The price of petrol at Morrisons filling stations has dropped below £1 a litre for the first time in more than four years.
The nationwide petrol price at Morrisons filling stations is now 99.7p a litre.
This is 9p a litre cheaper than the UK national average.
Diesel prices have also been cut, to 104.7p a litre – compared to the national average of 114.2p.
“This cut will help people who are travelling to work, those shopping for essentials, and those assisting the elderly and vulnerable,” said Morrisons’ head of fuel, Ashley Myers.
For the average 50-litre fill-up, Morrisons’ latest price cut will save £4.50, he added.
The fuel retailer says its headline-grabbing new petrol price makes it only the second time since the 2008-09 financial crisis that petrol prices have fallen below £1 a litre.
The price cut is now live as of 11 May 2019 at all of Morrisons’ 337 filling stations across the UK.
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Toyota is expanding its SUV range in early 2021 with the UK launch of the seven-seat Highlander.
Already on sale in North America, where it is a best-seller, it will be the first time the Highlander has been offered in Europe.
Toyota will sell it in full hybrid guise, pairing a 2.5-litre petrol engine with front and rear electric motors.
It produces 241hp, averages 42.8mpg and emits 146g/km of CO2 – a best-in-class combination, reckons Toyota.
Space is likely to be the Highlander’s biggest draw, though. It measures 4,950mm in length, which is as long as a Land Rover Discovery.
It has a rugged two-tonne towing capacity, too.
Inside, it has three rows of seats, and even the third row is said to be adult-sized.
There is an impressive 658-litre boot even with all seven seats in place. Fold them flat and it expands to 1,909 litres.
Toyota hasn’t worked out what UK cars will get as standard yet, but does suggest goodies such as head-up display, ventilated front seats and a ‘clearview’ rear view mirror will be included.
Prices are also still to be confirmed, and will be revealed nearer to its early 2021 UK launch.
One of the 2,500 cars set to star at the Mecum Indy 2020 auction is a black Mustang Boss 429 with a notable past.
The late Paul Walker, star of the Fast & Furious movie franchise, was the former owner of this particular car. Off-screen, Walker was known for his substantial car collection.
With Boss Mustangs already in demand, having a famed car aficionado as a former keeper should only increase the interest in this model.
Homologation hero
Squeezing a NASCAR-spec engine into a road car might seem mad today, but that was exactly what the Boss 429 version of the first-generation Mustang offered.
In order for Ford to use the 429-cubic inch V-8 engine in the NASCAR Grand National Series, at least 500 road-going cars had to be sold to the public.
Despite Ford using the Torino for NASCAR competition, the Mustang was chosen to host the semi-hemi 429 engine.
Due to the sheer size of the engine, modifications to the Mustang’s engine bay were needed to make it fit. Kar Kraft, responsible for helping develop the GT40, was used to build the muscular Mustangs.
A car collector at heart
The Fast & Furious movie franchise pushed Paul Walker into major stardom, and allowed him to amass a serious collection of cars before his death in 2013.
Walker’s collecting habits spanned a diverse portfolio. His garage ranged from modern BMWs and Porsches, to classic muscle cars including Saleen and Shelby Mustangs.
Earlier this year, a total of 21 cars from his personal collection were sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2020 auction. This sale included seven BMW M3s alone, along with a Nissan 350Z from the 2011 film Fast Five.
Who’s the Boss?
What made the Boss 429 Mustang such a prize for collectors such as Paul Walker is the huge engine, and the rarity factor.
The 429-cubic inch V-8 was officially rated at producing 375 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. This was connected to a four-speed Toploader manual transmission, with a Traction-Lok rear differential fitted.
Records show that a total of 1,359 Boss 429 Mustangs were made between 1969 and 1970. The first 1969 cars like this one were built in slightly higher numbers, but the overall rarity makes them all attractive to collectors.
Fastback and furious
The Boss 429 formerly owned by Walker is distinctive for the bodywork beneath the Raven Black paintwork being entirely original. The engine and transmission are also the matching items fitted when the car was built.
Ford’s functional hood scoop, only used for 1969 models, is present, as are the rear window slats and spoiler. The front spoiler was reshaped to meet the widened fenders, accommodating the Boss 429-specific Black Magnum 500 wheels.
Along with being in original condition, Walker’s Boss 429 has covered just 14,575 miles from new. It means the black vinyl interior with wood grain dashboard looks as new as the exterior.
Mustangs and more for Mecum Spring Classic
Being a low-mileage Boss 429 Mustang with a former celebrity owner will undoubtedly bring plenty of bids to this car.
Rare Mustangs make up a substantial portion of the Mecum Spring Classic docket. The John Atzbach Collection includes the very first Shelby GT350R, noted to be the most historically significant Shelby ‘Stang.
Rescheduled from May due to COVID-19, the Mecum Indy 2020 sale begins on July 10th, and spans an impressive nine days.
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“The question drivers should ask themselves before venturing out is, ‘do I really need to?”
Why are motorists driving more in lockdown?
When asked, a quarter of motorists said they were using a car more for grocery shopping. 1 in 10 said it was to pick up essential supplies or visit a pharmacy.
However, 5 percent admitted it was to visit a DIY store, and another 5 percent said it was to buy alcohol.
4 percent said they were driving more for work purposes.
Jeremy Clarkson once said “you can’t be a true petrolhead until you’ve owned an Alfa Romeo”.
Not for the first time, though, Jezza was wrong.
With a few recent exceptions, modern Alfas are just fancy Fiats. And the classics, while bursting with brio, are less dependable than the 07:56 to London Bridge.
No, if there’s one car every enthusiast should aspire to own, it’s a Porsche 911. This quirky, rear-engined coupe has evolved – and occasionally revolved – over more nearly six decades.
Fast, fun and engineered with Teutonic thoroughness, it’s an automotive cult all its own: witness the number of dedicated 911 magazines in newsagents.
And it’s still going strong: the millionth example left Stuttgart in 2017, and spicier versions, such as the GT2 RS, sell out before they even reach showrooms.
Video: classic Porsche 911 on the road
Convinced? Now for the bad news. Used 911 prices may have peaked around 2018, but they have risen hugely over the past decade. That said, even if a COVID-19 recession lies ahead, good examples – particularly the earlier, air-cooled cars – should remain sought-after.
If you want the original 911 experience, you need a pre-1989 model – and they don’t come much better than the last-hurrah Carrera 3.2, now available from around £40,000. The lovely 1989 example tested here was kindly supplied by Canford Classics.
Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2: How does it drive?
The classic Carrera isn’t an easy car to drive, but that’s key to its appeal. You need to engage your brain, exploit its strengths and work around its weaknesses. And learning those takes time.
Despite being shorter and narrower than a new Porsche Cayman, the original 911’s cabin doesn’t feel short on space. Well, not unless you’re squeezed into the toddler-sized rear seats. It’s comically sparse by 2020 standards, though, with controls scattered seemingly at random and floor-hinged pedals skewed towards the centre of the car.
Ergonomic eccentricities are soon forgotten when you fire up that trademark flat-six. It whirrs, rumbles and churns: not musical, but deliciously mechanical. And the howl it makes at high revs reverberates around your ribcage.
The 911’s unassisted steering and spindly gearlever demand measured, deliberate inputs, yet fizz with constant feedback. It feels lively and light-footed, effervescent even. Those characteristic front wings follow the contours of the road, while the all-round disc brakes offer confidence-inspiring bite.
You never forget this is a rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive car – one with no electronic safety aids – but the Porsche is hardly the ‘widowmaker’ of urban legend. It simply requires respect and a certain degree of restraint, especially when it rains. Your friend in his Golf R will be quicker whatever the weather, but you’ll be more involved.
Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2: Tell me about buying one
Chris Lowe, lead technician at Canford Classics, is a big fan of the Carrera 3.2: “It has better brakes and a more powerful engine than the 911 SC it replaced, and larger wheels make it more drivable day-to-day,” he explains. “Plus, it’s still air-cooled, so it doesn’t stray too far from the original formula. Overall, they’re just super-cool cars.”
The 3.2 was sold in three body styles: coupe, convertible and Targa. Coupes are generally considered most desirable, although the removable-roof Targa is now back in fashion. A ‘tea tray’ rear wing was optional as part of the Sport pack, along with stiffer dampers and shapelier seats. Alternatively, buyers could go the whole nine yards with the 911 Supersport: a 3.2 with the stretched wheelarches and beefed-up brakes of the 930 Turbo.
Steve McQueen ‘Le Mans’ replica 911 2.2 S at Canford Classics. Properly cool. pic.twitter.com/O7DM0x1fPA
Rust is the fatal foe of any classic 911, so Chris advises checking bodywork carefully: the roof pillars and sills are the main trouble-spots.
Take a fine-tooth comb to the paperwork, too. “Originality is key to value,” says Chris, “so ask for the Certificate of Authenticity from Porsche, which details the original specification – including any options fitted.” Also, be prepared to budget for mechanical maintenance: “Many 3.2s are due engine or gearbox rebuilds, and the same goes for suspension. Bushes will usually need to be replaced.”
It’s also worth noting that the post-1987 ‘G50’ gearbox – as fitted here – is slicker and more user-friendly than the original ‘915’ unit. As such, G50-equipped cars tend to be worth more.
Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2: Verdict
Is the Carrera 3.2 the ultimate retro daily-driver? Perhaps, even if the aforementioned rise in values means most owners now reserve their cars for sunny Sundays and special occasions.
In truth, the G-Series 911 felt a little dated by the mid-1980s, yet it has aged remarkably well. To drive, it feels raw, and vital, while its essential robustness stands in marked contrast to the flimsy over-complication of many modern cars.
Three decades hence, when scores of present-day ‘992’ 911s are written off due to software gremlins, one suspects the classic Carrera will still be going strong. It’s a sports car icon: both of its time and timeless. Buy one now while you still can.
Many thanks to Canford Classics (01929 472221) for the loan of this immaculate 1989 911.
The updated 2020 Sportage line-up now comprises 2, 3, GT-Line and GT-Line S. Prices start from £23,445.
Ordering is open now.
2020 Kia Sportage: specs
Every model in the line-up gets a new 8.0-inch ‘frameless’ touchscreen. This includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus online services that can show fuel prices at nearby filling stations, real-time availability of parking spaces and live traffic updates.
Rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are standard, plus lane-keep assist, alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers and cruise control.
The new 3 spec (the blue car pictured above) adds electric leather seats, panoramic roof, keyless entry, electric handbrake and a heated steering wheel.
Outside, it gets more chrome trim, front parking sensors, LED headlights and blind spot collision warning.
GT-Line models have a sporty make-over with features such as 19-inch alloys and silver mesh radiator grille.
GT-Line S versions go further with extra luxury features such as a JBL premium sound system, wireless smartphone charging and a hands-free power tailgate.
2020 Kia Sportage: engines
Kia has cut the Sportage engine range back to three motors. The basic petrol engine is a 130hp 1.6-litre GDi that averages 36.2mpg. 0-62mph acceleration takes 11.1 seconds.
A turbocharged version producing 174hp is available. The 1.6-litre T-GDI averages just 33.2mpg, although 0-62mph acceleration falls to 8.9 seconds.
The best all-rounder is the 1.6 CRDi 134 48v diesel. This is badged ‘EcoDynamics+’ on the bootlid.
The base six-speed manual version returns 52.3mpg while still accelerating from 0-62mph in 10.8 seconds.
The diesel has much more pulling power too, thanks to its 48v ‘mild hybrid’ system that gives an added boost from a self-charging lithium ion battery.
Following the announcement that speed awareness courses are suspended for three months, some speeding tickets have now been cancelled altogether.
As police forces struggle to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, drivers may simply be issued a written warning – with no fine or licence penalty points to follow.
The Times reports letters sent to motorists explaining it is ‘not in the public interest’ to prosecute minor speeding offences.
And one Motoring Research reader had his speed awareness course cancelled, and the fee refunded, ‘due to issues related to the coronavirus’.
Fewer cars, greater speeds
The news comes against a backdrop of vastly reduced traffic and some high profile speeding cases during the coronavirus lockdown.
Further research by The Times showed journey times increased by 13 per cent in Belfast’s morning rush hour, versus 57 percent on a normal day. The RAC also reported a 40 percent reduction in traffic levels by the second week of lockdown.
Meanwhile, a driver was filmed doing 151mph on the M1 over the Easter weekend, while another clocked at 130mph on the M25 told police he was speeding to “avoid catching coronavirus”.
Courses may be cancelled
The usual yardstick for a speeding offence is 10 percent over the limit plus 2mph – so 46mph in a 40mph zone, for example.
Speed awareness courses are intended for drivers close to this threshold. The fee is around £100, but opting for the course means no Fixed Penalty Notice or points.
UK Road Offender Education, which operates speed awareness courses on behalf of the police, suspended all classroom-based courses for 12 weeks from Friday 20 March. However, many could now be cancelled altogether.
Officially, motorists have four months from the date on a speeding letter to complete a course (if offered) – or face further action. It seems likely some leeway will be afforded due to the lockdown, however, even if some courses are simply suspended for longer.
SE grade gets 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and an 8.0-inch touchscreen system as standard. Keyless go is also included.
Next up is SE Dynamic, which brings Seat Digital Cockpit electronic instruments, plus a bigger 10-inch infotainment screen with standard sat-nav (that’s the one pictured above.)
Rear glass is tinted, the wheels grow to 17 inches and all-round parking sensors are fitted.
FR trim gets a racy makeover with bespoke front and rear bumpers, dual exhausts and 15mm lower sports suspension.
FR models also get contrast stitching, wireless smartphone charging, three-zone climate control and LED rear lights.
FR Sport, Xcellence and Xcellence Lux variants will follow later in the year.
2020 Seat Leon engines
Even at launch, Seat is offering a broad engine range with the new Leon, heavily biased towards petrol.
The basic motor is the three-cylinder 1.0 TSI 110. Next up is the four-cylinder 1.5 TSI, which comes in either 130hp or 150hp guises.
There’s a high-tech mild hybrid version too, called the 1.5 eTSI MHEV 150, which uses a DSG automatic gearbox.
The sole diesel is a 2.0 TDI 115. Later in 2020, Seat will roll out a 2.0 TDI 150.
2020 Seat Leon prices
SE
Hatch
1.0 TSI 110: £19,855
1.5 TSI 130: £21,425
2.0 TDI 115: £22,835
Estate
1.5 TSI 130: £22,455
SE Dynamic
Hatch
1.0 TSI 110: £20,955
1.5 TSI 130: £22,525
2.0 TDI 115: £23,935
Estate
1.5 TSI 130: £23,555
FR
Hatch
1.0 TSI 110: £23,185
1.5 TSI 130: £23,515
1.5 TSI 150: £24,805
1.5 eTSI 150 DSG: £26,865
Estate
1.5 TSI 130: £24,545
1.5 TSI 150: £25,855
1.5 eTSI 150 DSG: £27,895
2020 Seat Leon finance offers
Seat Leon PCP finance prices start from £195 a month for the 1.0 TSI 110 SE.
A sporty Leon 1.5 TSI 130 FR, which Seat says will be the most popular model in the line-up, costs £249 a month.
The £195 a month Seat Solutions PCP deal on the 1.0 TSI 110 SE works out like this:
Duration: 48 months
Retail price: £19,855
Seat deposit contribution: £1,000 (and £500 more if you take a test drive)
The new 2020 Skoda Octavia range opens for ordering in June with prices starting from £22,390.
Three specs will be available from launch: SE First Edition, SE Technology and SE L First Edition.
Skoda is loading up the standard features on the special First Edition variants to help the new fourth-generation large family hatchback hit the market running.
The new Octavia will be available in estate guise from launch, as well as the hatchback. Estate car prices start from £23,370.
2020 Skoda Octavia specs
Entry-level SE First Edition grade will have more than enough standard equipment for many.
It includes climate control, an 8.25-inch touchscreen, five USB-C ports (including one in the rear-view mirror for connecting to a dashcam), LED headlights, ‘Virtual Cockpit’ electronic instruments and a safety pack that features lane-keeping assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
SE L First Edition costs from £25,150. These models get more chrome trim on the outside and bigger 17-inch alloys.
An enhanced Columbus infotainment system with 10-inch screen and online access is fitted, plus an electric driver’s seat, all-round parking sensors, keyless entry and adaptive cruise control.
SE Technology models are aimed at company car drivers. These have fuel-saving 16-inch aero alloy wheels, the Columbus infotainment system and ‘Laura’ voice control. Prices start from £22,640.
2020 Skoda Octavia engines
Three engine choices are available at launch. Petrol buyers take a 1.5-litre TSI 150, while diesel customers have a choice of either 115hp or 150hp 2.0-litre TDI.
The 2.0 TDI 150 has a DSG automatic gearbox as standard: the other two are six-speed manual.
Skoda says it will broaden the engine range available on the new Octavia throughout 2020.
Ordering for the new 2020 Skoda Octavia range opens at retailers in June, with cars arriving for test drives and delivery from July.
Road traffic levels are now ‘akin to those in the early 1970s’, as millions of motorists stay at home during the lockdown. As a result, many cars will be left unused for weeks on end.
Leaving a car untouched can lead to problems with the battery, tyres, brakes and bodywork, but there is specific advice for electric and plug-in hybrid cars. Here, we reveal the tips for electrified vehicles when not in regular use.
The advice comes from Bob Taenaka, senior technical leader for battery and cell system development at Ford. He says the most important thing is to make sure your car’s 12-volt battery remains charged and the high-voltage battery has adequate charge. At least 10 percent is required to prevent it draining to zero.
If you have driven or had your electric/plug-in hybrid vehicle on charge for at least eight hours within the past month, the 12-volt battery should be adequately charged.
When storing a battery electric car for longer periods, a charge of between 10 percent and 80 percent is recommended. A high-voltage battery above 10 percent state of charge can go for more than six months without charging, but the 12-volt battery will drain much faster.
Taenaka recommends disconnecting the negative terminal of the 12-volt battery. Alternatively, leave the electrified vehicle plugged in and connect the 12-volt battery to a trickle charger.
“If you are storing your vehicle for longer than 30 days without use, we recommend disconnecting the negative terminal of your 12-volt battery,” says Taenaka. “This avoids depletion and potential damage to the battery, which runs the internal systems such as heating – without the need for monthly maintenance.”
Disconnecting the 12-volt battery
Remember the following points when disconnecting a 12-volt car battery:
Make sure you have the key fob outside of the car, because you may need to use the physical key to lock and unlock the vehicle.
If the vehicle is in a locked garage and the 12-volt battery is in the boot, leave the boot lid open.
Once the 12-volt battery is disconnected, use the key to unlock and lock the doors.
If the battery is in the boot and you’re not storing the car in a garage, you will require another 12-volt source. Follow the ‘jump start’ instructions in the owner’s manual to restore 12-volt power to the vehicle in order to open the boot.
