★★★★

FIRST11

ECHO MotorsThe no.1 place to turn to for motors, in print and online – www.motors-merseyside.co.uk

New-RegSpecial

Lookingforanewcar?Join the . . .Lookingforanewcar?Join the . . .

MY11NEW

Tuesday, February 22, 20112 ★★★★

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 3★★★★

Models shown for illustration purposes only. All offers subject to Terms & Conditions of FCE plan. Advertised prices cannot be used in conjunction with any other manufacturer or Peoples promotion.

NEW FORD KA STUDIOradio/cd + mp3 anti-lock braking

power assisted steering immobiliser

WAS £8,435 SAVE £1540

NOW£6,895

on Brand New Fords11 REG FordsNewBrandon FordsNewBrandon FordsNewBrandon 11 REG£1 MillionMillionMillion

Giveaway!

NEW FORD FIESTA EDGEair conditioning immobiliser

mp3 compatible radio/single cd player

WAS £11,445 SAVE £2,550

NOW£8,895NEW FORD FOCUS ZETEC

body colour bumpers free bluetooth

16” 5-spoke alloy wheels stereo cd

WAS £18,852 SAVE £7,357

NOW£11,495

deposit.......................

£136.24

x 24 months............... £136

.24

cash price .....................£6,8

95

amount ofcredit.... £

6,758.76

credit fees...................

... £539

total payable...............

. £7,434

final payment ..............

.£4,018

4.9%TYPIC

AL APR

deposit.........................

£4,598

x 36 months............... £191

.58

cash price .............. £11,494

.88

amount ofcredit.... £6

,896.88

total payable......... £11

,494.88

0%TYPIC

AL APR

deposit...................

..... £175.96

deposit paid by ford ...... £500

x 24 months................ £

175.96

cash price .....................£

9,395

amount of credit...

. £8,719.04

credit fees ..............

........ £692

total payable...........

... £10,087

final payment ..........

..... £5,178

4.9%TYPIC

AL APR

IMMEDIATE DELIVERYON ALL STOCK!

3 YEARSWARRANTY!

LOWMONTHLYPAYMENTS!

APRAVAILABLE!0%

Bridge Road,PrescotMonday Friday9am 8pm

Saturday9am 6pm

Sunday11am 5pm

Orrell Lane,Bootle

Speke Hall Road,Speke Tel:0844 247 2948

(Calls charged at local rate)

Tuesday, February 22, 20114 ★★★★

2011 represents 125 years of Mercedes-Benz innovation. By setting the standard once again,our latest models continue to keep us there.

Order a new-generation C-Class or CLS-Class before 31st March 2011 and receive a complimentary DrivingExperience Day at Mercedes-Benz World∆.

The new generation C-ClassWith a significantly rejuvenated exterior and interior design it will continue to be a best seller. This model sees the debut of a newtelematics generation which will be introduced in other models in the range. Other enhancements include;

The new generation CLS-ClassEvery bit as refined as you’d expect it to be, it pushes boundaries further still, incorporating and revolutionarynew design philosophy and much more besides.

Celebrate a new era in motoring with Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool

Inchcape GroupMercedes-Benz of Liverpool 66 - 68 Pall Mall, Liverpool L3 7DB 0845 128 7093 www.mercedes-benz.inchcape.co.ukPart of the largest independent retailer group of Mercedes-Benz in the UK.

Book your test drive today on 0845 128 7093

− Lower fuel emissions from just 117g/km CO2− 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission− ECO Start/Stop function

− Electro-mechanical steering− Direct Control suspension− Affordable Service Care plans from £36 per month*

− 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission− ECO Start/Stop function

he Pall Mall retailer will officially unveil the strikingfour-door coupé at a special anniversary event, whichwill be held from Thursday 3rd – Sunday 6th Marchand pay homage to the breakthrough of Karl Benz

in creating the first motor car and ‘Benz’ in 1886 – the three-wheeled Motorwagen.

And as well as getting a first glimpse of the latest model towear the three-pointed star, visitors will also be able to viewsome classic models from yesteryear owned by local brandenthusiasts, such as a Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda.

The new CLS will be the main attraction and will be available toorder and drive during the celebratory weekend. Mercedes-Benzof Liverpool will be showcasing several models from the newrange, which from launch will consist of the 265hp CLS 350CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel, 306hp CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCYpetrol V6 and, for the first time ever, a four-cylinder version inthe shape of the refined CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel. Aphenomenal AMG version will follow later in the year along withthe V8-powered CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY.

Owners of the latest CLS will savour a sporty and refined drivethat is complemented by the car’s efficient performance. Theengines utilise energy-saving measures, such as the ECO start/stop function and the V6s are as much as 25 per cent moreeconomical than their predecessors with considerable increasesin power too. For example, the twin-turbo CLS 250 CDI

BlueEFFICIENCY can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 secondsand reach a top speed of 150mph yet emits as little as 135g/kmCO2 and returns an impressive 54.3mpg (combined).

Technological advancements are not only limited to the engines.The CLS is the first Mercedes-Benz model to have frameless,all-aluminium doors and its electromechanical power steeringis a world first, the system only using energy when the CLS isactually being steered and providing an unprecedented level offeel between the driver, car and road.

All models feature the enhanced 7G-Tronic Plus automatictransmission as standard, with the entry model also boasting 18”alloy wheels, a leather interior, satellite navigation, front and rear

Parktronic with Active Park Assist, Attention Assist and a DABdigital radio as part of its impressive specification. The rangealso welcomes the CLS Sport, which adds 19” AMG alloy wheels,AMG bodystyling and LED High Performance headlights, whichare also being premiered on the CLS.

Commenting on the arrival of the CLS, Jeremy Podesta,Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool’s General Sales Manager, said:“We’re proud to have a history that includes what is recognisedas the very first motor car and we’re relishing the opportunity toshow motorists that today’s Mercedes-Benz, especially the newCLS-Class, are just as exciting and pioneering as that very firstthree-wheeler was then.

T

Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool to celebratelandmark anniversary with new model launchMercedes-Benz of Liverpool will be marking the 125th anniversary of theco-founder of Mercedes-Benz creating the world’s first car with the launch ofanother trendsetting model – the new generation CLS.

For further information on the Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool’s CLS launch event, please contact the retailer on 0845 128 7093.

1886 Saw the birth of the Motorwagen- The first ’Benz’

Advertisement Feature

− 10 new assistance systems− New telematics including Becker Map Pilot− Affordable Service Care plans from £26 per month*

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban 30.4(9.3)-50.4(5.6), extra urban 54.3(5.2)-76.3(3.7), combined 42.2(6.7)-64.2(4.4). CO2 emissions: 169-117 g/km.Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the CLS-Class range: urban 12.5(22.6)-26.6(10.6), extra urban 28.5(9.9)-47.9(5.9), combined 19.5(14.5)-37.2(7.6). CO2 emissions: 345-200 g/km.Models shown are a Mercedes-Benz C 180 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY at £30,000.00 on the road including optional metallic paint at £645 and panoramic sunroof at £1325. A Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport at £52,983 on the road. (on the road includes VAT, delivery, 12months road fund licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). ∆Subject to availability, terms and conditions. No cash alternative. *Price is based on the range base model and is for available for 2 or 3 services, excludes AMG models.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 5★★★★

Motors

SEAT’sbrightoutlook

ECO CHAMP: The SEATIbiza range includes theEcomotive. Ibiza rangeprices start at £9,925. Moredetails from LiverpoolSEAT, Pall Mall, on 0151243 2100

A TRENDY image,racy styling andbright colours allcontributetowards SEAT

boasting it attracts theyoungest average age of carbuyers in Europe.

And with productiontotalling more than four

million since its arrivalmore than 25 years ago

the Ibiza iscomfortably theVolkswagen-ownedSpanish company’sbest sellingmodel.

One of themost stylishmodels in theall-importantsupermini sectorand multipleaward winner, theIbiza is now also

an eco champion.Ecomotive is the

name SEAT gives tothe most economical andlowest emissions cars in itsline-up and the latest Ibiza

Ecomotives are among thelowest polluting new cars onsale here.

With their ultra lowemissions and markedlycheaper purchase price thanhybrid petrol-electric cars,the Ibiza E versions have aCO2 figure of 92g/km – sothere’s no need for a roadfund licence as they all fitinto the tax-exempt VEDBand A – and regardless ofbody style they can stillreturn up to a whopping 80.7miles per gallon on theCombined cycle.

Cars are available in SChatchback, five-door and STestate versions, all featuringa 1.2-litre common railturbodiesel that has beenre-worked to cut emissionsand improve economy.

All three versions have afive-speed manual gearbox,Stop/Start plus BrakeEnergy Recovery, low groupthree insurance and speedsensitive power steering.

byMIKE TORPEY

Tuesday, February 22, 20116 ★★★★

MotorsSmall wonder –Citroen’s C1 is areal city slicker

FUNKY AND FUN: Citroen’s C1 offers a great deal for the money. More detailsfrom Lookers Citroen, Sefton Street, on 0844 659 2992

byMIKE TORPEYFUNKY, flexible and fun arethe three words that bestdescribe Citroen’s popularcity car the C1.

With list prices from£8,695 and current offersfrom participating dealersbringing the tab as low as£6,695, this is certainly acity slicker with bags ofappeal.

But as well as being oneof the cheapest new carsaround the C1 also boastsan average 62.8 miles pergallon, group 2 insuranceand with CO2 exhaustemissions of 103g/km is inthe lowest of tax bands forprivate and business users.

Powered by a 1.0-litrethree cylinder petrolengine developing 68bhp,the little Citroen is a reallyfun car to drive – able tozip through the smallest ofgaps and fit in the parking

spots that others pass by.Its acceleration of 0-62 in

13.3 seconds isn’t exactlydynamite but a top speedof 98mph ensures the C1can hold its own on themotorway.

And while the car may belacking in inches it feelsanything but small whenyou hop behind the wheel.Thanks to a smart designwhich sees the wheelspushing into each cornerthis is a full four-seater withlots of headroom and alsoample legroom for rearpassengers.

Its luggage capacity maybe geared more towardsshopping bags thansuitcases but the rear seatbacks do fold down toaccommodate larger items.

The cabin is both simpleand funky with a dozenstowage areas and halfmoon shape speedo.

Elsewhere in the range,Citroen have the light andbright C3 supermini.

A feelgood factor is allimportant when buyershave a top drawer range ofcars to choose from – andCitroen got it right fromday one the C3.

Its star feature is anenormous panoramicwindscreen fitted asstandard on all but theentry level models.

Cheapest in the line-up isthe 1.1-litre VT model at£11,290 while cars with thetax busting 99g/km 1.6diesel engine – capable ofaveraging 74.3mpg – costfrom £15,090 for theAirdream+.

Citroen C1 VTR Price includes delivery to dealer, number plates, 20% VAT, 12 months’ Government road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Advance rental £139.00 followed by 36 monthly payments of £139.00 plus final payment £3666.00. Finance Facility Fee of £149 will be payable with the advance payment.Citroen C3 VT Price includes delivery to dealer, number plates, 20% VAT, 12 months’ Government road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Advance rental £149.00 followed by 36 monthly payments of £149.00 plus final payment £5285.00. Finance Facility Fee of £149 will be payable with the advance payment.

WITH FREE INSURANCELook Great in a 111111111111111111111111111111

available on C1 VTR+ andC3 Connexion models only

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

LOOKERS CITROËN LIVERPOOL Tel:0844 659 2992133 Sefton Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L8 4BX

www.lookers.co.uk

• Power steering • Air con • Electric windowsZERO road fund licenceCitroën C1 VTR Only £8250

Save £1045Customer Deposit NILCitroen Deposit £750.00Advance £7,500.00Credit Charge £1,163.3036 Payments £139.00Total Amount Payable £9,413.301 Final Purchase Payment £3,666.009.9% APR Representative Low Monthly Repayments

Citroën C3 1.1 VT

Customer Deposit £495.00Citroen Deposit £500.00Advance £7,600.00Credit Charge £1,274.9236 Payments £149.00Total Amount Payable £9,869.921 Final Purchase Payment £5,285.00Annual Mileage 6000Excess Milage Charge 2.64p per mile9.9% APR Representative Low Monthly Repayments

WAS £11290NOW £8595Save £2695• £500 DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 7★★★★

Motors

CHEVROLET is confident itwill offer the best value formoney compact MPV inthe business when the newOrlando hits the streets

from £16,395 in March.The seven-seat people shifter, a

serious rival to the likes of Ford’slatest C-MAX and the VolkswagenTouran, is billed as having aspectacular amount of standardequipment.

The car comes in three trimlevels and there will also be threeengines, including a pair of diesels.

Even the entry grade Orlando LSfeatures air-con, electronic stabilitycontrol, follow-me-home lights,electric windows and mirrors,remote central locking, six airbags,three 12v power sockets, tinted glassand an adjustable steering wheel.

And a couple of cleverinnovations are also included in theshape of an extra rear view mirrorallowing both driver and frontpassenger to see all the car’soccupants, and a cubbycompartment for the likes of phonesand iPods hidden behind the audiofascia.

LS models are available with a141bhp 1.8-litre engine or a new130bhp 2.0-litre diesel unit, thelatter coming with a six-speedmanual gearbox as standard.

Extra kit on the LT modelscomprises rear parking distancesensors, a USB port, 16-inch alloys,climate control, a chrome effecttailgate handle, driver’s armrest,leather covered steering wheel,front fog lights, electric rearwindows and an upgraded sound

system with steering wheelcontrols.

This grade can be specified withthe most powerful Orlando engine, a163bhp 2.0-litre diesel with six-speedmanual transmission, or a six-speedauto as an option.

The range-topping LTZ models,which are also offered with a choiceof all three engine options, bring in

larger alloys, automatic cruisecontrol, an electro-chromatic rearview mirror, automatic headlightsand windscreen wipers, blueambient panel lighting, a glossblack centre console, power foldingdoor mirrors, a rear cargo net andchrome effect body detailing.

Buyers of diesel-engined LTZmodels can also specify an optional

£2,000 Executive Pack which addsfull leather upholstery, heated frontseats, sat-nav and 18-inch alloys.

Pound for pound the Orlandocertainly punches above its weightand certainly has the pricing andkit to make it a big hit withfamilies.

Chevrolet is also hailing its latesthigh specification Captiva 4x4 as a

budget alternative to the likes of aRange Rover Sport or BMW X5.

The range topping seven-seatCaptiva LTZ is priced from £28,145and includes satellite navigation, aparking camera and leatherupholstery and is powered by atwo-litre diesel developing 150bhp.

At the other end of the range liesthe Spark supermini, from £6,945.

byMIKE TORPEY

ORLANDOZOOM: ThenewChevroletOrlando goeson sale nextmonth andwill offerseriouscompetitionto Ford andVW. Moredetails fromLookersChevrolet,Derby Road,on 0844 6596419

Ready,Chevy,go!

Vehicle shown is an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LTZ with metallic paint at an extra cost of £410, and an Executive Pack at an optional cost of £2,000. Under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme for new cars, a driver can get the use of an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LS for 3 years by paying the Fixed Weekly Rentals from the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability LivingAllowance, with an Advance Payment of £349. For applications approved by 31st March 2011. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be inreceipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement which will be taken in lieu of the monthly rental. Full written details, including terms and conditions, are available on request. All figures correct at time of going to press. Calls may be recorded and monitored for training purposes.

Official Government Environment Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). Orlando range: Urban - 29.1 (9.7) - 35.8 (7.9), Extra-urban - 47.9 (5.9) - 57.7 (4.9), Combined - 38.7 (7.3) - 47.1(6.0). CO2 emissions 186 - 159g/km.

LOOKERS LIVERPOOL82 Derby Road Bootle Liverpool Merseyside L20 8LR0151 933 7575www.chevrolet.co.uk

Model shown is an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LTZ

DISCOVER THE ALL-NEW CHEVROLET ORLANDOAT LOOKERS LIVERPOOL CHEVROLET.

VISIT OUR

MOTABILITYEVENT

CALL NOW TO BOOKA TEST DRIVE

25th - 27thFebruary

7-SEATS.MOREMOTABILITYOPTIONS.

The all-new seven seat Chevrolet Orlando takes design and flexibility to an all-new level. Seats up, the Orlandoseats seven comfortably. Fold a few seats down, and it’ll also take the dog, five deck chairs, a couple of pottedplants, and a week’s worth of shopping. The new Chevrolet Orlando with Motability. Whatever you want it to be.Call now and see how it fits perfectly into your lifestyle.

Orlando 2.0 VCDi LS

£349 AdvancePayment

Tuesday, February 22, 20118 ★★★★

Motors

STYLE AND POWER: The Vauxhall Corsa VXR Blue.More details from Lookers Liverpool on 0844 659 3944and Lookers Speke on 0844 659 4434

VAUXHALL’S chicsupermini the Corsa hasjust got a smart new lookfor springtime thanks to aredesigned nose, freshheadlamps and some vividnew colours.

The facelifted models,following on from othertop Vauxhall sellers likethe Astra and largerInsignia, now feature achrome signature barunder the bonnet housingthe company’s new Griffinbadge, and daytimerunning lights are fittedas standard.

Prices for therevamped Corsa are from£9,995 for an Expression1.0i ecoFLEX three-doormodel.

Higher spec models willbe fitted with a five-inchtouchscreen displayfeaturing both 2D and 3Dmaps for the sat-navsystem, which is nowsited below the centralair vents. Outside, theCorsa has new 16-inch

alloy wheels on both SEand SXi models.

Also likely to provepopular is the limited runCorsa Excite – availablewith three petrol and onediesel engine - which addsBluetooth, air-con andalloy wheels to theExclusiv model trim.

An exciting addition tothe range is the CorsaVXR Blue, a high speclimited edition modelwith bold styling details,extra kit and strikingmetallic Arden Bluepaint.

Dark tinted glass,bespoke interior airvents, 18-inch alloys andRecaro sports seats areall part of the deal.

The Blue is powered bya 1.6-litre turbochargedpetrol engine producing190bhp and capable ofcompleting 0-62 in just6.8 seconds.

Corsa’s all set for springbyMIKE TORPEY

Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). New Corsa Excite 1.0i 12v ecoFLEX. Urban: 44.8 (6.3), Extra-urban: 67.3(4.2), Combined: 56.5 (5.0). CO2 emissions: 117g/km.* Offer available to individuals for orders received between 01.02.11 and 31.03.11. Figures based on a non-maintenance contract hire package over 48 months and 6,000 miles per year (max). An advance rental of £567 is payable, then 47 monthly rentals of £189. Rentals and excess charges arebased on the current VAT rate. An excess charge of up to 6.38 ppm will be applied for mileage in excess of 6,000 mile p.a. Excess charges also apply if the car is not serviced and maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and returned to Vauxhall Leasing in a condition commensuratewith the BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines for its age and mileage. Package includes R.F.L. and Vauxhall Assistance. Offer subject to availability and status. UK supplied vehicles only. For full specification, details, terms and conditions contact your local retailer. Guarantee and/or indemnity maybe required. Applicants must be 18 or over. Details correct at time of publication and may vary, e.g. if list price changes. Personal contract hire by ALD Automotive Ltd., trading as Vauxhall Leasing, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JA.

Lookers Liverpool82 Derby RoadLiverpool L20 8LR

0151 933 7575www.lookers.co.uk/vauxhall

Lookers SpekeSpeke Hall RoadLiverpool L24 9HD

0151 486 3668www.lookers.co.uk/vauxhall

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 9★★★★

Motors

StyleandpassionTHE name conjures upvisions of fashion, film starsand cool Italian chic. Andwhen it comes to image andhistory there are few

marques that can match the iconicbadge of Alfa Romeo.

One of the most evocative modelsin the company’s rich heritage isthe car that brought Alfa motoringto the masses – the Giulietta, whichmade its debut back in 1954.

To celebrate Alfa’s 100thanniversary the Italians broughtRomeo and Giulietta back into eachothers arms in the shape of a sleek,sexy five-door hatchback.

It is a compelling range of carsthat has been boosted with theaddition of a frugal yet highperforming second generationMultiJet diesel engine.

The new 2.0 JTDM-2 140bhp is anideal powerplant for both companycar drivers and private ownersrequiring low fuel consumption andlow running costs combined withdriving comfort for long trips.

An extremely smooth operator,this new engine is equipped withthe latest common rail dieselsystem already present on the 1.6JTDM-2 (105bhp) and the 2.0-litre(170bhp) power units.

This new Giulietta featuresreduced CO2 emissions and lowerfuel consumption of 119g/km and62.8mpg on average, a top speed of127mph and acceleration from 0 to62mph in 9 seconds.

The engine is designed for driverswho appreciate excellent throttleresponse but are also concerned

with fuel consumption and runningcosts. It’s also Euro5 compliant andequipped with Start&Stop asstandard.

Prices are from £20,750 for theLusso model and £22,050 for thehigher spec Veloce, while theGiulietta range kicks off with the120bhp 1.4-litre Turismo petrolmodel at £17,450.

Alfa’s mission for the funky MiTomodel was to make it the world’ssportiest compact car, and adistinctive design, sporty cabin andstrong engine range make it one ofthe most desirable offerings on themarket.

All car makers want strongerperformance, lower emissions andbetter fuel economy – and Alfa’s

owners Fiat have cracked it with atechnology called Multiair in theshape of two turbocharged versionsof the company’s 1.4-litre petrolengine.

In simple terms, more precisecontrol is taken of the quantity andcharacteristics of the air drawn intothe cylinders during thecombustion cycle.

The 135bhp version of the unitpowers the Lusso-trimmed model at£15,465 and £990 more expensiveVeloce version while the flagship£18,365 Cloverleaf – a return for therace-bred badge – boasts 170bhp.

Start&Stop also makes its debuton these models and is allied to agear shift indicator that suggestswhen to change up or down.

byMIKE TORPEY

ITALIAN CHIC:The Alfa RomeoGiulietta blendsstyle andperformance.More detailsfrom CorkillsAlfa, CheshireOaks, on 08448159 159

Corkills Cheshire Oaks, Cheshire Ch65 9LF08448 159 159 www.corkillsalfaromeo.co.uk

AlFA roMEo.rED 11 EVENT.

17–27 FEBrUArY

rED AlErT.introducing red 11. eleven exclusive days featuring the award-winning alfa romeo line-up…and more.

More exhilaration. More style. More technology.

applies only to new car orders taken between 17–27 February 2011 (retail only), exclusions apply. Visit our website for full terms and conditions.

Tuesday, February 22, 201110 ★★★★

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 11★★★★

Motors

HONDA is about to playsome sweet music forsmall car fans in theshape of a newBritish-built Jazz

supermini.The award-winning city car will

cost from £11,295 for a 1.2-litrepetrol powered version and from£13,495 for the 1.4-litre model whenit goes on sale in the next fewweeks.

For a relatively compact offeringthe Jazz is bursting with big carfeatures like cruise control, a topnotch sat-nav system withBluetooth and automatic climatecontrol.

Loyal fans have long made theJazz the Japanese company’s topseller in the UK and the latestversions are better than ever.

Not only can the car comfortablyseat four adults – five at a push –but there’s now also a recliningrear seat backrest for addedcomfort.

And the innovative ‘slide, foldand recline’ magic seatarrangement that has proved sucha compelling feature of past Jazzmodels is retained, meaning there’sluggage capacity of up to 1,320litres.

A wide opening tailgate aids

access and folding the seats is asimple, quick exercise.

Styling-wise, the new Jazzheralds cosmetic changes to thelights and bumpers while anupgrade to the suspension hasresulted in improved handling anda more refined ride.

Back in the Jazz line-up due topublic demand is a model with acontinuously variable automatictransmission (CVT), a set-up thatwas dropped three years ago infavour of a semi-auto system.

It costs an extra £1,000, issmoother than its predecessor thei-Shift and boasts lower CO2emissions of 125g/km.

The biggest news within thefacelifted range though is thearrival of a Jazz Hybrid, that’s notonly the cheapest car of its type inBritain but also undercuts itsnearest rival by £3,000.

With an average economy figureof 62.8 miles per gallon, thepetrol-electric Jazz is also fittedwith the seven-speed CVT system.

Its emissions of 104g/km put the

hybrid into a low tax bracket,meaning £10 a year for privatebuyers after a tax-free first yearand 10 per cent for business users.

The hybrid is powered by thesame 87bhp 1.3-litre petrol enginefitted to the Honda Insight plus a14bhp electric motor.

Top speed is 109mph andacceleration 0-62 in 12.1 seconds,and the gears can be changedmanually via steeringwheel-mounted paddles.

There’s also a choice of eco orsport modes plus some cleverinstruments – in addition to powerflow meters and gauges that showwhen the battery is rechargingthere’s also a speedo backlight thatchanges colour depending ondriving technique.

Proceed in an economicalmanner and the light glows green,but heavy revving turns it bluethen a darker blue the more youfloor the throttle.

And another display shows amini woodland in which the moretrees that pop-up, the better yourdriving efficiency.

Also proving popular with Hondafans is another hybrid in the shapeof the sleek-looking CR-Z coupe,described by the Japanesemanufacturer as ‘an urban street

racer with a conscience’.It’s certainly a model that stands

out from the crowd and anyonewho remembers the CRX from the1980s with its shallow rakedroofline and split level rear glasshatch will see the resemblance.

And that’s absolutely intentional,because Honda planned the CR-Z asa 21st Century re-thinking of thatcar.

CR-Z is basically a compact twoplus two coupe with some seriouslow-slung elegance and comes inthree trim grades – S, Sport and GT– with prices from £17,360.

It is powered by Honda’spetrol-electric IMA system – a1.5-litre engine boosted by anelectric motor, the engineproducing 114bhp and motor 14bhp.

Both the power and torque comefrom way down the rev range –between 1,000 and 1,500rpm – soinitial acceleration is stronger,ideal for stop/start driving inurban conditions and hence thestreet racer link.

The upshot is a 0-62mph time of9.9 seconds and on to a top speed of124mph. More important for a carwith sporty pretensions, the hybridsystem and lightweightconstruction combine withstop-start technology to allow an

average fuel return of 56.4 milesper gallon and CO2 emissions of117g/km. That keeps the Hondabelow the 120g/km level and intothe £35 a year road tax band.

A low driving position and shortshift six-speed manual gearbox addto the on-road experience and a3-Mode Drive System offers achoice of different settings –Normal, Sport and Econ.

As its name suggests, Econ modeprioritises fuel economy whileNormal provides a balance betweenperformance, economy andemissions. Switch between the twoand you hardly notice any change.

Only when the Sport button isengaged do you really feel adifference as the steering weightsup, the throttle response sharpensand the electric motor gives moreassistance.

The CR-Z really impresses in thismode and offers somethingdifferent – great looks, ecoawareness, an engaging drive and athe performance you don’t expectfrom a hybrid.

Honda is also currently pushingto make new car ownership moreaffordable by adding three yearsfree servicing plus a range financeoptions to selected new cars untilthe end of next month.

byMIKE TORPEY

JAZZ IT UP: The new-look Honda Jazz for 2011 boasts a range of new features. More details from Lightcliffe Honda, Sefton Street, on 0151 709 8261

AnotherJazzclassic

ECHOMotorsAll the latest motoring news,road tests and first drives of

new models in ECHO Motors,inside your Liverpool ECHO

every Friday