majority shareholder, Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS), have pulled the plug leaving more than 126 employees across the UK, Germany, and France at risk of losing their jobs.

Meanwhile a fellow dealership pulled the shutters down as part of a “brand shift” with staff being moved over to another company.

The Sytner Group sold its former Manchester Carshop site to a used car company.

Shaun Lane, the CEO of Motor Range, announced the move on LinkedIn.

According to Business Rescue Expert there are multiple reasons why car dealerships are folding across the UK.

The first major factor is rising online car sales which are beating in-person sales at dealerships.

With an extensive range of comparison and second-hand sites to chose from, may car buyers don’t even step foot into a dealership anymore.

Secondly, the actual cost to physically run the sites has soared.

Rent, wages and energy bills have all been increasing for roughly the past five years, putting many out of pocket.

Car manufacturing across the globe was also hit by a semiconductor chip shortage in 2022 which made it difficult to produce new motors.

The high demand with limited supply created a backlog, which although has eased, is still having an impact on the industry.

A third reason for recent closures is the shift to electric cars.

They are becoming more popular, given the Government initiative to be Net Zero in 2050.

The industry is also affected when companies merge or are bought by rivals.

This may lead to some independent names falling victim to the ongoing spate of closures.

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A COASTAL town was treated to free chips with a twist – the chippy was powered by an electric car.

In the aptly named Kent town of Deal, National Fish and Chip Day was celebrated with 300 portions of chips given away, as well as a limited run of battered fish.

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But it wasn’t your ordinary chip shop, with the chippy being powered by two electric cars and fronted by TikTok’s ‘Chip Shop Diva’, Destiny Harold.

The Dacia Spring, which its makers say is the cheapest electric vehicle currently on the market, was the power behind the frying, in partnership with local chippy, The Blue Mermaid Fish Bar.

It comes after a poll of 2,000 adults found fish and chips is the most popular treat on a British holiday, as well as cream tea and hot doughnuts.

Others to feature in the top 20 list include Mr Whippy ice cream, Cornish pasties and mussels.

Quintessentially British foods, such as fish finger sandwiches, strawberries and cream and a pie and mash also featured in the ranking.

A spokesperson for car brand Dacia said: “It was fun treating passers-by today and showing the power of our electric car, Spring, using its vehicle to load technology, which allows you to power external devices off the car’s battery.

“It’s no surprise we have a national day dedicated to the iconic meal that is fish and chips and the study shows just how much we love it and associate it with holidays by the seaside.

“Playing on the phrase ‘cheap as chips’ in line with our affordable car and being in the appropriately named Deal, was a great way to celebrate National Fish and Chip Day.”

The research also found 41% of adults describe such foods as nostalgic, while 45% feel satisfied after eating them.

When ordering a classic fish and chips, cod (48%) and haddock (19%) were the most popular choices, but 69% simply order a portion of chips.

It also emerged 44% believe fish and chips is the ‘food of the people’ and 39% said class doesn’t impact how people eat it.

While 46% feel there is something nostalgic about eating the British staple with a wooden fork, which 33% typically do, although 38% opt to eat it by hand.

Food psychologist, James Cornish, said: “There are few things that unite the British public quite like fish and chips.

“Golden, salty, comforting, and steeped in history, this timeless dish is more than a meal – it’s a national treasure.

“Loved across generations, social classes, and regions, it’s one of those rare things that truly brings us together.

“There’s a certain kind of magic in fish and chips – a simple meal that somehow carries the weight of memory, comfort, and delight.

“Maybe it’s because we don’t expect too much from humble food, but our delight is excelled through the delivering of more than we expected.”

DRIVERS looking to buy an affordable but reliable older motor should consider one of these top 10 picks from the Which? annual car survey.

The consumer group has revealed a list of cars it recommends with five-star reliability ratings between 10-15 years old, some for less than £3,000.

From nippy city cars to big family SUVs, there are options for all drivers hunting for a bargain buy that doesn’t scrimp on quality.

Michael Passingham, senior researcher at Which?, told thisismoney that hybrid cars have come to dominate the list of most reliable, older vehicles.

He said: “Why do these cars perform so well? One reason could be that the hardest part of a car’s life – starting and pulling away – are mostly handled by the small electric motor.

“These motors have fewer moving parts than combustion engines and, along with sturdy main battery packs, really don’t have to work all that hard. 

“The downside is that our data shows a much higher failure rate of the 12V battery (the small battery all cars have) on full hybrids; this component is worked hard so it pays to buy a quality one and get it replaced every five years or so.”

In good news for consumers, so called ‘full’ hybrids’ have been removed from the 2030 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars planned by the government.

Micheal warned against opting for a plug-in hybrid, saying that this type of car has “one of the least reliable engine types according to our data”.

Here is the full list of the 10 best buys for the most reliable older cars…

10. Toyota Auris (2012-2019)

Average used price: £4,650

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Faults: 28% Breakdowns: 7% Days off the road: 5.3

The predecessor to the Toyota Corolla, the Auris served as the brands family hatchback offering for almost two decades until it was replaced in 2019.

The second generation Auris, sold between 2012-2019, boasts impressive reliability with less than three in ten owners reporting faults in the last year, and only seven per cent saying their vehicle broke down.

The average price of £4,650 makes this a competitive option when looking for a family, and environment, friendly hatchback.

The only caveat is that the Auris took an average of 5.3 days to get back on the road after a breakdown, which is higher than other cars on this list.

9. Suzuki Alto (2009-2014)

Average used price: £2,800

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Faults: 25% Breakdowns: 1% Days off the road: 2.6

The Suzuki Alto, released in 2009, is still living up to its promise of being a cheap, compact and reliable supermini.

It was first offered for £6,000-£7,000 and now can be snapped up for less than three grand, the cheapest buy on this list.

The simplicity of the Alto makes it a particularly reliable option, with just 1 per cent reporting breakdowns in the last 12 months, and a quarter saying they had to deal with faults.

If it does need a repair, the Alto’s simplicity means it gets back to you in an average of only 2.6 days.

8. Toyota Yaris (2011-2020)

Average used price: £3,100

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Faults: 23% Breakdowns: 6% Days off the road: 3.1

The go-to small, dependable car for many in the last 25 years, the Yaris, is still making recommendation lists for its affordability and reliability.

With less than a quarter reporting faults and only 6 per cent dealing with a breakdown in the last 12 months, the Yaris still holds up remarkably well after all this time.

This is the 2011-2020 model with a hybrid drivetrain, an addition which makes it economical to drive as well as to buy, averaging just over £3,000.

7. Suzuki Swift (2010-2016)

Average used price: £3,500

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Faults: 27% Breakdowns: 8% Days off the road: 1.4 

Suzuki appears again on this list with the 2010-2016 Swift supermini, a compact, simple vehicle at a compelling price.

Received positively upon release, the Swift was praised for being fun to drive with a competitive blend of efficiency and performance.

Now on sale for only around three and a half grand, this might be a great option for those looking for a small but fiery little motor.

Although it scores a little worse on breakdowns, with 8 per cent being the highest on this list, it does only spend a brief 1.4 days in the shop when things do go wrong.

Couple this with a good score of 27 per cent reporting faults, and this characterful car is still a good buy in 2025.

6. BMW X1 (2009-2015)

Average used price: £5,200

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Faults: 35% Breakdowns: 7% Days off the road: 2.1

In a shock entry to this list, the BMW X1 is an outlier for luxury SUVs, which are often unreliable and costly to repair.

On the contrary, the X1 competes with other, much smaller, simpler cars with a respectable record of just 7 per cent reporting breakdowns last year and only 2.1 days taken to fix on average.

Consumers may be able to take advantage of typically low SUV resale prices, generally due to reliability and repair cost concerns, to pick up this hidden gem for a very reasonable price of around £5,000.

That said, the X1 does rank low on this list in terms of faults, with over a third experiencing issues in the last 12 months.

5. Skoda CitiGo (2009-2019)

Average used price: £4,500

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Faults: 22% Breakdowns: 5% Days off the road: 2.8

Mechanically identical to the VW Up!, the Skoda CitiGo was meant for squeezing into tight parking spaces and down narrow streets while keeping your fuel costs and insurance premiums to a minimum.

After being discontinued five years ago, the CitiGo now makes for a tempting prospect on the second-hand market.

It was initially praised for being surprisingly roomy for being so small, and for being the cheaper alternative to the Up! while essentially being the same car.

It boasts impressive reliability, with only 22 per cent reporting faults and 5 per cent experiencing a break down.

The CitiGo is fairly quick to repair as well, only spending 2.8 days at the garage before being ready for more.

4. Honda Jazz (2008-2015)

Average used price: £3,800

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Faults: 25% Breakdowns: 4% Days off the road: 2.7

Almost exclusively driven by those of a certain age, the Honda Jazz is popular amongst the older demographic for a reason: its convenient, reliable and easy to drive.

These attributes might get Grandma excited, but they should also make the Jazz an attractive option for anyone looking for a solid vehicle at a bargain price.

One in four owners reported a fault with their cars and the average time in the garage was 2.7 days being fixed by mechanics.

Your Jazz shouldn’t be seeing the inside of a garage too often though, with only 4 per cent breaking down in the last year.

3. Lexus RX 450h (2009-2015)

Average used price: £6,400 

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Faults: 16% Breakdowns: 0%  Days off the road: 2 

This chunky SUV was voted the most satisfying car to own in 2024 in a Which? survey.

A glance at the cars record quickly confirms that one of the factors that make it so popular must be its excellent reliability.

Looking at the hybrid-powered models here, only 16 per cent reported a fault in the last year and none had their RX break down on them.

For the times that the RX was sent into the garage, it only spent 2 days on average being worked on.

The price is a little higher than some others on this list, but buyers are getting both space, comfort and relatively good fuel efficiency.

2. Mazda MX-5 (2005-2015)

Average used price: £3,800

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Faults: 26% Breakdowns: 0% Days off the road: 1.7

The iconic MX-5 speeds into the number two spot for good reason, bucking the trend of unreliable sports car to still deliver thrilling driving with solid build quality at a good price.

Hailing originally from the late 1980’s, this example of the world’s best selling roadster is the third generation MX-5, it debuted in 2005 and still holds up today.

The record from Which?’s data is flawless when it comes to breakdowns, and shows that this classic is quick to fix only spending 1.7 days in the shop.

Just over a quarter reported faults, but that’s not a huge figure when it comes to second-hand sports cars.

1. Lexus CT 200h (2011-2020)

Average used price: £7,300

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Faults: 13% Breakdowns: 0% Days off the road: 1.2 

Topping the list as the most reliable 10 to 15 year-old car comes the Lexus CT 200h, a full hybrid hatchback which served as the brands answer to the Ford Focus and VW Golf until 2020.

CT 200h owners surveyed by Which? delivered glowing reviews, reporting zero breakdowns and only 13 per cent experiencing a fault with their car.

Drivers praised the vehicles comfort and, of course, reliability, only pointing to a small boot and clunky infotainment system as critiques, as reported by thisismoney.

The car sells for around £7,000, the priciest offering so far, but its near spotless record should mean your investment pays off with a dependable motor that is good for years to come.

The ones to steer clear of

Which? puts the diesel powered Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2014) and Nissan Qashqai (2007-20013) as two of the least reliable vehicles that consumers should steer well clear of if dependability is their aim.

The Zafira has become known for catching fires in recent years due to issues with its heater blower motor and regulator. This usually happens when owners replace parts with cheaper, aftermarket components.

It is hardly a wonder that drivers are turning to cut-price alternatives when the Zafira breaks down on three in ten owners, with more than half reporting faults in the last year.

The car also takes a whopping 14 days on average for repairs to be made.

The first generation Nissan Qashqai also from suffers reliability issues, and needs almost a week in the garage on average before it is road-ready after a malfunction.

Both these cars use diesel fuel, and Which? has found that this is by far the worst fuel type for reliability, with an average fault rate of 48 per cent, compared to 39 per cent for petrol and 23 per cent for hybrids.

FORD has confirmed that one of their most popular cars has officially gone off the market in the UK.

The American car giant announced that its factories will no longer produce the Focus ST due to a lack of demand.

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The Focus ST was first launched 23 years ago, but has since disappeared from dealer price lists.

But for those wanting to get their hands on some of the last remaining cars, the US firm said that 170 are still unsold in the UK.

Stock is still available to buy in dealerships, but customers will not be able to order new models.

Speaking to Autocar, Ford UK said: “There are no new factory orders available for the Focus ST at the moment.

“But there are around 170 built and unsold currently available within the UK dealer network.

“This includes 30 of the special ST Edition variant in Azura Blue.”

Ford introduced Focus ST to the world in 2002, with the initial ST170 version.

It was powered by a 2.0 litre engine, reaching 60mph in just under eight seconds.

In 2005, Ford introduced the second generation – the ST500 – with a meatier 2.5 litre engine.

Developed alongside Volvo and Mazda, it was powered by a Volvo five-cylinder engine, allowing it to hit 60mph in 6.8 seconds.

But the US manufacturer ditched Volvo in 2010 and introduced the Focus St Mk3 with its own engine.

It introduced a more powerful four-cylinder turbo and lowered the suspension – putting the 0-60mph time at 6.5 seconds.

And finally the Mk4, featuring a slightly larger 2.3 litre engine, which was the first version to offer automatic transmission.

It remains the fastest iteration of the Focus ST, reaching 60mph in 5.7 seconds.

Ford could well be responding to industry trends, with hot hatch cars generally being phased out across the board.

Other big manufacturers, including Hyundai, Peugeot and Toyota have started pulling cars off the market as a result of the low interest.

It comes as the Ford Focus is set to be phased out completely, with its production life cycle terminating in November this year.

The move was first announced in 2022, but Ford’s European chief Martin Sander doubled down on the decision in March.

He added: “In the long run, we are still deeply convinced that EVs will be the future and we will see a significant increase in volume.

“By the end of this year, we will have a full range of electric vehicles and we are quite flexible to adapt to market demand.

“For the next couple of years, we have a broad choice.

“Basically, our customers have the power of choice to pick what they want.”

The Ford Focus was first rolled out in 1998, off the back of their Escort model.

It was one of the last hatchbacks with a manual gearbox.

However, Ford is now putting more efforts into their Mustangs and Broncos to boost profits.

This comes after Ford sales in Europe fell 17 per cent in 2024, the first full year without the Fiesta which was axed in July 2023.

MAZDA is pulling the plug on its first and only electric car, criticised during its four-year run for its limited range and cramped cabin.

The MX-30, which made its world debut at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, is a subcompact crossover SUV that offered EV, plug-in hybrid, and mild hybrid variants.

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But now, it’s quietly reached the end of its production lifespan.

Launched in the UK in 2021, the MX-30 was positioned against competitors such as the Kia Soul EV and Peugeot e-2008.

However, it struggled to gain traction, primarily due to its short range and limited practicality.

One of the most significant criticisms of the MX-30 – aside from its bizarre, coach-style doors – was its modest range of just 124 miles, thanks to its 35.5kWh battery.

The smaller battery size, chosen to reduce the car’s weight, certainly improved handling and lowered its CO2 emissions during production.

However, it also resulted in persistent range anxiety among drivers.

Indeed, today, rivals like the Jeep Avenger, Renault 4, and MINI Aceman offer ranges of around 250 miles, highlighting the MX-30’s shortcomings.

WHAT’S NEXT?

While the fully electric MX-30 has been axed, the plug-in hybrid version remains on sale in the UK.

This variant, equipped with a fully charged battery and a full tank of petrol, can cover more than 400 miles, according to Mazda.

What’s more, the brand is set to give electric cars another stab next year with the 6e saloon, which is poised to be in the same segment as the top-selling Tesla Model 3.

A fully electric SUV is also in the pipeline, but the decision to temporarily pluck its only pure electric vehicle in its lineup is bold – particularly in light of the UK Government’s ZEV mandate.

Under the current mandate, at least 28% of manufacturers’ new car sales must be zero-emissions vehicles by 2025, prompting many brands to prioritise EV production.

As reported by Auto Express, a Mazda spokesperson said: “Mazda will meet the requirements of the ZEV/VETS legislation through the various flexibilities within the scheme and the introduction of further BEVs.”

This comes as Sun Motors supremo Rob Gill recently got to road-test the new Mazda 3, featuring a gutsy 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

AN ICONIC 1980s Porsche left abandoned in a barn for 14 years has sold for over £76,000, which was over triple its estimate.

The dust-covered 911 3.2 Carrera Sport coupé was put into storage by its owner in 2011 after being bought in 2002.

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Its three litre engine produced 231bhp with a top speed of over 150mph.

And it was capable of doing 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds.

According to records, the car only covered 476 miles in the five years before it went into the barn.

It was owned by a busy solicitor near Northampton who barely drove it for years, as reported by Luxury Auto News.

Ahead of its auction its listing said: “The car presented here is a C16 1989-model example from the final year of 3.2 production before the introduction of the 964.

“It is a Carrera 3.2 Sport which was a UK-only model and came factory-fitted with a black lip front spoiler, a rear whale tail rear spoiler, sports seats and Bilstein Sport shock absorbers.

“It was optioned with a sunroof and the sought-after paint colour of silver metallic.”

The iconic 911 was first registered in May 1989 and had five previous owners before being snapped up in October 2002, the listing read.

It added: “This 911 was first registered in May 1989 and passed through five keepers before being purchased by our vendor in October 2002.

The listing added: “We believe he bought it from Autofarm of Bicester, Oxfordshire.

“MOT records indicate minimal usage – just 476 miles covered in five years.

“This is wholly in keeping with what we know about our vendor, who was a very much a car enthusiast, having owned all sorts of interesting cars from Jaguars to 2CVs, but who was also a very busy solicitor with little time to enjoy his Porsche.

“At some point in 2011, he drove the car into his barn adjoining his stone Northamptonshire house and there it has sat ever since.”

Despite being abandoned, the barn’s warm, dry air helped preserve the rare car remarkably well.

“Its condition when it was put away must have been exceptional and very much in-keeping with a minimally used 40,000-mile 911, with original features and components still in place.

“Bodywork panels, paintwork, carpets, headlining and factory-finishes all appear to be original – and a jack and toolkit complete the picture.

It tripled its estimate amid a bidding frenzy

A spokesperson

“The car is a feast of detail for any Porsche enthusiast, preserved in a manner that they will really appreciate.

“Sadly the owner passed away in early 2025 and it falls to the family, particularly his son, to find it a new home.

“This fantastic car is sensibly guided and will obviously require close inspection and a thorough recommissioning before starting/driving but it offers huge potential.

“Cars built from September 1986 onwards were fitted with the more user-friendly G50 Getrag gearbox.

“But all 3.2 Carreras feature galvanised bodies, which together with Porsche’s legendary build quality, ensure that these classics are long lasting.”

It was expected to fetch around £25,000 when sold on Saturday by Iconic Auctioneers in Northampton.

A spokesperson said: “It was driven into a barn for storage in 2011 and offered exactly as found, dust and all.

“It tripled its estimate amid a bidding frenzy.

“With 33 registered telephone bidders as well as numerous bidders in the room and online, bidding raced to £76,500.

“This wonderfully preserved G50‑gearbox example that remains largely original, obviously captured bidders’ imaginations with its untouched state and clear potential.”

It comes after astonishing images showed an abandoned graveyard of vintage cars and fire engines left to rot.

And a classic car dealership worth a whopping £200,000 has been discovered – after sitting in the dark for 20 years.

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