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Twitter: @CarDealerEd
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jon Reay jon@blackballmedia.co.uk
Twitter: @JonReay
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,
Cameron Richards,
HEAD OF
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Twitter: @graemewindell
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ACCOUNT MANAGER
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Twitter: @cardealermich
Stellantis falls to first annual loss
STELLANTIS has slumped to its first annual loss since the company was created in 2021, after posting a huge €20.1bn (£17.5bn) net loss in the second half of 2025.
The automotive powerhouse – formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, and which represents the likes of Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Fiat, Peugeot and Vauxhall in the UK –confirmed it ended the year in the red, with a full-year net loss of €22.3bn (£19.4bn) and an operating loss of €842m.
DEALERS
Marshall latest to sign up to Geely
MARSHALL Motor Group
is to open a new franchise car dealership in Kent after agreeing a partnership with Geely Auto.
The dealer group has announced plans to set up a new site in Dartford, which will operate both sales and aftersales facilities for the Chinese brand.
Although no opening date has yet been announced, Marshall has confirmed that the new site will be located on the town’s Bridge Business Park.
Peter Waddell accused of using disabilities as a ‘fig leaf’ as High Court trial continues
Big Motoring World founder Peter Waddell has been accused of hiding behind his disabilities as a ‘fig leaf’ in an attempt to justify his own ‘egregious misconduct’.
The motor trade tycoon is currently suing Big Motoring World after he was ousted from his position as CEO back in 2024, following an investigation into his conduct.
Car Dealer reported the 59-year-old is claiming to have been victim of a planned ‘coup’, with his lawyers insisting that the investigation was ‘unfair and discriminatory’.
Waddell, who suffers from deafness, dyslexia and autistic spectrum disorder, is claiming unfair dismissal, harassment and disability discrimination by Bluebell Cars – the ultimate holding company of Big Motoring World.
The six respondents are Bluebell Cars Bidco Ltd, Bluebell Cars Holding Ltd, Bluebell Cars Topco Ltd and Big Motoring World directors Lawrence Vaughan, Reza Fardad and Thomas Clarke. The respondents deny Waddell’s claims and insist his departure came as a result of his own conduct.
DEALERS
Speaking in court, James Laddie, KC, representing Bluebell Cars, said: ‘None of Mr Waddell’s misconduct can be properly explained by his medical conditions, as the expert evidence will show.
‘He was well able to differentiate between acceptable and inappropriate behaviour and is now seeking in these proceedings to hide behind his medical conditions as a fig leaf for his repeated and egregious misconduct.’
Throughout the early stages of the trial, more details emerged about the exact nature of Waddell’s conduct.
Among the allegations is that he referred to Asian employees as ‘Hyundais’. In response, Waddell said he had mispronounced ‘Hindu’ due to dyslexia.
An internal investigation also heard accusations of verbal abuse and bullying towards staff.
Waddell continues to deny any wrongdoing. Speaking in court, his lawyer, Alan Gourgey, KC, said: ‘The steps taken were invalid and Mr Waddell was wrongfully excluded and removed.’ The trial continues.
Mitsubishi in ‘advanced negotiations’ as brand targets 60 dealers
MITSUBISHI is in ‘advanced negotiations’ with potential dealer partners as the Japanese brand prepares to return to the UK.
The outfit is hoping to have its first retailers appointed within the next few months, almost six years after the manufacturer pulled out of Britain.
With a return now fast approaching, the brand is hoping to sign up around 60 dealer partners to sell its product line-up, which kicks off with new versions of the
Outlander PHEV and L200 pick-up Bosses are targeting a ‘phased expansion’ which will see dealers join the brand’s existing 105 aftersales sites.
Bosses are feeling positive as the brand continues to move towards its comeback.
Sharon Townsend, head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted by the overwhelmingly positive response from the dealer community to the new Mitsubishi model range.’
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DEALERS
46,000 UK Civics recalled over fault
HONDA is to recall over 46,000 Civics in the UK over a mechanical issue that could lead to cars’ wheels falling off.
The 10th-generation Civic, built between 2017 and 2021 is the model in the spotlight, fitted with optional alloy wheels.
In total, 46,152 cars are being recalled by Honda UK, but the issue only affects ‘certain vehicles’, the Japanese carmaker said.
In a statement, Honda said customer notification letters would include a QR code for customers to submit images of their wheel sets.
New Chinese brand confirms first model
NEW UK-bound Chinese brand Lepas has confirmed its first model for British buyers – and you guessed it, it’s an SUV.
Lepas is another marque launched by carmaker Chery, as the Chinese powerhouse continues its assault on the UK car market. It already sells cars under the Omoda and Jaecoo names, along with models wearing its own badge.
Now, weeks after announcing the imminent arrival of to the UK, Chery has confirmed the first model to be Lepas launch – the L8, a five-seater plug-in hybrid SUV.
Government to roll out more charger grants
THE government has announced an expansion to its EV charge point grant as ministers look to make electric vehicles more accessible.
Under new plans, renters, flat owners, homeowners without driveways and businesses will all be able to claim up to £500 to cover installation costs.
The change, which comes into force on April 1, marks a £150 increase on the current scheme, which only allows drivers to claim back a maximum of £350. The additional funds will cover roughly half the cost of installing EV chargers.
Polestar boss hails ‘renaissance of the dealers’ as brand unveils biggest product push yet
POLESTAR boss Michael Lohscheller has praised the ‘renaissance of the dealers’ as the Swedish brand prepares to launch its biggest product offensive to date.
Car Dealer reported that the EV outfit is planning to launch four new cars in the next three years as part of an ambitious growth plan between now and 2028.
Speaking at Polestar’s Gothenburg headquarters to Electrifying.com, Lohscheller doubled down on the brand’s commitment to physical retail, as it moves away from the direct-to-consumer model of some EV rivals.
He said: ‘We have gone away from showing to active selling. Not direct-to-consumer hope, that we display cars and people go home and purchase them at home.
‘Visit your local dealer, you trust him or her, you test drive the car, you come back next weekend, and then you purchase. This is a key of success. I call it the renaissance of the dealers.’
The comments come as Polestar confirms its largest model expansion, including a next-generation Polestar 2, a more practical estate-style variant of the Polestar 4.
A SMALL dealership has collapsed into liquidation after racking up eye-watering debts of more than £50,000.
Car Station Suffolk Ltd has been trading for less than two years, according to Companies House records, but in that time the firm managed to slip significantly into the red. Having only been incorporated in June 2024, the firm owes 17 creditors a combined £50,673.30 and has moved to appoint liquidators.
RESEARCH
Car buyers value transparency Independent dealer collapses
TRANSPARENCY tops the list of essentials customers most want from car dealers, according to new research.
The latest Motors & Cazoo Consumer Insight Panel asked 2,001 people about their car buying experiences. It quizzed them on their preferences from initial contact and visiting showrooms, to purchasing and handover.
Transparency across all interactions emerged as a recurring theme.
BITE-SIZE
Click on the text box for the full story
BRANDING: Percayso Vehicle Intelligence is to rebrand under a new name – and it is one that will be very familiar to the motor trade. Going forward, the valuations experts will be known as ‘Cazana’ after acquiring the name from what remains of the failed used car dealer, Cazoo.
DEALERS: An illegal car dealership has been closed down by authorities for operating without planning permission. Rydding Lane Auto Sale Ltd has been trading from its site on Rydding Lane, West Bromwich, since last year but the firm never received consent to sell cars from the plot.
AWARDS: The UK Car of the Year 2026 is… the Renault 5. The retro-tastic electric hatchback dominated the final voting round, with 20 of the 33 on the panel choosing the car. Judges, including Car Dealer associate editor James Batchelor, liked the style, packaging, and affordability.
DEALERS: Car dealer Just Motor Group has agreed a landmark deal which will see ownership of the firm fall partially into the ownership of its employees. The firm, which runs five franchise sites in the north of England, has been sold in part to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
CRIME: Almost 55,000 cars were stolen in the UK last year, with the Ford Fiesta the most targeted model. Data collected by What Car? found 54,830 vehicles were reported stolen in 2025 – an 11% reduction on the previous year. Thefts have more than doubled in the decade since 2015, with around 150 cars stolen every day.
NEWS DIGEST
MANUFACTURERS
Aston Martin announces plans to axe 600 jobs in move that could slash workforce by a fifth
ASTON Martin has announced plans to axe up to 20% of its global workforce as the carmaker continues to battle deepening losses.
The British marque says that as many as 600 jobs could be scrapped as a result of its latest redundancy programme. The reduction could see more than a fifth of the firm’s 2,800 employees lose their jobs, in addition
ATS Euromaster to wind down in UK
ATS Euromaster has announced it will wind down its UK operations after efforts to stem mounting losses failed to turn the business around.
The fast-fit car and van specialist said the decision follows the closure of 86 of its most unprofitable centres in 2025, a move which did not ‘halt significant financial losses in a market experiencing over-capacity, rising costs and shifting consumer behaviour’.
It has confirmed it’s pursuing discussions with two operators in a bid to preserve as many jobs as possible, however.
to a further 170 cuts that were announced at the start of last year.
It comes after Aston Martin told shareholders last week that it expected its financial performance to fall below expectations this year.
The firm has been rocked by dwindling sales, largely as a result of Donald Trump’s ongoing trade tariffs.
Autotrader search to unleash AI benefits
AUTOTRADER has added new AIdriven ‘I’m looking for’ categories to its platform to help ‘car buyers navigate an increasingly complex automotive market’.
The company says the new feature has been launched to tackle the growing trend of car buyers beginning their next car search without a specific make or model in mind, due to the recent influx of new car brands to the market.
Research carried out by Autotrader in April 2025 of 2,000 people found that 43% don’t know the exact make and model they want.
A PROPOSED £575m takeover of automotive tech firm Pinewood. AI has collapsed after a would-be bidder decided against making an official offer.
Car Dealer reported last month that Apax Partners LLP were lining up a cash offer of 500p per share for the firm, formerly part of Pendragon. Bosses had indicated that an official bid would likely be accepted, but the investment group has now decided against pursuing its interest any further. The company blamed ‘prevailing challenging market conditions’. INDUSTRY INDUSTRY
From storing nukes to Nissan Jukes
Few places in Britain have a story quite like Greenham. Originally developed during the Second World War as RAF Greenham Common, the airfield played a strategic role in Allied operations before becoming one of the most recognisable military sites of the Cold War. In the 1980s it was home to American cruise missiles and the focal point of the internationally famous Greenham Common peace protests, events that placed this quiet corner of Berkshire at the centre of global political debate. To support such sensitive operations, the site was engineered with formidable infrastructure — extensive security perimeters, hardened storage structures and controlled access designed to protect some of the most critical assets of the era.
Today that same infrastructure has found a new purpose. The 70-acre site has evolved into one of the UK’s most secure commercial environments, supporting everything from logistics operations and specialist storage to large-scale film productions. Sections of the former airbase have even been used as filming locations for major productions including Star Wars The Force Awakens, Andor and the newly released Greenland 2, where the dramatic landscape and imposing Cold War architecture create a striking backdrop. At the heart of the site, 7 acres of prime hardstanding are currently available, complemented by a 17,500 sq ft high-bay building with 7-metre ceilings and six former military bunker units offering around 6,000 sq ft each of ultra-secure internal storage — infrastructure originally designed for defence, now perfectly suited to modern operational use. With 24/7 security, multiple layers of military-grade perimeter fencing, and immediate access to the M4, M3 and A34 corridors, Greenham offers a rare combination of scale, resilience and connectivity. The site is ideally suited to vehicle logistics operators requiring several acres of secure storage, car auction and fleet resale companies, or organisations seeking a highly secure operational yard close to the UK’s strategic road network. The high-bay building is particularly well suited to vehicle inspection, preparation and assessment operations, while the hardened bunker storage provides an unusually secure environment for high-value vehicles, collections or specialist assets It’s not every day that infrastructure once built for nuclear deterrence finds a new role supporting modern fleets — but at Greenham, the transformation from storing nukes to Nissan Jukes shows how historic military engineering can power the logistics and automotive industries of today.
The site is ideally suited to vehicle storage, fleet compounds, trailer yards, logistics staging, or operational depots
Key features include:
• 7 acres of large contiguous hardstanding available immediately
• Ultra-secure site with 24/7 security and multiple layers of military-grade perimeter fencing
• Excellent access to the M4, M3 and A34 strategic road network
• 17,500 sq ft high-bay building with approx. 7m internal height
• 6 secure nuclear bunker storage units each providing approx. 6,000 sq ft additional space with approx. 5m ceiling height
• Suitable for vehicle storage, HGV / trailer yards, fleet depots, logistics overflow or operational compounds
• Competitive commercial terms
The site has historically supported major infrastructure and logistics operations and offers one of the most secure vehicle storage environments in the region.
Location: Greenham, Newbury – RG14 7HQ
HONDA PRELUDE
Power
The 2.0-litre petrol and electric motor produce 181bhp and propels the Prelude from 0-60mph in eight seconds.
After a 25-year absence, the Honda Prelude is back and brings Japanese flair to the two-door coupe market. Cameron Richards reports.
WHAT IS IT?
Honda used to be a brand that innovated when it came to technology, design and engineering.
However, in recent years, the Japanese marque has lost its way, producing sturdy, sensible, yet forgettable cars that don’t stand out from the competition.
So, to shake things up, Honda, out of nowhere, has decided to shine some light on one of its most iconic nameplates and returned to the niche world of two-door coupes with the Prelude.
After 25 years, the Prelude is back, and it has big boots to fill if it wants to be a serious competitor to the BMW 2 Series. We’ve been driving it to find out.
WHAT’S NEW?
The latest Prelude appears to be brand new on the face of it, though scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find the same underpinnings as the Honda Civic.
For the first time, the Prelude now comes as standard with a hybrid powertrain, Honda’s new ‘S+Shift’ simulated gearbox and ‘dual-axis strut’ suspension, for improved driveability.
There is just one specification to choose from, which is loaded with standard kit, and all models feature a sporty and driver-focused interior lifted from its hatchback sibling.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
The Prelude shares the same hybrid powertrain as the Civic hatchback, which is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired to an electric motor.
With 181bhp and 315Nm of torque, this setup can take the car to 60mph in eight seconds and a top speed of 117mph.
Power is sent to the front wheels only, via an e-CVT transmission, with no manual option available.
Honda claims that the Prelude can achieve up to 54.3mpg, though in our test car, we were averaging around 43mpg during mixed driving.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Thanks to its Civic underpinnings, the Prelude does not disappoint in the driving department.
The razor-sharp steering, linear power delivery and excellent throttle input make this a very driver-focused proposition.
The Prelude also uses the same ‘dual-axis strut’ suspension found on the Civic Type R, which does an excellent job of keeping the car flat and stable at higher speeds. The ride isn’t
THE KNOWLEDGE
Honda Prelude Advance Hybrid
Price (as tested): £41,695
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol with electric motor
Power: 181bhp
Torque: 315Nm
O-60mph: 8 seconds
Max speed: 117mph
MPG (combined): 54.3mpg
Emissions: 117g/km CO2
too firm over uneven road surfaces, either.
Style
The Prelude’s sporty looks are accentuate with the narrow front grille with chrome louvre and flush door handles
The Prelude is the first Honda to use the firm’s ‘S+Shift’ technology, which simulates an eight-speed automatic transmission by allowing the driver to control the car’s e-CVT gearbox via the steering wheel-mounted paddles. In essence, it’s a single-speed transmission made to feel like a conventional eight-speed automatic.
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
The Prelude provides a sporty silhouette by utilising Honda’s ‘Gliding Cross Stance’ design language.
At the front, the car features a narrow front grille with a black chrome louvre, while flush door handles help keep the side profile sleek and modern. There are also blue accents complemented by blue brake callipers, which aim to highlight the car’s hybrid setup.
At the back, the sloping roofline flows seamlessly into the tailgate, which is met with a single rear light bar with Honda lettering.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
The Prelude’s interior features similar design elements to the Civic, with Honda referring to it as a ‘Gliding Cockpit’.
All the materials used throughout have a nice soft-touch feel, while the dashboard and centre console utilise a cloud-like design which is made from paper and aims to look like Alcantara.
Space in the back of the Prelude is a compromise as the front seats don’t automatically slide forward, which makes it harder to squeeze into the rear, and once you’re aboard, the sloping roofline and limited kneeroom makes it very uncomfortable for adults. The rear seats are best suited for very small children.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
When it comes to specification, the Prelude keeps things simple with just one trim level.
All cars come in flagship Advance trim, which boasts tons of standard kit including 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with push button start, front and rear parking sensors, Brembo brakes, an eight-speaker Bose premium soundsystem, adaptive cruise control and heated front seats.
There are also several option packs, which can add a few subtle sporting touches such as a rear bootlid spoiler and dark chrome detailing.
Prices start at £40,995, which makes it more than £1,100 compared to the cheapest BMW 2 Series, though the Honda does come with more standard equipment.
VERDICT
Honda is not projecting large sales numbers with the Prelude, but that doesn’t matter because the Japanese firm has done a great job in bringing back an old nameplate and turning it into something modern and exciting.
Its sharp driving dynamics, clever simulated gearbox, great looks and smooth powertrain make it a very tempting proposition next to its German rivals.
It’s not the cheapest car in its class, but if you enjoy driving and want a sporty, sleek and stylish coupe that offers a little bit of exclusivity, the Honda Prelude ticks all of the right boxes.
Its sharp driving dynamics, clever simulated gearbox, great looks make it a very tempting proposition.
TARGET BUYERS:
Those looking for a sleek, efficient four-seater coupe.
THE RIVALS: BMW 2 Series Mercedes CLE
KEY SELLING POINTS:
Cabin
The Prelude’s interior takes design elements from the Civic and the materials used throughout a a quality feel.
1. Iconic nameplate returns
2. Simulated automatic transmission
3. Great to drive
DEAL CLINCHER:
Offers lots of exclusivity against the competition.
JAMES’S VIEWS ON THE NEWS
What’s happening?
The battle over the future of used car supermarket group Big Motoring World is continuing in the High Court and this week it’s the turn of the private equity shareholders to face the questions.
After two weeks of serious allegations against the ousted boss Peter Waddell, where he was accused of using racist language to refer to employees and use his disabilities as a ‘fig leaf’ to justify his ‘egregious misconduct’, the firm’s current management took to the witness box.
Reza Fardad, a partner in the private equity firm Freshstream, appeared on Thursday, March 5, to take questions from Mr Gourgey KC and his testimony provided new details about the investment.
DURING QUESTIONING:
• He revealed that there was ANOTHER bidder for Big Motoring World
• He disclosed how much Freshstream paid for its stake in the business… …and how much Waddell wanted for it
• How Freshstream had Waddell checked out by a corporate intelligence firm before buying
• And how it had a clear fallback strategy to step in and take over if things went wrong
Fardad’s questioning revealed that there was another private equity firm that ran the rule over Big Motoring World prior to their deal.
French firm Tikehau Capital was named in the High Court as having sniffed around Big in 2021. Those talks came to nothing, but Freshstream bought their due diligence for around £240,000 to accelerate their own investigations into the used car dealer, the court heard.
Fardad revealed that Freshstream paid £72m for a 35% share in Big in April 2022 – and confirmed it was its largest investment to date. He said it was unusual for the private equity
firm insofar as it was not a majority slice. Up until that point the firm had tended to avoid minority stakes, as it usually wanted control.
But Freshstream structured the Big deal in a way that allowed them to acquire a majority share at a later stage. And the court heard that the deal included significant downside protections designed to cover them if the business underperformed.
Freshstream had built in ‘step in’ rights which would give it greater operational control if performance fell below certain financial targets. And these clauses would allow it to sell property to raise cash and to sweep cash flows from the business.
When asked if the strategy effectively allowed Freshstream to strip assets to recover its investment, Fardad replied: ‘It was an option if that was the right thing to do at the time.’
This was all designed to give Freshstream a 1.45 times return on its investment even if the business underperformed, the court heard.
Waddell had pushed for a £200m valuation for Big during negotiations. He had based this on the fact the business could generate £20m EBITDA profit, and he wanted a 10x valuation for the sale. However, Freshstream carried out its own financial due diligence before completing the deal. During the hearing it was noted that internal documents prepared for the private equity firm’s investment committee referred to EBITDA of around £13m, significantly below the level that would justify a £200m valuation on a
straightforward basis.
The court heard that the higher figure was treated as a ‘structuring EBITDA’, a forwardlooking number supported by financial analysis carried out by advisers including PwC and this formed part of the basis on which the deal was ultimately structured.
Waddell, who suffers from deafness, dyslexia and autistic spectrum disorder, is claiming unfair dismissal, harassment and disability discrimination by Bluebell Cars – the ultimate holding company of Big Motoring World. He was removed from his job as CEO after an internal investigation into his conduct, but remains the majority shareholder of the business.
The six respondents are Bluebell Cars Bidco Ltd, Bluebell Cars Holding Ltd, Bluebell Cars Topco Ltd and Big Motoring World directors Lawrence Vaughan, Reza Fardad and Thomas Clarke.
The respondents deny Waddell’s claims and insist his departure came as a result of his own conduct.
Up until now, the trial has been focussed on Waddell’s behaviour. Among the allegations is that he referred to Asian employees as ‘Hyundais’, that he complained that there were ‘too many Muslims in Enfield’ and has been accused of being ‘free to give vent to the sexist, racist and bullying aspects of his character’. Waddell denies the claims.
Fardad’s evidence revealed that Freshstream had checked Waddell out carefully prior to their investment using the corporate intelligence firm Kroll. It is hired to investigate people and their
The Need to
Knows
Dubai firm DxB Auto Investments buys Harwoods’ JLR and BMW operations
Dubai-based DxB Auto Investments has completed its deal to buy Harwoods’ JLR division along with BMW, Mini and Volvo authorised repairer operations and bodyshops in Crawley and Southampton. The business, owned by His Excellency Saeed Mohamed Al Ghandi, will operate under the Southeast Motors brand, retaining existing staff as it looks to build a significant UK presence focused on premium and luxury brands.
Just Motor Group is sold to Employee Ownership Trust
Just Motor Group has sold part of the business to an Employee Ownership Trust in a move designed to realise value while preserving the firm’s culture. The north of England dealer group, which operates five franchised sites and employs around 100 staff, will retain minority shareholders Russell Allison and Kevin Tyrrell, joining other motor retailers such as Glyn Hopkin Group and Helensburgh Toyota in adopting the model.
Former Cazoo and Motors chief Phill Jones to take over vehicle movement specialist Engineius
Former Motors and Cazoo boss Phill Jones has been appointed CEO of vehicle movement specialist Engineius, replacing co-founder Chris Clibbery after more than 15 years leading Motors. Jones will now head the fast-growing logistics platform, which operates a network of more than 600 drivers and transport partners across the automotive sector.
businesses by private equity firms to give them confidence before their investment.
Early due diligence found a number of negative employee reviews on the Glassdoor website. These alleged Waddell was ‘rude’ and disrespectful to staff’. One even likened the workplace to ‘being on the set of Wolf of Wall Street but with cars’.
Fardad said Freshstream did have concerns but viewed the report cautiously and the court heard that ‘Kroll did not identify any references to an internal culture tolerant of discriminatory behaviour of a racial or sexual harassment nature’.
In total, Freshstream paid £3.6m for due diligence into Big Motoring World from PwC,
AlixPartners, Kroll and others.
The court also heard how internal emails had raised concerns about Waddell early in their investment.
Fardad accepted that Waddell’s leadership style had raised some concerns internally, telling the court that the entrepreneur had strong views about how the company should be run and that he could be difficult to work with.
Fardad also acknowledged that Waddell’s approach to running the business was unusual compared with the chief executives typically encountered by Freshstream when investing in larger companies.
The trial continues at the High Court.
JUST how much trouble is Honda in? This week the SMMT new car sales figures came out for February which showed another rampant rise for the Chinese car makers.
Jaecoo was up 179% with more than 2,000 cars finding homes, Omoda up 147% with 1,286 sales and BYD secured a 2.4% market share with 2,154 sales. Even Chery, the new arrival, managed 1,406 sales and a 1.5% share of the market. Impressive. Meanwhile, Honda was lagging behind with a drop of nearly 40%. The brand moved to agency sales in December and looks to have been suffering as a result. It sold 874 cars in February split between its 100 or so dealerships – that’s less than nine per site. Nine car sales can not sustain a new car franchise for very long… Other big losers in February included Tesla (down 37%), Seat (down (32%), Nissan (down 32%), Jeep (down 32%) and Mini (down 23%). These are painful falls in what was the best February for new car sales since 2004.
Pic of the month
Dacia has named its new crossover the Striker. It will sit between the Jogger and Duster and blend ‘MPV practicality with SUV styling’.
CAR NEWS ROUND-UP
Manufacturers have been refining their models and producing new ones. We look at some of the results...
Limited-run
Duster ‘Spirit of Sand’ edition revealed
DACIA has revealed a limited-run version of its Duster SUV with the ‘Spirit of Sand’ edition.
Limited to just 500 examples, the Duster Spirit of Sand has been built to celebrate the Romanian firm’s success in the Dakar World Rally Championships.
The exterior of the car features 17-inch black alloy wheels, Copper Brown lower-body graphics, while the
engine and gearbox are equipped with a protective shield made from a strong, lightweight material called ‘Duralumin’. Inside, the car receives the same standard kit found in the Extreme trim level, which means there is adaptive cruise control, climate-controlled air conditioning and an electric parking brake. There is also a heated front windscreen plus heated front seats.
New plug-in hybrid powertrain for Superb
THE Skoda Superb hatchback has received a new and improved plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The new set-up consists of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired to an electric motor and 25.7kWh battery pack.
The system produces a total of 268bhp and 400Nm of torque compared to 201bhp and 350Nm in the old powertrain. In terms of acceleration, 0-60mph is dealt with in 6.9 seconds and the car’s top speed is 140mph.
Deepal S05 compact electric SUV revealed
CHANGAN has revealed its second model with the Deepal S05 compact electric SUV.
Changan is one of China’s oldest car manufacturers and began selling cars in the UK last year with the Deepal S07 electric SUV.
The Deepal S05 takes on cars such as the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. Changan claims the car can travel up to 303 miles between charges with 200kW DC rapid charging.
UX model range gets new trim levels
THE Lexus UX crossover has received a flurry of updates to its model range, including new trim levels and more standard equipment.
The UX is available in five specifications: Premium, F Sport Design, F Sport Design Tech, F Sport, and Takumi, which replaces the Urban, Premium, F Sport Design, F Sport Design Tech, and F Sport Takumi model structure that was in place previously.
UK return kicks off with L200 pick-up
MITSUBISHI has announced that its L200 pick-up truck has gone on sale with prices starting at £36,295.
After five years, Mitsubishi is returning to the UK and will kickstart things with a new version of its previously popular L200 pick-up.
The latest pick-up comes as standard in a ‘Double Cab’ bodystyle and there will be the choice of two trim levels: Titan and Barbarian.
LEXUS
MITSUBISHI
CHANGAN SKODA
DACIA
Updated Seal hits the road priced from £45,730
BYD’s upgraded Seal has gone on sale in the UK. The electric saloon was only launched in 2023 but BYD has already seen fit to implement a range of upgrades and additions.
Priced from £45,730, the BMW i4-rivalling Seal now gets a range of updated 19-inch wheel designs, as well as three new exterior colours –Ruby Red, Obsidian Black and Lavender Grey, which join an existing trio of shades. At the rear of the car sits a more prominent BYD logo than before.
VOLVO has expanded its electric EX30 line-up with a new entry-level motor set-up.
Though as-yet unnamed, the new set-up will use a single electric motor with 148bhp, which is linked to a 51kWh battery for a claimed range of up to 211 miles.
Volvo says that buyers will also be able to upgrade to a larger 69kWh battery version, which will unlock a longer range of 296 miles.
AUDI has released its new RS5 which hits the road as a plug-in hybrid for the first time.
The previous RS5 was defined by its turbocharged V6 engine and while the new model may introduce electrification, it does still retain the same 2.9-litre engine as before.
However, that V6 engine is now paired with a 130kW electric motor to bring 630bhp, a sizeable uplift on the 450bhp of the previous-generation car.
VOLVO AUDI
NEWS AND THOUGHTS FROM THE CAR DEALER PODCASTS
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The government needs to take much more of a lead around used EVs because that’s where the real difference is.
Ginny Buckley Co-founder of Electrifying.com
EV buyers still need ‘hand holding’ as Electrifying survey reveals continued challenges
EV buyers still need an element of ‘hand holding’ and the government needs to do more to level up the playing field across the country.
That is the verdict of leading automotive journalist Ginny Buckley, who has been appearing as a guest on the latest episode of the Car Dealer Podcast. Buckley, founder of Electrifying.com, says that the publication’s recent consumer survey found that fears around charging remain a major hurdle to buyers getting into an EV.
While Westminster alone currently has close to 3,000 EV chargers, many cities in the north of England continue to lag behind and Buckley says that the government needs to take ‘more of a lead’ when it comes to making electric cars more accessible.
Speaking to hosts James Baggott and Jon Reay, she said: ‘We do a big survey every year with the AA and we did the last one just at the end of 2025. ‘We surveyed over 13,000 UK drivers… just under 50% will tell us that they don’t have confidence in driving an EV and the prospect of making that switch and around two thirds don’t have confidence in how you
charge one.
‘So for new EV drivers – people new to it – definitely that hand holding is still really important. Those basics of how much range do you really need? How do you charge? Charging explained. Why does your range drop in winter?’
She added: ‘There are definitely concerns. There are concerns about charging. We need to do much more nationally about visibility of charging.
‘The government needs to take much more of a lead around used EVs because that’s where the real difference is.’
Electrifying.com’s survey found that only 14% of nonEV motorists think that electric cars are cheaper to run overall than petrol or diesel vehicles.
Elsewhere, 55% of respondents said the government’s proposed pay-per-mile tax on EVs would discourage them from going electric.
The survey was carried out alongside the AA, whose president Edmund King said: ‘This survey shows that there is still some way to go to convince most drivers to go electric. Conditions which would help most drivers go electric have not yet been met.’
Used EV values jump 1.4% as car prices rise across the market in February
Used car retail prices climbed in February, with second-hand EVs recording an encouraging rise.
Latest data from the recently rebranded Cazana, released to Car Dealer ahead of official publication, shows that average used retail prices at the benchmark three-year point jumped by 1.7%, or £340.
Price rises were across the board, too, with one-year-old vehicles seeing a 0.7% increase, and five-year-olds experiencing a 1.4% rise.
Speaking on Car Dealer Live, automotive
consultant Derren Martin said February performed as expected, with demand building on a positive January and pushing dealers to increase prices across much of the market.
‘February did what we expected it to do because the first two months of the year tend to be strong. January starts off quite well, February gets better and that’s what we saw in the retail market.’
He added: ‘Across all of the age brackets dealers have been putting some prices up – not dramatically, but taking advantage of that extra demand. It’s been a good month for the dealers.’
One factor behind the strength of three- and five-year-old cars is the lingering supply shortage caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
‘Three- and five-year ages are quite explainable because that’s the Covid years,” Martin explained. ‘There’s been a shortage of cars registered since 2020, so you’d expect those to perform quite well.’
However, one of the more notable developments was the performance of used electric vehicles, which increased 1.4% on average, making it one of the strongest months for electric cars in recent times after a recent turbulent period.
Quick decisions Faster deals
FINANCE NEWS
COMPENSATION
Car finance redress scheme to be confirmed this month as FCA considers ‘implementation period’
by Jack Williams @JournoJack25
The final terms of the FCA’s motor finance redress scheme are expected to be published by the end of the month, with the regulator set to impose an ‘implementation period’ to help streamline the process.
That is according to the latest announcement from the watchdog which says that ‘several changes’ are likely to be made to the current proposals.
Car Dealer reported last month that carmakers’ internal finance providers are due to be exempt from the scheme, following ‘heavy lobbying’ from firms.
‘If we proceed with a scheme, we are likely to make several changes. If we do go ahead, we expect to publish final rules in late March. The timing of publication will be outside market hours and we will confirm the date in advance.
who complain before the scheme starts would no longer be asked if they wish to opt out. Instead, within three months of the end of the implementation period, their lender would tell them whether they are owed compensation, and how much.
The FCA now says it is considering more than 1,000 responses to its initial proposals but insists that final decisions on the scheme have not yet been made.
However, the regulator did add that it is likely to introduce an implementation period of three months, rising to five months for older agreements, due to the ‘scale and complexity of the scheme’.
A spokesman for the body said: ‘We are considering over 1,000 responses to our proposals for a compensation scheme for motor finance customers who were treated unfairly.
‘Final decisions on the scheme have not yet been made. But to help firms prepare and ensure consumers get any money owed promptly, we are setting out some details now on how we intend to streamline the consumer journey and make it smoother for firms to operate.
‘Given the scale and complexity of the scheme and in response to feedback, we are likely to introduce an implementation period of three months, with up to five months for older agreements. Firms could choose to process claims under the scheme sooner. We would also streamline the process for consumers and firms.’
Explaining how the new implementation process would work, the FCA said: ‘People
‘Consumers receiving a redress offer would be able to accept it immediately, rather than waiting for a final determination.’
Firms would not be required to write to customers via recorded delivery.
‘Even with an implementation period, streamlining the process means millions of people would receive compensation in 2026.
‘The likely changes to the scheme were supported by many consumer groups and firms that responded to our consultation.
‘As well as providing a better experience for consumers, the changes would help keep the cost of delivering the scheme proportionate, supporting a wellfunctioning market for the millions of people that rely on it.’
Richard Pygott is digital marketer for First Response. Call him on 0115 946 6365 or email richard. pygott@frfl.co.uk
TIME IS MONEY
RICHARD PYGOTT
A MONTHLY LOOK AT THE WORLD OF AUTOMOTIVE FINANCE AND MARKETING
Taking stock
Ilike to keep my ear to the ground when it comes to the motor trade. It’s a fast-moving industry, and one of the best ways to understand what’s really happening is to speak to the people who are out there every day.
That’s why I regularly catch up with our Business Development Managers who are on the road visiting dealers across the country. They see first-hand what’s happening on forecourts and hear the same conversations day in, day out.
Lately, one topic keeps coming up: stock. Or more specifically, how difficult it’s becoming to source the right cars at the right price.
For the kinds of dealers we work with every day, typically stocking anywhere between 10–100 vehicles, many of them in that six-to-ten-year-old bracket, the pressure is starting to build.
Those cars have always been the bread and butter of the independent market. They’re modern enough to feel like a genuine upgrade for customers, but old enough to still be affordable. The problem is that the after-effects of the pandemic are still rippling through the industry, and one of the biggest consequences is the shortage of cars in that age range.
Fewer new cars were registered during those years, and now we’re seeing the knock-on effect. The supply simply isn’t there in the same numbers, which means when the right cars appear at auction they attract plenty of attention. Prices climb quickly, margins tighten, and suddenly that car you planned to retail at £6,995 doesn’t look quite so appealing when you’re competing with three other dealers to buy it.
So, what are many independents doing? As always, they’re adapting.
Some are pushing slightly older with their stock. Others are becoming far more selective about what they buy. And many are leaning even more heavily on something that has always been vital to the independent sector: finance.
The reality is that affordability is front of mind for customers right now. A lot of buyers may not have the cash to buy a car outright, but they can still manage a monthly payment that works for their budget. In many cases, that’s what turns a conversation into a sale.
From my perspective at First Response Finance, we see this every day. Independent dealers are incredibly resilient and resourceful, constantly adapting to changes in stock availability and customer behaviour.
But having the right finance partner alongside you can make a real difference. At First Response Finance we work closely with independent dealers across the UK, helping them offer finance options that make cars more accessible for customers while keeping deals moving.
As dealers push slightly older with vehicles to manage the stock squeeze, having a finance partner that’s comfortable funding those cars becomes even more important. If you don’t already work with us, get in touch
A lot of buyers may not have the cash to buy a car outright, but they can still manage a monthly payment that works for their budget.
SUPPLIERS GUIDE
LOOKING FOR A MOTOR TRADE SUPPLIER? YOU CAN FIND THE DETAILS OF SELECTED COMPANIES HERE
Auctions
Auction4Cars.com
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.
Auctions & Trade-To-Trade Sales
BCA
W: bca.co.uk
T: 0344 875 3480
Finance
Close Brothers Motor Finance
W: closemotorfinance.co.uk/
Info: Close Brothers Motor Finance are a specialist finance provider, working with over 8,000 dealer partners to offer flexible finance solutions for car, motorcycle and LCV customers.
Finance
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.
Automotive E-Commerce
ATG
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.
Data
Real World Analytics
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.
DMS
MotorDesk
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.
Finance
Blue Motor Finance
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.
First Response
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.
Finance
Forza Finance
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.
HR & People Management
HR Manager
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.
Insurance
Tradesure
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.
Key Control
Traka
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.
Lead Management
GardX AD-Vantage
W: gardx.co.uk/gardx-ad-vantage
T: 01243 376426
E: goforaspin@gardx.co.uk
Info: The award-winning 360 service offers an engaging display of the vehicle while additionally presenting profitable F&I products to a consumer.
Lead Management
iVendi
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.
Legal & Compliance
Lawgistics
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.
Marketing, PR & Video
OnCue Communications
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.
Marketing, PR & Video
Marketing Delivery
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.
Oil & Lubricants
Mobil™
W: mobil.co.uk
T: 0800 0857 420
Recruitment
WeRecruit Auto
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.
Trade Bodies
Ben
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.
Vehicle Photography
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.
Vehicle Tracking
Meta Trak
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.
Warranty Providers
AutoProtect
W: autoprotect.co.uk
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.
Warranty Providers
Car Care Plan
W: carcareplan.com
T: 0344 573 8000
Info: Whether using Mobil 1™ or Mobil Super™, Mobil™ engine oils meet or exceed the latest standards of the oil industry and vehicle manufacturers.
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.
Warranty Providers
Centurion Warranties
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.
Warranty Providers
Händler Protect
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.
These Listings Work!
More Sales For You
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.
Website Design & Digital Marketing
Bluesky Interactive
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.
Website Design & Digital Marketing
Haswent
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.
Website Design & Digital Marketing
Spidersnet
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.
LONG-TERMERS
NISSAN QASHQAI
We’ve been running our Nissan Qashqai for several months, and it’s proved to be a likeable, comfortable and practical proposition. Dave Brown reports.
Perhaps unusually for a report about a car we have on the fleet, I’d like to begin by paying tribute to a tyre manufacturer.
The ‘black circles’ that keep our Nissan Qashqai connected to the Tarmac are produced by Goodyear. And I am amazed that all four of them remain intact bearing in mind the dreadul state of the UK’s roads after many weeks of torrential rain.
So – no punctures so far thank goodness – and despite our cratered carriageways, piloting OY74NMA remains a pleasure simply because it is such a well-engineered and comfortable vehicle, qualities that help keep it towards the top end of the sales charts.
In fact, Qashqai was the UK’s third best-selling new car of 2025, according to statistics published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
It secured third place in the league table with 41,141 units sold; while its sister Nissan crossover Juke claimed fifth spot with 34,773 buyers driving new examples off dealer forecourts.
We’re fairly familiar with both models, having put a number of Qashqais and Jukes through their paces in recent years. And we can’t wait to try out the all-new, all-electric pairing of Micra and Leaf – with both arriving in Nissan showrooms in the coming weeks.
But back to our Qashqai, which hasn’t put a foot wrong since the start of the year, taking me to see various family members and friends I didn’t manage to catch up with over Christmas.
Many of those I have visited have been genuinely impressed by the car, and particularly by its outward appearance. This would even include my 89-year-old mum, bless her, who wouldn’t know the difference between a Fiat and a Ferrari.
The front grille was updated to create a more striking first impression. Inspired by the patterns of ancient Japanese armour scales, it consists of dozens of high-gloss, threedimensional comma-shaped elements painted in high-gloss black paint which appear to float in the space between the lip of the bonnet and the numberplate holder.
The current headlight design brings a sense of purpose and presence, with an even sharper look than before. And OY74NMA is fitted with 18-inch diamond-cut alloys, which really do say ‘look at me!’
Once inside, my passengers have been equally pleased with their comfortable surroundings and the easy-to-use technology that makes it a pleasure to be on board. The adjustable ambient lighting is super-cool, and often appreciated because evening driving is done in the dark at this time of year.
One slightly annoying feature is the beeping that occurs if you break the speed limit (part of Nissan’s traffic sign recognition system) but it’s easy to disable and please be assured I’m not a boy racer! (I’m far too old.)
A route I commonly take runs next to a supermarket with a 5mph speed limit in its car park. The sign’s proximity to the adjacent main road means the car ‘notices’ it and thinks I should be driving at a snail’s pace.
Traffic Sign Recognition is just one of the many features of Qashqai’s security and safety features, with others including Intelligent Front Emergency Braking with Pedestrian, Cyclist and Junction Assist; and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.
A particularly useful one is Blind Spot Warning. A small illuminated triangle is displayed on the wing mirror if a vehicle is a tad too close to you – a very valuable feature when visibility is poor, as it has been on many days of the year so far!
Weeks after filing my last report, I realised I hadn’t given the merest details about the Mazda CX-80 that was mine for the next several months. So let me now explain more.
The CX-80, along with its smaller CX-60 brother, are a pair of SUVs that Mazda is hoping can take it into new waters – the premium market. Mazda has a long-term plan to be a genuine rival to the German ‘Big Three’ of BMW, Mercedes and Audi, but also the likes of Volvo and Land Rover. The two SUVs are the first step on that path.
The CX-80 uses the same underpinnings and mechanicals as the smaller 60, but has had its wheelbase stretched by 250mm and it stands 26mm taller in order to fit in a third-row of seats. This is a seven-seater SUV that has a broad remit – the lower-rung models rivals everything from a Skoda Kodiaq to a Hyundai Santa Fe, while the top-spec versions have their eyes on the Volvo XC90 and Land Rover Discovery.
BW74 FOV is the ultimate expression of Mazda’s dream of being considered a premium carmaker. It’s the range-topping Takumi Plus version, complete with leather and wood, but also comes in a very American seating configuration. As standard, the CX-80 is a seven-seat SUV, with a three-person bench that slides and reclines, and a pair of seats in the boot.
My car, however, is a six-seater, and interestingly, Mazda offers two variations on this theme. There’s a normal six-seater with two ‘Captains Chairs’ in the middle row with a narrow walk-way through the back seats, or the £750 option that I’ve got. The walk-way is filled in with a fixed centre console that has armrests, cupholders, and extra storage drawers. It really gives off a Range Rover vibe.
In fact, in this Takumi Plus spec, the whole car has a very upmarket feel. The seats are trimmed in upgraded, soft white Nappa leather, there’s shiny chrome dotted around the cabin, real maple wood inlays, and a special stitched dashboard panel. Here, woven fabric is stretched across the fascia and has a ‘hanging’ stitching technique called ‘Kakenui. It sounds a bit contrived, I know, but it all adds up to a beautiful-looking and feeling interior.
There are only two engine options in both the CX-60 and CX-80 – a 2.5-litre petrol plug-in hybrid, or a newly-developed 3.3-litre, straight-six mild-hybrid diesel. Some of my work involves towing, so I chose the diesel as it’s the traditional choice for this activity. It’s a sizeable engine and fits neatly under that very long bonnet – its basic stats are 254bhp and a chunky 550Nm of torque.
As soon as the CX-80 arrived it was pressed straight into duties. It arrived with around 5,800 miles on the clock, but within the first few weeks I had clocked up nearly 1,000 miles in it. The CX-80 is already showing its strong suit of attributes such as engaging handling and impressive fuel economy, but also some annoyances like a firm, sometimes unforgiving ride. Check back in my next report where I shall dive into this in more detail.
This month’s highlight:
Enjoying the Mazda’s highend feel of Nappa leather, maple wood and fancy ‘hanging’ stitching.
The CX-80 is already showing its strong suit of attributes such as engaging handling and impressive fuel economy.
The interior of the CX-80 is packed with high-end features
