Tag: cars

Shocking levels of uninsured vehicle on UK roads

Data released by MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau) shows that there is an average of 300,000 uninsured vehicles on UK roads every day. As vehicles may be uninsured for months at a time, the total number uninsured across the year is over 1 million.

According to a YouGov study commissioned by MIB, 10% of the British public are not aware that motor insurance is compulsory for any vehicle used on a public road. Uninsured driving remains a huge problem to society, causing devastation to innocent victims and their families, and has strong links to secondary offences from speeding and drink / drug driving to money laundering or drug running.

However, with motor insurance premiums consistently rising since the start of 2022 and a cost-of-living crisis putting pressure of household finances, there are concerns that uninsured levels may rise as otherwise law-abiding drivers struggle to make insurance payments.

MIB, the not-for-profit entity that exists to protect people from the devastation of uninsured and hit-and-run drivers, are raising awareness of the need for continuous and appropriate insurance to be in place for all vehicles. As part of MIB’s mission to make roads safer, they have recently invested a further £5million to update and expand their enforcement initiatives that remove uninsured vehicles from the road. They are also increasing focus on prevention through education. 

MIB are also encouraging all motorists to explore legal ways in which they can minimise any premium increases during their policy renewal. This may include:

  • Renewing early – Research suggests that premiums are likely to be at their lowest 20-26 days before your renewal is due. This alone could save you a considerable amount of money.
  • Black Box – consider a policy with a black box, as this reduces the risk to the insurer.
  • Shop around – use comparison sites, insurers own websites, or see if a BIBA-registered Broker can secure you a deal. You can also contact your current insurer too to see if they can reduce the cost. 
  • Combine policies – consider one provider for multiple insurance policies, such as multi-car or car and home insurance, as some offer discounts. 
  • Smaller vehicles – in some instances, a smaller, less powerful vehicle may be cheaper to insure.
  • Electoral roll – being on the electoral role can be part of the ID check to reduce fraud, lowering the risk to the insurer.

Martin Saunders, Head of Enforcement for MIB, said: “It’s really important to us to reduce the level of uninsured driving on the road. We know that times are tough for many people right now and increased cost-of-living pressures may cause more people to make the wrong decision to drive uninsured, but this is not the right way to save money.

“We are encouraging people to ensure their motor insurance is adequate and appropriate for their needs, whilst reminding them that they can look at ways to legally reduce their premiums. While we understand the challenges many are facing, our message is that driving uninsured is never worth the risk.”

Magnificent Seven: Honours shared out evenly at UK Car of the Year Awards 2024

  •  Shortlist for UK Car of the Year 2024 announced – seven cars from 45 contenders
  •  Electric vehicles dominate with five category wins
  •  Fisker triumphant for the first time at UK Car of the Year Awards
  •  Overall winner to be announced on 8 March 2024

Electric vehicles have led the way after the first round of voting at the UK Car of the Year Awards 2024, with five of the seven winners powered by batteries.

No manufacturer picked up more than one accolade, with each of the seven awards being claimed by a different company.

For Fisker, it was a first UK Car of the Year Award, after its Ocean came out on top in the Medium Crossover class. Another all-new electric model claimed the Small Crossover prize when Volvo’s EX30 triumphed over the competition. The third of three crossover categories at the Awards went to Kia, whose EV9 was named the best Large Crossover.

Away from EVs there were UK Car of the Year Award wins in 2024 for more familiar models, with the Renault Clio voted the top Small Car, while the sought-after Performance Car category was given to the Honda Civic Type R.

Completing the set of winners were two companies who have previously won the overall UK Car of the Year Award. BMW – which won the inaugural title in 2014 and then triumphed again in 2015 – claimed the Executive Car category with the i5. Finally, Hyundai, whose IONIQ 5 was named UK Car of the Year 2022, claimed the Family Car prize for the IONIQ 6.

Celebrating 10 years in 2024, the UK Car of the Year Awards now has the biggest and best ever judging panel, comprising 30 motoring journalists based all over the UK. The group selected their winning cars in categories ranging from Small Car, to Medium Crossover, to Performance Car.

The top model in each of the segments has now qualified for the next stage – the category of UK Car of the Year 2024, which will be revealed on 8 March 2024.

The UK Car of the Year Awards is run in association with heycar, which has sponsored the awards since January 2022.

Karen Hilton, CEO at heycar, commented: “Another year with an excellent range of models, from a variety of manufacturers, winning at the UK Car of the Year Awards and getting the recognition they deserve.

“It’s especially great to see so many electric vehicles take the win! heycar is very pleased to be sponsoring the UK Car of the Year Awards for another year. Congratulations to all of the category winners!”

Full list of UK Car of the Year Awards 2024 category winners:

Small Car – Renault Clio
Family Car – Hyundai IONIQ 6
Small Crossover – Volvo EX30
Medium Crossover – Fisker Ocean
Large Crossover – Kia EV9
Executive Car – BMW i5
Performance Car – Honda Civic Type R

For more information about the UK Car of the Year Awards, go to ukcoty.co.uk or follow @ukcaroftheyear_ on Instagram or @UKCOTY on Twitter.

EV Adopters urge those considering making the switch to to their homework

MotorEasy survey finds the cost and practicalities of charging remain a significant challenge for EV owners

New figures reveal that sales of used battery electric cars almost doubled last year, with a record 119,000 of the vehicles changing hands*.

However, despite increasing numbers of motorists making the switch, a new survey of MotorEasy members has revealed that continuing challenges with the cost of charging, access to public charging and the apps used to facilitate charging are damaging the ownership electric vehicle (EV) experience.

Over half of survey respondents expressed frustrations with battery range and one in four said energy costs for recharging are a worry. However, the biggest ownership hurdles for owners are access to public charging (73%) and the practicalities of using these chargers (71%), including the multitude of apps supposedly designed to ease charging (65%). The rapid and much-publicised depreciation of used EVs has also left 65% of owners worried about the loss of value in their EV.

“Although the number of EVs on UK roads is accelerating, our membership survey strongly confirms that the accessibility of EV charging still has a long way to go,” commented Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of Intelligent Motoring, the parent company of MotorEasy.

“Almost three-quarters of the EV drivers we surveyed have experienced difficulties with accessing and using the infrastructure.

“As a result, EV owners advised those considering the switch to prioritise the installation of a home charger to save both time and money. Experienced owners also suggest new buyers research energy providers and take advantage of nighttime charging tariffs wherever possible, to make powering up even more cost-effective.”

Over 22% also said that service, maintenance and repair costs are putting a strain on finances, with 25% of drivers claiming to have faced challenges finding a qualified garage or technician to conduct service, maintenance or repair work.

Duncan McClure Fisher continued: “With high voltage systems and advanced technology onboard, technicians working on EVs need to have the right training, which can mean EV owners may not be able to use their usual garage.

“However, a little research should identify a qualified EV technician locally or check out the Institute of the Motor Industry’s Professional Register which lists TechSafe-accredited technicians.

“It is vital that owners have the assurance that their vehicle is suitably maintained by a qualified professional and safe to drive.”

EV adopters – two essential points of advice

  • Choose carefully – do your research on different makes and models, take a test drive, do not be swayed by an enthusiastic salesperson, and prioritise range by opting for the vehicle with the longest range you can afford.
  • Get a home charger – it’s a more cost and time-efficient way of charging. Consider your expected usage and charging requirements, and don’t leap into having an expensive fast charger installed – you may not need it if you can charge slowly overnight using a three-pin plug and relevant adapter and cable provided with the car.

*Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)

Money-Saving Pre-MOT Checks

A Guide to Avoiding Unnecessary Expenses

An MOT test doesn’t just assess the roadworthiness of your vehicle; it can also be an unexpected source of expenses if you’re not prepared.

With guidance from seasoned mechanic Dom Shaw from First Vehicle Leasing, we’ve put together 5 crucial checks you can perform before your MOT test. These tips are designed not only to increase the likelihood of passing but also to save you money by avoiding common and often costly pitfalls.

1. DIY Light and Indicator Checks

Start with a simple but effective check of all your vehicle’s lights and indicators. This is one of the easiest DIY fixes that can prevent an MOT failure. Replacing a bulb is significantly cheaper than failing and retaking the MOT, or worse, being charged an inflated price for a bulb replacement at the garage.

2. Tyre Condition and Tread Depth

Tyres are a major focus in an MOT. Check the tread depth to ensure it meets the 1.6mm legal minimum. Additionally, look for any damage or wear. Knowing the condition of your tires can prevent a garage from convincing you to buy new ones prematurely, saving you a significant amount of money.

3. Brake Performance Self-Check

Listen to your brakes; any unusual noise can indicate wear. Replacing brake pads or discs before your MOT can be more cost-effective than dealing with it as part of a failure. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to shop around for the best deal on parts and service, rather than being at the mercy of the MOT testing garage’s pricing.

4. Windscreen and Wiper Inspection

Ensure your windscreen is free of significant damage, and that your wipers are functioning well. Replacing wiper blades yourself is generally cheaper than having them replaced during an MOT test. Also, a windscreen clean and clear of damage will not only help pass the MOT but also prevent costly windscreen replacements.

5. Emissions and Exhaust System Check

A pre-MOT emissions check, particularly for older cars, can save you from failing due to high emissions. Addressing issues with your exhaust system beforehand can be more economical than having the work done during or after an MOT, where urgent repair costs can escalate.

Dom Shaw from First Vehicle Leasing says: An MOT test can be an opportunity to ensure your vehicle is in top condition, but it shouldn’t become a source of unexpected expenses.

“By performing these pre-MOT checks, you can identify and address issues more economically, and enter your MOT test with confidence.”

Volkswagen tops UK sales for third year running

  • 162,087 new Volkswagen cars registered in the UK in 2023
  • 8.52-per-cent market share makes Volkswagen the UK’s best-selling new-car brand
  • Brand preparing to enter additional market segments with new models in 2024

Volkswagen is the UK’s best-selling new-car brand for the third year running, as confirmed by figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 162,087 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2023 – over 30,000 more than in 2022. This equated to a leading market share of 8.52 per cent – an increase of 0.35 per cent compared with the previous year.

Volkswagen was again one of the most popular electric brands in the UK, with two of its ID. models among the top-10 best-selling EVs in 2023: the ID.3 with 10,295 registrations (sixth place) and the ID.4 with 8,495 registrations (ninth place).

Model highlights from 2023 that contributed to these impressive results included the revised all-electric ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5 models, as well as the refreshed flagship Touareg. Special- and limited-edition models were also introduced, including the Polo GTI Edition 25 and Golf Black Edition, while the expanded Volkswagen Live Tour continued to take the showroom experience to people’s living rooms, offering real-time online vehicle presentations with product experts.

The brand will bolster its EV offering in 2024 with the introduction of the ID.7 and ID.7 Tourer, while other highlights on the horizon include celebrations to mark the iconic Golf’s 50th anniversary, and the introduction of the new Tiguan and Passat.

Rod McLeod, Director of Volkswagen UK, said: “I am once again pleased that Volkswagen has secured top spot in the UK for new-car sales. This tremendous result speaks volumes for the quality and attractiveness of our cars, and for the fantastic work of our network partners, who continue to give customers outstanding service before, during and after delivering their new cars.

“This year we will continue to expand our award-winning ID. range of electric cars, and of course we have the 50th anniversary of the Golf as well as many more exciting new products to look forward to.”

UK Government announces new long-term plan to back motorists

Plan for drivers ‘will sit alongside continued investment in public transport and active travel’

  • new long-term government plan will support drivers and put the brakes on anti-car measures
  • plan will address drivers’ everyday concerns with new measures to keep traffic moving, make parking simpler, and clamp down on overrunning road works
  • guidance to be reviewed on 20mph limits and low traffic neighbourhoods in England to ensure local support, ending blanket imposition of anti-driver policies

Transport Secretary Mark Harper has set out plans to protect drivers from over-zealous traffic enforcement, as part of a long-term government plan to back drivers.  

With 50 million people holding a driving licence in Great Britain and more than 40 million licensed vehicles in the UK, the government’s new plan will support the majority who drive, by keeping motoring costs under control and ensure people have the freedom to drive as they need to in their daily lives.

The measures include reviewing guidance on 20mph speed limits in England to prevent their blanket use in areas where it’s not appropriate and amending guidance on low traffic neighbourhoods to focus on local consent.

As part of the ongoing review into low traffic neighbourhoods, the government will also consider measures for existing anti-driver policies that did not secure local consent. The plans also aim to stop councils implementing so called ‘15-minute cities’, by consulting on ways to prevent schemes which aggressively restrict where people can drive.

Drivers across the country will also soon be able to benefit from new technology to simplify parking payments. The national parking platform pilot will be rolled out nationwide so that drivers can use an app of their choice to pay instead of downloading multiple apps.

In the continued drive to tackle potholes, the government will support councils to introduce more lane rental schemes, where utility companies are required to pay to dig up the busiest roads at peak times. Under the proposals, at least half of the extra money raised from these fees will go directly towards repairing road surfaces.

To further clamp down on overrunning street works, the government will consult on extending fines for repairs which run into weekends and increasing current levels of fixed penalty notices.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “For too long politicians have focused on the short-term decisions with little regard for the long term impact on hardworking families.

“We’ve seen this consistently with people’s freedoms on transport. The clamp down on drivers is an attack on the day to day lives of most people across the UK who rely on cars to get to work or see their families.

“This week the UK government will set out a long-term plan to back drivers, slamming the brakes on anti-car measures across England. We are taking the necessary decision to back the motorists who keep our country moving.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:  “Too often the private car is vilified when it has been one of the most powerful forces for personal freedom and economic growth. That’s why the government is taking the long-term, necessary decision to back the motorists who keep our country moving. 

“We’re introducing a plan to ensure drivers can enjoy smoother journeys, park more easily and no longer face unfair and oppressive traffic enforcement measures.

“Our plan will sit alongside our continued investment in public transport and active travel as part of a package of measures designed to help people travel in the best way that works for them.”

A call for evidence will be launched on options to restrict the ability of local authorities to generate revenue surpluses from traffic offences and over-zealous traffic enforcement, such as yellow-box junctions.

To make life easier for drivers and help traffic flow better, the Department for Transport will strengthen guidance to make sure bus lanes only operate when necessary and a consultation will be launched on motorcycles using bus lanes. Further measures and the full plan will be published in the coming days.

The measures follow the Prime Minister’s new approach to net zero announced last week, which committed to ending the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035, while supporting people who rely on their cars in their daily lives. The long-term plan to back drivers will protect people who rely on their cars from anti-driver policies.  

The plans also follow the government’s support for drivers by cutting the fuel duty rate by 5p per litre since March 2022, saving the average driver around £100 a year. This is in addition to £5 billion government investment since 2020 to resurface local roads, and new rules to clamp down on utility companies leaving potholes behind after street works.

MOT? More like DIY!

Drivers Urged to Maintain Cars Themselves

Motorists have been told to maintain their vehicles if proposed changes to MOTs come into force.

Experts from Quotezone.co.uk have warned drivers to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy after proposals to extend the period between tests. 

The proposals have come via a consultation jointly published by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), affecting cars, motorbikes and vans. 

Currently, all new vehicles must be tested after they reach three years old, to ensure they do not present a danger to other road users. 

But if the new proposals are adopted, this period will be extended to four years, in line with many other countries across Europe. 

Advances in technology and the increase in popularity of EVs and hybrid cars mean new vehicles are less likely to need major attention at three years old. 

They also suggest that the period between MOT tests could also be extended from one year for newer vehicles. 

While the experts from Quotezone.co.uk welcome the chance for drivers to create savings, safety must always be the number one priority and both the government and the motorists themselves have a duty to ensure their cars, vans and motorbikes are safe to operate. 

Many countries across Europe have the four year policy, and the proposals would bring Britain in line with countries like Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

Government analysis shows less frequent MOT tests could save UK drivers around £100 million per year.

Quotezone.co.uk did a sample survey in Northern Ireland – where all vehicles must be tested at a dedicated MOT centre – putting the system under increasing pressure to clear the pandemic backlog.  43% of drivers were said to be waiting over 3 months for an available test date and 59% were driving on the road pass their test due date. 

These proposed changes may alleviate some issues but it’s important to remember 1 in 10 vehicles fail their MOT first time, under the proposal these vehicles would now be on the road for an additional year which some experts fear may increase the number of unsafe vehicles on our roads. 

Quotezone.co.uk Founder Greg Wilson has said: “These proposals to have less frequent MOT tests is likely to put the onus on the driver to more regularly maintain the vehicle and ensure its roadworthy. 

“Whilst of course money saving benefits are great in this economic climate, getting into an accident or driving an unsafe car could result in costs far bigger than a £40 MOT.

“There are several routine checks which drivers can do at home to help their vehicle stay in a safe and roadworthy condition.”

Quotezone.co.uk has provided checks you can make on your car:

  1. Check tyres: 

Before setting off, it is important to check for any cuts or wear. It is also good to check if the tyre pressures are appropriate for the load and condition of the tyres. The minimum and legal limit for tread depth of the tyres is 1.6mm – drivers can insert a 20p into the tread to double check, the tyre thickness should be more than the first line on the coin.

  1. Check lights: 

You need to make sure your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights and brake lights all work. Having any of these not working or in a temperamental condition could put you, passengers and other motorists at risk.

  1. Check brakes:

The braking system needs to be in good working order. If the car pulls to one side when applying the breaks then this indicates an issue. Look at the handbrake too and ensure it works well, especially on an incline. If you have alloy wheels, it could be possible to do a visual inspection of the brakes without actually removing the wheel.

  1. Check fluid levels:

Keep your screen wash topped up so you can clean dirt off your windscreen and ensure you have good visibility and top up break fluid and oil. 

  1. Check mirrors: 

All mirrors must be secure and free of cracks. If they need replacing you can normally find ones for your car model online, but stay clear of self-adhesive types as these are not durable.

  1. Check windscreen and wipers:

Ensure there is no damage to your windscreen. A chip or crack that exceeds 40mm will actually result in a failed MOT test. On top of the windscreen, the wipers and washers should be functional to ensure good visibility at all times. 

Quotezone.co.uk helps around 3 million users every year find savings on household bills and essentials, including niche items such as motorbike insurance, van insurance and courier insurance.  –

Winter vehicle survival guide: Get your car ready for the cold 

Drivers are being warned to check their car components to ensure their vehicle survives the harshness of winter weather. 

Motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk are urging drivers to follow their winter vehicle survival guide by checking the engine’s coolness and monitoring oil levels to ensure their safety on the road. 

With heavy rain and snowstorms expected over the next few months, the coldness of winter weather can worsen the condition of car components quicker. 

Driving in winter can already be quite a challenge for motorists, but following this guide can help to ensure motorists are protected and don’t have to worry about their car breaking down. 

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Winter can be one of the toughest times for drivers on the road as the disruptive change in weather can damage a vehicle’s durability. 

Image credit: Pexels 

“Winter-proofing your car by regularly checking tyre pressure and knowing what to look out for when the car battery is damaged can not only prevent you from serious harm but other drivers too. 

“This useful guide will help motorists prepare for the winter cold and which noticeable red flags to look out for when hitting the roads.” 

Here is LeaseCar.uk’s winter vehicle guide to keep safe and protect your car: 

  1. 1. Tyres 

In colder weather, tyre pressure tends to drop drastically and if you notice your car starting to sway, this could be down to underinflation. Tyre pressure decreases every 10 degrees, so it’s vital to check the levels every two weeks and inflate when needed, otherwise it can lead to difficulties when braking and accelerating. 

  1. 2. Oil  

Oil tends to thicken in chilly temperatures, which can make it difficult to pump through the engine. It’s recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter to help with thinning the oil to ensure the car runs smoothly. 

  1. 3. Car battery 

Turn on the car for a few minutes before setting off to decrease the chances of the batteries stalling. Once the temperature drops, less power will be omitted which can make it difficult to start the vehicle up in the cold winter mornings. If the problem repeatedly happens, immediately take it to a mechanic, as it could mean the battery has broken from the cold and will need replacing. 

  1. 4. Bulbs 

As the days get darker throughout winter, make sure the front lights and brake lights are fully working before setting off on your journey. Lights not only give us a clear view of the road but they ensure we’re visible to other drivers. Failure to check your lights can lead to a fixed fine if your brake lights aren’t working; if broken visit the nearer garage as soon as possible. 

  1. 5. Heating 

The feeling of warming up in the car when the weather is freezing outside is indescribable, however it can become quite easy for the heating to stop working during these conditions. This will mean there is a fault with the engine coolant, which could be blocked or even worse, a leak, which would mean it needs to be taken in for repairs. 

https://www.theaa.com/breakdown-cover/advice/car-heater-issues

EV and hybrid drivers without breakdown cover vulnerable to unqualified recovery agents with ‘a truck and tow hook’

Motorists running modern EVs and hybrids who are tempted to cut costs by not investing in roadside assistance could be in for a shock from unskilled recovery agents warns leading breakdown provider Start Rescue.

As people tighten their belts, breakdown cover is often the first thing to go. But that could end up being a false economy and particularly for those with electric cars and hybrids.

With many modern vehicles having detailed recovery procedures, specialist and up-to-date knowledge is essential and particularly with modern EVs and hybrids. Failure to recover these vehicles correctly can result in costly damage to the crucial motors, transmissions and expensive electrical components.

Start Rescue says drivers of conventionally powered vehicles could find themselves shelling out £250 or more from inflated call-out charges and extra, unforeseen costs from freelancers, but for EV and plug-in hybrid owners who fall victim to unskilled traders it could mean thousands in unnecessary repair bills.

And if the vehicle is damaged during recovery there is the added worry as to whether the operator has the appropriate insurance cover; potentially leaving the driver footing the entire repair bill.

Start Rescue Managing Director Lee Puffett said: “It’s a false economy to skimp on breakdown cover but particularly for those running electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids. These motorists are risking not just their vehicle but leaving themselves open to massive additional bills if the recovery is botched.

“When you need help, you should ideally obtain assistance from a company which has a good reputation in your community or holds an industry recognised standard, such as PAS 43*. If they are PAS 43 registered, you can be very confident they have the necessary skills and technical training to recover your particular vehicle, whether it’s a car, van, motorcycle or a bus.

“Companies operating without a recognised recovery industry standard or lacking the experience of working with varying vehicle types, frequently don’t have the skills to recover a petrol or diesel vehicle correctly. So, if you have an EV or hybrid the risks of hugely expensive damage to these vehicles – which require a specific set of skills – are potentially higher.”

Without appropriate roadside rescue knowledge, these kind of ‘have-a-go’ operators are also potentially putting themselves and drivers at risk of injury, due to a lack of knowledge in appropriately recovering the vehicle or correctly managing the scene.

‘Have-a-go’ traders also may not have DBS or background checks, leaving vulnerable drivers at risk and recovery traders lacking a recognised recovery industry standard may exceed their allocated tachometer hours, increasing the risk of an accident due to fatigue.

Start Rescue is a 2021 Which? recommended breakdown cover provider.

Breakdown cover top tips

  • Get covered! If you don’t know a local reputable company, having no breakdown cover leaves you at the mercy of rogue traders
  • Use a reputable breakdown assistance provider such as Start Rescue
  • Have the breakdown cover’s contact details stored in your phone
  • Check the recovery company’s credentials. Reputable companies should show ID
  • Read your vehicle handbook to check for any special recovery instructions
  • Obtain a written and signed vehicle condition report before and after assistance has been provided and take photos of your vehicle both before and after assistance has been provided
  • Check for vehicle damage straight after recovery; report any problems immediately

Success for Volvo at Used Car Awards

  • Volvo S90 crowned Best Used Executive Car and scoops the overall bronze award
  • XC90 voted Best Used Large SUV
  • S90 wins for a third year in succession, impressing with its comfort, refinement and value for money
  • Judges praise the XC90 for its style, versatile seven-seat interior, load space and value
  • These and all other Volvo models available through Volvo Cars Selekt Direct, the UK’s first end-to-end online service for approved pre-owned car sales direct from the manufacturer

The lasting quality, style, customer appeal and value of Volvo’s prestige models have been rewarded with three honours in the 2022 Auto Express Used Car Awards, announced this week.

For a third successive year, the S90 has been crowned Best Used Executive Car. It also scooped the overall bronze award, marking it out as the third-best used car of all on sale, according to Auto Express. Meanwhile, the XC90 triumphed in the Best Used Large SUV category.

The S90’s pre-eminence in the awards continues with the judges once again impressed by its “compelling combination of style, comfort and value”. In awarding it the overall bronze award, the judging panel said “the S90 is something of a phenomenon and feels a cut above its German rivals”. So high do they rate the saloon’s all-round quality, they already consider it the prime contender for a fourth executive car award in 2023.

The judges praised the XC90 for its “head-turning style”, the versatility of its seven-seat interior, the quality of its infotainment system and its boot capacity. They added: “With the earliest versions now nearly eight years old, you can add superb value to that list of strengths.”

Motorists looking to invest in these award-winners and any other pre-owned Volvo can be assured of the best quality cars and customer support from the Volvo Selekt Approved Used service. Earlier this year, this was made even more convenient and customer-friendly with the introduction of Volvo Cars Selekt Direct, the UK’s first end-to-end online service for purchasing pre-owned cars direct from the manufacturer.

The models on offer are subject to more than 150 quality checks, including software upgrades to ensure optimum performance. Each car comes with 12 months’ Volvo roadside assistance, cover for its next MoT test and a comprehensive warranty. Customers can exchange their car within 30 days or 1,500 miles if they are unhappy with their purchase for any reason.

Andy Dolan, Volvo Car UK’s National Used Car Sales Lead, said: “These awards are a great affirmation of the quality and value that Volvo models offer used car customers.

“We are proud to back this up with the peace of mind and convenience of our Volvo Selekt Approved Used and Volvo Cars Selekt Direct services, which are the best ways to access the finest used Volvo cars on the market.”

More details and the full terms and conditions of the Volvo Selekt Approved Used service can be found at www.volvocars.co.uk/used. For Volvo Cars Selekt Direct, please visit volvoselekt.findvehicles.co.uk/en-gb/store/all.