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. 

USA SALES MAY - FORD/LINCOLN - Both brands saw sales grow in the month.

• Ford Motor Company’s overall U.S. sales for May 2017 totaled 241,126 vehicles, a 2.2 percent gain compared to last year 
• Retail results declined 0.8 percent, with 158,282 vehicle sales 
• Fleet sales totaled 82,844 vehicles, representing an 8.4 percent gain versus a year ago 
• Ford’s average transaction pricing increased $2,100 last month, significantly outpacing an overall industry increase of $500* 
• Ford F-Series sales of 76,027 pickups increased 12.8 percent last month, for the best May results in 13 years. F-Series also saw a $3,300 increase in average transaction pricing* 
• Ford brand SUVs set May record, with 74,910 vehicles sold – up 4.2 percent versus a year ago 
• Ford Explorer sales increased 20.7 percent, with 22,715 SUVs sold, marking the vehicle’s best May performance in 13 years 
• Ford Expedition sales of 5,758 SUVs were up 13.9 percent last month 
• Ford Edge sales increased 11.0 percent, with 13,752 vehicles sold 
• Lincoln retail sales increased 9.7 percent in May, marking the brand’s 16th straight month of year over-year sales gains

“May marked a standout month for Ford brand SUVs, with a May record 74,910 SUVs sold. Plus, we continued to see strong F-Series performance, with sales and share rising this year, along with average transaction pricing. In May, overall F-Series sales were up double digits and transaction prices grew $3,300 per truck.” Mark LaNeve, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service

Ford F-Series sales totaled 76,027 trucks. This marks F-Series’ best May sales performance since 2004, with F-Series retail sales up in every region of the U.S. Ford brand SUV sales totaled 74,910 vehicles, marking another record-setting May. 

Growth came from a 21 percent gain in Explorer sales, along with a double-digit increase for both Expedition and Edge. The 2018 Explorer, left, hits Ford dealerships this fall. Ford Expedition sales totaled 5,758 vehicles last month, a 14 percent increase, for the SUV’s best May performance in a decade. The allnew 2018 Expedition, left, goes on sale this fall. 

Lincoln retail sales were up 16 consecutive months in May. Lincoln MKC delivered strong gains, up 17 percent, followed by the all-new Lincoln Continental, with sales of 1,061 cars. The all-new Lincoln Navigator, left, arrives in dealer showrooms later this year. 

  

The New Musso from Ssangyong has had it's load capacity increased to 3.5 Tonne of towing capability.

• Towing capability increased to 3.5 tonnes
• 1 tonne payload and 2.04m² load bed to carry a Euro pallet
• 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine
• 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission
• Best value pick-up from just £16,395 ex VAT 

SsangYong has announced an increase in the towing capacity of its Musso one-tonne pick-up to 3,500kg following approval by the VCA - the UK Vehicle Certification Agency responsible for Vehicle Type Approval.

Powered by a smooth and refined 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine, the Musso pick-up delivers huge value. 

Designed to appeal to those who need a competitively priced work truck, the practicality of 4-wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 3.5 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car, it’s ideal for towing a horse box, boat or work trailer. 

“This is great news for customers looking for a value for money pick-up and who need to tow a heavy trailer,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.

“With one of the most powerful engines in its class, a refined automatic gearbox and car like ride - thanks to its multilink rear suspension, Musso sales have really taken off since its launch last autumn”, adds Mr Williams. “Tough and robust with a specification, price and warranty no others can match, the facts clearly position the Musso as the top value truck in the pick-up market.” 

The Musso features a newly developed Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine to meet the demand for a more powerful performance and lower CO₂ emissions at the same time. Maximum power is 178PS and torque 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.

The Musso is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system - which gives a relaxed and comfortable car-like ride, while also carrying over a tonne weight on its load deck. 

There are two models in the range. The SE includes a new-look front grille and dashboard, as well as silver finish 18” alloy wheels and hard wearing ‘leather look’ TPU seat upholstery. It is priced from just £16,395 ex VAT. 

The EX is distinguished by black 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, front LED daytime running lights, leather with heated front seats, power operated driver’s seat, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, 7” touchscreen RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth. The EX with manual transmission is priced at £18,395 ex VAT, and with a six speed Aisin automatic £19,395 ex VAT.

5-year limitless mileage warranty

As with all models in the SsangYong LCV range, the Musso one tonne pick-up is covered by a 5-year limitless mileage warranty. 

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print. 

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

USA SALES FEBRUARY - FORD/LINCOLN - The combined giant has a record 2nd month of the year.

• Ford brand SUVs post record February results, with 68,820 vehicles sold
• Ford F-Series U.S. sales increase 9 percent versus a year ago, with 65,956 pickups sold
• Lincoln sales increase 9 percent, with gains coming from MKC, MKX and all-new Continental
• Ford Motor Company total U.S. sales of 208,440 vehicles are down 4 percent from a year ago; retail sales are down 3 percent, while fleet sales decline 5 percent

Overall Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 208,440 vehicles in February, a 4 percent decline versus a year ago.

Retail sales of 134,576 vehicles decreased 3 percent, while fleet sales were down 5 percent, with 73,864 vehicles sold. The fleet decline reflects a strong year-ago comparison, with customer orders front-loaded in early 2016.

Overall car sales were down 24 percent, while customers continue to shift to trucks and SUVs.

Ford brand SUV sales totaled 68,820 vehicles – record February sales – up 6 percent versus a year ago. Record Escape sales of 27,637 vehicles and a 48 percent increase in Expedition sales drove the gains.

Ford F-Series was up 9 percent, with 65,956 trucks sold. This represents F-Series’ best sales since 2004, with all-new Super Duty retail gains coming from every region of the country.

“We continue seeing strong consumer demand for the highest-series Super Duty pickups and the all-new F-150 Raptor, plus greater availability of 2017 model year F-150s,” said Mark LaNeve, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “This drove a $3,600 increase in average transaction prices for F-Series last month alone, Lincoln had a $2,100 increase, ultimately delivering an overall company transaction price increase of $1,900 per vehicle.”

Lincoln sales totaled 8,744 vehicles, a 9 percent increase. Lincoln MKC, up 12 percent, MKX, up 1 percent, and all-new Continental sales of 1,079 cars fueled the growth.

Isuzu to launch a new uprated D-Max at this years Commercial Vehicle Show.

Prior to going on sale in the Spring, the new generation Isuzu D-Max will have its Public Reveal at the CV Show held at the NEC, Birmingham, from 25-27 April.

The new generation D-Max will be unveiled at 10:00 AM on 25th April at Isuzu’s stand, Hall 5 stand 5F40.

D-Max has been extensively overhauled; with a brand new 1.9 litre turbo diesel engine, which produces 164 PS and 360Nm of torque. The engine builds upon D-Max’s workhorse character and retains the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1 tonne payload whilst providing a quieter, more refined and economical driving experience. 

Inside, a range of new touchscreen entertainment systems are available, equipped with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ as well as updated ergonomics and trim quality.  

As per previous D-Max models, Shift-On-The-Fly 4x4 is a key feature of the 17MY truck. The rotary dial allows the driver to select four-wheel drive on the move as well as low range gears. New Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist are fitted across the range.

Finally, the D-Max comes with a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty, and was the first pick-up in the UK to be offered with such a comprehensive peace-of-mind package.  Running costs are kept down by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, five years’ recovery and European cover, a three-year paint warranty, and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.

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.”

Isuzu has announced pricing and specification for the all new D-Max Pick Up truck.

The new generation D-Max arrives in the UK this Spring and Isuzu are delighted to announce the range line up and pricing for the new truck.

The range line up from the much-loved D-Max is retained; Utility, Eiger, Yukon, Utah and Blade with a range of single, extended and double cab variants available.

The entry-level Utility D-Max, priced from £15,749 (CVOTR) comes equipped with LED daytime running lights, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Bluetooth® connectivity, power windows and air conditioning.

Eiger double cab (from £20,499 CVOTR) adds a reversing camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, audio system with CD player and 6 speakers.

Yukon (from £20,499 CVOTR) adds 18-inch alloy wheels, silver side steps, new 7-inch multi-function touchscreen, LED rear lights, Cruise Control, rear load liner and a leather steering wheel.

Utah (from £24,149 CVOTR) takes comfort up a notch with keyless entry with push button start, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, satellite navigation, DAB digital radio, roof bars, leather upholstery with heated front seats, rear parking sensors, automatic air conditioning.

The range-topping Blade (from £26,999 CVOTR) adds tinted windows, 9-inch multi-function touchscreen, remote locking lower tailgate, Blade puddle lamps, front and rear parking sensors, and a colour-coded Aeroklas canopy or sports bar with roller cover. 

D-Max has been extensively overhauled with the biggest changes under the bonnet. A brand new 1.9 litre turbo diesel engine has been fitted, which produces 164 PS and 360Nm of torque. The engine builds upon D-Max’s workhorse character and retains the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1 tonne payload whilst providing a quieter, more refined and economical driving experience.  Another key benefit is that the new engine meets Euro 6 standards without the need for addition of AdBlue.

As per previous D-Max models, Shift-On-The-Fly 4x4 is a key feature of the 17MY truck. The rotary dial allows the driver to select four-wheel drive on the move as well as low range gears.

Finally, the D-Max comes with a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty, and was the first pick-up in the UK to be offered with such a comprehensive peace-of-mind package.  Running costs are kept down by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, five years’ recovery and European cover, a three-year paint warranty, and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.

FLEET WORLD - Volkswagen is named manufacture of the year for its commercial side.

• Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles claims top Van Fleet World Honours award
• Brand is named Manufacturer of the Year in 2017 awards
• New services and initiatives aimed at fleets are key to success
• Crafter wins first UK awards: named ‘Best New Van’ and ‘Best Large Van’

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has taken home the triple crown from the 2017 Van Fleet World Honours, with the brand winning the ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ award and the new Crafter claiming the ‘Best New Van’ and ‘Best Large Van’ accolades.

Van Fleet World judges commended Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ work over the past 12 months, with a number of initiatives piloted by the brand now being adopted by the Van Centre network.

Commenting on the win, Dan Gilkes, editor of Van Fleet World, said: “Volkswagen has worked hard over a number of years to develop an outstanding Van Centre network that delivers a dedicated service to fleet and retail customers across the UK. However in the last 12 months the brand has piloted a number of initiatives that are now being adopted by the network, all aimed at improving service for fleet customers. It seems to be working too. 

Volkswagen is number two in the UK light commercial vehicle market with sales having doubled since 2009. More importantly, the company recorded record levels of customer satisfaction in 2016, making it a worthy winner of our Van Manufacturer of the Year Award.”

Initiatives introduced include head of business development support at every Van Centre, with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles ensuring the needs of trade customers are being fully met through business experts employed at each location. An extended hours offer is also being rolled out across all Van Centres, along with Mobile Service Clinics.

The new Crafter also picked up two key awards – its first in the UK after being named International Van of the Year in September 2016. In awarding the Crafter its Best New Van and Best Large Van accolades, the Van Fleet World judges said: “It’s not often that a van manufacturer has the chance to create a new vehicle, not just from a clean sheet of paper, but with a completely new factory dedicated to its production. Volkswagen has grabbed the opportunity with both hands, to meet the needs of large van users in every sector.”

Praising its wide range of drivetrains, bodies, engines and driver assistance systems, Gilkes concluded: “Volkswagen had one chance to get new Crafter right and it seems to have hit the spot first time.”

Chris Black, head of fleet at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, collected the awards on behalf of the brand at the ceremony in London.  He said:  “We’re overjoyed to be named Manufacturer of the Year and for all of the brand’s hard work to be recognised. It’s also great for the all-new Crafter to have its first two UK awards, reinforcing the strength of the brand and quality of our products.”