Formula 1 bosses have revealed a draft calendar for 2020, with the addition of events in the Netherlands and Vietnam resulting in a record 22 races. With several long-running events, including Britain, Spain and Australia, recently agreeing to new contracts the new events have resulted in the largest-ever F1 calendar. There were 21 races in both 2016 and 2018. The calendar still has to approved by the FIA World Motor Sport Council in October. The Australian Grand Prix retains its traditional season-opening slot on 15 March, while Abu Dhabi continues to host the finale on 29 November. Vietnam will become the 34th country to host a world championship event on 5 April, with a race staged on a street circuit in the capital city of Hanoi. The Dutch Grand Prix, held at the historic Zandvoort track, will return to the calendar after 35 years on 3 May, in part because of the huge popularity of Dutchman Max Verstappen. The British Grand Prix at Silverstone will be held on 19 July. As expected the calendar doesn’t include the German Grand Prix, which has struggled financially in recent years. The Italian Grand Prix is scheduled for 6 September, although race organisers and F1 chiefs have yet to finalise a new contract. 2020 Formula 1 World Championship calendar (subject to approval) 15 March Australia (Melbourne) 22 March Bahrain (Sakhir) 5 April Vietnam (Hanoi) 19 April China (Shanghai) 3 May Netherlands (Zandvoort) 10 May Spain (Barcelona) 24 May Monaco (Monaco) 7 June Azerbaijan (Baku) 14 June Canada (Montreal) 28 June France (Paul Ricard) 5 July Austria (Red Bull Ring) 19 July Britain (Silverstone) 2 August Hungary (Budapest) 30 August Belgium (Spa) 6 September Italy (Monza)* 20 September Singapore (Singapore) 27 September Russia (Sochi) 11 October Japan (Suzuka) 25 October USA (Austin) 1 November Mexico (Mexico City) 15 November Brazil (Sao Paulo) 29 November Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi) *subject to
Origin: Formula 1 reveals record 22-race calendar for 2020
Seat Tarraco PHEV announced
Seat Tarraco PHEV announced The Tarraco is expected to have an electric range of more than 30 miles Seat has revealed a new version of its largest SUV – the Tarraco – with a plug-in hybrid powertrain fitted for the first time in the range. The new Tarraco FR PHEV has a 13 kWh battery pack, enabling an electric-only driving range of more than 31 miles on a single charge, and CO2 emissions below 50 g/km. Total power output is 245hp, from a 150hp 1.4 litre TSI petrol engine and 85 kW electric motor. Torque output is rated at 400 Nm, and the Tarraco PHEV will complete a 0-62mph time in just 7.4 seconds. Seat’s sporty FR trim will be applied to the PHEV, giving more aggressive styling and 19-inch wheels as standard. A new very paint scheme is added to the range, and Seat’s latest generation 9.2-inch infotainment system fitted inside. No charging information has been announced yet, but a Type 2 inlet is almost guaranteed, and charging is likely to be available at 3.6 kW from the on-board charger. These details could be revised though, and even the quoted performance and efficiency figures above are expected results rather than official WLTP calculated statistics. The new Tarraco PHEV will receive its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in early September, with orders and production starting in 2020.
Origin: Seat Tarraco PHEV announced
Nearly-new buying guide: Seat Leon
The Leon is the fourth piece in the Volkswagen Group family hatch jigsaw, the one with Spanish eyes. It’s the partygoer, although whether you believe it rocks the night away or simply has an early night like its three siblings depends on how seriously you take Seat’s brand positioning. It certainly looks the part, with its sharp creases and flowing lines. Inside, though, it’s a bit more subdued, and the quality of some out-of-the-way trim is average. Fortunately, it comes alive with a broad range of mainstream petrol and diesel engines, while beyond these are sporty 2.0-litre engines producing up to 306bhp and found in the Cupra. The Leon arrived in 2013 atop parent company Volkswagen’s new MQB platform and bristling with driver aids and technology. The headlights were full-LED, at least on higher-spec trims – a first in the family hatch class. Three-door versions were branded SC but here we’re concerned with the more practical five-door. Today, prices start at around £4000 for a 2014-reg 1.6 TDI with 100,000 miles in entry-level S trim. The 103bhp motor is a workmanlike affair but the mid-power 148bhp 2.0 TDI 150 is more satisfying. An 84,000-mile 2015-reg is £7400. For more poke, there’s the 181bhp 2.0 TDI 184. We found a 2014-reg FR Tech Pack with 117,000 miles for £5995. Among the petrols, a 2014-reg 104bhp 1.2 TSI 105 with 80,000 miles is £4250. This engine is adequate for scooting around town but more demanding drivers should aim for the larger 1.4 TSIs with 122bhp and 148bhp outputs. The latter is a more appealing all-rounder than the 148bhp 2.0 TDI and our top choice. S trim’s drab 15in steel wheels do little for the Leon’s party animal image so go for friskier SE (leather-covered steering wheel, 16in alloys and hill hold but standard suspension). FR offers a sportier feel. In addition to sports seats and sports suspension it has Drive Profile, offering steering and throttle modes. The facelift came in 2017, bringing a sharper look, restyled lights and more technology. Seat’s Easy Connect system is standard but you have to go to SE Technology to get an 8.0in screen with DAB radio and satnav, or SE Dynamic Technology to get rear parking sensors, which seems mean. Frustrating, too, because the Leon’s stylish lines come at the expense of rearward visibility. A reversing camera is an option, so look out for cars with one. Meanwhile, the 1.2 TSI was replaced by a three-cylinder, 113bhp 1.0 TSI 115. It’s a sweet unit and one of our favourites. The VW Group’s new and impressive 1.5 EVO engines in 128bhp and 148bhp outputs replaced the 1.4s, while the powerful 178bhp 1.8 TSI was replaced by the 187bhp 2.0 TSI 190 with a DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox as standard. Paired with Xcellence Technology trim, it’s a million miles from that 1.6 TDI S. Need to know Leons with less than 148bhp have a semi-rigid rear axle that gives a slightly springy ride; more powerful models such as the Cupra have a fully independent set-up. A new Leon, the Mk4, arrives later this year, bearing Seat’s new corporate face. It shares the current car’s MQB platform technology but has a slightly longer wheelbase to give a roomier cabin. There will be no three-door version. Keep your eyes peeled for strong pre-reg deals on run-out examples of the outgoing model. Seat’s approved used scheme offers a 12-month warranty and what it calls a ‘full service history check’. Crucially, the latter only claims to verify any Seat dealer servicing and is not a guarantee of full service history. Our pick Leon 1.4 TSI 150 FR Technology: The 148bhp engine is refined, responsive and economical. Add FR Technology’s 17in alloys, LED headlights, bodykit and sports seats and you have a good-value proposition. A 2017-reg with 24,000 miles is £11,500. Top spec pick Xcellence Technology: Live it up with lashings of chrome, ambient lighting, leather trim, keyless entry and ignition and convenience packs. A 2017 1.4 TSI 125 XT with 23k miles is £11,400 Wild card Leon 1.8 TSI 180 FR: The 180 sits plumb in the middle, offering strong in-gear performance and refined cruising, although it can sound strained at higher revs. A 2016 example with 21,000 miles is £12,500. Ones we found 2013 Seat Leon 1.2 TSI SE, 57,000 miles, £4200 2015 Seat Leon 1.6 TDI SE, 86,000 miles, £5995 2016 Seat Leon 1.4 Eco TSI 150 FR, 65,000 miles, £8040 2018 Seat Leon 1.2 TSI SE DT, 8000 miles,
Origin: Nearly-new buying guide: Seat Leon
SUV Review: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited
2019 Toyota RAV4 LimitedDerek McNaughton OVERVIEW AWD Compact Utility Vehicle with good practicality, but annoying quirks PROSSmooth ride, durability and dependability CONSNoises, lack of refinement VALUE FOR MONEYGood WHAT TO CHANGE?Make it quieter, especially the engine and cabin HOW TO SPEC IT?Trail Edition The last generation Toyota RAV4 was so good it received one of the higher scores handed out during a Driving.ca test drive. Sadly, the fifth-generation replacement isnt quite as excellent, at least not yet, suffering from a malady of quirks that detract from its sharp new looks.Oh, to be clear, I wanted to love the 2019 RAV4, which has undergone a complete makeover and borrowed design elements from one of our favourite vehicles of all time, the Toyota 4Runner. But a number of things about the new RAV4 came across as irritations. First and foremost was the growl from the engine any time throttle was applied.It sounds like my grandmothers Scamp, blurted my wife, who is never one to criticize. But she is not alone. Driving writer Brian Harper concluded the same thing twice, although he is far more sophisticated than me, pointing out the RAVs 2.5-litre engine had a rather discordant note. I suspect much of the growl of this engine comes from the high-compression nature of the Dynamic Force four-cylinder. The engine produces 203 horsepower (up from 179) and is paired with an eight-speed automatic that shifts well. Its odd, too, that it would sound so loud when its blissfully quiet during any kind of steady-state throttle. It was also highly efficient, registering 6.8 L/100 km during a 350-km highway drive at a steady 100 km/h. Our last best in the old model was 7.4. But applying throttle became a game of you go first: Perhaps our press unit was in need of some ECU tuning, or something, but every time I took off from a stop, even when trying to be gentle, the engine torque grabbed the front tires and pushed the CUV ahead, making smooth takeoffs difficult. Even when I anticipated the rush, and tried to counteract, the engine was still too eager, prematurely rushing the throttle too early most of the time. Overall, the amount of power is good. Passing is easy; but throttle mapping needs to be smoothed out, or perhaps its something drivers will get used to over time.The brake pedal also had a dishevelled feel notchy from rest, too much travel before initial bite, then only moderate bite for the amount of foot force applied. Sure Im being picky, but thats the point here, to underline the things that arent perfect for a brand with such a high reputation, for a model at the top of its game, for quality in a segment with so much competition. So, not enjoying the braking or acceleration didnt get us off to a good start. But the electric steering, too, didnt erase those initial gripes. Nothing is technically wrong with the steering, it just doesnt give much feedback or track as well as many other Toyotas. And then an inconsistent buzzing like an incoming text message on a phone set to silent mode (it wasnt anyones phone) came every now and then from somewhere under the drivers seat, as though some module or some switch was sending current somewhere it shouldnt. Either that or it could be part of the driveline. When AWD isnt required, the RAV4 disconnects the rear driveline, sending power only to the front wheels, and the ratchet-type dog clutches on both the front and rear wheel-shafts stop the driveshafts rotations. Maybe that was what we heard. All I know is that the sound occurred with irregular frequency. This Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Rear Driveline Disconnect (a Toyota first) comes standard on non-hybrid Limited and Trail models. It can direct up to 50 per cent of engine torque to the rear wheels, as well as distribute it to the left or right rear wheel to enhance handling on- or off-pavement. Tire and road noise in the cabin was high too.Far more pleasing was the new rigidity of the unibody structure, making the RAV4 feel vastly more sound thanks to a 57 per cent improvement over the old. This tighter structure also helps absorb impacts to the suspension, which delivered a highly satisfying ride, exhibiting little lean in the corners. Selectable drive modes (including normal, eco, snow, mud and sand, rock, and sport) can tailor the experience, but Sport seemed to bring out the best of the compact utility. With excellent visibility due to small A-pillars and side-mirrors placed onto the doors, the RAV4 soaked in some coily country roads with a vigour that helped quell those early distractions with the pedals. Our Limited model also came with a camera-based rear-view mirror, which might be of use when the inside is so full of cargo you cant see out back, but looking into the camera mirror can be disorientating. A birds-eye monitor along with a backup and forward camera is useful, but the screen resolution could be better.While the new RAV4
Origin: SUV Review: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited
The C8-gen Corvette Z06 could get 800 hp: report
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8Chevrolet Arguably the biggest car-related news of this calendar year was the introduction of a mid-engined Corvette.With its powerful mill now bolted directly behind the drivers spine, Chevrolets master of performance is ready to take on some of the worlds greatest supercars.When it dropped in July, Chevy showed the Stingray, fuelled by a burly-chested engine that, paired with the optional Z51 package, will allegedly belt from zero to 96 km/h in less than three seconds.Its small-block LT2 V8 makes up to 495 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, bumps of 40 and 10 respectively over the old LT1. A dry-sump system keeps things oiled during high-speed track shenanigans. This is a serious engine.But if, like with chocolate, you feel that too much is never enough, it is all but assured that GM will introduce a Z06 variant of the new Stingray at some point in the not-too-distant future. Steeped in Corvette lore, the Z06 cranks things squarely to eleven and keeps it there. For a spell, it was available only with a manual transmission, such was its performance credo. Various talking heads are musing that we could see a Z06 as soon as the 2022 model year, meaning we a prototype concept on the car show circuit could land as early as the upcoming Detroit show in June. Expect a big wing and enough scoops to inhale a flock of sheep that much is certain.What isn’t certain is what will be under its engine cover. Breathless new reports from Automobile suggest the Z06 will earn a variant of the Cadillac Blackwing engine pushing a sky-high 800 horsepower and 700 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2020 6.2L V-8 AFM VVT DI (LT2) from Chevrolet Corvette C8 Chevrolet This would be tremendous, but your author humbly thinks that if Cadillac is willing to share its toys, this mill may be saved for a future ZR1 trim instead. The existing Z06 pumps out 650 horses, no slouch in and of its own right.Could Chevy slap a supercharger on the LT2 instead and crank the wick to about 700 hp to create the next Z06? Whatever the company selects, one can also be certain a sharper suspension tune and stickier tires will be along for the ride. Itll probably go on a diet, too. No keto, though that stuffs
Origin: The C8-gen Corvette Z06 could get 800 hp: report
Toyota recalls almost 4,000 RAV4s in Canada over rear cameras
2019 Toyota RAV4 LimitedDerek McNaughton Toyota is recalling close to 4,000 new RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles in Canada because the rearview camera display might not turn when the car is put in reverse.Some 3,896 model year 2019 RAV4 vehicles are affected in Canada, along with 14,215 in the U.S., or about 18,000 in total.In affected vehicles, a faulty connector could keep the rearview cameras dashboard display from showing up when the SUV is placed into reverse, increasing the risk of a collision while backing up.The automaker will contact owners of these vehicles beginning in
Origin: Toyota recalls almost 4,000 RAV4s in Canada over rear cameras
New Mercedes GLE Coupé receives hot AMG 53 variant
Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new GLE 53 Coupé as a performance-oriented reworking of the new GLE Coupé, also revealed today. A prelude to the full-blown GLE 63 that’s expected next year, the GLE 53 features a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six petrol engine with 429bhp and 384lb ft of torque. It also has a 48V mild-hybrid system, making use of the firm’s EQ Boost starter/ alternator that delivers an additional 22bhp and 184lb ft for short periods and improves on-paper efficiency. One of the turbos is of the conventional exhaust gas-driven variety, with another made up of an electric compressor driven by the 48v system. The unit makes the SUV capable of 0-62mph in 5.3sec (the same as the regular GLE53) and a governed 155mph, yet also a claimed 30mpg combined. The latter is an NEDC correlated figure rather than the more realistic WLTP figure, however. As with other Mercedes-AMG models, there are revisions to the chassis, including retuned active ride control and air suspension, a more direct variable-ratio steering set-up and a high-performance braking system with 400mm-diameter front discs. The car sits 15mm lower to the ground than standard in Sport and Sport+modes, and lowers to the same point above 75mph in Comfort. The firm also claims the 60mm shorter wheelbase than the standard GLE further boosts agility. AMG-specific styling modifications inside and out also feature, such as specific bumpers with larger air intakes and chrome louvres, a silver chrome front splitter and flared wheelarches. Quad tailpipe trims for the AMG exhaust system also mark it out. Furthermore, an optional AMG Night package with black exterior trim detailing and tinted windows is available. Six wheel designs can be ordered, all from 20-22in in size. Typical AMG trim elements feature inside, with stainless steel pedals, aluminium shift paddles, carbon fibre detailing and standard AMG sports seats with red topstitching. A range of different upholstery and trim elements are available to order
Origin: New Mercedes GLE Coupé receives hot AMG 53 variant
First Drive: 2020 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid
2020 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-HybridJil McIntosh EUGENE, Oregon Among alternative powertrains, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) sit halfway between conventional hybrids and fully-electric vehicles. And now, Porsche has one that sits above everything else at the top of the pack.Porsche has already unveiled the Cayenne E-Hybrid, a six-cylinder plug-in version of the newest generation of its largest sport-ute. But it now juices up the Cayenne Turbos 4.0L V8 with battery power to create the new Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid. While the six-cylinder Cayenne E-Hybrid makes a maximum of 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, the Turbo S E-Hybrid puts out 670 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque when gas and electric work together, taking it from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds.Its similar to what the company did with its Panamera models, adding electric motors to its V6 and V8 engines, and making a hybrid the most powerful version in the lineup. This marks the second generation of a Cayenne hybrid, and the first with an available V8 engine.Those power numbers are key here. Among mainstream models, most buyers who go for a PHEV do so for the fuel savings. But according to Porsche, while its customers appreciate it when they dont have to stop at the pumps as often, thats mostly a side benefit to the extra performance. Its not like these buyers need be overly concerned with fuel costs, either. The V6-powered Cayenne E-Hybrid starts at $93,000, while the V8-powered Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, which goes on sale early next year, begins at $182,200 for the regular SUV body style, and at $187,100 for the Cayenne Coupe (which, despite the name and the abbreviated-roof styling, has four doors).A PHEV is basically a conventional hybrid, but with extra battery capacity. After its been plugged in and charged, it can run solely on electricity. When the stored charge runs out, it reverts to gasoline-electric hybrid operation, self-charging its battery as it does. The electric-only portion is relatively short this Cayennes official numbers havent been released yet, but expect it to be around 40 km but unlike a fully electric vehicle, once it runs out of stored electricity, a PHEV will continue to run as long as it has fuel in the tank.I was able to drive the V8 in comparison with the V6 version. The Turbo S E-Hybrids standard features include dynamic chassis control, electro-mechanical active anti-roll bars, carbon ceramic brakes, torque vectoring, and an electronic locking rear differential; inside, theres a full leather interior (including the dash) and 18-way sport seats. My ride was optioned with 14-way massaging seats instead, and with extra-charge rear-wheel steering. All of these features, except for the locking rear diff, can be added to the V6-powered hybrid. Both versions come standard with air suspension. The visual differences between the hybrids and their non-electrified siblings are minor: mostly a badge, and an extra fuel door on the rear flank where the plug goes. The Turbo S E-Hybrids calipers are finished in eye-searing acid green, but this can be deleted to stock yellow at no charge.To say the V8 version is quick is like saying water is wet. The E-Hybrids acceleration can make your jaw drop; the Turbo S E-Hybrid knocks it off its hinges. The engine itself makes 541 horsepower, while the electric motor contributes 134 horsepower. Its sandwiched in between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. I didnt get a chance to experience it, unfortunately, but Porsche claims a top speed of 295 km/h.As a rule, most PHEVs use up their stored power first, running exclusively on electricity until the charge runs out. The Cayennes charge can be held in reserve, which is a nice touch if the first part of your drive is on the highway, which chews up power in a hurry; you can save it and then use it on city streets. But in the name of performance over fuel-pump penny-pinching, the gas engine will kick in to give you the full experience if youve punched the throttle hard, even if youve specified electric operation. The Cayenne uses regenerative braking to build up its hybrid reserve, but in Sport drive mode, the engine recharges the battery and keeps it at a minimum level so that when you want to punch it, youll get the full force of electricity and gasoline working together. The effect is even stronger in Sport Plus mode, and its possible to build the battery level back up for another round of electric-only driving, even when the vehicle hasnt been plugged in.The Cayenne always impresses with how athletic it is, and my ride held the curves with ease. Its steering is laser-sharp, and its air suspension and anti-roll bars keep it flat and planted on the corners. The optional rear steering turns the rear wheels slightly in tune with the front tires at higher speed to tuck everything in, while at lower speeds they turn the opposite way for tighter-space maneuverability.But while Im probably
Origin: First Drive: 2020 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid
Toyota and Suzuki confirm details of new ‘Alliance’
Toyota and Suzuki have announced plans to acquire a financial stake in eachother’s operations, as part of a move towards a collaborative development programme. Toyota plans to take a 4.94% stake in Suzuki at a cost of £743,328,000 for 24,000,000 shares of common stock. Suzuki, meanwhile, will invest roughly £372,000,000 in Toyota. The deal is awaiting approval from the foreign competition authorities. The difference in investment amounts reflects Toyota’s inflated value; in 2018, the company became the first Japanese firm to achieve annual sales of 30 trillion yen (£232,340,271,000), while Suzuki achieved roughly a tenth of that, at 3,871.5 billion yen (£28,273,533,075). A statement from Toyota read: “The two companies intend to achieve sustainable growth, by overcoming new challenges surrounding the automobile sector by building and deepening cooperative relationships in new fields while continuing to be competitors, in addition to strengthening the technologies and products in which each company specializes and their existing business foundations. “Specifically, to take up challenges together in this transitional era, the two companies plan to establish and promote a long-term partnership between the two companies for promoting collaboration in new fields, including the field of autonomous driving.” In March, the two companies announced the first details of a new wide-ranging collaboration, which will involve Toyota producing Suzuki-badged hybrid vehicles based on the RAV4 and Corolla estate for the European market. The deal will include Suzuki vehicles being built at Toyota’s Derbyshire plant. The two Japanese firms signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a partnership in 2017, and have now agreed ‘concrete details’ of the deal. The two firms say the agreement will bring together “Toyota’s strength in electrification technologies and Suzuki’s strength in technologies for compact vehicles”. The agreement is also designed to help both firms “grow in new fields”, and will include joint collaboration in production and electrified vehicles. Toyota and Suzuki say they will “continue to fairly and freely compete against each other”. Both firms have given details on a number of specific projects in which they will collaborate, split into three strands. Toyota will supply its hybrid powertrain system to Suzuki at a global level, and will supply Suzuki with two new electrified vehicles based on the RAV4 and Corolla wagon for the European market. The two new models, both due on sale in late 2020, will be additions to Suzuki’s current range, rather than replacing any current model. The Corolla-based vehicle will be built at Toyota’s Burnaston plant in Derbyshire alongside the new Corolla, with production starting in late 2020. The hybrid powertrains will be made at the firm’s Deeside engine plant. The addition of the new model is not expected to add to the 3200 people employed across the two sites. Toyota has invested more than £2.75 billion in its UK operations, and the head of the firm’s UK manufacturing division, Marvin Cooke, said the move “demonstrates Toyota’s trust in the capability of our workforce to deliver the highler levels of superior quality products.” He added: “Seeking to produce additional volume for other manufacturers is one example of all the efforts we are making to keep our UK manufacturing operations as competitive as they can be.” Toyota will also adopt Suzuki’s newly developed compact vehicle engines in the European market. These engines will be manufactured at Toyota’s facility in Poland. Toyota said it was too early to determine which models would get the engines. The two firms will work to develop hybrid vehicles for the Indian market. Suzuki will also supply Toyota with two compact vehicles based on the Ciaz and Ertiga for the Indian market, and four vehicles in the African market. In addition, Toyota and Suzuki have agreed to collaborate on the development of a C-segment SUV for India, with Toyota taking on production of the Suzuki Vitara Brezza for that market. Toyota boss Akio Toyoda said: “We believe that the expansion of our business partnership with Suzuki – from the mutual supply of vehicles and powertrains to the domains of development and production – will help give us the competitive edge we need to survive this once-in-a-century period of profound transformation.” Suzuki boss Osamu Suzuki added: “We appreciate the kind offer from Toyota to let us make use of their hybrid
Origin: Toyota and Suzuki confirm details of new ‘Alliance’
Best lease deals of the week: 4×4 estates
Leasing can be an affordable, practical route into having your own private car, but it’s not always easy to tell the good deals from the duds. The experts at our sister magazine What Car? work hard to find you the best pay-monthly schemes, taking into account mileage allowance, montly outlay, contract length and initial deposit. We’ll be bringing you the best deals they find from a different segment each week. This week, it’s 4×4 estates: 1. Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE L 4X4 DSG Estate £1701 deposit, £284 per month, 48 months, 8000 miles per year It’s the cheapest option here but the Octavia has a slick 4×4 system, a clever electronic diff lock, XDS braking and a multi-link suspension system. 2. VW Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI 184 DSG £2658 deposit, £443 per month, 48 months, 8000 miles per year The Alltrack is a jacked-up Golf estate (it rides 15mm higher than the regular car) with an off-road mode, front and rear bash plates and restyled bumpers to give better approach and departure angles. 3. Audi A6 Avant 40 TDI Quattro Sport S Tronic £3926 deposit, £654 per month, 36 months, 10,000 miles per year A stylish and practical estate with quattro four-wheel drive and a smooth, powerful engine. Tick the air suspension option if hauling heavy loads is your plan. 4. BMW 320i Touring xDrive Sport Auto £2045 deposit, £341 per month, 48 months, 8000 miles per year The 3 Series Touring is a stylish and sporty compact estate, but you may crave the security of four-wheel drive on a wet and twisty road. So choose this version, with BMW’s intelligent xDrive system. 5. Audi A4 Allroad 45 TFSI Quattro Sport S Tronic £2981 deposit, £497 per month, 48 months, 8000 miles per year Its additional 34mm of ride height doesn’t unsettle this ‘ruggedised’ A4. In fact, the longer suspension springs give a comfier ride than standard models. For more great personal business lease deals visit What Car?
Origin: Best lease deals of the week: 4×4 estates
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