Author Archives: Qamar Rehman

Auto Trader is pleased to announce our new line of FREE Theme’s for WordPress.

As part of our ongoing relationship building with bloggers the world over, we decided to start putting out some great (and free) WordPress theme’s this year. We shall be adding new ones all the time, so be sure to come back often and check for new ones.

Download WordPress Themes

NOTE – background image files are in the ‘images’ directory

Click here to subscribe for Theme updates

To get you started we’re going to give a simple overview of how to install and use them.
Continue reading →

Up to now, the automotive industry has tried it’s best to entice young buyers into the new car market by putting out economical cars and affordable luxury cars. Yet, large sedans and gas drinking luxury cars are still making their way out into the market and doing well at it too!

A recent survey by JD power found that out of 41,000 new car buyers, 62 percent of all new cars and trucks were delivered to buyers over the age of 50. 73 percent of all new hybrids are also picked up by those over the age of 50. Continue reading →

There are a number of  used Nissan models and body types to choose from but a used Nissan Qashqai is a a favorite, Introduced in 2007 a used has undergone a few design changes in 2010. It provides a great compromise for people who want the comforts of a big vehicle but need the versatility and affordability of a smaller one. The Qashqai does a fantastic job of addressing many of the family needs of those who might otherwise choose a used used Ford Focus or VW Golf.

The Choices

The first generation Qashqai, and the standard models later, seat 5 quite comfortably. After 2008, buyers could also choose the Qashqai +2, which seats 7. Most of the Qashqais on the market are two wheel drives, but the vehicle is also manufactured as a four wheel drive.

The Advantages

If you haul children, equipment, groceries and guests around with any regularity, you will immediately appreciate the generous space in the boot. The greater road clearance is nice and gives drivers and passengers the advantages of a great view. The safety record of the Qashqai is admirable: five stars from the Euro NCAP for overall passenger safety and four for child safety. Standard equipment includes quite a lot of safety equipment as well, so you don’t have to pay extra to feel secure.

Driving & Economy

One immediate concern for many buyers looking at a vehicle with such a high centre of gravity is handling. Nissan has apparently addressed that concern adequately because the Qashqai feels stable. It doesn’t handle like a used Mini Cooper, but then, it’s not supposed to. Overall, it drives as comfortably as it rides. And, thanks to good suspension, it rides quite nicely.

Fuel economy will, of course, depend on the model you choose. At the best, you can look for 57 mpg, but only from a 2010 or 2011 Pure Drive model. At the worst, you could get as little as 34 mpg from one of the 2.0 four wheel drive models.

Styling

The updates to the body style in 2010 were minimal, so any model you look at will have a fairly similar look. That look is chunky and fun. Not quite a true 4×4 and definitely not the kind of car you ordinarily find in the C-segment of the market. It is perhaps the unique character and look of the Nissan Qashqai that has helped it become a hit in the UK. Drivers of the Qashqai are after something a bit different with plenty to offer.

Pricing

Used diesel models will likely cost more than their petrol compatriots, but overall, buying a used Qashqai is probably a good idea as opposed to buying a new model. Quite a few have been sold, so finding one shouldn’t present much of a problem. There have been a few safety recalls that should not be ignored; be sure to do some careful research before purchasing.

If you are interested in a New Nissan Qashqai Auto Trader have Nissan Qashqai Expert reviews and owner ratings in the new cars section

Looking for a used Honda? Things have changed because before 2006 a used Honda Civic was viewed as an old-fashioned sort of car. The complete revamp in 2006 changed all that. Honda presented a car that year that was almost shocking to the eye because it was so futuristic. With each year since, the futuristic look has been toned down a bit, but the 2006 model certainly had its upside and Honda has happily maintained those positives in more recent models.

Used Honda Civic Economy, Reliability & Safety

Almost any new Honda ( Auto Trader expert reviews and owner ratings ) or even the used Honda Civic we’re looking at, reliability is not an issue with these cars. You would be hard-pressed to find a more reliable car. You can expect to get between approximately 35 mpg and 48 mpg, depending on the engine you have.

The Civic performs well in safety tests. Modern safety features like a stability system, anti-lock brakes and side curtain airbags help it to be one of the safer cars in the C-segment. It gets high marks from the Euro NCAP, as well.

Honda Civic Exterior

In 2006, people described the Civic as “futuristic,” “triangular,” and “oddball” based on the exterior appearance. It didn’t look like any other car in the small family car class, or like any other car on the road, for that matter. People weren’t really sure what to think about it.

Civic Interior

The dash design of the Honda Civic is a bit futuristic as well, with the controls and dials in a cluster around the steering wheel. The biggest drawback is the limited visibility that is a result of a small rear windscreen. The sloping roof also means there is less head room in the rear seat as well.

While two adults and two children can ride pretty comfortably in a Civic, four adults probably wouldn’t want to travel too far in the car together, especially if the adults in the back were tall. Some owners have complained that the rear doors are too small to accommodate child safety seats, but there are certainly no complaints about the spacious boot.

Driving and Engines

When looking for a used car in a particular class, it is wise to compare models. The used Ford Focus has dominated the used small family car, or C-segment, market. The Civic is probably a little less fun to drive in a direct comparison with a used Ford Focus. The Civic is available with three different engines: the 1.4 and 1.8 litre petrol versions or the 2.2 TurboDiesel.  The 1.8 litre tends to make a little racket in mid-range. It’s not so much as to be disturbing, but there is some noise, so be prepared for that. The 2.2 iCTDi is the best of the bunch, offering plenty of “get up and go.”

You can expect to pay between £7,000 to as much as £16,000 for a very recent used Honda Civic.

The Ford Focus compact family car was at the height of success in 2007. Then in 2008, Ford completely redesigned the car. As it turns out, it was a good move! Are you shopping for a used Ford Focus? A 2008 or newer model might be your best bet to buy.

Through the Years

From 2008 onward, the exterior of the car has a more streamlined look with the slanted headlights that now adorn most used Ford models. The interior also underwent some major changes, mainly in quality. Higher quality materials make the cabins of models from 2008 to present much more comfortable and appealing.

Comfort

While the interior is roomy and comfortable, you don’t necessarily get the feeling of plush luxury that some of Ford’s competitors are able to deliver. With each year newer, the interior seems to be a bit better. There are four basic styles: the Studio, Style, Zetec and Titanium.

Safety

The Focus performs well in crash safety tests. Driver and passenger side airbags are standard all more recent models, and side air bags. The Euro NCAP gives the focus four stars for protecting children, and five stars for overall occupant protection.

Driving

Your driving experience will depend in great part on which engine is in the Focus. There are several, including both petrol and diesel and ranging from 1.4 to 2.0 litres. One of the reasons the Focus has remained a top seller for so many years is that it is fun to drive, and the 2008 update didn’t change that fact. The car handles well and regardless of which engine you have, you will enjoy the drive.

Economy

Again, your fuel economy and the cost of owning a Focus will depend on which engine you have. Obviously, the 2.0 petrol version uses more fuel than the 1.6 TurboDiesel, which gets around 65 mpg.

Cost of ownership and reliability are two areas where the Focus shines. Parts are easily available. The fact that there are so many Fords on the roads helps. In the used market you will find that the Focus holds about 30% of its original value, making it quite appealing for those who prefer used over new.

If you are interested in a new Ford Focus Auto Trader have Ford Focus Expert reviews and owner ratings in the new cars section of the website.

Need a small car that has it all? Don’t miss the Ford Fiesta. Small, fuel efficient, sporty and all sorts of good fun, the Ford Fiesta 500 is one of the most popular used Ford models. In fact, it continues to get high marks from consumers and reviewers alike.

Fiesta Fun that Keeps on Giving

If you are looking for a little more lift to the gas pedal, the 2004 might be more your style. 14.9 seconds from the moment you step on the gas to 62 mph and a top speed of 101. Headlamp levelling, folding rear seat, adjustable seats, security coded audio can all be yours. – And, when you’re driving down the highway at top speed, your passengers will be sure to enjoy the front passenger grab handle.

Let us not forget the highly revered 1.6 Zetec S 2007 edition, otherwise known as the hot hatch model. Four years later, the Fiesta Zetec is still considered the sexiest Fiesta made. One of the newer Fiesta models, it hits that magic 62 mph in 9.9 seconds and reaches top speeds of 114. It’s stylish, it’s sporty, it’s fast – and it’s economical, averaging 43.5 mpg between urban and extra urban.

Ford Fiesta Engines and Speed

Many used Ford Fiesta cars have 1.6 or 1.25 engines, considered the most powerful engines in the Fiesta’s class. Depending on the model, you have the choice between 1.25, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 and 2.0 litres using petrol, or 1.4 and 1.6 TDCi. Which is best for you? It depends on where you’re going, how fast you want to get there and how much petrol you want to buy.

For example, the 2008 Ford Fiesta Climate has a 1.6 L engine. It goes from 0 – 62mph in 11 seconds and has an average combined mpg of 38.2. However, the 2002 Ford Fiesta Ghia still holds up to new generations, with a 1.4L engine, a top speed of 104mph and an average combined mpg of 43.5.

Is the 2002 Ford Fiesta Ghia a little slower? Marginally – it takes 1.3 seconds longer than the Climate to reach 0 – 60; but it will get you where you’re going and at less cost in fuel.

Buying Your Own Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has been one of the most popular cars in the UK for several years, and all signs point to it continuing to hold that place. It’s no wonder, either. The Fiesta delivers fuel economy, comfort and good driving, all wrapped in a stylish package.

If you’ve ever wanted a Ford Fiesta, but found they were out of your price range, don’t leave out the used and slightly used models the Ford Fiesta because age truly is just another number.

This post was provided by Car Trader, an auto enthusiast who can be found on the CarTrader Tumblr!
A  Tumblr devoted to car Tumblrati, images and UK car news.

When you begin looking for a used Fiat 500 you’ll find Fiat packed so many upgrade options into this model so they tend to have has plenty of variations. However, there are three basic trim levels: the Popular, often called the Pop, the Lounge and the Sport. Then, there is the Abarth for the true hot hatch enthusiasts, and the C-models for those who prefer a convertible top.

What You Can Get from a Fiat 500

As for engine choices, you can find the three basic Fiat 500s with a 1.2 or 1.4 litre petrol engine, or a 1.3 turbodiesel. All three offer good mileage and low emissions. With the exception of the Abarth, you should not expect super-quick acceleration or ultra-responsive steering with the 500.

Fiat 500 Cabin

Most reviewers complain of the cramped rear seats in the 500, but really, who would look at one of these tiny cars and expect to be able to stretch out in the back?  While city cars often lack in the area of safety, Fiat came through with a winner in the 500. It has received top safety ratings from the Euro NCAP.

Fiat 500 Exteriors

There is just no denying the cuteness of the 500. A bit like the updated version of VW’s Beetle, the Fiat recalls the older model, but adds that mysterious something that just makes you want to grin. The design is just different enough from everything else on the road to demand attention.

With all the options and accessories available, shoppers for a used 500 should be ready to make decisions about all sorts of extras, including things like ski racks to sun roofs. Part of the car’s charm is the level of personalisation possible – or at least it’s charming for the original purchasers. Buyers of used models may find the choices of their predecessors less appealing. However, with the number of Fiats on the road, careful shopping should yield a car that fits you and your lifestyle quite well.

Driving

The Fiat 500 is a city car in every sense. It’s small enough to make parking a bit easier and fuel economy in town is better than average. The handling in heavy traffic is superb.

The motorway is something of a different story. The little car must work harder and doesn’t have great acceleration. The handling isn’t as great as some of the 500s competitors. However, road noise is minimal and two passengers can ride quite comfortably.

Overall, the Fiat 500 is a great car for driving around the city. It’s perfect if you expect to have only one passenger most of the time. It’s the lifestyle component that makes this little car so appealing. Retro is popular and Fiat has done a great job of updating the much-loved 500. Buying one will make fun a part of your daily commute, and who couldn’t use a little more day to day fun?

This post was provided by Car Trader, an auto enthusiast who can be found on the CarTrader Tumblr!
A  Tumblr devoted to car Tumblrati, images and UK car news.

There comes a time when having a comfortable car is more important than having a super sporty car. When you’ve always preferred a fast, sporty car, though, you may have trouble reconciling with the idea of purchasing a more practical vehicle. A used Audi is an excellent choice and finding an Audi tt for sale is the perfect car for someone with such a dilemma.

Decisions, Decisions

All three body styles of the Audi A3 including the sporty Audi A3 Cabriolet convertible  All were produced with a range of engine options, and those options include petrol and diesel types. You will want to pay close attention to to the engine type for fuel mileage and emissions information when shopping because there are so many different engines in these small cars. Overall, they all get good fuel economy, but there is a definite difference between the 1.6 litre engine and the hefty 3.2 litre.

Interior of the Audi A3

The interior is where the A3 shines. It’s roomy. The five door model makes accessing the rear seat convenient. The boot has enough room for an adequate amount of “stuff.” Although the A3 falls into a class that could be labeled “compact family car,” it doesn’t feel compact, which is maybe one of its best points. Four adults can ride comfortably in the any of the A3 models, and that is not always something that can be said of a car in the compact family category.

Audi A3 Exterior

Regardless of the body style you are looking for, the A3s are nice. They look just as good driving down the road as they do parked. It’s a good choice for someone who is ready for a little more luxury but isn’t quite ready to give up the look of something fun.

Driving the Audi A3

The main critical drawback of the A3 isn’t one at all: these cars are safe and reliable. They are not thrilling or exciting. The lack of thrill behind the wheel is a small price to pay, though, for a car that will last for years, hold its value well and looks good, too. It’s not that the A3 drives poorly, either. It just doesn’t have that ineffable, hard-to-identify fun factor.

All in all, the any of the A3 models is a good buy. Being constructed of quality materials, they last for years. You do get what you pay for, so you may find that used A3s cost a bit more than their competitors. However, if you are looking for something reliable and comfortable in the compact family car category, the A3 is a good bet.

This post was provided by Car Trader, an auto enthusiast who can be found on the CarTrader Tumblr!
A  Tumblr devoted to car Tumblrati, images and UK car news.

Since BMW re-introduced the Mini Cooper in 2001, the brand has gathered a loyal following. The funky, retro styling is appealing. Besides good looks a used BMW has a stellar maintenance package. Fans have continued to enjoy each new model as it is introduced, and the brand’s popularity doesn’t appear to be in danger any time in the near future.

The Mini One

The Mini One has the best fuel mileage, but the least horsepower. It’s perfect for urban driving. The convertible model, introduced in 2004, doesn’t handle as well as the hard top, due to the weight of the extra bracing needed in the body of the convertible. As all convertibles have the same problem, it’s something that soft-top fans have experienced before. The biggest complaint regarding the Mini One is there is little cargo room, so for families it might be better to consider something with a bit more room or to use the Mini One as a second car.

The S

For drivers who want fast and fun driving, a used Mini Cooper S is the way to go. The handling, agility and responsiveness of the Mini S will leave you grinning after every drive. The car is zippy and eye-catching. There are good reasons its sales numbers have been outstanding since its introduction.  For all the fun, though, there is still the issue of having enough space to cart your gear, friends and family to the places you need to go.

The Clubman

The Clubman does answer some of the space woes for those who have families but would still like to drive a Mini. Instead of a hatchback, the Clubman features two swing out doors in the back. The boot offers more space than the smaller body styles, but not quite as much as some of the other superminis on the market. For a family, having all the drivability of a Mini Cooper with the addition of an extra door seems like a wonderful proposition. The problem is that the extra door is on the driver’s side, which means you are getting in and out, not at the kerb, but in traffic.

The Countryman

The better answer for a family who wants a Mini Cooper may be the more recently introduced Countryman. The Countryman is by far the largest Mini, and really, if they made one any larger it would hardly fit the brand image of a “mini.” The Countryman is quirky in its own right, with a cabin that pleases passenger and driver alike.

Between the 3-door hatch models, the convertible options, the Clubman, and the Countryman, Mini Cooper’s lineup now offers lots of choice. While fans of the Mini S might not enjoy driving the Countryman, each model has its own niche in the marketplace. From the giant speedo to the superb handling these cars are known for, Minis have snagged the hearts of their owners.

This post was provided by Car Trader, an auto enthusiast who can be found on the CarTrader Tumblr!
A  Tumblr devoted to car Tumblrati, images and UK car news.