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On March 8th 2019 people in Ireland and around the world celebrate women’s achievements. It’s a time for celebration as well as being a call for gender parity in law, education and work. At Distilled SCH this is more than a day-long initiative. All year long there is a commitment to provide resources so that women can learn from each other, share experiences and amplify their voices. Proudly sponsoring a coffee break at Women in Tech in Dublin in November 2018 We at Distilled SCH work on three iconic brands; Daft, Adverts.ie and DoneDeal. We have been proud to connect countless numbers of buyers and sellers, as well as helping people buy anything from cars, guitars to even their own homes. Distilled SCH at Women in Technology in Waterford on 7th March 2019 It is our mission to empower our users in their daily lives, and we have been doing that for the last twenty years. That is why Distilled SCH is so committed to building a company that can support future generations of engineers and innovators. A company where you can be yourself and where difference is celebrated. Distilled also has a Change Makers programmes. Its a peer led initiative that promotes diversity from the inside. It’s not a traditional diversity and inclusion initiative. It’s a small community of colleagues who work to make sure everyone on the team feels empowered to realise their full potential and to create a workplace where differences are embraced. We’re also working on extending our experience beyond our office and into our local communities, because we know that together, we’re stronger. We’re delighted to celebrate this special day and look forward to a bright future for women.

110,000 used cars sold in January and February, compared with 113,150 for the same time period last year. 109,507 used cars sold in Ireland during January and February Volkswagen the most popular new and used car brand in 2019 The Ford Focus is the best-selling used car model of 2019 Diesel’s market share is down 8% year-on-year The number of used cars being sold in the country is down 3.3% year-on-year, according to new research from DoneDeal. A total of 109,507 used cars traded hands over the first two months of 2019, compared with 113,167 a year earlier. Volkswagen is the most popular new and used car make of 2019, with a total of 14,599 Volkswagen’s changing hands in the used car market.  Toyota was next best with 13,447 used car sales. Meanwhile, in the new car market, Volkswagen also leads the way with 5,299 sales so far this year, Hyundai is second with 5,242 191 units rolling off the nation’s forecourts. The Ford Focus is the most popular used car of 2019, closely followed by the Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Passat. The Hyundai Tucson remains for the second month running as the most popular new car of 2019, with 1,897 sales to date. DoneDeal have also released “Manufacturer Approved” car ads on site this month. The new feature allows users to easily identify a car that has undergone extensive testing in line with the Manufacturer’s guidelines. Users can also benefit from extended warranties, roadside assist and much more. Martin Clancy from DoneDeal said: “Volkswagen leads the way with a combined total of nearly 20,000 new and used units sold in the opening two months of 2019. One of the most interesting pieces of data to emerge is the clear move away from Diesel. While Diesel continues to be the most popular fuel type the market share for Diesel has decreased by 8% year-on-year while Petrol has grown its market share by over 3.5% with the Hybrid and Electric also recording strong gains.”

Seat Ireland has announced a 7% year-on-year increase in sales, resulting in a record 3.34% Irish market share for the Spanish manufacturer. Key to this success was the performance of their SUV range, with the Seat Arona accounting for 29% of overall Seat new car sales in Q1, a 69% increase on the same period in 2018. Niall Phillips, Brand Director at SEAT Ireland commented, “We have really hit the ground running in 2019 and as we reflect on very strong sales for Q1, we can confidently point to the significant impact the brand is having in the Irish market as we become more and more relevant for Irish consumers. The development of our product range over the past three years, particularly our SUV range, has been a gamechanger for the brand in Ireland and with the youngest and most dynamic range in the market, we are offering motorists more quality, value and choice than ever before.”

30% of all new cars on Irish roads are now automatics. That’s according to new research from DoneDeal on trends in the new car sales market for Q1 2019. In the year to the end of March, over 19,000 automatics rolled off the nation’s forecourts – an all-time high for the transmission type. That’s a 216% increase compared with the same time period 5 years ago when just 6,000 new automatics were sold in the state. The best-selling automatic car makes in the opening three months of 2019 were Toyota, Audi and BMW with the Toyota Corolla, the best selling model of Q1. Martin Clancy from DoneDeal said: “New automatic transmissions are extremely intelligent. It’s now common to see seven and even eight gear transmissions which enable smooth and efficient driving, even at low revs. Therefore burning far less fuel and reducing emissions.” “It’s also worth pointing out that alternative-fuel vehicles, including virtually all hybrids and fully electric cars, tend to use automatic gearboxes. With the increase in alternative fuel vehicles, the number of automatics on the roads is sure to rise also”. Diesel was the most popular automatic engine type, accounting for 47% of the automatic market with Petrol Electric (26%) and Petrol (16%) rounding out the top three. Best selling automatics on Irish roads Q1 2019: 1. Toyota Corolla – 1,516 units 2. Toyota C-HR – 1,363 units 3. Toyota Rav 4 – 898 units 4. Skoda Kodiaq – 821 units 5. Toyota Yaris – 771 units Source: stats.beep.beep.ie

The all-new SEAT Arona has become one of the more recent additions to the SUV market. This compact crossover’s design originates from the SEAT Ibiza but manufactured to meet the rising demand for SUV vehicles. The Arona contends against the likes of the Hyundai Kona, Kia Stonic and Renault Captur. What makes the Arona an attractive option for most buyers is its price, which starts at around €19,000. For this review, we managed to get our hands on the FR model which includes some extras like a sportier trim, larger alloys and a 150 bhp petrol engine and this upgrade retails for around €25,000. View SEAT Arona’s for sale on DoneDeal now. The fully foldable rear allows for an impressive 400 litre capacity of storage space in the boot (approximately equaling three to four suitcases). It makes the Arona a leader in its class when it comes to space. A unique feature is an adjustable floor in the boot that can create even more space if needed. Luckily, a real spare tyre is provided with the car in the unfortunate event of a puncture. It is evident that SEAT is a member of the Volkswagen group when you first glance at the interior of the Arona. With several USB points and plenty of side storage, passengers are also given a generous amount of head and legroom. Unfortunately, lumbar support is not provided, which is disappointing as the Arona ticks so many boxes in regards to features. With access to Volkswagen technology, it’s no surprise that the infotainment system is second to none. Incorporated with the latest technology, it provides the user with a seamless and effortless experience. The Arona is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay, Andriod Auto and has a built in Sat Nav to make sure you get to your desired destinations efficiently and on time. The 5″ display screen comes as standard for the basic model. Our recommendation is upgrading to the 8″ to get the best experience and comes as standard for both the Xcellence and FR versions. Other technologies worth highlighting include the parking aid camera, park assist, and the wireless phone charger. Responsive, powerful and fun to drive, the 1.5 litre gives a tremendous and punchy feeling as its performance mirrors one of a ‘hot-hatchback’. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, reliable car, we recommend the Arona FR.

Having been crowned the Irish Car of the Year 2019, the XC40 is one of the most popular additions to the Volvo family. Stylish inside and out the XC40 is Volvo’s interpretation of the compact SUV. At a starting price of around €37,000, Volvo aims to compete competitively against premium brands such as Mercedes, Audi, BMW and Jaguar. We test drove the sportier R-Design, which starts from around €42,000. This spec has some slick upgrades which include larger alloy wheels, blacked out grill and dual tip exhausts. View Volvo XC40’s for sales on DoneDeal now. The boot can be opened manually or by the simple swipe of a foot which is a common feature associated with most premium cars these days. With a large boot capacity of 430 litres, What makes the XC40 extremely practical is the addition of features such as a 12-volt socket, dividers for bags, and hooks for hanging items. Overall the car is quite spacious at the back and can fit three passengers quite comfortably. However, the optional sunroof for the V60 does compromise headroom for the back seat passengers. A useful addition to the XC40 is the adjustable steering wheel that provides drivers with better reach and comfort when getting behind the wheel. All specs are fitted with a digital dashboard, adding to Volvo’s goal of creating a premium SUV. Volvo vehicles are known for their intuitive technology, and the XC40 follows suit. The sizeable vertical screen provides a great user experience as it makes navigating from app-to-app on the infotainment system that bit easier. Other features worth highlighting include the incredible 360° camera for parking assist, accident avoidance and lane assist. Unfortunately Apple CarPlay and Android Auto do not come as standard, unlike many of its competitors. Our R-Design was equipped with the T4 petrol engine, delivering 190bhp through an automatic eight-speed gearbox. However, a lag exists when transitioning between gears, which slightly hinders its performance on the road. Overall, this slick and fun addition to the Volvo range is worthy of consideration if you’re looking for an upscale SUV. Although equipped with some fantastic features, the only drawback would be that many of these aren’t available with the standard model and would require upgrading to some of the higher end models.

1 in 3 Irish Millennials will buy their next car online. That’s according to new data released by DoneDeal, who surveyed nearly 1,500 users on their car buying opinions and experiences. The results show a clear shift in consumer preference from retail to e-commerce with over 30% of all millennials surveyed indicating they would prefer to buy their next car online compared with just under 20% of all other respondents. Of particular interest was that 90% of Millennials said they only shop for cars on their phones. Just 8% would opt to view cars in person. When came to extra features, infotainment systems and integrated smartphone features ranked as the most crucial for Millennials. Among older age groups, Adaptive Cruise Control and Park Assist were the most desirable. Martin Clancy from DoneDeal said: “What this research highlights is that convenience and connectivity are paramount in how Millennials approach shopping for and selecting cars. On DoneDeal, our goal is to make the car buying journey as convenient as possible for users and over the last number of months we have introduced new search filters such as price per month while also offering users the opportunity to seek Car Finance approval through our site. Indeed, amongst Millennials, we have seen a strong appetite for Car Finance on DoneDeal. Since the start of the year, we have processed over 2,000 car finance applications for a combined total of €24 million. 45% of those applicants are Millennials.” Key Findings from the Survey: One in five Irish people are considering a Hybrid/Electric vehicle as their next purchase Diesel remains the clear engine preference with 55% of us still in the market for a Diesel engine 75% of consumers would opt for a high-spec mid-range vehicle 20% would consider buying a self-driving vehicle within the next five years Features Irish car buyers will pay a premium for: Integrated Smartphone Options such as Apple CarPlay/AndroidAuto Adaptive Cruise Control Park Assist What’s most important to Irish people when buying a car? Getting a good deal Fuel Economy Safety

The all-new SEAT Tarraco has caught the eyes of many having just been released to the market this year. SEAT’s most premium car to date arrives at a starting price of €34,700 and is priced competitively against the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. Interestingly, all three models sit under the Volkswagen Group’s banner. However, costs can exceed €50,000 if you are looking to upgrade from the standard model. View SEAT Tarraco’s for sale on DoneDeal now. It comfortably sits seven people, and when rear seats are folded forward, it has an impressive boot capacity of 700 litres. Other features in the boot include hooks for bags and a flat load lip, convenient for unloading items. Second-row passengers are treated to what feels like acres of head and legroom as well as adjustable seats. The row of seats is more like a long bench with a 60:40 configuration. The third row is easily accessible, but space may be limited depending on the size and number of people in the back. The driver is treated to lumbar support seating, which comes as standard with the Tarraco. This feature can be a make or break for many car buyers in today’s market. However, you will need to upgrade to a higher spec to take advantage of fully electric front row seating. Equipped with features such as USB points, armrests, Isofix points and a 12-volt socket the Tarraco has it all. The car comes with two fold out trays located on the back of both the front seat passengers. From the slick digital dashboard to the front and centre infotainment system screen, this car comes with all the gadgets one would hope for when buying a premium car. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard features with this model. The Tarraco supports wireless phone charging. Its parking assist is second to none due to the rear view camera installed to make parking that bit easier. The Tarraco, Kodiaq and Tiguan Allspace all share similar engine and gearbox options. Options for the Tarraco range from a 1.5-litre petrol engine to a 2-litre diesel engine. We recommend the 2.0 TDI with a 150 bhp; as it is the perfect balance between efficiency and comfort. The Tarraco has a significant presence on the road due to its height, providing a smooth yet gripping driving experience. To conclude, the Spanish manufacturer has done excellent work with this alternative seven-seater solution. The SUV is a suitable choice for those looking for a practical and spacious family SUV. Identical to its rivals, this decision will hinge on personal brand preference when deciding between the Tarraco and its competitors.

Nearly 10% of all car searches in Ireland are now for Electric & Hybrid vehicles. New data released by Ireland’s leading motor website DoneDeal has revealed that nearly 10% of all car searches nationwide are now for Electric and Hybrid vehicles. For this research, DoneDeal analysed over 200 million car searches on their website between January 2017 and May 2019. The data revealed that searches for Hybrid & Electric cars increased by 244% over the two and a half year period, accounting for just 2.5% of searches at the start of 2017 and growing to 8.6% by May of this year. The search data closely mirrors activity in the new car sales market for the opening five months of the year. Since January 7,453 Hybrid vehicles were sold in the state – accounting for 9.4% of the total new car sales market. Electric sales reached an all-time high of 1,901 for this time period and now represent 2.4% of all new cars on Irish roads. Interestingly, DoneDeal also revealed that Petrol searches grew from 19% to 23% between January 2017 and May of this year. Diesel which still accounts for the largest number of searches and car sales saw its share of the search market shrink to 68.2% from 78.4% in January of 2017. Martin Clancy from DoneDeal said: “Search trends are a clear indicator of consumer preference and future purchasing behaviour. For instance, our search data highlighted the decline of Diesel as early as 2016. These user behaviours translated into the first noticeable drop in Diesel’s new car market share the following year. Presently, 6% of all searches are now for Hybrid vehicles with 3% of consumers solely focused on Electric car searches.” The figures come on the back of the Government’s announcement this week that it is aiming to have 100% of cars on the road to be electric by 2030.

There are two ways to take advantage of these free trips, you can either book a taxi with Lynk from this Thursday, June 27th until 11pm Sunday, June 30th or flag down our pride taxi on the road. If you’re lucky enough to see our rainbow #DrivingPride taxi your trip will be on us. For each cover this weekend, we will be making a donation to ShoutOut who work closely on educating the nation on LGBTQ+. Terms and Conditions Pride Taxi available from 27th Thursday  – Sunday 30th June Max trip 10km (Dublin only) Taxi is subject to availability. Not all bookings will be free. Free taxi is awarded randomly to people booking with Lynk Booking available by phone or app only

DoneDeal and Lynk partner to raise money for LGBTQ+ charity, ShoutOut. The “DoneDeal #DrivingPride Taxi” has arrived on the streets of Dublin, offering people the chance to travel with Pride this weekend, with free trips in this stylish and colourfully designed Toyota. The concept was created by DoneDeal as an opportunity to give back to the LGBTQ+ community and celebrate an important date in the Dublin calendar. To take advantage of free trips, book a taxi with Lynk from Thursday, June 27th until 11pm Sunday, June 30th. If you see the colourful “DoneDeal #DrivingPride Taxi” arrive your taxi will be free. DoneDeal will cover the cost of all fares in the “#DrivingPride Taxi” through these dates and make a donation for each trip to LGBTQ+ charity ShoutOut which delivers workshops and educational talks to schools and workplaces all over Ireland. (L-R) Stephen O’Reilly (DoneDeal), Sayo Bittencourt (DoneDeal), Aifric Ní Chríodáin (ShoutOut), Dolly Grip, William Tector (DoneDeal), Patrick McDonald (DoneDeal), Martin Clancy (DoneDeal), Dee Burke (DoneDeal) “DoneDeal is keen to support the Dublin LGBTQ+ community and to promote diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our personal and professional lives. Our ‘Driving Pride Taxi’ will give Dubliners a free trip during a busy and celebratory time in the capital.” said DoneDeal’s Martin Clancy. ShoutOut director, Aifric Ni Chriodain said: “We’re delighted to work with DoneDeal on the #DrivingPride Taxi this Pride weekend. As a volunteer-led charity working across the island of Ireland, the donations from each trip will have a huge impact on our work to create a safer environment for young LGBTQ+ people at school. This partnership will directly support our mission of LGBTQ+ inclusion through education, and offer a visible and cheerful presence on the streets of Dublin this Pride so Dubliners can travel safely and stylishly during the busy weekend.” DoneDeal’s “#DrivingPride Taxi” will be on the streets of Dublin from this morning until Sunday, June 30th. To book the taxi with Lynk. Call 01 8 72 72 72 or Download the Lynk app. Taxi trips limited to 10km in the Dublin area to allow as many users as possible to take advantage. T&C’s Pride Taxi available from 27th Thursday  – Sunday 30th June Max trip 10km (Dublin only) Taxi is subject to availability. Not all bookings will be free. Free taxi is awarded randomly to people booking with Lynk Booking available by phone or app only

Distinctive yet practical, the new V40 is Volvo’s solution to compete in the premium hatchback market. The V40 offers more diversity to the ‘V’ badged range as it is the first compact hatchback of the collection. At a starting price of €29,495, the V40 intends to take on other upmarket giants such as the Audi A3 Sportback, BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class and the Volkswagen Golf. View Volvo V40’s for sale on DoneDeal now. From floor dividers to several tethering points the V40 boot is relatively standard but is also suitable for any day to day standard needs. Volvo has provided a spare wheel with the vehicle, but some might find the space in the boot to be limited. The V40 promises on being ‘compact’, with a 324-litre capacity (40 litres less than its rival the VW Golf) you may find the boot might fill quickly after adding a few items in it. However, extra boot space can be created by folding forward the rear seats. Rear seat passengers may be disappointed with the amount of head and leg space as it is restricted. On the plus side, the interior boasts a premium feel through design and comfort. Other features present includes features such as cup holders and a pull-down armrest. Front seat passengers are welcomed to an exceptionally plush bright blonde leather upholstery. Comfort becomes an emerging theme once seated in V40. The steering wheel is larger than most, which is noticeable if you are accustomed to driving a hatchback. Features in the V40 include a glove box, cup holders, door cards and a convenient centre armrest for either the driver or front seat passenger. The infotainment system is standard. However, it includes some essentials such as a Sat Nav, Internet and a reversing camera. Unfortunately, the quality of the reversing camera is quite poor, which is disappointing. The technology in the V40 is sub-par when compared to others in the Volvo range like the XC40. Slot in your key in, click start and get ready to be impressed by how effortless the V40 is to drive. If you have ever owned a Volvo, the V40 provides a similar driving experience to other models in the Volvo range as they remain consistent on performance. The Swedish manufacturer is best-known for its safety, and this model does not disappoint. Volvo owns some of the safest cars on the roads today, and the V40 falls into this category. Volvo has taken it another step forward and has now added a pedestrian airbag in the bonnet of the car. The V40 delivers on what you would expect from a Volvo car, and we believe this hatchback makes an excellent choice for many. The V40 is ideal for that young urban drivers as Volvo have positioned this car as a ‘city companion’. The entry-level model offers a higher spec than many of its competitors and guarantees that premium quality if that is what you are looking for.