Issue 214 | January 2026
CarDealerMag.co.uk | £6
You didn’t start a business to deal with warranty repairs...
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...but we did. You sell it. We’ll handle everything else. 02 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
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IGNITION. ISSUE 214 | JANUARY 2026
THE BOSS FOUNDER James Baggott
james@thebaize.com Twitter: @CarDealerEd
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jon Reay jon@blackballmedia.co.uk Twitter: @JonReay
EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR James Batchelor
james.batchelor@blackballmedia.co.uk Twitter: @JRRBatchelor
STAFF WRITER Jack Williams
jack.williams@blackballmedia.co.uk Twitter: @JournoJack25
CONTRIBUTORS Becca Chaplin, Jack Evans, Cameron Richards, Nigel Swan HEAD OF DESIGN Graeme Windell
graeme@blackballmedia.co.uk Twitter: @graemewindell
FINANCE
FINANCE MANAGER Emma Davis emma@blackballmedia.co.uk
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ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Kevin Day
kev@blackballmedia.co.uk
ACCOUNT MANAGER Michelle Searle
michelle@blackballmedia.co.uk Twitter: @cardealermich
Distribution Car Dealer is distributed to a database of up to 12,000 franchised car dealers, independents, service and repair sites, car manufacturers and suppliers. Advertisers are supplied with a print certificate every month.
Awards
Winner of Best Business Publication, Headline Auto Awards 2012 & 2014
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Company No: 6473855 VAT No: GB 343 7049 04 ISSN 2756-1364
Car Dealer is published by Blackball Media Ltd (company number 6473855). All rights reserved. Conditions of sale and supply include the fact Car Dealer shall not, without our consent, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated way or in any unauthorised cover by way of trade or affixed to any part of a publication or advertising, literary or pictorial matter whatsoever. Car Dealer is fully protected by copyright. Nothing may be reproduced wholly or in part without permission.
PLUS
SUPPLIERS GUIDE
CONTENTS News Digest Car Dealer Top 100 Forecourt: Jeep Compass
5 10 12
PAGE 76
James’s views on the news 16 Used Car Awards 2025 18 Car news round-up 70
Car Dealer Live Finance Long-termers
72 74 77
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 03
Congratulations to everyone that has won an award and to all those that were nominated.
Here and there Here with tailored finance options. There to help you close the deal.
We make vehicle finance easy with monthly payments for the vehicle your customers want.
Our underwriters work hard to say yes and can carefully review terms of an agreement.
We’re passionate about partnerships and committed to going the extra mile for customers. 04 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
Our digital tools help your customers get behind the wheel sooner. Perfectly suited to distance sales. closemotorfinance.co.uk Finance Funding Compliance Insight
DASHBOARD BUSINESS
Tom Hartley Jnr sees profits soar
SUPERCAR dealer Tom Hartley Jnr has reported mammoth profits and turnover in a year which saw his business complete one of the biggest car sales in automotive history. Tom Hartley Jnr Limited recently filed annual accounts via Companies House, with the figures showing spectacular rises across the board. According to documents, the firm made a pre-tax profit of £32.33m in the 12 months to the end of March – almost three-and-a-half times more than the previous year’s £7.31m.
NEW PRODUCTS
Mitsubishi launch new vehicles in UK
MITSUBISHI’S distributor in the UK, International Motors Ltd, has announced it will be bringing new models to the UK from summer 2026. IM revealed they will come from Mitsubishi’s global line-up and feature its ‘latest advancements in innovation and four-wheel drive technologies’ hinting at SUVs. Mitsubishi Motors pulled out of the UK market in 2020 and closed all dealerships, with those remaining only offering authorised service and repair.
HERE ARE TASTERS OF STORIES YOU MAY HAVE MISSED
NEWS DIGEST
CLICK ON THE PICTURES FOR THE FULL STORY
EXCLUSIVE
‘Frankly we could have done without it’: Stellantis boss reacts to the changes in the Budget
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tellantis’s UK boss says that the per mile charge on EVs announced in this week’s Budget has left the carmaker ‘pushing uphill’. Eurig Druce, group managing director of Stellantis UK, says that a charge on EV usage was ‘inevitable’ at some stage, but admitted that the industry ‘could have done without it’ in the current climate. Speaking exclusively to Car Dealer, the 46-yearold said that the move would likely reduce demand, potentially causing further challenges when it comes to meeting ZEV mandate targets. He added that he will now be working with colleagues from other brands to make sure that carmakers don’t end up ‘supplementing the coffers’ with money from fines, incurred for failing to meet quotas. Druce told Car Dealer’s James Baggott: ‘It was inevitable that at some point we have to start charging for the use of electric cars. Frankly, we could have done without it in this period of timing, but our focus needs to move to convincing the customer that choosing an electric car is still more attractive than choosing a petrol car.
‘When you look at total cost of ownership, that charge for use is at half the level of what it would be for a petrol car but we didn’t really need the added complication. ‘In terms of what impact it has in on the market, I guess we could go OBR forecast. They might know better than me and they’re talking about an impact over the decision period of 400,000 cars, some of that supplemented by more money coming into the electric car grant, and the changes on the taxation bands. ‘That poses a question about what happens to the ZEV mandate because the decision has been taken to reduce demand, and I’m not seeing demand naturally at the level of the ZEV mandate. ‘I really have to work with industry colleagues to push uphill now to try and make sure that we don’t supplement the coffers with fines.’ Despite his concerns, Druce did see some small reasons for positivity within Rachel Reeves’ announcement. The government shelved much-criticised plans to end Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS), which had been due to come into effect on October 6, 2026.
GOVERNMENT
Premium car brands rocked by last minute changes to Motability PREMIUM car manufacturers say they were taken by surprise by news they were to be excluded from the Motability scheme. Despite rumours for weeks that the government was planning changes to the charity scheme in the Budget, official word changes were being made was only issued to car makers the day before the Budget. Manufacturer sources at some of the affected brands told Car Dealer they were only informed they were to be thrown out of the scheme at 5pm on the day.
‘We heard rumbles that changes were coming last week, but nothing official,’ said one source. ‘Then, last night came the news that there would be an official statement in a few hours and we were out of the scheme. Our leadership team were fuming.’ The annoucement revealed Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz were to be excluded from the Motability scheme as well as all coupe and convertible models from other brands.
TURN OVER PAGE TO CATCH UP ON MORE STORIES CarDealerMag.co.uk | 05
06 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
DASHBOARD FINANCE
JLR revenue takes £1bn nose-dive
JAGUAR Land Rover revealed the true cost of a devastating cyberattack in financial results for Q2. The British luxury brand saw revenues plummet by more than £1bn, around 24%, to £4.9bn for the quarter to September. Bosses said the company expects to have lost further sales due to the continued impact of the shutdown. It also swung to an underlying loss of £485m over the quarter, sliding from a profit before tax and exceptional items of nearly £400m in 2024.
BUSINESS
Ford kills off the iconic Focus
AFTER 27 years in production, the axe has finally fallen on the Ford Focus. The carmaker revealed in 2022 that it would not be replacing the current model with a new generation – and time has now been called on production. In a statement to Auto Express, Ford said: ‘The Focus has been an important part of the Ford family in Europe for over 27 years, and we are deeply grateful for the loyalty and passion our customers have shown for this iconic vehicle.’
HERE ARE TASTERS OF STORIES YOU MAY HAVE MISSED
NEWS DIGEST
CLICK ON THE PICTURES FOR THE FULL STORY
NATHAN COE: WE’RE SORRY PAGE 72
DEALERS
Auto Trader looks to quell Deal Builder backlash as it launches Customer Advisory Groups AUTO TRADER has confirmed the creation of its new Customer Advisory Groups as it looks to quell the backlash against its controversial Deal Builder product. The new groups are now open to independent and franchise retailers as Auto Trader looks to create more ‘open and transparent dialogue’ with its dealer partners. Getting underway later this month, sessions will be
held in both Manchester and London, with hopes for regular meet-ups throughout 2026. The new groups were first announced by Auto Trader boss Nathan Coe, during his recent appearance on the Car Dealer Podcast. They are now up and running and bosses are hoping they will help to start repairing the fractured relationship between the firm and its customers.
GRANTS
DEPARTURES
BUSINESS
More models given top-tier ECG subsidy
Vauxhall MD Steve Catlin departs
Volvo cancels dealer’s contract
RENAULT’S 4 and 5, Alpine A290 and Mini Countryman have got cheaper thanks to the government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG). The R4 and A290 have been eligible for the lower £1,500 subsidy since August, but they, along with the 52kWh ‘Comfort Range’ versions of the Renault 5, now qualify for the Band 1 £3,750 grant. Renault 5s fitted with the smaller 40kWh will continue with the £1,500 saving. Prices for the R5 Comfort Range in mid-spec ‘Techno+’ trim will now start from £23,945, while the R4 will star from £23,445. The Alpine A290 GT+ now starts from £30,245.
VAUXHALL has announced the shock departure of MD Steve Catlin after just six months in the role. Catlin was appointed to lead the brand back in June, having begun his career with the firm 20 years earlier, but he has now departed, citing ‘personal reasons’. Vauxhall will now be led directly by Stellantis UK group MD, Eurig Druce, who had been temporarily in charge prior to Catlin’s arrival. In a further shake-up, Vauxhall has also appointed Michael Auliar as its new commercial director. He will take up his post in the new year, reporting directly to Druce.
CAR dealership group Brindley has been issued with an immediate termination notice from Volvo after a row erupted over the use of a temporary showroom. The car dealer group says it had already been issued with a ‘two year notice period’ from the Swedish car maker because it ‘refused’ to sell its dealership to the brand’s preferred bidder. The site in Wolverhampton was being readied for use by Chery, a new partner for the group, and during this time it decided to move its Volvo operations into ‘temporary accommodation’.
TURN OVER PAGE TO CATCH UP ON MORE STORIES CarDealerMag.co.uk | 07
DASHBOARD
BITE-SIZE Click on the text box for the full story
HERE ARE TASTERS OF STORIES YOU MAY HAVE MISSED
NEWS DIGEST
CLICK ON THE PICTURES FOR THE FULL STORY
CLOSURES: Group 1 Automotive is to close two BMW and Mini sites before the end of the year as part of an ongoing ‘review of strategic options’. The firm’s sites in Stansted and Hindhead will both close at the end of next month, with work now underway to keep job losses to a minimum. COURTS: A woman has avoided jail after accidentally driving into a customer at a car showroom, in an incident that resulted in the victim having her leg amputated. Hayat Ibrhim, 36, was looking for a new car at Lookers’ Chester site when she lost control and ploughed into Karen Smaali. BUSINESS: Family-run dealer group Luscombe Motors has signed off on figures showing a ‘record year’ of trading. Accounts for Luscombe Motors Holdings Ltd for the year ended May 31, 2025, show the Leeds-based business’s revenue for the 12-month period came to £64.7m. GROWTH: The UK car market is set to return to pre-pandemic levels with experts praising the industry’s ‘continued strength and resilience’. Analysis from Auto Trader has forecasted that a whopping 10.2m new and used car transactions will take place in 2026 – levels last seen back in 2019. CLOSURE: A family-run VW dealership has ceased trading after collapsing into administration – leaving staff out of work. Dealer group Hayseldon has ended operations at its VW and Skoda showrooms in Doncaster with immediate effect, following a difficult period. 08 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
EVENT
Car Dealer Live 26 line-up announced with early bird tickets now on sale CAR Dealer Live – the inspiring automotive industry conference – is back and you can bag tickets at discount prices. Launching with an impressive line-up of speakers, Car Dealer Live 26, sponsored by Auto Trader, takes place on March 19 at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire. Tickets are available now for car dealers and suppliers with an early bird discount of £30 off each ticket until the
COURTS
end of the year. They can be booked now on the event website with 10% of the price donated to the automotive industry charity BEN. Sessions at Car Dealer Live 26 – hosted by James Baggott, James Batchelor and Rebecca Chaplin – will showcase franchised and independent car dealers, car manufacturers and experts from across the industry.
DEPARTURES
DEALERSHIPS
Jack Barclay ordered Reports JLR boss to pay over theft removed from post
Van Mossel snaps up UK dealerships
JACK Barclay Bentley has been ordered to pay more than £37,000 over allegations it didn’t do enough to stop a surgeon’s £200,000 car from being stolen from his driveway. Professor Fares Haddad successfully claimed that Jack Barclay Bentley in Mayfair should have ensured that his Continental GT’s tracking system was properly set up and monitored. He told Central London County Court that the dealership’s failure to do so left the car unprotected when thieves stole his car.
DUTCH motor retail firm Van Mossel has snapped up two south coastbased UK dealerships. Breeze Motor Group and Ocean Automotive will now be part of the Van Mossel Automotive Group, as the Netherlands-based powerhouse expands its presence in the UK motor trade. Breeze Motor Group holds Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Suzuki and Ducati franchises, and is an official distributor of Volkswagen parts through the Trade Parts Specialist network.
JAGUAR Land Rover design chief Gerry McGovern is believed to have been removed from his post with immediate effect, according to sources working at the company. The rumours were first published by Autocar and Autocar India, who were told that McGovern was ‘asked to leave the business on Dec 1’. Autocar India reported sources that said the chief creative officer was ‘escorted off the premises’. Car Dealer contacted JLR who told us they currently have ‘no comment’.
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 09
DASHBOARD
WHICH CAR DEALERS MAKE THE MOST PROFIT? THE CAR DEALER TOP 100 2025 REVEALED • Car Dealer Top 100, sponsored by Carwow, has been revealed • List, compiled by Cooper Parry, reveals Arnold Clark has once again grown profits
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by James Baggott @CarDealerEd
he most profitable retailers in the UK have been revealed in this year’s Car Dealer Top 100 – and the biggest just got bigger! Topping the survey once again was the undefeatable juggernaut Arnold Clark, clocking up £380m profit in 2024. The Car Dealer Top 100, compiled by Cooper Parry and sponsored by Carwow, looks at the most successful new and used car dealers in the UK, and focuses on the only stat that matters – how much money they make. Our list analyses accounts for 2024 where possible and focuses on EBITDA profit figures. This is used as it’s the fairest way to compare car dealers like for like and shows the cash generation of these businesses. Overall profit and revenue numbers for 2024 have dropped after a well-documented difficult year for the motor trade. Total profit for the Car Dealer Top 100 stood at £2bn in 2024 – down from £2.6bn in last year’s list, which looked at financial performance for 2023. Revenue was also down drastically on the year before at £72.8bn – compared to £88.8bn. Data from car dealers’ latest accounts were used where possible to compile the list and independent and franchised dealers are included. The majority use 2024 accounts with a year end of December 31. Following Arnold Clark at the top was Sytner with profits of £205m – a dramatic drop from the £246m it achieved the year before. In third place was Lookers with £125m, CEM Day was fourth with £93m and Vertu rounded out the top five with £86m. Russell Borrie, Arnold Clark’s chief executive officer, said: ‘We’re delighted that Arnold Clark has been awarded the Car Dealer Top 100 title! ‘This achievement reflects the dedication of our incredible team and our commitment to long-term growth. ‘By investing in cutting-edge digital systems and expanding initiatives like Arnold Clark Charge and our luxury car portfolio, we continue to anticipate the needs of our customers and drive the future of the motor industry.’ Charging up the table some 40 places and into 16th place on the chart was luxury and supercar dealer Tom Hartley Junior, our most successful used car dealer. 10 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
We’re delighted that Arnold Clark has been awarded the Car Dealer Top 100. Russell Borrie Arnold Clark’s chief executive officer
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CAR DEALER TOP 100 LIST IN FULL
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CAR DEALER TOP 100 LIST IN FULL
We’ve seen a fairly significant fall in EBITDA this year. Ian McMahon Cooper Parry
Click here to watch a special Car Dealer Live video discussing the Top 100 in more detail with compiler Ian McMahon from Cooper Parry After a year which saw the talented seller find homes for Bernie Ecclestone’s collection and Mansour Ojjeh’s McLaren collection, THJ achieved profits of £31.2m. Hartley Junior said: ‘It was a great year and our profits reflected such. However, I am most proud of the fact that in that financial year we sold circa $700,000,000 worth of cars, a number no other dealer at our end of the market has ever come close to before and I am pleased to report we will eclipse that in this calendar year.’ Chief compiler of the list, Ian McMahon, partner at Cooper Parry, said there were a number of struggles in the first half of 2024 and it followed a dramatic drop in used car prices at the end of 2023. ‘We’ve seen a fairly significant fall in EBITDA this year,’ he explained. In a video interview about this year’s Top 100, which you can watch above, McMahon explained that a transition to agency sales for some car makers had caused some of the drop in revenue. ‘Also it’s that cost creep, the continual increase in facilities costs, insurance and, absolutely key for this industry, employee remuneration, that has all gone only one way in 2024 – up,’ he added. John Veichmanis, CEO of Carwow, added: ‘There’s been quite a significant amount of inflation and costs in payroll taxation, insurance, so I definitely get a sense when I talk to dealer partners that it has been really challenging. ‘I don’t think consumer confidence has fallen off a cliff, but we definitely see that consumers are making more considered purchases. ‘Even though we’re seeing the total number of car changes is actually quite healthy. I think it is more difficult and time consuming to manage these customers and get them into a new car.’ CarDealerMag.co.uk | 11
FORECOURT
JEEP COMPASS Power
The 1.0-litre petrol with electric motor delivers 213bhp and 345Nm of torque.
The Compass offers multiple powertrains and has more technology than before, but is it any good? Jack Williams has been driving it to find out. WHAT IS IT? Ever since it first launched, way back in 2006, the Jeep Compass has been a steady but unspectacular presence in the American brand’s lineup. With the company pouring much of its energy into the larger and more famous models – like the Wrangler, Avenger and Grand Cherokee – the Compass has spent years slipping under the radar as Jeep’s most urban-centric offering. While the last car was actually surprisingly strong off-road, its performance on the tarmac left a lot to be desired despite and with more and more competition flooding the market, it has felt like a stale option for quite some time. Now, Jeep is planning to change all that with this, the third-generation Compass. Bosses say the car brings more refinement than its predecessor, while still staying true to Jeep’s rugged roots. We’ve been finding out if they’re right or whether the new Compass lacks a point. WHAT’S NEW? The new Compass is the first Jeep to be offered in a choice of mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric powertrains as the American giant looks to meet its goal of all European sales being electric by 2030. With the compact SUV market becoming increasingly competitive over recent years, Jeep has also given the car updated tech and an improved interior as it looks to see off the likes of the Vauxhall Grandland, Nissan Qashqai and Ford Puma. WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? As mentioned, the Compass comes with a choice of powertrains, in the hope of meeting the needs of as many different customers as possible. The e-Hybrid option pairs a 1.2-litre threecylinder turbo petrol engine with a 48-volt electric motor, producing a combined 143bhp, while the plug-in hybrid uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 17.9kWh battery, delivering up to 51 miles of electric-only range. Meanwhile, from launch, the Electric Compass comes with a 74kWh battery, producing 210bhp and covering 310 miles on a single charge. That will be followed in due course by a pair of longer-range models. These will consist of a front-wheel drive car with a quoted range of 402 miles and a four-wheel-drive version which will be able to do 372 miles. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? When it comes to driving, the new Compass represents a marked improvement on its predecessor, with improved handling, ride quality and comfort all contributing to a more 12 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
THE KNOWLEDGE Jeep Compass Attitude BEV
Price (as tested): £36,999 Engine: 1.0-litre petrol with electric motor Power: 213bhp Torque: 345Nm O-60mph: 8.5 seconds Max speed: 112 mph Range: 310mpg
Style
The Compass’s design stays true polished feel overall. Out on the road, it offers to Jeep’s iconic styling – with good control and improved suspension means boxy and rugged looks. that bumps are handled with far more ease than Vauxhall’s Grandland, with which this car shares a basic platform. The automatic gearbox is also much improved, contributing to a mostly relaxed experience, regardless of which powertrain you go for. However, there are still a few issues to note. Driving the Compass up in the hills above Barcelona, the mild hybrid in particular felt underpowered and getting up some of the steeper inclines was more of a struggle than you’d expect in a Jeep. HOW DOES IT LOOK? Jeep has stuck to a tried and tested formula with the new Compass, opting for familiar design cues that are seen across the brand’s lineup. The shape is boxy and instantly recognisable, as is the signature seven-slot horizontal grille at the front end. Jeep has also leant into its reputation for off-roading and the Compass has been given several touches to add a more rugged edge than the old car. There are chunky black mouldings around the lower parts of the body and hunky trapezoidal wheel arches, which give an impression of being able to go anywhere, despite the car’s limitations on that front. At the rear, there are distinctive ‘X’-shaped tail-light designs and a stylish lighting strip below the back window, which gives a more crisp and modern look. Overall, the Compass stays true to Jeep’s iconic image but adds a few new touches which do a great job of keeping things fresh.
It makes a good first impression with its good looks, comfortable ride and impressive tech.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? Inside, the Compass really is a tale of two halves. Up front, the car feels like a far more premium product than a lot of its rivals with high-quality materials and well-finished soft-touch surfaces right across the cabin. The area is dominated by a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a generous 16-inch infotainment screen, both of which are easy to use and supported by handy physical buttons. However, once you head into the back, you are left in no doubt that you have stepped into the ‘cheap seats’. Sitting in the back row, you are surrounded by cheap-feeling scratchy plastics, particularly on the doors and, despite a good level of space, the whole affair feels much more downmarket than it does up front. WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? From launch, the Compass will only be available in ‘First Edition’ trim level, which will be joined shortly by Altitude and Upland models. Even the entry-level car supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – something that will prove incredibly useful as the car’s in-built sat nav is among the most laggy systems we’ve ever experienced! Other standout tech includes Level 2 autonomous driving, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and semi-automated lane-change assistance. Going forward, the Altitude trim level will bring further premium comfort features and Upland will be more off-road-focused, adding off-roading, rugged styling updates and fourwheel drive. VERDICT Overall, the new Compass is a notable step forward for Jeep and marks a major improvement on the old car. It makes a good first impression with its good looks, comfortable ride and impressive tech but the driving experience does leave a little to be desired. Despite being generally smooth, the mild-hybrid in particular feels sluggish and underpowered, so if you’re after driving pleasure, it’s certainly worth looking elsewhere.
Cabin
Sitting in the front there’s a premium feel, but that feeling doesn’t last when sitting in the rear with all the cheap scratchy plastics.
TARGET BUYERS:
Families and adventurous millennials.
THE RIVALS:
Vauxhall Grandland Peugeot 3008 Kia Sportage Skoda Elroq
KEY SELLING POINTS:
1. Modern good looks 2. Jeep off-road pedigree 3. Smooth and comfortable ride
DEAL CLINCHER: Excellent choice of powertrains.
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 13
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Stability and confidence: Black Horse on building momentum in the used EV market Black Horse’s Preston Rogers chats to Car Dealer
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he government’s new Electric Car Grant (ECG) has led to a renewed focus on EVs, in a much-needed boost for dealers. That is according to Preston Rogers, consumer distribution director of Lloyds Banking Group, who says that Black Horse can help retailers make the most of the increased demand. The industry expert believes that the much-talked about grant has sparked a rise in customer engagement but urged caution as a result of the scheme’s ‘complicated nature’. ‘The one thing we’ve seen is that the scheme has definitely increased interest in EVs,’ he told Car Dealer. ‘We’ve seen data from Auto Trader that shows it’s driven more engagement — and that’s got to be a good thing. ‘The downside is that it’s complicated and difficult to implement, But the increased interest in EVs must be a good talking point and it’s encouraging that the grant has been extended for a longer period in the budget..’ Since launching earlier this year, the ECG has only applied to new cars – something which Rogers believes will need shifting as more used vehicles trickle down into the second-hand market. He says that the scheme is yet to make any impact on the used sector and a shift in policy may be necessary to incentivise take-up. ‘At the moment we don’t see much impact from the scheme on the used market,’ he said. ‘We are keeping a close eye on very young used cars, but ICE stock is still undersupplied. Used EVs haven’t really seen an effect yet, but if we ever replicated something like the grant in the used sector, it would absolutely put a floor under prices — and that’s probably what everyone needs.’ Levelling the playing field For Rogers, the next step in encouraging adoption lies in removing unnecessary barriers. 14 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
He called for improvements to infrastructure and increased education around EVs as part of a campaign to get more motorists to go green. He said: ‘There is a real mismatch in VAT between home and public charging — and that’s a bit of a no-brainer to level up. ‘It creates a two-tier system. When we’re talking about total cost of ownership, it’s hard to tell someone what their energy cost will be because it varies so much. ‘If you don’t charge on the motorway, your cost is predictable — but not everyone can charge at home.’ ‘We’ve still got a cohort of the population that can’t charge at home,’ he added. ‘We’ve got to tackle that and look at what that means for them. Another key area is battery health, which comes down to customer confidence. ‘If someone’s looking at a five-year-old car with 90,000 miles, they might think twice. But if a test shows the battery’s at 95% health, that completely changes the conversation. ‘We think a standardised battery health certification is something the industry and government should work on together.’ Driving dealer confidence Over recent years, used car dealers up and down the country have expressed a reluctance to stock used EVs, citing concerns over tumbling prices and a perceived lack of expertise. Black Horse says it has been working closely with its dealer partners in order to address their concerns and unlock a well of untapped potential. ‘We see massive demand for used EVs, but we don’t see massive adoption of stocking them,’ Rogers explained. ‘Only about 40% of dealers are stocking used EVs, yet EVs now make up roughly one in four new car sales — so that’s a huge mismatch.
‘We’ve been working with some of the biggest players. ‘We are saying: let’s stop the uncertainty. We’re running sale-or-return pilots where dealers commit to stocking significant volumes — 500 cars in some cases — and we back that with a strong finance offer. ‘Once they get through the first month, they find they haven’t had to mark prices down and they’ve sold through. By month two, they’re asking for more cars. It’s been fantastic.’ It is hoped that the initiatives will help contribute to long-term market health as more electric cars filter down. Rogers added: ‘We are trying to bring consistency and confidence to the used EV market — that’s what the whole industry needs. ‘If we can help create that stability, everyone benefits.’ A stabilising force in uncertain times Recent market analysis from the likes of Auto Trader has described the used car sector as being in a ‘stable’ condition, following a period of significant uncertainty, post-covid. It is a take that Rogers agrees with and one which will come as blessed relief to dealers. ‘Stability is a welcome adjective,’ he said.
The increased interest in EVs must be a good talking point and it’s encouraging that the grant has been extended for a longer period in the budget. Preston Rogers Black Horse’s consumer distribution director
‘It’s probably the first year since Covid where we’ve actually seen seasonality return. ‘Dealers know how to trade when there’s predictability. Three- to four-yearold EVs, in particular, are now terrific value — and we’re seeing those prices harden.’ Despite the more serene nature of the market, Black Horse still says retailers should be on their guard against complacency, especially given wider economic uncertainty. Rogers added: ‘The one thing in the back of everyone’s mind is the wider economy.
‘It’s not thriving, and savings rates are climbing, which means people are cautious. ‘What we all need is certainty — and that’s what we’re trying to bring. We want dealers to know there’ll always be a Black Horse EV campaign, always be stock support, always be consistency. ‘Right now, we’re focused on being a stable force in a changing market — because that’s what gives people the confidence to move forward.’
Scan the QR Code to go to the EV Driving Hub For the use of motor dealers and other motor professionals only. Black Horse Limited. Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered Number: 661204 England and Wales. Black Horse Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Black Horse’s Preston Rogers CarDealerMag.co.uk | 15
DASHBOARD
JAMES’S VIEWS ON THE NEWS What’s happening?
A
uto Trader’s share price has dropped nearly 18% in the past month and, this year, it’s one of the worst performing companies in the FTSE100. The online marketplace has been reeling from a round of discontent among dealers after the roll out of the controversial Deal Builder product led to cancellations and downgrades. The firm’s stalled growth spooked investors in May and the departure of the well-respected COO Catherine Faiers has worried the markets too. This month, Auto Trader said it was listening to dealers and announced changes which included making reservations optional for dealers. Retailers can now choose to offer customers the chance to ‘request’ a reservation instead of paying a £99 fee and doing it all on Auto Trader. While this news went down pretty well with the dealers I’ve been chatting to, whether it’s enough to completely quell the anger across the motor trade and shore up the share price remains to be seen. All this got me thinking: What I would do if I was Nathan Coe, boss of the FTSE100 marketplace? Here’s my business plan. First up I’d go further with Deal Builder. I’d make the whole reservation thing completely optional and let those dealers that want to go back to the way they had it before go back. Give them the simple call or message the dealer function on adverts they want. If Deal Builder is the way customers want to buy cars on the platform, and it generates more leads, then dealers will not want to miss out and will naturally gravitate towards it. For my dealership, we take very few reservations because we sell used cars that people want to see first – and I like to think we already do a pretty good job of advertising them. Car buyers at our end of the market want to meet the person who is going to look after them if something goes wrong. The thought of parting with £99 before that has even happened is very 16 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
far from their minds, especially if they’ve not even spoken to us on the phone. So, step one, would be to give the dealers what they want – make Deal Builder completely optional – and then I’d work like hellfire to prove the reservations way is better. But this wouldn’t please shareholders. They want to see growth from Auto Trader and when you already have pretty much all car dealers as your customer base that can be tricky, especially when putting up your prices every year causes such anger. Instead, I’d go for growth with a buying spree. First on my shopping list would be the dealer management software company DealerKit. The firm has built a brilliant DMS for dealers that is in its infancy in terms of customer base, but growing rapidly. It’s a superb product that adds real value to dealers of all sizes, from lead management to advert distribution, and it has many of Auto Trader’s data tools already built in. It would make the perfect partner to the advertising company and could be offered as part of upgraded packages or as a standalone product. Next on my shopping list would be a slightly
more audacious move – I’d also make a move on Motorway. This stock acquisition platform has been growing rapidly and has quickly become a go-to daily source of stock for dealers. This wouldn’t be cheap, but integrating the product into the wider Auto Trader group would cut Motorway’s hefty advertising costs and put it in front of millions of in-market car buyers (who have cars to sell to). It would also be an impressive new revenue stream for Auto Trader. You could leave the auction site’s pricing model as it is or wrap it up into new levels of packages for dealers.
I
suspect Auto Trader has steered clear of launching a rival to Motorway because it didn’t want to tread on dealers’ toes too much by snaffling their part exchanges – but that ship has sailed. Motorway and Carwow are already doing it, so now is the time to pounce. The deal would bring two like-minded businesses together and the ‘synergies’, as the blue sky thinkers like to say, would generate real returns. While doing all of that I’d be looking at other tools I could build from the vast Auto Trader data banks. One I think that’s incredibly under utilised is Market Insights. This gives you an idea of the supply and demand of cars in your area with a percentage score. It’s currently surfaced on Retail Checks, but
Subscribe to James’s weekly newsletter at cardealer.substack.com – out every Friday and directly emailed to your inbox VW dealer collapses into administration as staff are made redundant before Christmas
while I currently take note of the information, it’s not as detailed as I’d like. I am sure it could point to far deeper levels of knowledge about the local car market and help guide the motor trade further. Dealers want to know what cars people are searching for in their market area that aren’t available. If you knew what is in demand you could search for that stock elsewhere and bring it to your site. Even if it was general in terms of types of car, most popular price brackets, etc – it just needs to be real, actionable data that could help dealers build a relevant stock profile for their dealership and the surrounding area. I’d make that a priority and charge dealers for the service. I for one would be happy to stump up for a tool that gave me this level of foresight into what customers want and I am sure many others would too. Think of it as Retail Rating Plus. There you go, I’ve even given it a name, too. I suspect there’s lots of ideas like this out there in the dealer community for things dealers really want from Auto Trader. The advisory groups the firm has set up is a great step and will help. I’d be pressing them for as many ideas as possible – and working quickly to implement them. Oh, and lastly, a personal change: I’d go back to making Auto Trader two words everywhere. But maybe that one would make little difference with shareholders… What would you do if you were CEO? Let me know by dropping me an email here.
Pic of the month
Ineos has unveiled a safari-ready version of its rugged Grenadier 4x4, called the Game Viewer. Built in collaboration with Ineos Kavango in Botswana, the bespoke model will be offered from early 2026.
Quote
Auto Trader’s boss, Nathan Coe
Long-standing dealer group Hayselden has ceased trading at its VW and Skoda showrooms in Doncaster, leaving employees without jobs just weeks before Christmas. Staff say they were only told of the decision on Dec 12, and feel badly treated, with some having more than 40 years’ service. Volkswagen Group confirmed the administration and said it is working to find a new dealer partner.
‘We’re in the fight for our lives and our industry and there is no better example than here in Europe.’ Ford CEO Jim Farley explains why Ford has teamed with Renault to build small cars as he references the threat Chinese car makers pose to established players.
What I’ve heard
IT’S that time of year when the lists for the year begin to emerge so to kick things off I’ve been looking at the used cars that fell the most in value in 2025. Using data from the experts at trade valuations firm Cap HPI, I wanted to know which cars had fallen the most in the last 12 months. The easiest way to compare these cars like-for-like is by looking at the percentage falls – it’s fairer than monetary value overall. Nine out of 10 of the biggest fallers were electrified cars in some way – either full EV or hybrid – and the entire top five were EVs. While the market may be picking up for used electric cars, a lot of it has to be down to the fact some of these models look so cheap after these falls. Top of the biggest fallers list was the Nissan e-NV200 shedding 29% of its value in 2025. A third of a car’s value is a painful amount to lose. This was closely followed by the Subaru Solterra, down 28.5%, and the SsangYong Korando Electric in third, which dropped 22.1%. Despite the negativity, Cap’s Chris Plumb told me that ‘correctly priced’ EVs are selling faster than ICE equivalents and offer ‘attractive margin opportunities’. As a used car dealer, you just need to make sure you sell them quick. Watch my video on our YouTube channel. CarDealerMag.co.uk | 17
The
AWARD WINNERS
FIVE STEPS TO AWARD HEAVEN 18 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
1
Hundreds of nominations pour in from dealers, their business partners and customers across the UK via our survey link.
2
Each entry comes under scrutiny and judges eliminate those dealers who don’t come up to scratch in our first round of mystery shopping.
USED CAR AWARDS PICTURES BY KEVIN BENNETT
James Baggott, founder of Car Dealer, welcomes everyone to the Used Cars Awards
3
We publish an initial list of nominees who have impressed the judges – then another exhaustive round whittles them down further.
4
The shortlist of nominees, along with the categories, is published online in advance.
5
At the awards ceremony, Mike Brewer announces the winner and two highly commendeds in each category. CarDealerMag.co.uk | 19
20 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
DEALERS’ DEALER Category sponsored by Dealerkit Presented by Lee Shayler, co-founder
Winner
Craig Walker Culloden Cars
Highly commended
Umesh Samani, Specialist Cars Stoke Scott Sibley, Redgate Lodge
Umesh Samani
Scott Sibley CarDealerMag.co.uk | 21
Your partner for value-added products and proud sponsors of the Used Car Awards 2025.
for the journey
22 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
autoprotect.co.uk
SERVICE & REPAIR OUTLET Category sponsored by AutoProtect Presented by Fred Saleh, national sales development manager
Winner
Carite Service Centre Highly commended Spencers MOT & Service Centre Redgate Lodge
Scott Sibley from Redgate Lodge with his high commended certificates CarDealerMag.co.uk | 23
You didn’t start a business to deal with warranty repairs...
!
...but we did. You sell it. We’ll handle everything else. 24 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
Time is money scan now to save on both warrantywise.co.uk/dealer
USED EV DEALERSHIP Category sponsored by Warrantywise Presented by Wayne Duxbury, dealer sales director
Winner
Drive Green Highly commended EV Experts R Symons
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 25
5 Ways to Sell Smarter & Earn More in 2026 2026 marks a new era in motor finance. Buyers expect speed, clarity, and personalised options — and dealers who deliver are closing more sales. The old slow, one-size-fits-all approach won’t win sales anymore. These five trends show how the industry is shifting and highlight opportunities for dealers to innovate, increase profits, and win more business.
Compare Fast, Sell Faster: Close More 1 Deals with Price Comparison
4
Choice That Wins: Boost Profits with Multi-Lender
Consumers now shop for finance like they do insurance or loans — fast, transparent, and side-by-side. Real-time visibility of monthly payments, eligibility, and lender options builds confidence and speeds decisions.
With a diverse panel of lenders, customers can select the finance that suits them best. Early adopters of multi-lender structures have seen finance penetration rise by around 20%.
Why it matters: Dealers close more deals, reduce rejection fallout, and keep customers engaged with your stock instead of shopping elsewhere.
Why it matters: Giving buyers choice helps dealers increase conversion rates, improve customer satisfaction, and boost profits.
Rates That Reflect Real Risk: Make 2 Every Deal Count
5 Turn “Maybe” into “Yes” in 10 Seconds
Fixed-rate models are being replaced by risk-based pricing, with tailored rates aligned to each customer’s credit profile.
Buyers expect certainty before committing. Pre-approval lets them see likely offers instantly. Tools like iVendi’s Finance Navigator make this possible in under 10 seconds.
Why it matters: Dealers attract more prime buyers, maintain predictable commissions, and avoid low-quality deals — all while delivering rates buyers trust.
Why it matters: Dealers close more deals, lower rejection rates, and keep customers focused on their stock.
Future-Proof Your Profits: Flexible 3 VAP Funding Models Value-Added Products are under more scrutiny, and traditional bundling is being challenged. Dealers who adapt with standalone, subscription-style, or regulated BNPL options can protect these vital profit streams while offering customers transparency and choice. Why it matters: Maintaining flexible, compliant VAP options ensures steady revenue, keeps customers happy, and safeguards margins in a shifting finance landscape.
0345 226 0503 tellmemore@ivendi.com ivendi.com
Embrace the Trends, Win in 2026 2026 rewards dealers who act fast. By adopting multi-lender access, dynamic pricing, real-time decisions, pre-approval, and flexible VAPs, you can sell smarter, boost profits, and stay ahead of the competition. iVendi provides the platform and technology to make it happen — helping you close more deals, protect margins, and deliver a seamless, modern finance experience. 26 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
SOCIAL MEDIA USER Category sponsored by iVendi Presented by James Tew, CEO
Winner
Acklam Cars Highly commended Carbase Greg Mitchell Motors
Greg Mitchell Motors
Carbase CarDealerMag.co.uk | 27
Not for profit association
Service support map
For dealers by dealers
DVLA/DVSA support
Legal and Compliance advice
FREE HR helpline
Exclusive offers on products and services
Information and learning hub
Member masterclasses
Industry blogs and best practice information
Having YOUR voice heard
Helpful voice at the end of the phone
You need to be part of the only association that supports the independent dealers in the UK
28 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USE OF VIDEO Category sponsored by IMDA Presented by Umesh Samani, chairman and co-founder
Winner
Small Cars Direct Highly commended Acklam Cars Saltmarine Cars
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 29
30 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR WEBSITE Category sponsored by Visitor Chat Presented by Ella Vandenberghe, partnerships director
Winner
Car Planet Highly commended MB Motors Ballymena ASK Motors
ASK Motors CarDealerMag.co.uk | 31
The smarter way to dispose of trade cars.
BUILT BY DEALERS
FOR DEALERS 32 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR ONLINE SALES EXPERIENCE Category sponsored by Dealerway Presented by Scott Sibley, co-founder
Winner
Infinity Motors Highly commended Frosts Cars Pine Lodge Cars
Pine Lodge Cars CarDealerMag.co.uk | 33
34 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
SPECIALIST USED CAR DEALERSHIP Category sponsored by Automotive Compliance Presented by Paul Speakman, director
Winner
Tom Hartley Jnr Highly commended Auto-Sportiva Lumen Automotive
Auto-Sportiva CarDealerMag.co.uk | 35
Shining the spotlight on excellence. Warranty Solutions Group are proud to sponsor the Car Dealer Used Car Awards.
Congratulations to all winners and finalists!
Scan me!
36 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR DEALER PRINCIPAL Category sponsored by Warranty Solutions Group Presented by Keith Pipe, director of revenue & sales innovation
Winner
William Lee-Kemp Auto-Sportiva
Highly commended Tom Kazzaz, JMV Cars Sohib Ghafouri, Infinity Motors
Sohib Ghafouri from Infinity Motors CarDealerMag.co.uk | 37
Timely and efficient support from your motor finance partner is a vitally important aspect of your sales process which inevitably leads to increased customer satisfaction. At Northridge Finance, we take this support function seriously, and have developed systems to improve the flow of business from proposal to pay-out. We can provide you with:
At Northridge we work on a “One Group One Team” ethos which means that we are always working together to solve problems and enhance service standards. You can be assured that we won’t keep you hanging - on waiting for support – we will give you what you need, when you need it.
•
Get the support you deserve without all the drama and transform your business with Northridge Finance.
• • • •
Telephone & email support available when you need it – 7 days per week. Dedicated departments for Pay-outs, Processing and Dealer Support. An experienced national field sales team.
A bespoke Customer Self-serve app and website.
An increased emphasis on Consumer Duty to help during economic uncertainty and positive customer outcomes.
38 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
For further information contact: dealersupport@northridgeuk.com
FUTURE STAR Category sponsored by Northridge Finance Presented by Mike Lomas, regional manager
Winner
Megan Vladimirovs Car Quay
Highly commended
Michael Ashman, Spencers Car Sales Bailey McMinn, Plympton Car Centre CarDealerMag.co.uk | 39
Is now the time to review your proposition? Join over 1,300 dealers enjoying the benefits of being part of the RAC Dealer Network
Instant recognition Use of the recognised and trusted RAC brand.
More than warranty Digital delivery Dedicated customer website and app to manage benefits.
Access additional revenue channels including Service Plan, and Cosmetic Insurance*.
Find out more today Do you want Do to find out more about joining you want to find out moreabout aboutjoining joining Do you want to find out more the RAC Dealer theNetwork? RAC Dealer Network?
RAC100Dealer Network? For further detailsthe call 0330 3807, For further details call 0330100 1003807, 3807, For further details callrac.co.uk/joinournetwork 0330 e-mail dealernetwork@rac.co.uk or visit
e-maildealernetwork@rac.co.uk dealernetwork@rac.co.ukororvisit visitrac.co.uk/joinournetwork rac.co.uk/joinournetwork e-mail * You must be authorised to sell insurance products, or be an Approved Representative of an authorised principal.
40 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR CUSTOMER CARE Category sponsored by RAC Dealer Network Presented by Lee Coomber, RAC client director
Winner
Crompton Way Motors Highly commended Top 555 Acklam Cars
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 41
42 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR SALES TEAM Category sponsored by Motorway Presented by Tom Leathes, CEO & founder
Winner Car Quay
Highly commended Crompton Way Motors First4Car
First4Car CarDealerMag.co.uk | 43
Together We Do More. Driving Change Together. Responsibly.
44 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
DAYS TO TURN Category sponsored by Auto Trader Presented by Rebecca Clark, group sales director
Winner
Acklam Cars Highly commended
Parkway Volkswagen Kettering Performance Paddock CarDealerMag.co.uk | 45
Congratulations to everyone that has won an award and to all those that were nominated.
Here and there Here with tailored finance options. There to help you close the deal.
We make vehicle finance easy with monthly payments for the vehicle your customers want.
Our underwriters work hard to say yes and can carefully review terms of an agreement.
We’re passionate about partnerships and committed to going the extra mile for customers. 46 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
Our digital tools help your customers get behind the wheel sooner. Perfectly suited to distance sales. closemotorfinance.co.uk Finance Funding Compliance Insight
USED COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DEALERSHIP Category sponsored by Close Brothers Motor Finance Presented by Neil Richardson, head of sales – north
Winner VanStar
Highly commended Norwich Van Centre Anchor Vans
Norwich Van Centre CarDealerMag.co.uk | 47
48 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
DIVERSITY & INCLUSIVITY Category sponsored by MotoNovo Finance Presented by Caroline Hudgell, senior business development consultant
Winner
Steven Eagell Group Highly commended Car Planet TrustFord
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 49
FROM GREY TO GREAT
NEW
Autoglym Exterior Trim Restorer is an ultra-durable coating that restores faded trim to its original factory colour. It revives dull plastics and rubber with a deep, rich finish that lasts. The weather-resistant formula protects for up to three months, preventing future fading and keeping your trim looking factory fresh. From grey to great, effortlessly.
AVA I L A B L E I N 1 0 0 M L – T R E AT S 15 CARS ON AV E R AG E
I N S TA N T LY R E S TO R E S FA D E D PLASTICS
LONG-LASTING, W E AT H E R R E S I S TA N T F I N I S H
H E L P S P R OT E C T AG A I N S T F U T U R E FA D I N G
FOR FURTHER DETAILS, VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR SCAN THE QR CODE www.autoglym.com/professional/exterior-trim-restorer.html 50 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
BEST USED CAR CATEGORIES Category sponsored by Autoglym Presented by Mark Docherty, marketing manager
USED SMALL CAR
USED MID-SIZED CAR
USED LUXURY CAR
Ben Roach, national used car manager for Skoda UK, said: ‘It feels great. We are super proud. This is the second time in two years that I have stood here having won a Used Car Award so this really is a fruitful ceremony for us!’
Matthew Bench, head of sales at Volvo Car UK, said: ‘We are really really pleased. We’ve had a great year this year, we’ve set lots of records and it is going to be our biggest year ever. Long may it continue!’
It was a successful night for Audi as it took the Luxury category and overall Car of the Year. Audi’s Michael Otton, said: ‘A huge credit has to go to our network who sell this car and connect it to our customers every single day.’
USED PERFORMANCE CAR
USED AFV CAR
USED COMMERCIAL VEHICLE
Collecting the award was Toyota’s David Crouch. He said: ‘There are a number of reasons why the car is so successful. There are more cars going out to the network, and people will be lucky enough to get one if they contact their local dealer.’
Judges felt the MG4 has shaken up the market. It delivers impressive range, fast-charging and a driving experience that feels premium. Collecting the award on MG’s behalf was Chloe Brewer.
Iain Montgomery, head of fleet for Vauxhall, said: ‘It’s been a great night, we have seen a lot of people from across the network and it’s great to get everyone together to celebrate what is a really really important part of the industry.’
Skoda Fabia
Toyota GR Yaris
Volvo XC40
MG4
Audi Q7
Vauxhall Vivaro
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 51
BEST USED CAR CATEGORIES Category sponsored by Autoglym Presented by Mark Docherty, marketing manager
CAR OF THE YEAR
Audi Q7
Autoglym’s Mark Docherty with the Audi team, Michael Otton with award, and Mike Brewer. 52 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 53
MANUAL PRICE UPDATES VS DIGITAL PRICING
Renault Retail Group Switches from QR Codes to Digital Pricing Q & A - with Andrew Bennet-Fisher (Renault Retail) and Joshua Cox (Rallye Digital) Q: Have you noticed changes in sales performance?
We are now seeing some customers purchase more expensive vehicles. With both cash prices and full finance examples clearly displayed, buyers with specific budgets can see they can afford higher-value cars through financing.
Q: Have there been any switching from QR codes?
errors
since
Rallye Digital has eliminated all errors, ensuring full accuracy and compliance.
Q: Have you seen improvements in staff morale or efficiency?
Previously, customers would scan one or two QR codes. Now they can see all prices instantly, find cars within their budget, and stay engaged longer.
The team genuinely loves the new system. Hours previously wasted printing QR sheets and adding them to vehicles are now spent on more valuable tasks.
Q: How has staff time changed since moving to digital?
Q: How do customers respond to digital displays compared to QR codes?
What used to take 8-15 minutes per car is now instant. No more trips back to the office to check prices, eliminating delays and customer frustration. The freedup time means the team now uploads 2-3 extra cars online per day.
Since moving to Rallye Digital, there's been a noticeable increase in customer engagement and customers can easily find cars within their budget and stay engaged longer. Q: Did you stop printing QR code sheets after installing Rallye Digital displays? The dealership has completely stopped printing sheets, which previously required 10-20 sheets per week at approximately £0.20 each. While modest, this eliminates both printing costs and paper waste. If we were asked to go back to QR codes, I'd argue it would actually cost us money to do so. Rallye Digital looks so much more professional, saves time, and helps us sell more cars and higher value cars. www.rallyedigital.com
54 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
MANUFACTURER USED CAR SCHEME Category sponsored by Rallye Digital Presented by Rob Walker, director
Winner Renault
Highly commended Audi Skoda
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 55
Specialising in affordable finance for people who may struggle to get approved by other lenders
Call Naomi Eades, Senior Manager - Intermediated Sales on 0330 555 0145 or visit www.moneybarn.com Representative 30.7% APR. As of 4 November 2025
56 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
NEWCOMER DEALERSHIP Category sponsored by Moneybarn Presented by Chris Stakes, head of vehicle finance
Winner
SVM Automotive Highly commended AWS Autos Carscierge
AWS Autos
Carscierge CarDealerMag.co.uk | 57
Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s awards.
Here to help you reach more buyers. For further information Call 0333 038 2051 or email support@motors.co.uk 58 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR SUPERMARKET Category sponsored by Motors Presented by Lee Newson, head of field sales
Winner
HPL Motors Highly commended Car Planet FOW Car Supermarket
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 59
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Yonder received 11,306 responses from AA members to its online poll between October 15 and October 23 2024. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. AA Cars is a trading name of Used Car Sites Limited, registered in England and Wales, company number 4546950. Registered office: Level 3, Plant, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. © Automobile Association * YonderLtd received Developments 2025.11,306 responses from AA members to its online poll between October 15 and October 23 2024. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. AA Cars is a trading
*
name of Used Car Sites Limited, registered in England and Wales, company number 4546950. Registered office: Level 3, Plant, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. © Automobile Association Developments Ltd 2025.
C58468_AACars_DealerAquisition_Press_225x297_V4_OFFER_HR.indd 1
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10/04/2025 09:12
10/04/2025 09:12
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT Category sponsored by AA Cars Presented by James Hosking, managing director
Winner
Tom Hartley Jnr
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 61
ONE PARTNER. A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES. When you go with GardX, you’re going with the world’s only integrated partners for vehicle protection, insurance solutions, and digital evolution. You’re going with people from your industry. Solutions for your industry. And a guarantee that every part of our business was born to drive more growth for yours. We’ve been writing our own history for over two decades, whilst at the same time helping to shape the success and profitability of our partner dealers and OEMs across the world. Our founding principles remain unchanged, whereby every individual idea and innovation exists to drive the sustainable growth of our clients and partners. To find out more about GardX Group please visit www.gardxgroup.com
62 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Category sponsored by GardX Presented by Dylan Haskell, chief revenue officer
Winner
Stephen Snow CarDealerMag.co.uk | 63
Proud sponsors of Car Dealer Used Car Awards 2025
Put the power in their hands Help your customers discover if they’re EV ready with our EV Suitability Tool.
Try it now
blackhorse.co.uk/ev-driving-hub
Black Horse Limited. Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered Number: 661204 England and Wales. Black Horse Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. 64 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
USED CAR DEALERSHIP: UP TO 50 CARS Category sponsored by Black Horse Presented by Tim Smith, head of Black Horse distribution
Winner
Nolan Cars Highly commended Crompton Way Motors JMC Used Cars
JMC Used Cars CarDealerMag.co.uk | 65
USED CAR DEALERSHIP: 51 TO 100 CARS Category sponsored by Black Horse Presented by Tim Smith, head of Black Horse distribution
Winner
Greg Mitchell Motors Highly commended GKS of Ivybridge Carite
66 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
GKS of Ivybridge
USED CAR DEALERSHIP: OVER 100 CARS Category sponsored by Black Horse Presented by Tim Smith, head of Black Horse distribution
Winner First4Car
Highly commended Car Quay Infinity Motors
Infinity Motors CarDealerMag.co.uk | 67
USED CAR DEALERSHIP GROUP Category sponsored by Black Horse Presented by Tim Smith, head of Black Horse distribution
Winner Waylands
Highly commended Greenhous Snows
68 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
VIP DRINKS RECEPTION AND FUN CASINO Sponsored by Motors
John Lewis vouchers to the value of £500, £350 and £150 were the prizes at the fun casino. It took place after the awards.
The Used Car Awards’ prize draw raised £2,780 The prizes were donated by Autoglym, Mike Brewer, RAC Dealer Network and the Road Trip Co.
CarDealerMag.co.uk | 69
DASHBOARD
CAR NEWS ROUND-UP Manufacturers have been refining their models and producing new ones. We look at some of the results... FAREWELL
BMW says goodbye to Z4 with Final Edition
BMW will be ending production of its Z4 roadster with a special ‘Final Edition’ model. The Z4 has been a key part of BMW’s range since its arrival in 2002. According to BMW, the special Final Edition model will enter production in ‘late January 2026’. However, the brand also says that customers will only have a ‘short order window’ for the special edition model.
The special model comes with a ‘Frozen Matt Black’ paint finish, which is only available on the Final Edition and hasn’t been offered before on the standard Z4. This paint is then combined with black gloss trim for a stealthy look, though BMW says that buyers can add other colours from the Z4 range at no extra cost. Red brake calipers contrast that primary colour, too.
TOYOTA
DACIA
DS
FIAT
Toyota Corolla range tweaked for 2026
Updated Dacia Jogger goes on sale
Limited edition ‘DS Performance Line’
New Fiat Grande Panda Electric model
DACIA has announced that the updated Jogger MPV has gone on sale, starting at £18,995. The update consists of a new hybrid powertrain, badged ‘Hybrid 155’ and features a 1.8-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor to produce 153bhp and 170Nm of torque. This will sit alongside the existing 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 107bhp and 200Nm of torque.
DS Automobiles has launched limited edition variants of the DS3 and No4 models with the ‘DS Performance Line’ range. The variants are inspired by the DS E-Tense FE25 Formula E racer and are available with hybrid and electric power and feature black and gold Formula E motifs on the C-pillars, satin gold mirror caps, a black radiator grille with gold badging, a black roof and satin gold brand.
THE Fiat Grande Panda Electric range has gained a new entrylevel ‘Pop’ model. The Grande Panda is Fiat’s new ‘world car’, which is being sold in more than 60 countries. The Pop grade replaces the old (RED) trim level and comes with standard equipment such as 16-inch white steel wheels, LED pixel front headlights, two-tone black and blue fabric upholstery and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
THE Toyota Corolla range will receive some tweaks and updates for next year’s model line-up. The Corolla is one of the world’s best-selling cars, having sold more than 50m units since it first went on-sale in 1966. The Honda Civic rival will receive a choice of colours including a grey matt paint option on the GR Sport models, while a new Dark Grey metallic option will be available for the rest of the range.
70 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
REVEALED
Leapmotor enters B-segment SUV class with B03X
2013 WINNER
LEAPMOTOR has revealed its entry into the B-segment SUV class with the B03X, which will be Leapmotor’s fourth offering in the UK and will rival the likes of the Ford Puma Gen-E. Details on the vehicle’s powertrain are limited, but the firm has revealed that the B03X will sit on Leapmotor’s ‘Leap Architecture’ platform and will utilise an electric setup that will manage a claimed 310 miles on a single charge. The exterior features a similar front nostril to the firm’s B10 and C10 SUVs, while the side profile includes semi-hidden door handles, a floating roof design and rear taillights that include what Leapmotor refers to as the ‘smile’ light signature, to give the car a unique appearance.
VOLKSWAGEN
MERCEDES
VW Touareg Final Edition arrives
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake goes on sale in UK
VOLKSWAGEN is saying goodbye to its Touareg SUV with a high-spec Final Edition. Priced from £72,535, the Final Edition has been created to celebrate Touareg’s more than 20 years on sale in the UK. The Final Edition comes with a long list of standard equipment, including metallic paint, Varenna leather seats, a power-folding tow bar with Trailer Assist tech and 30-colour interior ambient lighting.
THE new Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake has hit the market in the UK with prices from £47,750. Arriving as the first electric estate Mercedes, the model will be available in either CLA 250+ or CLA 350 4Matic specifications, with both getting an 85kWh battery. The 350 4Matic upgrades the single rear-mounted electric motor of the 250+ model with an additional front-mounted motor for all-wheel-drive capability.
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The latest from our fleet Long-termers: p77
NEWS AND THOUGHTS FROM THE CAR DEALER PODCASTS Sponsored by
AUTO TRADER
It turns out that perhaps we went a little bit too quickly, and that’s caused some retailers to be confused. Nathan Coe Auto Trader CEO
Auto Trader CEO apologises for Deal Builder roll out as he pledges to make product work
A
uto Trader CEO Nathan Coe has apologised to retailers for the way that the firm’s controversial Deal Builder product was rolled out. Car Dealer has reported extensively on a major backlash, with dealers saying that the offering is resulting in fewer leads. The situation came to a head earlier this week when ‘hundreds’ of retailers cancelled or downsized their subscriptions in protest at the product, as well as rising prices. Coe appeared on the Car Dealer Podcast to face up to the backlash, where he admitted that the advertising giant had got things wrong. However, he insisted that Deal Builder is going nowhere, and said Auto Trader is committed to making it work, albeit with some tweaks following dealer feedback. He also revealed just 59 dealers cancelled their contracts on a day of protest but could not confirm how many how downgraded their packages. Speaking to hosts James Baggott and Jon Reay, he said: ‘I guess when we look back, it turns out that perhaps we went a little bit too quickly, and that’s caused some retailers to be confused. ‘Combined with some of the stories last week,
there’s a bit of misinformation out there. ‘It’s not just necessarily the group of retailers within those within those groups that have posted cancelations – I think we’re just as concerned for all retailers, because a whole bunch of them that who are interested in the product, are kind of saying, “Well, hang on, what’s this? This isn’t what I thought was the case”. ‘For that I am sorry actually. We’re here to do a good job by retailers. That’s what we pride ourselves on. It was one of my biggest priorities when I was [appointed] the CEO. ‘To have caused that confusion and retailers angst, I am really sorry about that probably moving too fast, and then some of the communications.’ Asked by Baggott whether the product would be rolled back or removed, Coe was firm in his support for Deal Builder. He added: ‘Rolling back deal builder isn’t something that we’re going to do. ‘We’re very convinced that it’s the right thing for retailers. It’s the right thing for car buyers.’ Coe answered a number of questions submitted by car dealers as part of the podcast tackling a large number of concerns raised by our readers.
LUSCOMBE MOTORS
Exclusive: Family-run Luscombe Motors to expand with Omoda and Jaecoo franchise LUSCOMBE Motors is to expand its business with an Omoda and Jaecoo franchise, its managing director has exclusively told the Car Dealer Podcast. Speaking on the weekly show – which you can watch above or listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast platforms – Sam Luscombe revealed the move, which marks the family-run group’s first new brand partnership
in five years. The Leeds-based firm is best known for its hugely successful Suzuki operation. It added MG to its business in 2020 and will now add Omoda and Jaecoo from early 2026. It will repurpose a showroom it has rented out to a hot tub business on its site to create the Omoda and Jaecoo showroom. Luscombe said: ‘Over the past few years,
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72 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
franchise opportunities have come and gone. A lot of [our] success has been about being with the right franchise at the right time, and you can see that with other businesses who have backed the right horse at the right time.’ ‘We’ve had opportunities to grow in the past,’ he explained, ‘but, once you take it off one site those challenges and headaches don’t half multiply.’
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DASHBOARD
FINANCE NEWS COMPLAINTS DEADLINE
FCA brings forward deadline for motor finance firms to handle complaints by James Batchelor @JRRBatchelor
M
otor finance firms must start handing complaints two months earlier than originally planned, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has said. The watchdog will be lifting a pause on the handling of certain motor finance complaints on May 31, rather than the July 31 deadline it previously proposed. Firms should already be investigating complaints, but have not needed to respond to them since the FCA put the process on pause in January 2024. This was intended to prevent disorder and inconsistency while it put together plans for an industry-wide compensation scheme. ‘It is likely that we will go ahead with a scheme and complaints that fall within it will be dealt with under specific rules, which will include timeframes for them to be dealt with,’ the FCA said in an update. News of the lifting comes as the watchdog finalises a compensation scheme for those affected by the mis-selling saga. The proposed scheme will compensate motorists who were unfairly sold a car loan between 2007 and 2024 because they were not properly informed about the commission paid to brokers, including car dealers. The regulator’s plans, which are expected to see around 14 million deals eligible for compensation, have been met with significant pushback from lenders. It is currently consulting on the details of the scheme, which is expected to launch in early 2026. The FCA said that ending its pause on handling complaints two months earlier than planned gives firms sufficient time to be ready to respond to them. It expects that the majority of complaints will fall within the scope of its redress scheme – but firms will also have to be ready to respond to those that do not.
74 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
INDUSTRY RESPONSE
FLA responds to complaints deadline pause THE Finance and Leasing Association (FLA) has said it finds the FCA’s lifting the pause on the handling of motor finance complaints ‘difficult to understand’. Speaking soon after the FCA’s update (published on Dec 3), FLA CEO Shanika Amarasekara said the association is seeking clarity from the FCA or its members. ‘The announcement from the FCA about ending the pause on the handling of motor finance complaints on May 31, two months earlier than the previously consulted on date of July 31, is difficult to understand,’ said Amarasekara. ‘This change has created uncertainty for our member firms that have been preparing their operational plans, customer communications, and resourcing on the original timeline. ‘We are seeking urgent clarity from the FCA on the rationale for accelerating the date and on the practical implications for firms that now face significant pressures to adjust processes at short notice. In the policy statement the regulator said that 502 out of 519 consumers supported the July deadline.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
TIME IS MONEY RICHARD PYGOTT
A MONTHLY LOOK AT THE WORLD OF AUTOMOTIVE FINANCE AND MARKETING
2025 has been a huge year of change in the motor trade
I
Richard Pygott is digital marketer for First Response. Call him on 0115 946 6365 or email richard. pygott@frfl.co.uk
can’t quite believe we’re at the end of another year—it feels like just five minutes ago I was writing last year’s end-of-year article. Last year, my neighbour had a wobbly inflatable Santa on their porch, but it seems they’ve upgraded this year to a blinking LED reindeer that looks like it’s trying to guide the whole street home. My neighbours’ decorations aside, it’s been a huge year of change in the world and in the motor trade. Here at First Response Finance, we’ve experienced plenty of industry shifts, adapted to changes we didn’t see coming, and shaken up how our sales teams work to support our dealer partners. But the biggest changes are happening out on the forecourts. Electric cars continue to outperform most other segments, just as the government announces a new per-mile charge for electric cars, and even for hybrid cars. It blows my mind, to be honest, just when we thought we’d got our heads around charging points and range anxiety, this latest change adds another layer of complexity for dealers to explain to customers. Despite all this, what never ceases to amaze me is the resilience of the motor trade. Dealers continue to adapt, innovate, and find solutions—whether it’s managing fluctuating used car prices, navigating poor stock availability, or keeping up with evolving customer expectations. Many are also having to rethink how they use online platforms, especially with growing dissatisfaction around Auto Trader and changes to its product a few months ago. Change isn’t just something that happens to us; it’s something we can embrace, shape, and even thrive on. As the festive season approaches, it’s a good time to pause and celebrate the changes your dealership has navigated over the past 12 months, big or small. And when you’re ready to look ahead to 2026, remember: more change is coming. But with change comes challenge, opportunity, growth, and the chance to do things even better. From all of us at First Response Finance, we wish everyone in the motor trade a Christmas filled with laughter, rest, and moments with the people who matter most. And as we toast to the New Year, may it bring fresh ideas, prosperity, and the courage to embrace whatever changes come your way. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Change isn’t just something that happens to us; it’s something we can embrace, shape, and even thrive on.
PARTNER WITH AN AWARD-WINNING COMPANY 0115 946 6260
enquiries@frfl.co.uk
frfl.co.uk/car CarDealerMag.co.uk | 75
DATA FILE
SUPPLIERS GUIDE
LOOKING FOR A MOTOR TRADE SUPPLIER? YOU CAN FIND THE DETAILS OF SELECTED COMPANIES HERE Auctions
Finance
Lead Management
Recruitment
Warranty Providers
Auction4Cars.com
Close Brothers Motor Finance
GardX AD-Vantage
WeRecruit Auto
Centurion Warranties
Auctions & Trade-To-Trade Sales
Finance
Lead Management
Trade Bodies
Warranty Providers
BCA
First Response
iVendi
Ben
Händler Protect
Automotive E-Commerce
Finance
Legal & Compliance
Vehicle Photography
These Listings Work!
ATG
Forza Finance
Lawgistics
Dealer 360
W: dealer360.co.uk T: 01270 780855 E: nicky.spratt@ukturntables.com Info: UK makers of photo booths incorporating our turntables for car, van and motorcycle dealers. Our software controls turntable and cameras – a onestop solution.
W: Your website address T: 020 8125 3880 (that’s us!) E: sales@blackballmedia.co.uk Info: The Suppliers Guide lets dealers find the companies they need to help them with their business. Make sure you’re here. Contact us via the above number or email address.
Data
HR & People Management
Marketing, PR & Video
Vehicle Tracking
Website Design & Digital Marketing
Real World Analytics
HR Manager
OnCue Communications
Meta Trak
Bluesky Interactive
DMS
Insurance
Marketing, PR & Video
Warranty Providers
Website Design & Digital Marketing
DealerDesk
Tradesure
Marketing Delivery
AutoProtect
Haswent
W: auction4cars.com T: 03003 730 866 E: customerservice@auction4cars.com Info: The UK’s leading independent trade car auction site. Completely online, it boasts some of the lowest auction fees on the market.
W: bca.co.uk T: 0344 875 3480 E: customerservices@bca.com Info: BCA’s remarketing programmes deliver volume, choice and availability for buyers, and speed, efficiency and market-leading returns for sellers.
W: atg.auto T: 0844 264 3519 Info: Leading provider of retailing solutions, Automotive Transformation Group maximises sales for retailers, OEMs, financiers and fleet suppliers by making car buying easier for their consumers.
W: realworldanalytics.com T: 0808 1890 617 E: auto@realworldanalytics.com Info: We are a SaaS-based data analytics solution provider for multisite dealers. Our business intelligence tools help customers make faster and better decisions.
W: dealerdesk.co.uk E: contact@dealerdesk.co.uk Info: Modernise your stock management, advertising, communication, sales and website. DealerDesk provides you with easyto-use tools designed to simplify your dealership management.
W: gardx.co.uk/gardx-ad-vantage T: 01243 376426 W: closemotorfinance.co.uk/ Info: Close Brothers Motor Finance are E: goforaspin@gardx.co.uk a specialist finance provider, working Info: The award-winning 360 service offers an engaging display of the with over 8,000 dealer partners to offer flexible finance solutions for car, vehicle while additionally presenting profitable F&I products to a consumer. motorcycle and LCV customers.
W: dealer.firstresponsefinance.co.uk T: 0115 671 1755 E: marketing@frfl.co.uk Info: First Response is an awardwinning UK finance company providing simple financial solutions. Get in touch and let us help increase your profits.
W: forzafinance.co.uk T: 01245 245678 Info: Benefit from Forza Finance’s expertise, choice of products and lenders. Their personal approach will help you achieve higher levels of finance penetration and, ultimately, sell more cars.
W: hrmanager.co.uk T: 01480 455500 E: info@hrmanager.co.uk Info: HR Manager is Lawgistics’ new digital compliance portal designed to assist employers in managing their legal obligations, responsibilities and duties.
W: tradesureinsurance.co.uk T: 0121 248 9313 Info: Providing motor trade insurance to full- and part-time motor traders in the UK, the Tradesure team are reliable professionals who know how to help you.
W: ivendi.com T: 0330 229 0028 E: tellmemore@ivendi.com Info: iVendi delivers a fully connected platform that engages consumers, converts buyers and manages transactions of vehicles online and in the showroom.
W: lawgistics.co.uk T: 01480 455500 E: sales@lawgistics.co.uk Info: The legal experts for the motor trade, giving advice and support to our industry for over 15 years. Not anti-consumer, just pro-trader.
W: oncuecomms.com T: 020 8125 3880 Info: We are a leading provider of PR, video and events services to the automotive industry. The PR team has a proven track record of securing high-value, big-impact media coverage.
W: marketingdelivery.co.uk/ T: 01892 599911 E: get.in.touch@marketingdelivery.co.uk Info: Our SocialStock helps target prospects with tailored stock remarketing and social media advertising tools, and automated lead capture for Facebook.
W: werecruitauto.co.uk T: 01603 550041 Info: Permanent recruitment – here to assist businesses within the automotive sector find the best fit for their company in terms of skillset, experience and culture.
W: ben.org.uk T: 0808 131 1333 Info: Ben is a not-for-profit organisation that partners with the automotive industry to provide support for life to its people and their families.
W: metatrak.co.uk T: 020 8867 2340 E: enquiries@metatrak.co.uk Info: Total vehicle security. Clever tracking technology, advanced immobilisation, 24/7 monitoring and an easy-to-use app. Security. Connectivity. Peace of mind.
W: centurionwarranties.co.uk T: 0800 368 7420 E: support@cwuk.net Info: Centurion offers comprehensive aftermarket warranty solutions to motor dealers across the UK who sell first-owned vehicles through to high-end, prestige and sports cars.
W: handlerprotect.com T: 0800 088 7889 E: sales@handlerprotect.com Info: Händler Protect is an exclusive dealer warranty provider. Proud to partner and represent more than 1,000-plus ‘active’ independent motor dealers across the UK each month.
More Sales For You
W: blueskyinteractive.co.uk T: 01926 651000 Info: Bluesky Interactive drive dealer websites and digital marketing forward thanks to game-changing innovation, the latest technology and our exceptional relationships with our clients.
T: 01279 406888 E: sales@autoprotect.net Info: AutoProtect offers a full portfolio of award-winning protection products, including GAP. We lead the market with an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot.
W: haswent.com T: 020 3920 6164 E: hello@haswent.com Info: Composer is a next-gen automotive platform. You have extensive stock management options, and you’ll gain a brilliantly responsive new website.
W: autoprotect.co.uk
Finance
Key Control
Oil & Lubricants
Warranty Providers
Website Design & Digital Marketing
Blue Motor Finance
Traka
Mobil™
Car Care Plan
Spidersnet
W: blue.co.uk T: 020 3005 9331 E: dealersupport@blue.co.uk Info: Blue is transforming the car finance market, making car ownership simple and flexible and providing motor traders with access to essential finance.
W: traka-automotive.com T: 0333 355 3726 E: automotive@traka.com Info: Bespoke software and electronic key management cabinets to deliver the most effective solution to dealerships to manage their keys and vehicles.
W: mobil.co.uk T: 0800 0857 420 Info: Whether using Mobil 1™ or Mobil Super™, Mobil™ engine oils meet or exceed the latest standards of the oil industry and vehicle manufacturers.
W: carcareplan.com T: 0344 573 8000 Info: Car Care Plan is a leading provider of motor protection products, trusted around the world to deliver quality protection with integrity and a customer-oriented outlook.
W: spidersnet.co.uk T: 01273 837749 E: hello@spidersnet.co.uk Info: Websites that are designed to increase the number of customers for dealers. We have solutions for all budgets and needs. All solutions include our DMS Autopromotor.
To have your details included email sales@blackballmedia.co.uk and ask for Suppliers Guide listings 76 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
LONG-TERMERS
BMW X3 M50 THE KNOWLEDGE BMW X3 M50
It’s been a busy six months with the X3 M50 and Jack Evans has been finding plenty to like about this performance SUV.
I
t’s been a busy six months with the BMW X3 M50. While I was a little hesitant to begin with about returning to petrol power, the X3 has shown combustion power in a very good light. You see, for the last few years, I’ve been predominantly driving electric vehicles. While there’s plenty of criticism of the EV charging infrastructure, when you’re lucky enough to have a home charger – like I have – electric vehicle driving is a doddle. You simply plug in and, when you go to leave the next morning, your car is waiting there fully charged and ready to go. Plus, when you’re on an EV-friendly tariff, the cost is extremely low. So the prospect of having to go back to petrol stations, high fuel prices and slightly more inconvenience meant that I wasn’t feeling as positive about combustion power as I may usually have been when I first approached the M50. But this BMW really does sell petrol power very well. For one, the six-cylinder engine is smooth and responsive, offering loads of power alongside a refined power delivery. Sure, in this 376bhp range-topper, fuel efficiency might not be the best, but when you’re cruising along in the X3 M50, things feel very smooth indeed. At motorway speeds, it’s quiet and comfortable, too, and actually has the hallmarks of an old-school premium SUV, rather than a newer performance-oriented one. It also feels like BMW has hit its groove with its latest interiors. I still think that some of the materials inside the X3 don’t feel fitting given its close-to-£80,000 price tag – the material on the sills is rough and unpleasant – but the general architecture of the cabin is spot-on. A recent update saw Apple CarPlay flipped over to bring its icons to the driver’s side – beforehand, you had to reach to the opposite end of the super-wide screen – but it’s also features like having the deactivation of the speed limit assist technology integrated into one of the steering wheel buttons. A ‘long hold’ of the button and all of the noises and alerts are switched off – perfect. I also like how practical the X3 is. Of course, modern SUVs feel like they’ve super-sized in recent years and, as a result, this latest X3 feels similar in size to the X5 of previous generations, but a by-product of this is that it’s got a large, easy-to-access boot with seats that go relatively flat when you fold them down. During my time with the X3, it has proved invaluable for transporting building materials, and even the bathroom sink. Good things must come to an end, as the saying goes, and the X3 has now gone back to BMW. The big question is – would I purchase an X3 M50 given the opportunity? It’s a bit of a yes/no answer, in truth. On the one hand, I love the performance that the M50 model brings; it’ll give the average hot hatch a run for its money, and the dynamic tweaks that have been made to the steering and suspension over the standard car make it genuinely entertaining on a twisty road. However, all of the things that I’ve found most useful on the X3 – its space, large boot and intuitive technology – can be found on the standard car, which is available with petrol, hybrid and diesel engines. Opt for one of these and you’ll still get all the great features of the rangetopping M50, but it’ll cost a lot less to run and you’ll spend fewer hours at the petrol station filling up, too.
Price (as tested): £79,939 Engine: 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol Power: 376bhp Torque: 580Nm 0-60mph: 4.4 seconds Top speed: 155mph Fuel economy: 30.5mpg Emissions: 175-189g/km CO2 Mileage: 6,200 miles
This month’s highlight: We love the performance that the M50 model brings – it’ll give the average hot hatch a run for its money!
OTHER CARS WE’RE DRIVING
Cupra Terramar Mileage: 1,008 Two months in and we’re liking what this Spanish SUV has to offer.
Nissan Ariya Mileage: 9,721 We’re loving the techhnology and a clever electric powertrain CarDealerMag.co.uk | 77
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