The new BMW X1

• BMW’s first compact Sports Activity Vehicle
• BMW’s first X model with Auto Start-Stop function as part of EfficientDynamics technologies
• Choice of two- and four-wheel-drive power

BMW created a new vehicle segment a decade ago when it launched the BMW X5. That vehicle received critical acclaim at its launch and continues to this day as a market leader with 1.5million sold worldwide. The popular BMW X3 followed in 2004 and the BMW X6 spawned a new niche in 2008. Now BMW is poised to introduce the next derivative of the X model line-up with the X1.

The new BMW X1 takes its key styling cues and practicality from the BMW X5 but shrinks it into a more compact and affordable package. The vehicle’s elegant lines and command driving position echo its larger stablemate, while the five-seat configuration and 1,350-litre boot space provide outstanding load-lugging capability.

Power comes from a choice of three diesel engines and, for the first time on a BMW X product, the option to have rear-wheel-drive (sDrive) or four-wheel-drive (xDrive).

The dominance of diesel engines in other BMW SAVs, led BMW UK to decide only tooffer diesel in the UK. The BMW sDrive18d and the xDrive18d feature four-cylinder powerplants with an all-aluminium crankcase and a single turbocharger with variable intake geometry. Third generation common-rail diesel technology ensures optimum combustion.

The 1,995cc engine produces 143hp while peak torque is 320Nm from 1,750rpm through to 2,500rpm. This equates to a zero to 62mph time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 124mph for the rear-wheel-drive X1 sDrive18d SE. The X1 xDrive18d SE posts figures of 10.1 seconds and a 121mph top speed. Both models are exceptionally fuel efficient, capable of 54.3mpg and 49.6mpg on the combined cycle respectively. The engine is EU5 rated and records 136g/km and 150g/km CO2 emissions.

Offering a higher outright performance, the BMW sDrive20d SE and xDrive20d SE are also offered. Powered by the same 1,995cc engine but in a higher state of tune, these two models up the ante offering 177hp and 350Nm from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. This results in improved performance figures with zero to 62mph attained in 8.1 seconds (8.4 for the xDrive20d) and a top speed of 127mph.

As the flagship model the BMW xDrive23d SE is offered only as a four-wheel-drive variant. Still using a 2.0-litre engine, albeit with twin-turbocharger technology, this International Engine of the Year category winner provides rapid performance that defies the model’s Sports Activity Vehicle position. The 204hp engine accelerates the X1 to 62mph in just 7.3 seconds. The near flat torque curve with a peak output of 400Nm from 2,000rpm to 2,250rpm permits effortless overtaking. The xDrive23d SE is an EU5 rated vehicle that records 44.8mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 167g/km.

Most BMW X1s come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. However, buyers of the xDrive23d have a six-speed Sport automatic gearbox with gear change paddles located a finger tip away from the steering wheel for sporty changes.
Auto Start-Stop for greater fuel efficiency

EfficientDynamics plays a part in the BMW X1 story with the introduction of Auto Start- Stop technology on an X product for the first time. Available on all manual transmission cars the system improves fuel consumption figures. The BMW X1 also has the full suite of EfficientDynmamics technologies including Brake Energy Regeneration, optimised aerodynamics, optimum shift indicator and on-demand use of ancillary units to name a
few.

The design of the new BMW X1 is stylish and sporting yet practical. Sleek lines blend into flared wheel arches to underscore the car’s dynamic capabilities as does the tapered roof line and wide track. Short overhangs front and rear, typical of every BMW, ensure the best basis for optimum handling. The profile of the car belies an interior space that sees five adults seated comfortably along with their luggage.

Inside, and all the main controls and dashboard displays are angled towards the driver. A range of storage compartments, trays and large door pockets provides a variety of places to keep personal effects. An owner that specifies one of the two available satellite navigation systems featuring the latest iDrive display, controller and Favourite Buttons gains a slightly revised interior layout to accommodate the system. The interior of the BMW X1 can be further enhanced by opting for the new Design package. This sees Sport seats in Oyster Nevada leather, Anthracite headlining and Fineline Wave wood trim. The Oyster theme continuing to the lower part of the dashboard, all of the centre console and leather piping on the floor mats.

The BMW X1 goes on sale in the UK on 24 October, 2009 with the sDrive18d and xDrive18d variants following in December.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Car leasing made simple™ is proud to support The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award - making a difference to over 275,000 young people across the UK every year.

In the UK today over a million young people are unemployed and are not receiving any form of education or training. Many thousands more are failing to achieve their potential, held back by lack of opportunity, disability, exclusion, low expectations or a lack of confidence.

Youth charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award supports over 275,000 people aged 14-25 every year. The DofE inspires, guides and supports young people in their self-development and recognises their achievements. The DofE aims to create a world where young people can reach their full potential, whatever their circumstances.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award works with like-minded individuals and businesses to make their vision a reality. Supporters join together under the banner of the Charter, which sets out the charity’s values and aims. Car leasing made simple™ is proud to be a Member of this Charter and has committed to helping this important charity achieve their mission. A list of Charter Members can be found here.

The DofE needs over £100,000 per week to support over 275,000 young people, including 30,000 excluded and vulnerable young people throughout the UK. If you would like to get involved or are able to help please contact jacqui.larcombe@dofe.org or see www.dofe.org

Case study

Tyrone grew up on a Council Estate in Peckham. By the time he was 14 many of his contemporaries were involved in drugs and crime.

For Tyrone things were different, largely because of his involvement in his local youth club where he was encouraged to take up The DofE. Learning new skills to achieve Bronze was a particular challenge when his youth club was initially an escape from studying.

More challenges arose with his Silver and Gold programmes, when he volunteered as a leader in the youth club. Where in the previous year he had been a member on outings, now he was responsible for the well-being, behaviour and presence of his charges.

Tyrone has also become aware that he is a role model for younger club members and neighbours. He and his younger brother are likely to be the first members from Westminster House Youth Club to achieve their Gold Awards.

Tyrone is in the final year of a business and computing degree at the University of Greenwich.

“They look up to me as a leader, so I have to behave responsibly in the Club and outside” - Tyrone

Jaguar news

Industry experts predict that the Jaguar XF will be worth more than any of its competitors in the years to come.

EurotaxGlass’s, publisher of Glass’s Guide, predict that a Jaguar XF will be worth 18% more than the equivalent Audi in 12 months time and 9% more in three years time.

Jason King, head of market intelligence for EurotaxGlass’s, said: ‘The XF has made a very impressive entry into the segment and has shaken up the established German players. A striking new look, luxurious and modern interiors and much improved build quality have all helped to make the XF one of last year’s best sellers - and this all has a positive impact on
the value predicted for used models on garage forecourts.

‘With the introduction of the excellent new 3.0 litre diesel engine, we predict that residual values will become an even stronger proposition.’

Research carried out by EurotaxGlass’s suggests that the new 3.0 litre diesel Jaguar XF, available in the UK available from £33,900, will retain 80% of its purchase price after 12 months/14,000 miles, which makes it best in class, and 45% of its value after three years/60,000 miles.

King, added: ‘These values make the Jaguar XF the best in its class and this is testament to this new era of Jaguar models. The XF is proving to be very desirable and prices have been buoyed up by strong new and used car sales since its launch last year.

‘The good news for Jaguar doesn’t stop there - values achieved for used examples of the outgoing 2.7 diesel model have achieved an impressive 77% of the original list price.’

Source: Jaguar, June 4 2009

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Smart news

A fleet of eight diesel Smart cars is destined to prove ‘the business’ for Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, which has just taken delivery of one of the UK’s first corporate orders for the new Smart fortwo cdi model.

The cars will be used by the Sheffield Chamber’s Business Development Executives to visit the 2,700 member companies in the city and across South Yorkshire who call upon its advice, support and representation.

Smart of Sheffield supplied the coupé models after winning a competitive tender, which attracted bids from 20 local motor retailers - all Chamber members. The vehicles will be run on two-year leases and will replace the previous fleet of Toyota Yaris.

The Smart fortwo cdi’s economical and environmental performance was a key factor in the Chamber’s purchasing decision. As the world’s most efficient production car, the model returns 85.6 mpg on the combined cycle with carbon dioxide emissions of 88 g/km.

Stephen Mitchell, Sheffield Chamber corporate partnerships director said: ‘It was a priority that the cars we chose displayed outstanding environmental credentials but were cheap to run.’

Source: Smart, June 4 2009

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Volvo news

The Volvo S40 1.6D DRIVe featuring the new Start/Stop technology has scooped the top honour and been named Green Car of the Year at the prestigious 2009 What Car? Green Car Awards.

The Volvo S40 DRIVe beat the BMW 118d and the Renault Megane to the top spot in the Small Family category and then stormed ahead to achieve victory over all the other category winners, including the Audi A8 and MINI Cooper S, to be awarded the prestigious overall What Car? Green Car of the Year title.

Offering exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 104g/km and returning up to 72.4 mpg on the combined cycle, What Car?'s judges praised the S40 DRIVe's unique combination of low emissions, practicality, safety and driver enjoyment as key reasons for the win.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Kia news

Kia has appointed Michael Cole as its new UK managing director. He takes over the position in August when current managing director Paul Philpott becomes chief operating officer of Kia Motors Europe.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Electric Cars

The UK Government has announced a £250 million support package for electric cars, due to commence in 2011. £5,000 grants will be made available to the purchasers of new electric cars and £20 million will be allocated to providing recharging points in UK cities.

The choice of electric vehicles has puzzled many commentators as environmental transports specialists have concluded that electric cars are no better environmentally than clean petrol and diesel vehicles. This analysis is based on the fact that the majority of UK electricity is produced by burning fossil fuels. Electric cars have, on average, a range of 50-60 miles and take 8 hours to recharge. The Government is hoping that a new generation of Lithium-ion batteries will provide greater range.

Plug in hybrids, which provide a back up petrol engine to batteries, look far more promising in terms of acceptance by consumers. This initiative seems to have its rationale in a desperate attempt to get electric cars manufactured in the UK and to cut CO2 emissions from transport, as the UK struggles to meet its 20% reduction target by 2020. There are now 100 recharging stations on the streets of London.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Audi news

The new Audi A5 Sportback mixes the ‘rhythm of lines’ design concept featured on the Audi A5 Coupe with all the practicality of a five-door vehicle.

Timings:

• Open for Ordering: Immediately
• Deliveries: November

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Hyundai news

With immediate effect, the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited is no longer available in the range. There are still some existing stocks available in the UK, however, once those stocks are depleted alternative Santa Fe derivatives will need to be considered to satisfy customer enquiries and orders.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Vauxhall news

Vauxhall released the first official photographs of the all new British built Vauxhall Astra. The five door version will make its debut at this years Frankfurt motor show in September and will be in UK showrooms at the end of the year.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Toyota news

Toyota has released details on the 2009 Toyota Rav 4. It now features Toyota optimal drive and is powered by a 2.2 D-4D diesel engine. The new Rav 4 has an improvement of 14% in fuel consumption and Co2 emissions are down by 11% to 154g/km.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Škoda news

The first Škoda Yeti five door mini SUV rolled off the production line last week at the Kvasiny plant in the Czech Republic. The first car to be built was an aqua blue 4WD fitted with a 1.8 TSI petrol engine. Final pre-production testing was carried out in Norway.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Peugeot news

First deliveries of the new Peugeot 308CC start on 1st June with the choice of three models: Sport, SE and GT. A highly specified launch model with just 100 units available called the Peugeot 308CC GT100 Limited Edition, will be delivered to customers this month.

A special edition Peugeot 4007XS has been introduced. It has "on demand" 4WD and is powered by a HDI 156 diesel engine. The Peugeot 4007XS is based on the SE model but has additional features including 18in alloy wheels, sports leather seats, body coloured front lower and rear roof spoiler. It costs £1,450 more than the SE at £24,695.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Mazda news

The all new Mazda3 went on sale this week priced from £13,500.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Jaguar news

The Jaguar XKR and Jaguar XFR will make their UK debuts at the London MotorExpo in Canary Wharf on 8th June. The show runs from 8th to 14th June.

Car leasing made simple™
The clever way to lease a new car

Personal leasing explained

Personal leasing is an cost effective alternative to owning a car.

Car leasing is no longer restricted to business users; anyone can now lease a car. In fact - year on year - personal leasing is the biggest growing sector of the car leasing industry.

There are two main types of personal leasing:

• Personal Contract Hire (PCH)
  
• Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)
  

Fundamentally, the difference between these two types of car leasing is that with PCP, you have the option to purchase the vehicle at the end of the contract, should you wish to do so. But in fact, most customer return their cars at the end of contract and lease a new one.

Personal leasing is one of the most popular means of getting a new car, for the following reasons.

1. you get to drive a brand new car every 2 or 3 years
   
2. you enjoy fixed-cost motoring, which makes car leasing easy to budget for
   
3. you don't have the risks associated with new car depreciation risk
   

And the process is very simple. You just pick the car, decide on your preferred contract and submit an application form. Once your application has been approved and you have ordered your car (to your specified colour, equipment levels, etc), we deliver it to your door (at your convenience) as soon as it arrives into stock - whether at home or at work.

Car leasing made simple™

The clever way to lease a new car

Car leasing made simple™ radio advertising

Just a quick note to let you know that Car leasing made simple™  has teamed-up with Global Radio – the UK's premier radio company and the home of leading commercial radio brands – to promote its new website - carleasingmadesimple.com

Starting on June 15th (for an initial period of 3-months in London), Global Radio will air a targeted series of 6 adverts featuring the actor Richard Ayoade (best known for his role as “Maurice Moss” in the BAFTA and International Emmy award-winning Channel 4 sitcom “The IT Crowd”) to promote the Car leasing made simple™ brand and website. Based on statistics from Radio Joint Audience Research (RAJAR) – these radio adverts will be heard approximately 46,594,000 times over the initial 3-month campaign – an average of 19.1 times per listener.

Car leasing made simple™

The clever way to lease a new car