Learning Centre

If you’re unsure about anything motoring, whether it’s what happens once you’ve placed your order, or where does vehicle tax go when you’ve paid it, then you’re in the right place. We have articles on everything you could want to know about leasing, buying and owning a car. Our learning centre is full of answers to the questions you want to ask when it comes to your car.
A Brief History of Volkswagen

A brief history of Volkswagen: From the people’s car to the emissions scandal

Of the ten top selling car models in history, three are Volkswagen; the Beetle, the Golf and the Passat. Not one for fancy branding strategies, the current VW tagline is simply “Das Auto”, which literally translates to “the car”. They are Germany’s biggest car company and the third largest automaker in the world.

From “the people’s car” to the emissions scandal, it’s safe to say VW have a history like no other.

OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Volkswagen.

A brief history of Volkswagen: From the people’s car to the emissions scandal Read More »

History of the Smart Car

A brief history of the Smart car: From the Swatchmobile to the electric ForTwo

The Smart Car. You either love it or loathe it, but you definitely have an opinion on it. The compact car has been dividing opinion for many years now, and whatever your opinion on the microcar, you can’t deny it’s been pretty successful.

But, where did it all begin?

In this article, we look at the history of the Smart car.

A brief history of the Smart car: From the Swatchmobile to the electric ForTwo Read More »

Nissan Austin

A brief history of Nissan: From Datsun to the Nissan Leaf

As of 2013, Nissan was the sixth largest automaker in the world, and is currently the largest electric vehicle manufacturer, with more than 275,000 electric vehicles sold.

But, how did the Japanese car marque become the largest electric vehicle manufacturer? In this article, we take a look at the rich history of Nissan, from Datsun to the Nissan Leaf.

A brief history of Nissan: From Datsun to the Nissan Leaf Read More »

Is your car stalling your love life

New research reveals men driving Mini’s are found least attractive

It’s no secret that studies often find that women consider men who drive expensive cars more attractive, but what about the cars they find least attractive?

New research released today, revealed that the Mini topped the list with just 5% of women saying that they found men driving Mini’s attractive.

New research reveals men driving Mini’s are found least attractive 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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.

A brief history of Isuzu: From Wolseley to the Trooper Read More »

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.

What is depreciation? Read More »

History of Mini

A brief history of Mini: From the Suez Crisis to the Cooper

Cute, iconic and unmistakably British, the Mini is an instantly recognisable little car with a devoted fan base. Despite its diminutive size, it has space for four passengers and even room for luggage in the boot. In 1999, the Mini was voted the second most influential car of the 20th century by the Global Automotive Elections Foundation, just behind the Ford Model T. More original Minis were produced than any other British car (5.4 million) over its 41-year long production – another record for mass-produced British cars. And to think, they came out of a crisis. We take a look at the interesting history of Mini.

A brief history of Mini: From the Suez Crisis to the Cooper Read More »

Mazda Cosmo vintage driving in black and white photograph

A brief history of Mazda: From Toyo Kogyo to Hydrogen Fuel Cells

The Mazda Motor Corporation, named after Ahura Mazda, the chief deity of the ancient Iranian Zoroastrian religion, is the 18th largest automaker in the world and is Japan’s fifth largest producer of passenger cars. The marque is known for its sports cars and sporty passenger vehicles. We take a look at the interesting history of Mazda. Starting as a machine tool manufacturer called Toyo Cork Kogyo Co. in 1920, the Mazda-Go, an autorickshaw, was produced in 1931. However, this was on the eve of the Second World War…

A brief history of Mazda: From Toyo Kogyo to Hydrogen Fuel Cells Read More »

history of chrysler

A brief history of Chrysler: From the American Dream to the Chrysler Group LLC.

Chrysler is a marque as iconic as the New York art deco skyscraper that bears its name. One of the original American “Big Three” automakers, Chrysler models may not be as recognisable as those of GM and Ford, but the firms’ contributions are undeniable. We look at the interesting history of Chrysler. Walter P. Chrysler more or less embodies the American dream. An engineer who got his start as a railroad mechanic, he worked his way up from chief of production at Buick in 1911 to president of the company in just four years. His tenure at Buick made him a fabulously wealthy man, but his sights were set on forming his own company. Walter P. purchased the ailing Maxwell Motor Company in 1921. The first Chrysler produced was the Chrysler 70 and shortly after, Chrysler Corporation was founded in 1925…

A brief history of Chrysler: From the American Dream to the Chrysler Group LLC. Read More »

how is the cost of contract purchase calculated?

How is the price of a Contract Purchase calculated?

When it comes to leasing, there is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach to pricing. There are many different things that affect lease price and it’s important that you know how lease prices are calculated before you decide which deal is right for you.

In this article, we’re going to tackle how the price of contract hire is calculated, and what affects lease price. Contract hire is one of the most popular lease agreements, and is perfect for businesses. There is a contract hire for private individuals, imaginatively named personal contract hire.
A price of a business contract hire is determined on…

How is the price of a Contract Purchase calculated? Read More »

A Brief History of Mercedes-Benz

A brief history of Mercedes-Benz: From the W15 to the Smart car

Alternately referred to as Benz, Mercedes or Merc, Mercedes-Benz is about as much of a household name as is possible within the automotive industry. The mere mention of Mercedes conjures far more than just cars. Such brand recognition and identity – arguably associated as much with reliability as it is with luxury – is not easily earned. However, as the world’s oldest continuously manufactured marque, Mercedes has had a lot of time to establish its reputation. We take a look at the rich history of Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes’ beginnings stretch back to 1886 and the invention of the internal combustion vehicle. This occurred in two separate, independent locations in Southwestern Germany only 60 miles apart. Karl Benz produced a petrol-powered car (a 3-wheeler) and Gottlieb Daimler, together with Wilhelm Maybach, produced a petrol-powered converted stagecoach. Both parties were unaware of each other’s work…

A brief history of Mercedes-Benz: From the W15 to the Smart car Read More »

Can I Prepay my Lease Contract?

Can I prepay my lease contract?

We’ve been in the business a long time here at OSV, and we have been asked a number of questions throughout our 20 year history.

And, one of the questions we get asked every now and then is ‘can I prepay my car lease?’
In this article we cover what prepaying involves, whether you can prepay, and what to do if you can’t. Prepay essentially means to pay before a certain date.

In the context of leasing, this could mean one of two things;

· Paying at the start of the month
· Paying your lease contract all in one go at the start…

Can I prepay my lease contract? Read More »

why choose car finance

How is the price of a Finance Lease calculated?

When it comes to business leasing, it’s important to know exactly what you are paying for. Transparency is key when it comes to pricing, and we know that.

That’s why we’re going to talk about how the price of finance lease is calculated and what affects the price. A finance lease is strictly for businesses, and is a slightly different form of leasing. You make monthly payments on a vehicle and when the contract ends, you have a few options.

You can continue to run the vehicle. This is done by paying a one off ‘peppercorn rental’ which is usually one monthly payment. This allows you to keep the car for another year. At the end of that year you can either pay the balloon payment or pay another peppercorn rental…

How is the price of a Finance Lease calculated? Read More »

how is the price of a contract hire calculated

How is Contract Hire price calculated?

When it comes to leasing, there is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach to pricing. There are many different things that affect lease price and it’s important that you know how lease prices are calculated before you decide which deal is right for you.

In this article, we’re going to tackle how the price of contract hire is calculated, and what affects lease price.Contract hire is one of the most popular lease agreements, and is perfect for businesses. There is a contract hire for private individuals, imaginatively named personal contract hire.
A price of a business contract hire is determined on..

How is Contract Hire price calculated? Read More »

History of MG

A brief history of MG: From the MG 18/80 to the MG3

One of the most iconic British sports car marques, MG is probably best known throughout the world for their small, speedy models, especially the two-seater convertible Midget range. What was once the MG Car Company Limited is now extending its life as MG Motor, part of the Nanjing Automobile Group, China’s oldest car maker. OSV takes a look at the interesting history of MG. MG’s history as an independent company is a bit murky, but its foundation can be traced back to the mid-1920s and Morris Motors. Around this time (exact dates are disputed), an Oxford Morris dealership producing its own cars, which bore both the MG (for “Morris Garages”) and Morris badges…

A brief history of MG: From the MG 18/80 to the MG3 Read More »

The most ridiculous optional extras you shouldn’t buy for your new car

The most ridiculous optional extras you shouldn’t buy for your new car

Optional extras are always something to think about when you get a new car. Privacy glass, reversing cameras, park assist, the list of optional extras is endless. Most of the time, these optional extras are super convenient and will make your driving experience easier/safer/more enjoyable.

But there are some optional extras that are completely ridiculous. So here are our most ridiculous optional extras you probably won’t want to buy for your car.

Disclaimer: Some of these choices are for cars that are upwards of 150k as a minimum. It’s safe to say 99% of the people who are reading this right now are unlikely to be purchasing one of those cars, but that doesn’t mean we can’t laugh at those rich people that will be for this stuff. Prices are correct at the time of writing…

The most ridiculous optional extras you shouldn’t buy for your new car Read More »

A red kia pride parked beside a lake

A brief history of Kia: From bicycle parts to the Sportage

The Kia Motors Corporation is the number two car manufacturer in South Korea, second only to long-time competitor Hyundai. Hyundai, by the way, owns 32.8% of Kia. The name Kia is derived from the Korean and Chinese word “ki”, meaning to rise or come out and “a” for Asia. This is because since 1944, Kia Motors has been steadily rising out of Asia. OSV take a look at the history of the Korean marque. The firm began as a simple producer of handmade tubing and bicycle parts. By 1951, Kia had moved on to making complete bicycles and was manufacturing motorcycles by 1957…

A brief history of Kia: From bicycle parts to the Sportage Read More »

Lexus GS 450 White on the beach

A brief history of Lexus: From the energy crisis to hybrid ambitions

According to Steve Coogan’s comic creation, Alan Partridge, Lexus (his plural usage being “Lexi”) is the “Japanese Mercedes”. While Lexus did indeed set out to compete in the US market against European luxury car brands such as Mercedes and BMW, its goal was not to imitate. Right from the start it was obvious that Lexus intended to carve out its own niche as its design clearly stated: This was no upmarket Toyota model, but something entirely new. OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Lexus. Japanese cars first made inroads into the US market during the energy crisis of the 1970s. Fuel efficiency and small price tags had obvious appeal to cash-strapped American consumers. But, for those with champagne taste, “practical” subcompacts held no such charms. Fast-forward to the late 1980s and things were about to change big.

A brief history of Lexus: From the energy crisis to hybrid ambitions Read More »

picture of winter tyres in the snow

Looking after your car this winter: FAQs

You may think your car will protect you through the trials and tribulations of icy roads and foggy windows, but you need to make sure it’s prepared with the right tools. In this article, I’ll give you some tips and tricks you can use to get the most out of your car this winter and make sure you’re safe out on the roads. Extreme cold, which we’re unlikely to get in the UK, can seriously affect your vehicle. It pulls voltage from your battery, thickens your oil and brake/transmission fluids and reduces your tire pressure (up to one psi for every 10C drop!)

Looking after your car this winter: FAQs Read More »

car leasing for dummies

Car Leasing for Dummies

You’re thinking about getting a new car, and maybe you’ve seen the term ‘leasing’ thrown about.

What is leasing? How does it differ from buying? Why do some people think it’s amazing and others think it’s the worst idea ever?
Leasing may seem complicated at first, and it can be pretty daunting trying to get your head around it. However, it’s really not as complex as it seems.
In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about leasing so by the time you finish reading, you’ll be an expert.First things first, how is leasing a car different to buying one?
Leasing is essentially where you rent a car for a certain period of time. But, it’s different to daily/weekly rental, which you would do through the likes of Hertz, for example. When you lease you have the car for around 2-5 years. You pay a series of monthly payments for that period of time. When the time is up, you hand the car back…

Car Leasing for Dummies Read More »

burgundy kia sportage

What are the best cars for high mileage?

Mileage, regardless of whether you are leasing or buying, is quite a big factor when looking at a new car. For example, you don’t want to be looking at cars that are only available as petrol. This is because a diesel engine is much more suited to doing a high mileage and long distance journeys than a petrol engine is. If you ended up going for a petrol, then it could cost you more money at the petrol pump than if you were to go for a diesel. So what cars are good for doing high mileage? A majority of manufacturers offer a 3-year warranty or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, there are some brands that go that extra mile because they believe in their products so much, that they have longer warranties. Take a look at my top manufacturers for high mileage and…

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Is a convertible right for me

Is a convertible right for me?

You want a new car. And you thought that maybe you would treat yourself to a new convertible.
But, which one do you get?
Contrary to popular belief, there aren’t actually that many convertibles on the market. But out of the ones that are, which ones are the best? In this article we look at our best convertibles, and which one would be right for you. Before we start, should you actually get a convertible? As you are aware, convertibles are different to your standard car. So there are some things that you should consider before you make the decision to get one. For example…

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