Dacia 'to stay true to its budget roots'

The global marketing boss in charge of Dacia’s roll-out has promised that Renault’s budget brand won’t move upmarket. Many bargain car marques end up inching – or scrambling – upmarket, with slicker products, big price hikes and a desertion of their value promise. But Dacia promises it won't follow the likes of Skoda, Hyundai and Kia by starting cheap 'n' cheerful and then raising prices.

Ford Fiesta retains eco marathon title

A FORD Fiesta has been crowned the winner of the ALD Automotive/Shell Fuelsave MPG Marathon for the second year running. The 1.6-litre diesel Fiesta Econetic achieved 88.69mpg over 339.3 miles on what some observers say was the toughest course yet for the annual event. Hills, bad weather and heavy traffic were all obstacles faced by the 46 competitors who set out from Tankersley Manor, near Sheffield.

Road Safety Group Asks If Driving Test Is Fit For Purpose

THE Institute Of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is asking the thorny question of whether the standard driving test is still fit for purpose. This comes on the back of a new poll from Vision Critical and the IAM, which uncovered that 30% of young drivers (aged 18-25) admit to breaking the law during their first few years on the road. Furthermore, despite spending many weeks learning to pass the test, 68% of younger drivers feel that they need to improve while 25% admit to crashing.