Outland 7700 Receiver Rack on 2040-parts.com

CDR Trend Insight – Downsizing the ‘Allroad’ Aesthetic

The ‘Allroad' aesthetic is trickling down to the A-segment. The look is so-called because it was led by Audi's range of Allroad products, which raise the ride height, add lower body cladding and subtly change detailing of the mainstream estate car products. Volvo's XC and Skoda's Scout models do similar things, but until now, we've not seen this aesthetic approach applied to the smallest segment of cars.

Drivers believe potholes 'are out of control'

MOST DRIVERS (67%) think the pothole problem in the UK is getting out of control and the government and councils are not doing enough to solve the problem. Research by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found 65% of female drivers and 69% of male drivers are very unhappy with the condition of the UK’s roads. The IAM cites a lack of communication between councils and drivers for this situation as a third (34% ) of drivers believe councils are reducing the amount they spend on road maintenance but 60% of drivers admit they don’t know if budgets are genuinely being cut.

Vauxhall Insignia facelift stars at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

Ten years on from the very first Insignia concept, unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in 2003, Vauxhall is showcasing a new, facelifted Insignia here at Frankfurt 2013. Part of the update to the Insignia is a new internet connectivity feature, which should make life on the road for travelling professionals a bit easier – now you can locate your nearest non-VAT qualifying hot food snack retailer in next to no time… We’re also fans of the rationalised trim range, down from 14 grades to eight for the new car. While the Insignia’s updated engine range boasts impressive efficiency (as we’ll see in a minute), we can’t help wondering if this might have been a good time to introduce a hybrid or range-extender powertrain, trumping Ford and its forthcoming Mondeo Hybrid in the process.