Motoring Newsbriefs

Jan 5 2010 Maurice Glover

Best warranty deal from KiaKIA has extended its seven-year warranty to every model it sells.

To apply to every vehicle registered across more than 20 countries in Europe, the development represents a major step in peace-of-mind motoring.

'No-one in the business can match this offer - and the fact that the warranty is transferable to subsequent owners means a big boost for used car values. Clearly, a longer warranty is a better warranty and this is the longest and best warranty available on any car, anywhere in Europe. We think this move will give every Kia owner genuine long-term peace of mind,' said Kia UK managing director Michael Cole.

Previously available on European-manufactured models like the cee'd and Sportage, the warranty now embraces every model from the Picanto to the range-topping Sorento.

'We have already declared our intention to become the world's number one car maker for customer satisfaction and this is a major step toward achieving that goal,' said Kia Motors Europe chief operating officer Paul Philpott.

Comfy ComboVAUXHALL has put more comfort in its Combo van with the addition of a new SE version.

Sports seats in the model feature increased lateral and lumbar support to make travel more relaxing for the driver and passenger.

But also included in £700-wroth of additional equipment are a nearside loading door, a Maxx styling pack including alloy wheels and body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors.

Just on sale, the new Combo is available in four panel van options. Power comes from a 1.3CDTi engine fitted with either a five-speed manual gearbox or Easytronic transmission.

Smartnav CitroensMORE Citroen vans are to be fitted with satellite navigation to help boost operating efficiency.

Trafficmaster Smartnav equipment on Berlingo, Dispatch and Relay panel vans will help cut costs, minimise emissions and reduce driver stress, claims the company.

'We remain committed to providing our customers with the technology to optimise vehicle efficiency and safety,' says head of commercial vehicles Charles Peugeot.

Clear your screenONE in three motorists admits they will drive this winter without being able to see out of their windscreen properly.

Researchers have found most motorists think they are 'in too much of a rush' to fully defrost their windows and mirrors before heading off to work.

'An astonishing 52 per cent of people know it is wrong to drive without a fully clear windscreen but fail to do anything about it.

'Preparation is key when setting out in your car, especially during the winter months. It is essential to be able to see and be seen,' said Tim Bailey, safety expert at Continental Tyres, which polled 4,000 drivers.

Better rideTYRE firm Continental claims its first tyre for coaches gives passengers a safer and more comfortable ride than they get from regular truck tyres.