Ssangyong expands its dealer network by a further five new outlets, along with new models

• Five new SsangYong sales & service dealerships named for Canterbury, Maidstone, Montrose, Sheffield and Wakefield

A further five new SsangYong dealers have been added to the SsangYong franchise as the brand prepares to launch Rexton, its all-new large SUV arriving this autumn.

The new appointments are:

• Canterbury SsangYong
• Duthies of Montrose
• FG Barnes Maidstone
• Burrows Motor Company, Sheffield
• SB Wakefield

“The arrival of our new Rexton SUV is undoubtedly raising interest in the brand,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, “while the other improvements we have made to the range - added safety equipment on Tivoli & Tivoli XLV, new-look to Korando and increased towing capacity on the Musso pick-up, have all added to range appeal.

“With the current political and economic conditions, value-brands are increasingly in demand and we can offer a wide product portfolio of six different models - a choice of SUVs plus a seven-seat MPV and 1-tonne pick-up, unlike some other car makes.

“Confidence in SsangYong is growing steadily as our performance and improving media profile indicate, and the quality of prospective new dealers is extremely encouraging. We expect to be able to announce another tranche of new dealers in the near future,” Mr Williams concluded.

SsangYong is actively looking for good dealers with an entrepreneurial ‘can do’ attitude to represent the brand in a number of locations, and current open points include: Aberdeen, Ayr, Blackpool, Bristol, Cambridge, Derby, Grimsby, Hull, Inverness, Lincoln, Liverpool, Milton Keynes, North Birmingham, Oxford, Perth, Portsmouth, Salisbury, Southend, Swindon, Taunton, Teesside, Truro, Watford, Worcester, Worcester, Wrexham and York.

The continued expansion of Ssangyong continues with another new dealership.

• Lowdhams (Nottingham) joins the SsangYong network
• Six model range all backed by a 5-year limitless mileage warranty 

The SsangYong range of 4x4s and SUVs is now available in Nottingham, following the appointment of Lowdhams.

The dealership will operate the SsangYong franchise from its premises at Lowdham Road, Gunthorpe, Nottingham NG14 7ES. 

Welcoming the company to the franchise, Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK said: “We are delighted to welcome Lowdhams to the SsangYong network, and at such an exciting time for the brand. 

“With a six-car portfolio that includes SUVs, 4x4s, a one-tonne pick-up and an MPV, it’s the value-brand that really offers dealers a car for almost every customer. Having added a suite of new safety equipment to Tivoli and Tivoli XLV, a fresh look to Korando, and with the all new D-segment Rexton launching in the UK later this year, there’s so much for dealers to get their teeth into. 

“Lowdhams is the first of several new dealers joining us, and we look forward to making further announcements about other key locations shortly,” said Paul. 

Commented Steve Sharpe, group managing director of Lowdhams, “We are delighted to have been appointed to represent SsangYong and greatly look forward to playing our part in its continuing success. SsangYong has an impressive range, and with very competitive pricing and a 5-year limitless mileage warranty on every car, we believe it will do extremely well in our area.” 

This brings the SsangYong dealer network up to 60, plus 11 authorised SsangYong service centres. 

MG further expands its reach with a new Northern Ireland Dealership opening to boost sales.

MG Motor UK has made another significant step forward in its national dealer development strategy, with the appointment of Greg Mitchell MG. 

Established in 2006, the Strabane-based dealership provides vehicle servicing, MOT provision, body repair and computerised diagnostics for motorists nationwide. Renowned for delivering excellent customer service and aftersales, the dealership boasts a highly-loyal customer base. 

Joining the MG network will see Greg Mitchell MG further expand its site at Victoria Bridge, opening a brand-new dealership and forecourt dedicated to the sale of MG’s latest model range. From the stylish MG3 Supermini (OTR from just £8,695) to the family-friendly SUV, the MG GS (starting from £15,095), there’s a perfect model for every driver. 

The deal is further evidence of MG’s emergence as a serious player in the competitive volume car market, a claim supported by impressive recent sales volumes and the company’s best quarter ever for new vehicle registrations.* 

Recent statistics from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) name MG as one of the UK’s fastest-growing automotive brands, a title gained through the ongoing development of an affordable model range and dedicated dealer network. 

Greg Mitchell, Owner of Greg Mitchell MG, commented: “Joining the MG dealer network is a big step forward for our business. As a household name, we’re confident that drivers across Northern Ireland will be impressed with the latest MG model range. 

“Affordable, practical and family-friendly, modern MGs blend style and performance to deliver an impressive drive. Each model is fitted with the latest driving technology and infotainment equipment, yet remains surprisingly affordable.” 

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, added: “With an excellent local reputation for friendly service and expert advice, we’re pleased to welcome Greg Mitchell MG to the MG dealer network. 

“The partnership will provide motorists across Northern Ireland with even greater access to our latest model range, helping to deliver further business growth for both parties.” 

Greg Mitchell MG will officially open its MG dealership on Friday 26th May, alongside exclusively unveiling MG’s new compact SUV – the MG XS – which was revealed at the London Motor Show earlier this month. Rory Best, the Ireland rugby captain, will also attend the launch. 

MG announces the next dealer to join the ranks of MG sales, hopefully this one will stay !

MG Motor UK has further expanded its national dealer network with the appointment of Henson Motor Group. Trading under the name ‘Newcastle MG’, the Benton-based business is widely regarded as one of the UK’s fastest-growing new and used car supermarkets.

Taking on the MG franchise from March 2017, Newcastle MG will be responsible for retailing the MG3 Supermini and family-friendly SUV, the MG GS. Perfectly balancing practicality and performance, both models offer style and substance for a highly affordable price.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the sale of new and used cars, Henson Motor Group prides itself on delivering a professional service. A thorough understanding of the market and close customer relationships has helped to build a strong local reputation, with nearly half of all sales coming from referrals.

David Hodgson, General Manager at Henson Motor Group, commented: “At Henson Motor Group, we work hard to make your next car purchase as easy, stress free and enjoyable as possible. And, with a huge selection of vehicles, we stock the cars you really want!

“Joining the MG dealer network is a milestone achievement. As our first ever franchise brand, we will work in close partnership with the MG team to provide customers across the north east with the brand’s award-winning model range.

“Car preferences have continued to change over the past few years, with more customers opting for either the practicality of an SUV, or the fuel efficiency and inner-city driving capability of a Supermini. MG offers models in both these sectors, making our appointment to the network an exciting next step for the business.”

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, added: “As a fast-paced and dynamic dealership, we’re confident that Henson Motor Group will help to further elevate the MG brand across Newcastle and the surrounding areas.

“With a committed team, excellent facilities and clear strategy, customers will benefit from expert advice and professional service.”

The latest MG models are currently available with a range of special offers to make an already affordable range even more appealing. The stylish MG3 Supermini is available with either:

• 0% APR (available from just £115.93 per month with a minimum 20% deposit)
• £900 deposit contribution when financed on a personal contract purchase (PCP)

If you’re after something for the whole family - whether embarking on a road trip or braving the school-run - the striking MG GS is the perfect companion. Alongside a five-year/80,000-mile (whichever occurs first) full manufacturer parts and labour warranty, deals include:

• £660 deposit contribution when financed on a personal contract purchase (PCP)
• 0% APR with just a minimum 30% deposit monthly finance option

Mitsubishi continues it's expansion with yet another new dealership to sell its range of brilliant offroaders.

The latest addition to the fast-growing Mitsubishi UK dealer network has opened its doors in County Durham.

Croxdale Mitsubishi, located on the A167 around four miles outside the city centre, features a spacious seven-car showroom together with a 400 sq metre, state-of-the-art workshop that houses eight bays, an MOT bay and diagnostic lane.

An experienced team of eight — including four newcomers to the successful Croxdale automotive group — is managing the site.

Kevin Parkinson, Managing Director, said: “Mitsubishi has a fantastic reputation for producing quality vehicles, and it’s something we’re very excited to be a part of. From the Mirage right up to the award-winning L200, it’s a brand which is exciting and becoming increasingly popular here in the North East.”

It took four months for Croxdale Group to refurbish its showroom ready for Mitsubishi’s arrival and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Mr Parkinson added: “Our opening weekend was absolutely fantastic — busy from start to finish with people coming to have a look at the brand-new site, experience the Mitsubishi range and making aftersales bookings. 

General awareness is building that Croxdale is the new name for Mitsubishi in the North East. The local community are delighted to now have a local Mitsubishi dealer on their doorstep in Durham.”

Lance Bradley, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: “I’m delighted that Croxdale Group has chosen to grow with Mitsubishi at what is a very exciting time for the brand. With their expertise, and the group already having an excellent reputation in the area, we know that the region’s new and existing Mitsubishi owners are in very safe hands.”

Another dealership is added to MG's ever expanding portfolio of dealers.

TL Darby, a leading dealer group in Burton-upon-Trent and Staffordshire, is to join MG Motor UK’s nationwide dealer network. The move coincides with the dealership celebrating 50 years of trading, during which it has established itself as a premier name in the region for car sales, parts and servicing.

A 2016 Motor Trader Industry Award winner for Best New Build, TL Darby operates a number of showrooms, including a site in Burton’s bustling town centre. 

The new partnership will give motorists across Burton-upon-Trent and Derby more chance than ever before to pick-up one of MG’s stylish new models, including the MG GS SUV and the MG3 supermini.

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, commented: “With an excellent track record for friendly service and expert advice, we’re delighted to celebrate TL Darby’s anniversary by welcoming the team to our national dealer network.

“Having recently announced the highest monthly registration figures since the company’s relaunch, alongside celebrating our most successful year to date, it’s vitally important that we continue to expand our network. As a renowned local dealership, we’re confident TL Darby will help to further our presence in Staffordshire and the surrounding areas.”

Richard Darby, Managing Director, at TL Darby, commented: “Joining MG’s expanding dealer network is exciting news for the whole team and we look forward to displaying the latest models in our showroom. One of my key aims as Brand Manager is to grow the business further, while building a reputation for sales and service excellence. Joining the MG network help us do this thanks to its excellent range of vehicles.”

Bentley opens another dealership in Switzerland, this time, north west of Lausanne.

• New Bentley retail partner in Lausanne
• Showroom features Bentley corporate identity
• Created with the same luxurious materials and hand-crafted with the same attention to detail as Bentley cars

Bentley Motors today announces the opening of a brand new showroom in Switzerland.

Located in the north-west of Lausanne, the Bentley showroom measures 400 m² and reflects Bentley’s global corporate identity, taking inspiration from the company’s rich history and combining it with modern-day luxury retailing. Bentley Lausanne is the sixth retailer for Bentley Motors in Switzerland.

Robert Engstler, Regional Director at Bentley Motors Europe, said: “Switzerland is our biggest market in the central European region. We have found a strong partner in Bentley Lausanne and the opening of the brand-new showroom will help us to generate more growth and enlarge our customer base in Switzerland even further.”

Marcel Hauselmann, Bentley Lausanne General Manager, commented: “We are very proud to represent the most successful automotive luxury brand in the world. In our showroom, customers will receive an exclusive Bentley experience and personalised service while surrounded by unparalleled design, automotive passion and unmatched attention to detail.”   

The new showroom in Lausanne offers customers the complete Bentley model range, including Bentley’s latest model, the Bentayga Diesel, the fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive diesel SUV in the world. In addition to the Bentayga range, customers can also choose between the Continental GT, the Flying Spur and Bentley’s flagship model, the Mulsanne.

The new retail partner also offers pre-owned vehicles, aftersales service and the company’s branded luxury goods.

MG opens another new dealership to expand it's portfolio and expand sales further in 2017.

Beaver Garages, the family-run motor dealer based in Minehead, Somerset, has been appointed an MG Motor UK franchise, expanding the resurgent car brand’s network in the South East.

Established in 1981 as Richard Beaver Garages, the business operates from three locations in Taunton and Minehead, providing retail, servicing and used car solutions to drivers in the region. 

The move to MG is a major development for Beaver Garages, which chose the marque due to the growing reputation of its new models and the strong culture of collaboration from the manufacturer’s Longbridge team.

Group sales manager at Beaver Garages, Wayne Johnson, said: “Having talked to several other car manufacturers looking to expand their network, we found the team at MG to be very approachable, business-like and easy to deal with. Unlike many other big car brands, the team based in Birmingham was always easy to contact and very proactive when it came to setting up the franchise.”

Beaver Garages will begin actively retailing the MG3 supermini and all-new SUV, the MG GS, before Christmas.

Johnson continued: “While we were really impressed with the style, build quality and sheer value for money that the new MG range offered, we were also pleasantly surprised by the proactive way the company provides sales support for its models. For instance, MG’s current 0% finance offer on new models is an incredible incentive for new drivers to get behind the wheel of the funky supermini or bigger GS.”

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales & Marketing at MG Motor UK, added: “Beaver Garages is one of the most respected dealers in the South West. It has been offering great customer service for more than 30 years now and are very active in supporting local sports clubs and other community activities. Beaver Garages a great family team and we’re delighted to have them on board as an MG Motor franchisee.”

While MG sales will initially be conducted at Beaver Garage’s existing premises in Minehead, the business is planning to open a dedicated MG showroom in the summer of 2017.

Nissan opens a new dealership in Glasgow, Scotland after a £5 million investment.

The UK’s newest Nissan dealership and the latest landmark on the Glasgow skyline has been officially opened.

Macklin Motors Nissan on the city’s Port Dundas Road boasts a prominent eight-storey glass car display tower that stands proud above the M8 motorway.

Built at a cost of more than £5 million, it was opened last night by David Crane, Chief Operations Officer of Macklin Motors’ parent company, Vertu Motors plc, and Nissan brand ambassador Sir Chris Hoy.

The opening of the new outlet further cements the relationship between Nissan and Vertu Motors, which now operates 11 Nissan outlets nationwide. It also strengthens Nissan’s presence in Central Scotland.

Alex Smith, Managing Director of Nissan Motor (GB), said: “We are thrilled and hugely excited to be adding a new dealership on this scale to the Nissan network.

“The past year has seen the opening of a number of increasingly large and ever more impressive Nissan dealerships in major cities across the UK.

“Macklin Motors in Glasgow is a symbol of the aspirations Nissan has as a brand and the confidence our retail partners, like Vertu Motors, have in our ability to meet them.”

David Crane, Chief Operations Officer of Vertu Motors plc, said on the evening: “The opening of Macklin Motors Nissan Glasgow Central is a significant milestone, which demonstrates our commitment and confidence in the city.

“This official opening is the culmination of more than two years of hard work by hundreds of people and an investment of millions of pounds. The team at Macklin Motors, led by general manager Robert Auld, will be on hand to offer customers a fantastic experience in the stunning surroundings of the new dealership.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in getting us to this point and thank our guests for taking the time to celebrate this fantastic milestone with us.”

Catered by Michelin-starred chef, Tom Kitchin, the official opening was attended by a veritable who’s who of Glasgow society.

Guests had a chance to tour the new facility, built on the site of the old DC Thomson printworks, which incorporates a stunning new car showroom, on site café and state-of-the-art workshop.

Understandably though, much of the attention was focused on the computer-controlled eight-storey glass display tower, which can hold up to 30 cars.

The new dealership will supply the full range of new and used Nissan cars, including the 100% electric Nissan LEAF and high performance models like the GT-R supercar.