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Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert. Welcome to one of Mercedes-Benz flagship cars that, believe it or not, acts as the bread and butter of the range. With over 14 million estate and saloon variants sold since 1946 and more than 1.2 million owners of the previous generation E-Class, it easily ranks as the best-selling model in Mercedes-Benz history. Like its predecessors, this latest version is set to take executive motoring to a new level with added refinement and quality. First impressions are good; I mean, just look at it! From the striking exterior to the futuristic interior, the designers have worked their magic to bestow the E-Class with the elegance and style that have made it so unsuccessful to date. The aggressive look somehow still manages to draw your eye down the classically smooth-flowing sidelines, and it's perfectly proportioned. Our test car was fitted with the AMG-style elements that are designed to make it appeal to a more youthful audience, and for us, it’s the only way to spec the car because it looks fantastic. Features Once you are done admiring the exterior, you open the door to reveal a plethora of focal points led by the latest-generation MBUX touch screens. Displayed over two 12-inch high-resolution multimedia screens, you get vital driving information relayed directly in front of the driver whilst the more central screen intuitively acts as your onboard computer for multimedia, drive select modes, climate control, navigation, etc. It’s all right here and very easy to navigate. Other pleasantries include a high level of standard and optional ‘driver assistance’ functions that work automatically to support the driver. These intelligent aids bring various alerts in threatening situations to help avoid unnecessary accidents and enjoy a safer driving experience. But what is it like to drive, and what engine options are available? Power As with most Mercedes-Benz automobiles, engine options are plentiful, with 4 and 6-cylinder petrol and diesel units available. In an effort to help you make the best engine choice let us take you through what is available in petrol first. Buyers have a choice of five units spanning the 197hp to 435hp spectrum, inclusive of one hybrid and a powerful AMG unit. They are a 4-cylinder 1991cc E200 and E200 4MATIC (197hp) and E300 (258hp) alongside a top-of-the-range 2999cc E450 4MATIC and AMG E53 4MATIC+ outputting 367 and 435hp respectively. Diesel buyers are also well catered for with one that includes hybrid technology. Diesels kick off with a 1597cc, 160hp E200d, a 1950cc, 194hp E220d, E220d 4MATIC and a 2939cc, 330hp E400d 4MATIC. On the plug-in hybrid front, you have the choice of a 4-cylinder 1991cc, 211hp E300e petrol with a 4MATIC version and a 1950cc, 194hp E300de, and E 300de 4MATIC diesel-powered versions. While all models are available to order through the Irish dealer network, focus is being placed on the E200d, E220d models initially and two plug-in petrol and diesel hybrids, the E300e and E300de in saloon and estate. Despite a significant increase in the range of additional and new specifications, Mercedes-Benz has somehow managed to maintain its competitive position with an average price difference of just one percent across the range. Safety The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers a long list of safety features that help give it a top rating. The impressive list of safety technologies and features includes the PRE-SAFE package with Impulse Side, Active Drive Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist, and Attention Assist. Carried over from the previous generation, you will also have a rearview camera system, hands-free calling, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, nine airbags, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Active Parking Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Congestion Emergency Braking, Evasive Steering Assist and many others that are designed to protect you and your passengers while on the road. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Prices Prices here in Ireland kick off from €52,910 for the E200 Petrol and €53,105 for the E200 Diesel. Plug-in hybrid versions range from €65,615 for the E300 Petrol PHEV, and €67,740 for the E300de Diesel PHEV, both of which are eligible for SEAI / VRT combined support of €7,500. Summary To drive and spend time with the E-Class is a little like traveling Business Class on your favourite airline for a week. It is refined, classy on the road, and so smooth mated to a 9G-TRONIC transmission. By now, many of you have seen the new E-Class on Irish roads, most notably noticed by the striking LED headlights. The revamped Mercedes-Benz E-Class in Saloon and Estate versions are to be joined shortly by the Coupé and Cabriolet variants. For us, though, I think we would prefer the estate with that extra space and Germanic wagon look. Mercedes-Benz has stated the E-Class is like the heart of the ever-expanding model range. Our 2.0 diesel-powered test car was sublime to drive, but we reckon the Diesel hybrid could be the one to go for! With the possibility of all-wheel drive also now an option, this could be the ultimate E-Class. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pros Technology Build quality Ample Space Drive Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cons No Apple Car Play or Android Auto To check out Mercedes stock on DoneDeal, click here. About DoneDeal DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, over 60,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties History checks. One car ad is placed every minute on DoneDeal, with about 600,000 cars advertised a year. DoneDeal is Ireland's No.1 Motor Website with over 70 million car searches taking place annually. To check out DoneDeal’s range of cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships, see here. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

Our new DoneDeal Motor report finds that with a crunch in supply, it’s a good time to buy a new or used vehicle as prices are expected to climb on used vehicles. Brexit Impact on imports and the decline in new car sales, and therefore trade-ins, means there are less nearly new used cars (Reg. 2016 - 2019) in the Irish Market. Demand is driving up prices on used cars. Similar trends are visible in the UK where leading car sites have seen increases of 8.5% in the price of used cars across the board. DoneDeal’s Market data, for both New and Used cars, shows that as the price gap closes between nearly new cars (Reg. 2016-2019) and new cars, people are making the leap to enquire about brand new cars on the site. A good time to buy: With a crunch in new supply, vehicles are expected to better hold their value. 1 in 2 Irish consumers intends to buy Hybrid or Electric as their next car. Diesel is still king but DoneDeal research says one in two buyers are now open to buying hybrid or Electric as their next car up from 1 in 4 last year. Competitive Finance Options are expected to make it easier for consumers to trade up to newer and more aspirational car types like Hybrid and Electric vehicles. Among many cohorts, Cash is plentiful as car buyers use funds that would have been used for holidays, creche fees, etc, as deposits on a new car. DoneDeal’s motor report reveals an industry in crisis but one that is transforming to be future proof with the adoption of online selling. In 2021 it is not a matter of ‘if’ Irish consumers intend to buy cars online; they are buying cars online. In 2021, cars are being sold through Car dealerships entirely online, end to end, and via DoneDeal. Car commuters don’t miss the traffic but really miss the contemplation time that commuting gave them. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal is host to all of Ireland's trusted car dealers and is the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. Our mission at DoneDeal is to remove all uncertainty when it comes to buying and selling a car, and we continue to listen carefully to both customers and our trusted dealers in order to make car buying better for the Irish consumer. DoneDeal is well-positioned to address car buyers’ challenges, hosting the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 72,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, 51,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties and history checks, and service options like delivery, click and collect and finance. #Motors

Thanks to our friends in Connolly Motor Group for supplying the vehicle. To check out more of their range, check out their stock listings on DoneDeal here. About DoneDeal DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, over 60,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties History checks. One car ad is placed every minute on DoneDeal, with about 600,000 cars advertised a year. DoneDeal is Ireland's No.1 Motor Website with over 70 million car searches taking place annually. To check out DoneDeal’s range of cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships, see here. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. Check out DoneDeal’s range of cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships

All hail the 7th generation BMW 3 series. Overall the car has a very premium feel to it, plenty of power, and is also quite economical, making it one of the best all-round cars on the market today. See for yourself. Check out the BM3 Series for yourself here. Note to Reader: The links in the article are filtered to show cars with a reg plate no older than 2020. Simply adjust the filters in our search panel if you would like to broaden your search for cars or research cars in a different year range. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

Car models are continually being refreshed, renewed or reinvented. The best sellers from 2020 will continue to be best sellers in 2021 but we will also see cars launched in 2020 gain a foothold. Gems like the electric VW ID.3, the multi-fuel Peugeot 208, Ford Puma & Kuga, and a favourite of mine the all-electric Honda-e will all take off. A lot of motoring’s household names will be refreshed (new) with many more ‘all-new’ (really new) models arriving in 2021. Here are just a few worth looking out for: Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA This version of the stunning Giulia Quadrifoglio has been fed extra steroids. It is an incredibly exciting car to drive and will appeal to many and sadly only bought by the lucky few. The GTA represents the best in old school petrol power with its Ferrari sourced engine and deliciously fruity exhaust note. For many the GTA is performance perfection. Alfa will also give us the all new Tonale. It’s a great looking compact SUV crossover (based on the Jeep Renegade) and is powered by petrol, diesel and PHEV versions. Tonale will challenge the usual premium compact rivals: Audi Q3, BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace, Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque. Like all Alfa Romeos it will be a niche seller. Audi Q4 e-Tron Audi’s all electric mid-sized SUV is set to be a very important car for the premium brand as competition in this class rises. The mid-size Q5 SUV range gets a sleeker model in the Audi Q5 Sportback. The Sportback shape has been a hit in the smaller Q3 and is a welcome addition to the otherwise predictable looking Q5. A new Audi RS3 arrives too – yum! BMW will have a busy year in 2021 expanding its ‘i’ electric sub brand range. The all-new BMW i4 EV is a four-door electric car that promises to challenge the Tesla Model 3 for range and power and is a game changer for the Bavarian brand. SUV buyers can go electric too with the BMW iX3 SUV. This car annoys the anti-SUV brigade who won’t be able to argue with its manageable size and zero emissions from its non-existent tailpipe! The petrol engine powered 260hp 128ti compact car will find a few homes in 2021 with it iconic ‘ti’ badge. A new 2 Series Coupe is due too. At the other end of the size scale the all-new BMW X8 will certainly catch the eye. The 5-seat coupe-ish version of the huge 7-seat BMW X7 SUV won’t be easily lost in a carpark, that’s for sure. Citroen C4 The new multi-fuel compact crossover should turn a few heads and represent good value for money. We think the electric powered version will attract most attention and interest. Cupra El-Born The all new El-Born is a Spanish twist on Volkswagen’s ID.3 electric car, but with more attitude. Cupra is SEAT’s sub brand and SEAT is owned by the VW Group. As the nursery rhyme goes “The El-Born’s connected to the ID.3” – sorry I couldn’t resist. In every sense the two VW Group EVs are inter-connected. Like all Cupras the El-Born will be a rare enough sight on Ireland’s roads. The all new Cupra Formentor (in picture above) will be a relatively popular car as it is a mid-size SUV. The engine choice has petrol, diesel or PHEV. Depending on your spending power you can get modest or loads of power. The all-wheel drive version is the one to covet. DS 4 The second generation of the posh Citroen will be a niche seller but oh so stylish. FIAT 500 The 500 returns in all electric form. This version will join the list of cute EVs that people will find near irresistible like the 2020 launched Honda-e, MINI electric and Peugeot e-208. Ford Puma ST The hybrid Puma launched in 2020. When you add ST sports performance to any Ford the car becomes a lot more interesting. Ford Mustang Mach-E Ford’s first all-electric car will be a game changer for the US brand. Ford has been slow to embrace electrification - but it is catching up. Hyundai Ioniq 5 This electric powered SUV is part of a newly announced ‘Ioniq’ electric only sub-brand from Hyundai. A number of new models will be released in the coming years. Not sure if we’ll see the Ioniq 5 here in 2021, but we might! Jaguar refreshed its range late in 2020 with new technology taking centre stage. The compact Jaguar E Pace and its sister car the Jaguar XE along with the larger Jaguar F Pace mid-size SUV and its sister car the Jaguar XF all received facelifts and tech-lifts (I may have made that word up, but you know what I mean). The all-new flagship Jaguar XJ arrives in 2021. The once gas-guzzling barge has gone all electric! Wonders will never cease with this dual motor, all-wheel drive, luxury saloon. Lexus UX300e The compact Lexus UX SUV now comes with an electric only version. This will create a good battle among premium rivals in the compact EV market. Mazda MX-30 This electric SUV may be low range but is great to drive and looks the part. Urban EVs (a nice way of saying low range) can make sense and are more affordable than large range EVS due to their smaller battery packs. The MX-30 is very impressive. Mercedes-Benz C-Class The latest version of Merc’s excellent business machine arrives in 2021 with new hybrid technology. Also coming our way from the Germany brand is the full-size luxury SUV Maybach GLS, CLS Coupe, AMG GT four-door and SL. The ‘EQ’ electric MB sub brand range is expanding rapidly in 2021. The compact SUV Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQV full size people carrier arrive first. An EQS and EQE are due at the end of the year. The daddy of the company carpark the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrives also in 21 and is a technological tour de force. The CEO’s parking space will look very smart with this new and tech loaded super saloon – there is a Mercedes-Maybach S-Class version also – good news for multi-millionaires. MINI Countryman The new PHEV plug in hybrid version of their popular compact SUV will be built for the first time in BMW’s ultra-efficient Leipzig plant in Germany. Nissan Ariya This exciting electric powered SUV crossover is due in late 2021. 2021 will see the new Nissan Qashqai continue to be a significant vehicle for the Japanese brand. At its launch Qashqai was a game changer as it brought SUV styling to the masses at an affordable price. The new car has countless more rivals to deal with but has a deservingly loyal customer base. Opel Mokka The new baby SUV will shock and delight Opel buyers as it shows a new journey for the now French-owned German brand. The Opel Zafira E as the name implies is an electric car that thanks to being van-based has loads and loads of space. Perfect for large families or as a shuttle or taxi. Range Rover A new electrified flagship is due later in the year and promises to be a lot greener. Renault Arkana This stylish SUV crossover will attract a lot of attention when it arrives. Renault is making very stylish machines these days and has also added new E-TECH hybrid technology to its range. The Zoe EV will continue to grow in sales as will the new Mégane. The Mégane Sport Tourer E-TECH Plug-in hybrid has a 50km electric-only range and ultra-low emissions. Skoda Enyaq The all-new electric-powered crossover SUV from Skoda is in high demand. Two versions arrive in June 2021 with different ranges. The Enyaq uses VW’s ID.3 electric car platform and its running gear under its skin. The new Skoda Fabia is one to watch. The petrol-powered supermini from the historic Czech carmaker will deliver more than the sum of its parts. A sister car of the VW Polo, SEAT Ibiza and Audi A1, Fabia offers a lot - for less. Suzuki has partnered with Toyota and this year two close collaborations will go on sale in Ireland. Suzuki Across PHEV plug-in hybrid is basically a Toyota RAV4. The Suzuki Swace is a hybrid estate car and essentially a reworked Corolla SW, hence the name SW-Ace. Tesla Model Y The SUV version of its Model 3 will eventually go on sale but when it comes to Ireland is anyone’s guess. We tend to be last on the list. Toyota Highlander The 7-seat hybrid all-wheel drive SUV was launched late in 2020 and will become a more frequent sight on Irish roads in 2021. The Toyota RAV4 PHEV Hybrid is an impressive and powerful plug-in hybrid version of the popular SUV. The Yaris launched late 2020 and some variants will be added in 2021. Toyota Yaris Cross is a rugged looking version. The Toyota Yaris GR Gazoo Racing is a stunning 260hp performance hatchback wrapped in a car designed to take people to bingo. The new Golf arrived mid 202 and will continue to be popular in 2021. The niche Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake will turn heads from the start of the year. The 8th generation Volkswagen GTI is the definitive hot hatch, arrives in early 2021. The most significant VW next year will be the Volkswagen ID.4 This all-electric SUV crossover will really hit the spot. It uses the same platform as the VW ID.3 but is package in a way that is on trend. Even if it wasn’t an EV it would be attractive and desirable, so it is a win win for the German firm. Fun fact: VW designed the ID.4 before the 3 but decided to release the more affordable ID.3 first. The ID.4 is Volkswagen’s first carbon neutral car at the point of manufacturer. This is an impressive list and far from comprehensive but if I were to choose one car from it that will define 2021 and the direction carmakers and buyers wish to go? It has to be the Volkswagen ID.4. This article is an independent review by Journalist Michael Sheridan. Michael Sheridan has been a Car of the Year Judge for 20 years, more recently a judge for Van of the Year. Note to Reader: The links in the article are filtered to show cars with a reg plate no older than 2020. Simply adjust the filters in our search panel if you would like to broaden your search for cars or research cars in a different year range. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

This week we're reviewing the MINI JCW (John Cooper Works). Instead of reviewing the MINI in an ordinary fashion, we decided to take a trip down memory lane and look into the heritage of the MINI over the last 60 years; from where it started, to the Monte Carlo rally and all the other milestones along the way. Later in the video, we explore the JCW in a little more depth, talk about the power, the automatic gearbox and even the tyres used. It's a fantastic hot hatch that handles phenomenally, in fact, it arguably handles better than the king of hot hatches - the Volkswagen Golf R. It's got the right amount of power to suffice without it being un-drivable or a complete handful. We hope that you enjoy our review/ 'MINI' documentary. Many thanks to Daisy Stewart for supplying her lovely limited edition Paul Smith original Mini. Check out our latest range of MINI's here. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

In this video, David O'Caoimh gives you an in-depth and comprehensive review of the VW California Ocean Edition. It's a home on wheels and what's more is that when driving it you would never know it's got all your belongings, a full kitchen, and two double beds. If you haven't yet checked out our adventure around Ireland, we strongly recommend it as it paints the perfect picture for how you could use a California. The 2.0 TDI engine paired with the 7 speed Dual Clutch Automatic Gearbox (DSG) drives superbly. The 4 motion system means you can access the inaccessible and truly explore. Take a trip with us here and remember, you can confidently decide for yourself by checking out the Volkswagen California stock from Ireland's trusted dealers here About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

Last week we got the opportunity to test drive the all-new Mazda MX-30. It's a significant car on the Mazda line up and also for EVs. Instead of going for a huge, expensive battery with an enormous range, Mazda have calculated that a 35.5kWh battery would more than suffice. It's got a range of 265km (in the city and 200km on motorways) and can charge from 20-80% in just 36 minutes (on a DC Fast Charger). It's a very comfortable, premium car with plenty of nods to Mazda's heritage. The cork in the center console, the backward opening doors (similar to the Rx-8) are all details that truly passionate drivers will all appreciate. "The lane keep assist will override if it believes there to be a car in your blind spot on a motorway. Impressive." Safety is key for Mazda and the MX-30 has plenty on offer. It has the usual accident avoidance systems, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control, however, it also offers a little more. For example, the lane keep assist will override if it believes there to be a car in your blind spot on a motorway. Impressive. Enjoy our review and remember, you can confidently decide for yourself by checking out the Mazda stock from Ireland's trusted dealers here About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

By Justin Delaney We were fortunate enough to be in sunny Spain for the launch of the previous generation SEAT Leon but now with the world in the grips of a pandemic, we find ourselves closer to home for the launch of the exciting fourth generation Leon. Hot on the heels of the new Golf 8 here we have another car based on the same underpinnings (MQB Evo platform) but with a much more striking design. The Leon looks bigger at 4,368mm long (+86mm) and slightly lower at 1,456mm high (-3mm) over its predecessor. This increased wheelbase of 2,686mm, which equates to 50mm more, gives occupants a larger interior space. There is ample room even in the back for longer journeys but it's what you get for your money overall that really makes the new Leon a must consider machine. Features From standard buyers will pick up the new Leon with a plethora of features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch media system and SEAT Connect. You also get adaptive cruise control, light assist, and fatigue detection, which we are not sure anyone pays attention to. The Xcellence and FR trim levels offer customers even more additional features as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels on the Xcellence spec and glorious 18-inch alloy wheels on FR which is the car we had on test. In these trim specifications you also get a full digital cockpit, full LED lights, sweeping rear lights or ‘Coast to coast” as they are called, wrap around interior lighting, and more tech than you can imagine. Power The SEAT Leon has always had a decent choice of engines no doubt because of its VW partnership and this new model is no different. Five engine options provide decent choice kicking off with two petrol engine choices in the 1.0 TSI 110hp and a 1.5 TSI 150hp. Diesel lovers are catered for also with the strong 2.0 TDI 115hp and a 2.0 TDI 150hp DSG. A new offering for SEAT will be the addition of the mild hybrid electric vehicle available in a 1.5 eTSI 150 DSG. Our FR test vehicle had the 150hp 2.0 TDI and it pulled like a freight train. Is it the best engine in the bunch? Well, it depends on your usage really. If you plan on big motorway miles then we would recommend the diesel option but if your daily round trip is below 150 kilometers, the petrol variants are more than enough. Safety SEAT haven’t been known to scrimp in the safety department and this all new Leon is widely regarded as the safest vehicle the brand has ever developed. With the integration of a state-of-the-art suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) their aim was simple! Lets not just protect passengers from potential accidents, but also to prevent accidents actually happening in the first place. This works by keeping the vehicle safety systems always alert and monitoring the car’s route with data gathered by a camera along with ultrasonic and radar sensors. This means the new SEAT Leon can react when facing obstacles on the road or sudden movements of other drivers. It will activate driver assistance when necessary, alerting drivers to a dangerous situation to help minimise the risk of an accident. This means that predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Assist, and Side and Exit Assist, are all combined to protect the Leon and passengers 100% of the time. Costs This is where SEAT usually shines through and yes the new Leon kicking off at just €23,910 for the petrol is a competitive offer. PCP Finance coming in at 2.9% across the new Leon range is also available meaning you could have a new Leon for as little as €239 per month. Diesel prices kick off at €26,040 and customers can also avail of a discounted 3-year service plan for only €9.99 per month. Summary We think it's safe to say the new SEAT Leon is the most advanced vehicle in the history of the brand. It’s evident in the cutting-edge design and interior. We spent a week with two different variants one of which, we reviewed for the YouTube channel and the other FR version we had here. Both cars impressed immensely and beg the question why would you opt for the more expensive Golf when your money goes a little further with SEAT. Yes the touch displays take a little getting used to and some of the driver assist functions might be a little intrusive but over all it’s a very good drive. It’s not hard to see why the SEAT Leon remains a core model for the brand in the Irish market when they put so much effort in to the design and build. Others have forgotten this sector in favor of putting all their efforts into their next crossover but thankfully SEAT still sees the value in the family hatchback and for this, we applaud them. For Safety Technology Ample Space Drive Against No short cut buttons Make up your own mind by browsing the SEAT Leon yourself here. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

By Justin Delaney With Irish holiday makers being encouraged to holiday at home throughout 2020 under government guidelines, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has seen a 500% increase in demand for its popular California model. With this in mind we decided to touch base with the press department and take a test vehicle for a weeklong excursion. Based on the transporter or its closer sibling the Carvelle, the Volkswagen California T6.1 is the new face-lifted camper and ours was in Ocean specification. Features The California is finished to a similar high quality as the Caravelle. Up front you will find two swivel seats both with their own individual armrests while the rear bench seat will seat two also. That’s just as well because the California will only sleep four in total. Fold down your rear bench seat and hey presto, you have one of your double beds. Activate the aluminium electronic pop up roof from the new panel screen located on the front headlining and you will find another double bed discreetly tucked away. Our test model was also fitted with the optional extra of the black awning which provides cover if you decide to sit out on the supplied deck chairs and table. Kitchen sink, cooker hob, fridge and storage space are all located in the rear alongside the rear bed / seats. The Ocean gets three-zone climate control and a programmable parking heater as standard. This provides heating when the engine isn’t running for those colder than normal nights, which is quite often here in Ireland! The California is the type of campervan which will turns head in any campsite that you visit. Every enthusiast wants one, or at least wants to have a look and see what exactly it is you get for your money. In short, you get enough space to carry you along with three passengers and their luggage with somewhere rather comfortable to sleep to should the mood take you. Power Powered by a 2.0 litre TDi engine and further complimented by 4Motion, Volkswagens four-wheel drive system you will have ample power with 199bhp. The addition of the 4Motion four-wheel drive system means that even in the wettest campsites that the country should offer, you are always assured that the California will pull its way out. Mated to a silky smooth 7-speed DSG gearbox means climbing up or dropping back down the gearbox is effortless as preselected gears drop in without a judder to disrupt your cutlery. Safety Standard equipment on all California models include six airbags and electronic stability control, but the number of active driver aids has increased considerably during the vehicle’s lifetime. This latest T6.1 facelift model has gained electrically power-assisted steering (EPAS), which has made even more active safety items possible, including crosswind assist (now standard on all models), lane-keeping assist and automatic parking. Other safety items available include blindspot monitors, traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control. Costs Now there is a new entry-level version of the California called the California Beach. The Beach comes with a 2.0-litre 150hp Diesel engine, has 5-seats and a starting price of €55,905. It sleeps four people comforably and features a mini kitchen with a gas cooking plate, a second battery, swivel seats in front and a 230-V inlet with charging feature for vehicle batteries and a 230-V outlet in the interior. Inevitably our Ocean test vehicle did come in considerably more expensive at €85,831. For this amount you could have a larger camper, complete with a bathroom, the only thing missing from the California. However, one of the main advantages to the California is its size, it’s not daunting to drive and is easy to park in regular car parking spaces. The good news is that there are special offers available including 2.9% Hire Purchase and a deposit contribution of €2,750 at the time of writing. Summary We spent most of our time cruising along the picturesque Wild Atlantic Way. For all our routes we used Google maps through Apple Carplay, which works extremely well. The California is extremely comfortable and capable over long distances, we often took breaks in small villages where we could park easily and made fresh coffee and lunch within minutes. The onboard fridge is surprisingly cavernous swallowing up plenty of food and drinks. Once at your chosen campsite it doesn’t take long to setup for the night. The California Ocean is extremely well equipped, with clever storage compartments throughout. All the campsites provide an electrical power point to connect with a 230-volt socket at the rear of the California, saving the California’s two onboard batteries. There are two built-in water tanks, one for fresh water and one for wastewater when using the sink. There is a two-ring gas cooker, which is more than capable of cooking up a decent meal in the evening for when you don’t wish to venture into town. When it’s time to rest your head, the electrically operated roof rises at the push of a button to reveal the double bed. Getting up and down to this bed requires a bit of athleticism, but once up, it’s a tranquil place to sleep. There are power points and lights too. The interior of the side sliding door cleverly houses a table, with two deck chairs tucked inside the rear hatch. There’s a lot of thought gone into the layout and design of the California, there is even a shower at the rear for washing down outside after a swim at the beach. Taking a holiday in the Volkswagen California allows you the freedom to travel at your leisure and visit places you may not otherwise see. There’s also the benefit of having an abundance of luggage space for any holiday purchases. All you have to do is plan your destination! For Style Build quality Drive Against No toilet Decide for yourself across a range here on DoneDeal About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

This week on the DoneDeal YouTube Channel we're reviewing the all new Volkswagen ID.3. It's a very important car in the electric world as it's VW's first attempt at a proper EV, and a very good one at that! It will come in a 45kWh, 58kWh and 77kWh electric motor. The first edition which we reviewed has the 58kWh which was very impressive with over 200bhp giving it plenty of poke. For years the Nissan Leaf wore the crown for 'best affordable EV', then it was stolen by the Hyundai Kona Electric, however the ID.3 is probably the most up to date and respectable EV in the 'affordable' market. The standard equipment is phenomenal with lane assist, adaptive cruise control and emergency braking, just to name a few. The car handles beautifully with all 4 wheels in their respective corners and being rear wheel drive. The ID.3 will be the platform the Volkswagen group will use the build the majority of their EV's and so this is a great glimpse into the future. Comparing it to the new MK8 Golf is difficult, the infotainment system is very similar however that's just about it. The styling is very different, the way it drives is completely different and it also has a much more futuristic feel to it. Check out the Volkswagen ID.3 on DoneDeal here #Motors About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal.

Online new and used car buying with ‘Deal & Deliver’ services are still an option Customers can get car finance approval without stepping foot on a forecourt. DoneDeal responds to Premium Consumer demand. A shift to online shopping is an inevitable consequence of the move to Level 5 and it will apply equally to car buying as for other parts of retailing. This is the forecast by leading motor finance provider Bluestone Motor Finance’s MD Donal Murphy who notes; “Like many other parts of the retail sector, car showrooms will be forced to operate differently during the lockdown, with many planning to provide online car buying services. At Bluestone, we are ready to help those dealers by providing an online finance capability for car buyers. The move to online for car buying and financing was a key learning point during the country’s previous lockdown period and this time, businesses are arguably better prepared to support people who want or need to change their car or van.” While car showrooms will be closed, many of Ireland’s motor retailers have shown their agility by being able to operate remotely to help customers. While car showrooms will be closed, many of Ireland’s motor retailers have shown their agility by being able to operate remotely to help customers. Both ‘Click & Collect’ services for customers within 5KM of the showroom or ‘Deal & Deliver’ home delivery of vehicles has become widely available. To facilitate a purchase, a growing number of dealers have embraced the proven online financing portal developed by Bluestone and DoneDeal; this is available here. It allows people to find and finance a used car to suit their needs, as Donal points out; “Motor retailers have invested heavily to make not just their proposition COVID-safe; they included both their premises and remote sales approach. Online sales have been increasingly popular and our digital finance service has helped a growing audience to provide a one-stop online shopping experience that works seamlessly. Our message is straightforward; ‘customers can get car finance approval without stepping foot on the forecourt.” “During the last lockdown, we saw that customers’ interest in car buying bounced back early in the lockdown." DoneDeal is host to Ireland’s Trusted Car Dealers, touching over 70% of car sales. It means that the business can offer a ‘birds-eye view’ of what happened during the last lockdown. By sharing their insights DoneDeal’s General Manager, Rob Hume hopes to provide some best practice guidance for dealers as he explains; “During the last lockdown, we saw that customers’ interest in car buying bounced back early in the lockdown and dealers that stayed open online on DoneDeal during this time benefitted the most. The current period of restrictions will end, but before it does, we’ll continue to see customers moving a large portion of their car purchase journey online. We hope that by empowering dealers and consumers with finance options, Irish businesses can continue online.” “It’s as much to do with evolving consumer behaviour." While the pandemic has brought the need for online finance options into focus, it isn’t the only reason DoneDeal and Bluestone Motor Finance have collaborated, Rob concludes; "A long-standing ask from both premium car buyers and dealers has been to empower them with finance options online. Car buyers come to DoneDeal for the best deals and they want those deals easily. They want to get their finance approved quickly and upfront. This initiative with Bluestone Motor Finance means that customers can get both their car, finance, and home delivery from the comfort of their own home now and in the future.” This article was originally released and featured by our friends at Bluestone. Introducing Bluestone Motor Finance Bluestone Motor Finance is a specialist motor finance provider that can offer finance to car buyers, including to consumers who have found it difficult to get finance previously. The Bluestone team are able to offer simple, secure, lending solutions to consumers and business users. Working with a trusted base of motor dealers, unlike other asset finance providers, Bluestone determines the rental amount, so that the customer is only ever offered a realistic, means-tested sum, based on their current situation, personally assessed by a member of our skilled underwriting team. https://bluestonemf.ie About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors