New engine for Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is to be updated with a range of new efficient engines, along with a makeover inside and out. The changes will come on models launched over the summer months. The revised Polo will feature a range of new EU6-compliant engines, offering fuel efficiency improvements of up to 21%. There will be three- and four-cylinder petrol engines, including a new 1.2-litre TSI BlueMotion model.

Car smoking BAN

There is growing discussion in Britain on the issue of banning smoking in cars that have children on board. Reports from the British Medical Association have shown that the levels of toxins in a car can be up to 11 times higher than in a smoky bar. But if you’re not motivated by the health issues, just think about how much smoking in your car is costing in terms of depreciating its value.

New iX35 from Hyundai

Hyundai has launched the new iX35 SUV, which is now available with the option of a 1.7-litre or 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine. Prices start at €25,495 for the entry Celebration model, which comes with 16in alloy wheels, downhill brake control, electronic stability programme and hill start assist control. Hyundai has achieved a market share of 10.12% up from 7.85% for the year 2013.

new Opel & Renault van

Opel and Renault have released some early information about their new 2014 joint-venture van. The new van, called the Vivaro in Opel badging and Trafic from Renault, will be available during the summer of 2014. The vans promise to be more economical, using higher-performance engines, and will boast new technologies and equipment to bring passenger-car comfort.

Quinn tops BMW Awards

Athlone-based BMW dealer Colm Quinn has been awarded the title of BMW after-sales dealer of the year. This award was launched to recognise the high standards achieved within the BMW Group Ireland network. The programme was based on a five-star customer, a mystery shopper, training participation by staff and a detailed submission from the dealership on future after-sales initiatives for 2014.