Tim Barnes Clay Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line

A Massive Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line

It’s common knowledge that the Ford Focus is a great car to drive. Sharp handling and great driver feedback make for a fun experience behind the wheel – at ‘ST’ level, it’s an absolute riot. The problem is, not everybody wants to drive fast and use up lots of fuel, and not everyone wants a firm suspension. Ford has recognised this, and as a result is now offering the ‘ST-Line’ trim level, so your car can look like an ST, but drink fuel slowly, and with small sips.

A Massive Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line Read More »

bmw 5 series review

A Massive Review of the 2017 BMW 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series is King of all it surveys. From atop the executive car castle, it might be feeling a little bit worried, though. Pretenders to its throne have strengthened and gathered at the gates to compete, so the 5 Series has had to up its game in a bid to stay on top. The question is, has it done enough to fight off the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6? Has BMW managed to build yet another fantastic saloon?

A Massive Review of the 2017 BMW 5 Series Read More »

Tim Barnes Clay Review Of Kia Optima

A Massive Review of the Kia Optima PHEV

Some say that electric-powered cars are the future, but until we’ve got rechargeable vehicles capable of long-range, we’ve got motors like this – the Kia Optima PHEV. Part petrol, part plug-in electric, the South Korean hybrid is aiming to impress – backed up by that famous Kia warranty. Go back 20 years or so, and the Kia stable looked much different to how it does today. Uninspiring, low-tech, poorly made machines seduced nobody in the car market, but everything’s different now. The new Kia Optima PHEV shows how far Kia has moved on. A stylish, modern saloon rammed with all the gadgets you need and utilising a powertrain that is famously difficult to configure. It’s very much the face of modern Kia, but is there a place for it on the motoring market?

A Massive Review of the Kia Optima PHEV Read More »

Audi A4 Avant Estate front

Massive Review Of The Audi A4 Avant Estate: Prices/ Features/ Comparison

Looking for an objective review of the new Audi A4 Avant Estate? OSV have got you covered, from engines to lease deals.

The new Audi A4 Avant Estate is one of the most upmarket and stylish estate cars on the road right now. In fact, it’s arguably one of the most upmarket estate cars there has yet been. It’s got the typical Audi touch of luxury, and it can also boast a very usable interior.

The estate class is one that is rising in popularity, its rise coinciding with the slow demise of the saloon car. This A4 Avant is one of the most expensive ones available, and goes head to head with its big German rivals. If you want something a bit more affordable, check out our review on the new Ford Mondeo Estate.

OSV takes a closer look at what this premium offering is all about with our 2014 Audi A4 Estate review.

Massive Review Of The Audi A4 Avant Estate: Prices/ Features/ Comparison Read More »

Can a Lease Car be Insured in Someone Else’s Name

Company Car Tax for personal use

One of the topics we get asked a lot about at OSV is using your company car for personal use. This is because personal use of your vehicle and company car tax are linked, and there are some things you should know about in relation to using your company car for your personal journeys.

In this article, we are going to look at what counts as a personal journey for both a car and a van, and how this impacts your company car tax.

Company Car Tax for personal use Read More »

leasing privately vs. through business

Is a company van tax efficient?

When looking at company vehicles, you are naturally going to want to opt for the most tax efficient option.

With the new company car tax changes coming into effect soon, tax efficiency is even more important than it was before.

We’ve already discussed whether a company car is tax efficient, but what about a van?

In this article, we look at how company car tax for a van is calculated, the benefits of a company vehicle and whether a company van is tax efficient.

Is a company van tax efficient? Read More »

is a company car tax efficient?

Is a company car tax efficient?

For a long time, a company car was the way forward. The general consensus regarding company cars was that it was more tax efficient and cost effective, for both yourself and your employer, than if you were to get a car privately.

But is this still the case?

There are some big changes coming to the way cars are taxed, both privately and through a business, in 2017 which means now is the best time to be having this conversation. We want you to be as informed as possible so you know you have made, or are making, the right decision when the new changes come into play.

In this article, we’ll be discussing how company car tax works, how it will change, and if a company car is still tax efficient.

Is a company car tax efficient? Read More »

Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid

Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid; Which is best?

When looking at plugin hybrids, it’s hard to know which ones are best. After all, there is so much to think about.

However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. And hopefully we can help with the decision process.
In this article, we are going to compare two luxury plug in hybrids; the Audi Q7 and the Porsche Cayenne on a number of things including price, running costs and their green credentials.

Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid; Which is best? Read More »

BMW i3 electric car driving with mountains in the background

BMW i3 vs. Mercedes-Benz B250e

Choosing an electric car can be difficult, especially if you haven’t bought one before. Where do you start? That’s where we come in. In this article we are going to compare two popular electric city cars; the BMW i3 and the Mercedes-Benz B250e on everything from running costs to practicality so you can be as informed as possible when it comes to making a decision. It should be noted that in this article we’ll be looking at the fully electric i3, not the i3 with the Range Extender.

BMW i3 vs. Mercedes-Benz B250e Read More »

Toyota Hilux

Company Car Tax for Pick-ups

Like it or not, the chances are you will have to pay company car tax. If you have a company car then you will probably end up paying company car tax.

However, the way company car tax is calculated depends on what type of vehicle you drive.
For example, what about company car tax for a pickup?

In this article, we look at how company car tax for a pickup is calculated, and some of our top pickup picks.

Company Car Tax for Pick-ups Read More »

BMW M6 coupe - is a company car worth it?

Is a company car worth it?

Company cars have long since been a staple for many lucrative jobs and it has even been proven that offering a company car can attract some of the best and brightest.

But, is a company car worth it?

After all, changes to company car tax mean you could end up paying more and it could end up becoming less tax efficient that you once thought.

Or, is a company car still a viable option for many?

In this article, we have a look at why you might want to get a company car, and reasons why you might not.

Is a company car worth it? Read More »

Best hybrid city cars

Best hybrid city cars

Hybrid cars have become very popular. There are hybrid versions of so many cars that there are almost too many to choose from.

Everything from city cars to luxury cars, there’s a hybrid car for everyone.

But, which city hybrids are the best?

In this article, we take a look at the best hybrid city cars on the market today. It should be noted that this is for standard hybrids only.

Best hybrid city cars Read More »

Renault Zoe vs. Nissan Leaf

Renault Zoe vs. Nissan Leaf

When you’re looking for a new car, you are naturally going to compare a few to see which one is best.
This is obviously important, you need to be sure that you are making the right decision. Particularly when it comes to electric cars. Choosing an electric car is a big decision, particularly if you are buying an electric car for the first time.
So, in this article, we are going to compare two extremely popular electric city cars, the Renault Zoe and the Nissan Leaf and see which is better in terms of price, running costs, and reliability.

Renault Zoe vs. Nissan Leaf Read More »

car vs. pickup

Car vs. Pick-up: Which is best for Company Car Tax?

If you are looking at getting a company car, then you might be considering which type of car you are going to get.
For example, have you thought about possibly getting a pickup as your next company car?
After all, some pickups are more luxurious than some cars on the market and we suspect that pickups are going to become a popular option for company cars in the future.
However, the way pickups are taxed is different to how company cars are taxed. So, which is better for company car tax?
In this article, we look at how they are both taxed, and look at some of the more luxurious pickups that are on offer to you.

Car vs. Pick-up: Which is best for Company Car Tax? Read More »

Review Of The 2017 Aston Martin Vantage

Massive Review Of The Aston Martin Vantage: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

Looking for an objective review of the new Aston Martin Vantage? OSV has you covered, from engines to lease deals.

If you like cars, you’ll love the new Aston Martin Vantage. It’s for the ages. Sporting its instantly recognisable looks that will never get old, it’s powered by a muscular V8 engine that boasts serious performance.
This is one of those classic sports cars that we all want to drive at least once in our lifetime. And if you can afford it, owning one of these babies is just magic. It’s fun to drive, stunning to look at, and it’s got oodles of prestige and badge appeal.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Aston Martin Vantage review.

Massive Review Of The Aston Martin Vantage: Features/ Prices/ Comparison Read More »

should my next company car be a pickup?

Should my next company car be a pick-up?

If you’re looking for a new company car, we don’t think that a pickup was at the top of your list. Particularly if you before you were driving a C-Class. It’s not exactly traditional, but it is one that we think will be fairly common in the years to come.

But, why? Why should your next company car be a pickup?

As we said, it’s an unusual concept so we know that you will probably need a fair bit of convincing. Which is why we’ve written an article debating whether your next company car should be a pickup.

Should my next company car be a pick-up? Read More »

2017 Review Of The Honda Civic Hatchback

Massive Review Of The Honda Civic Hatchback: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Honda Civic Hatchback looks a bit different to the more conventionally-styled hatchback’s in this sector. It comes with an excellent track record of reliability, and makes a strong alternative to the usual suspects in this market – the Ford Focus et cetera.

Over the years, the Civic has cultivated a reputation for being affordable and dependable. It’s a wholesome family car you can rely on to get you guys from A to B without any hassle, and it’s always been a joy to ride in. In 2016, it continued to do what it’s always done best. This means that making your mind up over which hatchback to buy is going to be tricky!

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Honda Civic Hatchback review.

Massive Review Of The Honda Civic Hatchback: Features/ Prices/ Comparison Read More »

best luxury electric cars

5 reasons why your next car should be an ultra-low emission vehicle

If you’re looking for a new car, have you considered an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle? Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles, or ULEVs, are becoming an increasingly common sight on British roads, and they are only becoming more popular.

So why should your next car be a ULEV? We take a look at five reasons why you should look at an ultra-low emission vehicle for your next car.

5 reasons why your next car should be an ultra-low emission vehicle Read More »

best luxury electric cars

5 reasons your next company car should be a plug-in hybrid

If you’re looking at getting a new company car, then you might want to consider getting a plugin hybrid.

Plugin hybrids are becoming increasingly popular, and we predict that they will only become more popular in the coming years.

But, why do they make good company cars?

In this article, we look at 5 reasons why we think your next company car should be a plugin hybrid.

5 reasons your next company car should be a plug-in hybrid Read More »

2017 Review Of The Ford Kuga Estate

Massive Review Of The Ford Kuga Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Ford Kuga Estate has a lot of strengths that buyers in this market are looking for: It’s comfortable, practical and easy to drive. Visibility of the road ahead is awesome thanks to a high driving position, while space inside seems to know no bounds. You can all stretch out and travel with ease.

The Kuga emerged on these grey shores in 2012, and like most Ford’s has gone on to be a success. The competition in this sector is stiff, though, so if you’re unsure we’ve got a comparison section to help you weigh up your options.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Ford Kuga Estate review.

Massive Review Of The Ford Kuga Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison Read More »

Smiling man driving a red car

Company Car Tax: Car vs. Van

When you have a company vehicle, you have to pay company car tax. That’s just a fact. However, the way vans and cars are taxed is different.

And there may be some of you who are in the position to either have a company car or a company van.

This then begs the question; should you get a company car or a company van?
In this article, we look at the ways the two are taxed, and which one would be the best option for you.

Company Car Tax: Car vs. Van Read More »

Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG Hatchback review

Review of Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG Hatchback: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA Class AMG Hatchback is based on the CLA Coupe and the A-Class hatch but is a high performance variant of the GLA small 4×4. Although the family it joins is already quite extensive, there is still space for this one. Despite its relatively high-rise body, it’s actually a really fast car.

Review of Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG Hatchback: Features / Price / Comparison Read More »

Electric charging point

What are the best luxury plugin hybrids?

Plugin hybrids have become increasingly popular as of late. So much so that there is pretty much a plugin hybrid for everyone these days, whether you’re looking for a city car or something more luxurious.

And speaking of luxurious, what luxury plugin hybrids are the best?

Luxury and environmentally friendly haven’t always gone hand in hand, however, times are changing and there are now a lot of cars that don’t compromise on luxury or their carbon footprint.

So, we take a look at the best plugin hybrids that offer you that little bit more luxury.

What are the best luxury plugin hybrids? Read More »

best luxury plugin hybrids

Should I get a plug-in hybrid?

Plugin hybrids are pretty new on the scene. Well, new compared to standard hybrids that is. And, we suspect that they are only going to get even more popular in the months and years to come.
However, one of the questions that we get asked quite a lot is ‘should I get a plugin hybrid?’
And it’s a good question, and it’s important that you weigh up your options so you can make an informed decision.

In this article, we compare a plugin hybrid to a standard hybrid and an electric car, to see which one is right for you.

Should I get a plug-in hybrid? Read More »

Review Of The Volvo V60 Estate

Massive Review Of The Volvo V60 Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Volvo V60 Estate looks much better than previous attempts by the Swedish brand at estate cars. The boxy look has been replaced by a much more modern design language so that the V60 can offer both substance and style, while competing with its fashionable rivals.

Substance is plentiful. There is a lot of safety kit on offer, rafters of interior space, and build quality is second to none. And, as ever with a Volvo, it’s also reliable.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Volvo V60 Estate review.

Massive Review Of The Volvo V60 Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison Read More »

how to calculate company car tax

How to calculate Company Car Tax

Company car tax is one of those necessary evils that come with the benefit of having a company vehicle.

Whether you have a car or a van, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or a Renault Clio, you have to pay company car tax.

The good thing about company car tax is that it’s fairly easy to calculate. In fact, you can do it yourself with a pad and pen.

But, how do you do it?

In this article, we look at how company car tax is calculated for both cars and vans, and ways to lower your company car tax.

How to calculate Company Car Tax Read More »

best luxury plugin hybrids

Best plug-in hybrids for Company Car Tax

If you have read up on the changes to company cars, then you are probably thinking of investing in a plugin hybrid as your next company car. If you are unsure of the new changes, don’t panic, we explain them below.

Plugin hybrids are one of your best options if you are looking for low company car tax, and to avoid the salary sacrifice changes we are going to discuss below.

But, which plugin hybrids are best? It should be noted here that this article is about plugin hybrids only…

Best plug-in hybrids for Company Car Tax Read More »

Review Of The BMW X6 SUV

Massive Review Of The BMW X6 SUV: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The surly new BMW X6 SUV is as gigantic, bold and brash as ever. The styling might be questionable, but there’s no doubt about the scintillating performance and driving experience.

The X6 has had its fair share of critics in the past. Some (many) have questioned the point of a coupe-like SUV that’s more expensive and yet less useful than the X5. But despite the big question marks, the X6 has always sold well. It’s premium, luxurious and insanely fast.
OSV takes a closer look at what this desirable SUV is all about with our BMW X6 review.

Massive Review Of The BMW X6 SUV: Features/ Prices/ Comparison Read More »

Electric charging point

Is a plug-in hybrid worth it?

Plugin hybrids are a great alternative to fully electric cars and are perfect for those who don’t want to take that leap into a full battery powered vehicle.

And they are becoming increasingly popular, there’s no doubt they will become a common sight on British roads in the years to come.

However, one of the questions asked a lot is ‘are plugin hybrids worth it?’

In this article, we look at the pros and cons of a plugin hybrid, and whether they’re really worth the hype.

Is a plug-in hybrid worth it? Read More »

businessman in a suit doing calculations on a calculator with paperwork

How to reduce Company Car Tax

There might be times when the cost of your company car tax takes you up and over your budget. It’s all well and good getting a car on a great discount but if it costs you a fortune in company car tax, is it really worth it?

We have, at times, even advised people to lease privately rather than through their business because the company car tax is so high.

But there are ways around paying so much money in company car tax. In this article, we’re going to look at the exemptions to company car tax, and how to reduce your company car tax.

How to reduce Company Car Tax Read More »

The best hybrid cars for company car tax

The best hybrid cars for Company Car Tax?

If you’re looking for something a bit more eco-friendly and more efficient for your next company car, then you will probably want to consider a hybrid.

We understand that electric cars aren’t for everybody, so a hybrid is the next best thing for a car that is good for the environment, and your wallet.

Hybrids are also a popular choice for company cars because their CO2 emissions are pretty low. And pretty low CO2 emissions means pretty low company car tax.

But hybrid cars are becoming an increasingly popular sight on our roads, and with everyone jumping on the hybrid bandwagon, it’s hard to know which cars are the best. This article will focus on hybrid vehicles, and not plug-in hybrids. The main difference between the two is that a hybrid car will only use its electric motor at low speeds. When the vehicle starts travelling faster, the car will shift to fuel power. The main power source for hybrids is still either petrol or diesel. However, it will use less fuel because the electric motor uses regenerative braking. This captures energy and stores it in the on board batteries.

A plug-in hybrid, however, will use electricity until it hits a predetermined state of charge. Only then will it use fuel, while recharging itself. Essentially, it uses fuel to extend its range.

So, we’re going to look at the best hybrids for company car tax.

The best hybrid cars for Company Car Tax? Read More »

BMW i3 hatchback

Company Car Tax for ultra-low emission vehicles

If you’re looking at company cars, you have probably heard the words ‘ultra-low emission vehicle’ thrown about. And there is a reason for this.

Ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV’s) are about to become extremely attractive to those who are looking for a company car, and there are a few reasons why this is.

In this article we’re going to look at company car tax for ultra-low emission vehicles, and take a look at some of the ULEV’s on the market today. Firstly, what is a ULEV?

An ultra-low emission vehicle is just that, its low emission. More specifically, an ultra-low emission vehicle emits 75g/km of CO2 or less. These include electric cars and plug-in hybrids (plus one standard hybrid but we’ll come onto that later). There aren’t that many ULEV’s on the roads as of yet, but it won’t be long before we start seeing them more and more…

Company Car Tax for ultra-low emission vehicles Read More »

Toyota Rav4 Review

Review of the Toyota Rav4: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Toyota Rav4 SUV is ideal if you need plenty of interior space but don’t want to pay over the odds when it comes to running a hefty family car.

Among the cost-saving perks of this chunky but stylish estate is its five-year warranty, which sets it apart from its rivals who continue to offer the bog-standard three years. The Rav4 is also hugely practical and can boast a massive boot to cope with all your shopping and camping equipment. It comes with a generous amount of standard kit, too.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Toyota Rav4 Estate review.

Review of the Toyota Rav4: Features / Price / Comparison Read More »

Grey Porsche Cayman Coupe driving on street

Review Of The Porsche Cayman Coupe: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Porsche Cayman Coupe is one of the best cars to drive at this price point. It also looks like a dream and doesn’t cost as much to run as you might look like. It’s faster than the 911 but 25K cheaper. Just two seats, but that’s all you need to have some balls-out fun in the new Cayman. Cheaper than the 718 Boxster, it’s affordable but formidable. If you’ve always wanted to let your hair down in a rapid Porsche and grin like a Cheshire cat but have never been able to afford it, there has never been a better chance than now. This a pleasure machine that doesn’t cost the earth. OSV takes a look at this absolute steal with our Porsche Cayman review…

Review Of The Porsche Cayman Coupe: Features / Price / Comparison Read More »

Volkswagen CC Saloon Review

Review of the Volkswagen CC Saloon Review

The new Volkswagen CC 4dr Coupe Saloon is essentially an improved version of the Volkswagen Passat CC. Restyled with added luxury, space and comfort, it’s got a lot to offer families who want to add a bit of elegance to their day to day travels.

The VW Passat was already sensible and practical, but it needed a makeover. Here, the CC boasts a sleeker shape that is much more exciting to look at, while its interior is also more contemporary. It’s very “now”.

However, the CC has also retained everything that made the CC so sellable in the first place – which was, of course, its usefulness.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Volkswagen CC Saloon review.

Review of the Volkswagen CC Saloon Review Read More »

Review of the Ford Focus Estate

A massive review of the Ford Focus Estate

The Ford Focus Estate is one of a raft of cars that are vying for your cash in a sector that doesn’t shift huge numbers. For any car to standout, it’s got to be the absolute bees knees. One clear thing the Focus has going for it is that it’s a lot more fun to drive than its rivals, and with buyers wanting more style and entertainment from their compact Estate’s these days, this could be a really useful selling point.

But an Estate also has to wow you with its boot space and overall practicality. This car might be one of the most fun to drive cars in its class, but how big is its boot? OSV takes a closer look with our Ford Focus Estate review, including prices, spec’s and comparisons with similar cars – including the Volkswagen Golf Estate.

A massive review of the Ford Focus Estate Read More »

Renault Zoe - exempt from company car tax

Which cars are exempt from company car tax?

If you have a company car, the chances are you will be paying company car tax. It’s a tax that you have to pay to enjoy a benefit such as a company car, and how much you pay depends on a variety of factors.

However, is there any way you can be exempt from company car tax?

We’re going to look at how company car tax is calculated, if there are exemptions, and how to lower your company car tax bill.
Firstly, how is company car tax calculated?
The amount of tax you will have to pay depends on the following…

Which cars are exempt from company car tax? Read More »

Audi A1 hatchback in red parked

Review of the Audi A1 Hatchback

The new three-door Audi A1 Hatchback is one of the best small cars on the market right now. It’s crammed with all the latest technology, looks fantastic, and boasts the classiest interior in this sector.

It also has fantastic resale values and is a second-hand car of choice for many young people in the UK. This means that after three years you can move it on while recouping around 50% of what you paid for it.

Although it asks for a £4,000 premium over the Ford Fiesta, it isn’t a price that leaves a sour taste in one’s mouth. Rather, the A1 fills all the same roles as the Ford – but it does everything better. The driving experience is pleasant, and it’s cheap to run. But more than anything, it’s desirable.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Audi A1 Hatchback review.

Review of the Audi A1 Hatchback Read More »

how to calculate company car tax

Which cars are the lowest for Company Car Tax?

In the Autumn Statement 2016, the Government announced changes to the company car tax bandings. These new bandings mean that you could end up paying more for your company car than you were before, depending on how much CO2 your car emits.

There are fifteen new company car tax bandings, eleven of which apply to low emissions vehicles. Cars that emit no emissions at all will be taxed 2%, and those that emit between 1g/km and 50g/km of CO2 will be taxed between 2% and 14%, depending on how many zero emissions miles each car can do.

By now you’ve probably realised that there’s a good chance you will pay more in company car tax when it comes into effect next year. And maybe you’re thinking that it’s time for you to get a new company car, so which cars are the lowest for company car tax once the new bandings come into effect?

We take a look at how the company car tax changes will really affect you, and which cars might be a better investment come April 2017

Which cars are the lowest for Company Car Tax? Read More »

Review of the Jeep Renegade

Review of the Jeep Renegade 4×4: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Jeep Renegade 4×4 sports unique, chunky looks, and, despite its fairly compact dimensions, is a tough cookie off-road. It copes well with a bit of rough and tumble but is a bit uninspired on the tarmac.

It is, however, the car to look at if you want something a bit different for your family but don’t want to spend over the odds.

Based on the Fiat 500X, the characterful Renegade stands out in the small crossover sector thanks to its pretty-yet-tough styling. It’s an impressive image that’s backed up by some warrior-like ability on rougher terrain, helped in no small part by a solid range of punchy engines, all of which are impressive.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Jeep Renegade 4×4 review.

Review of the Jeep Renegade 4×4: Features / Price / Comparison Read More »

blue car parked being charged up by an electric charging point

What is an ultra-low emission vehicle?

The chances are you’ve heard of an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV), and you will probably be hearing about them a lot more in the coming months. ULEVs are becoming increasingly popular, and will become even more so when the tax changes are introduced in April 2017.
But what are ultra-low emission vehicles? And is one right for you?

We take a look at what ULEV’s are, their pros and cons, and whether they are good for you. An ultra-low emission vehicle (from this point, we’ll refer to them as ULEV’s) is a vehicle that produces less than 75g/km of CO2.

It’s a collective term for a group of cars and can include different types of energy efficient vehicles including…

What is an ultra-low emission vehicle? Read More »

does a lease contract count as debt?

Does a lease contract count as debt?

Getting a new car is always exciting stuff. And, getting a car for simply the price of depreciation is even more exciting.

However, there are some things that you really do have to consider before you lease a car.

And, yes, they’re pretty boring.

A lease is a finance agreement. And, like every finance agreement, this shows up on your credit report. Like every finance agreement, this can have a positive and possibly negative, effect on your credit score.

But, is a lease contract debt?

In this article, we look at whether a lease contract counts as debt, and what this means for you.

Does a lease contract count as debt? Read More »

how are lease prices calculated

How are lease prices calculated?

There are a lot of things that affect lease price. When you lease, there is not a ‘one size fits all’ in terms of pricing.

Each lease agreement calculates their lease prices differently, and it’s good to be aware of this before you decide which contract is right for you.

So, in this article we’re going to go through the different types of contract, and how the lease price is calculated for each of these.

How are lease prices calculated? Read More »

black car with 9499 price in the window

How does ‘on the road’ price affect monthly payments?

When you’re looking at new cars, you will probably notice the sheer number of abbreviations when looking at prices. RRP, MRRP, OTR, P11d…the list is endless.

One of the prices you should be looking out for is the list price. And, one of the questions that we get asked a lot at OSV is ‘how does list price affect monthly payments?’

In this article, we’re going to talk you through the different acronyms, what the list price is, and how this affects monthly payments.

How does ‘on the road’ price affect monthly payments? Read More »

Ford Fiesta hatchback in red driving on the road

Ford Fiesta vs. Mazda 2 vs. Vauxhall Corsa

When you’re looking for a new car, you’re probably going to be looking at a few in the same sector to see how they compare in terms of reliability, practicality etc.

It’s important that you do this so you know that you are choosing the right car for your needs.
So we are going to take three similar cars, the Ford Fiesta, the Mazda 2 and the Vauxhall Corsa, and compare them on factors that you will be taking into consideration when choosing your next car.

Ford Fiesta vs. Mazda 2 vs. Vauxhall Corsa Read More »

Blue Nissan Micra hatchback on a white background

Review of the Nissan Micra: Features / Price / Comparison

Former European Car of the Year the Nissan Micra Hatchback is priced low, boasts a roomy interior and offers an easy going driving experience. And thanks to excellent all-round visibility, it makes a fab choice for young new drivers who are a tad unsure of themselves. It’s easy to see the road ahead, and easy to park.

The Micra is a familiar face, having been around for over thirty years. Buyers love its cheery disposition, usefulness and low running costs. As such, it’s built up a loyal fan base that it’s adding to with each new release. The problem it faces is that its rivals have got even better. Is this one worth your money? OSV takes a look with our Nissan Micra Hatchback review.

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A Brief History of Isuzu

A brief history of Isuzu: From Wolseley to the Trooper

Isuzu Motors is a Japanese truck and engine manufacturer, currently producing a selection of commercial and personal vehicles as well as diesel engines for automobiles, industry and boats. We take a look at the history of one of Japan’s oldest carmakers. Isuzu’s history stretches back to 1916 with the Tokyo-based Ishikawajima Shipbuilding and Engineering Company’s idea to make automobiles together with the Tokyo Gas and Electric Company. The new firm then teamed up with British automaker Wolseley and hatched a deal to produce Wolseley vehicles in East Asia.

The first Tokyo Gas and Electric truck was made in 1919 with the help of the Military Vehicle Support Act. The firm then merged with DAT Automobile Manufacturing in 1933 and within a year the new company renamed their truck model the Isuzu, after the Isuzu River. The same year, DAT changed their name to Automobile Industries Co.

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how are lease prices calculated

What is depreciation?

When you are looking at getting a new car, regardless of how, you would have probably heard the word depreciation at least once.

But, what is depreciation? And how does this affect you?

In this article, we take a look at everything you need to know about depreciation. When talking about cars, depreciation is essentially the difference between the value of your car when you buy it, and how much it’s worth when you come to reselling it. This can vary between makes and models, but the general rule is that a car loses between 15-33% of its value in the first year and up to 50% or more over three years.

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