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The Irish Sun
2 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
I'm a motors expert – here are the best used cars for under £2,000 which WON'T guzzle your fuel
A MOTORS expert has revealed a list of the best cars you can buy for under £2,000 that won't guzzle all your fuel. JB, from CarswithJB on YouTube, posted a video running down a range of cheap and cheerful rides that you can enjoy on a budget. 11 A YouTuber ran down a top ten list of cheap and cheerful cars As the cost of living crisis bites and petrol prices soar with inflation, JB's advice couldn't come at a better time. Renault Clio 11 The Renault Clio will do 0=60 in 10.6 seconds Credit: Getty First up, he recommended the much-loved family classic The 1.2-litre inline-four is not as thirsty as many other JB said: "It's the joint-quickest car on the list but, despite that, it will still manage 51 miles per gallon (mpg) and costs £135 per year in road tax. READ MORE MOTORS NEWS "This is the perfect first car, but it can substitute as a family hatch instead, given it's not too small in size." Within the budget, drivers should target the third-generation models, starting at around £1,800 online. Skoda Citigo 11 JB said the Skoda is best used as a city car A slightly smaller engine powers the Citigo, with a titchy 1-litre inline-three putting out a 0-60 time of 13.9 seconds. It's more expensive on the tax side, too, with an annual bill of £165, but is more economical than the previous options, at 55mpg. Most read in Motors JB said: "It's not my cup of tea due to how small it is, and I'd maybe only recommend it as a city car that's focussed on short journeys. "But I do like how basic it is, with all the amenities you need as a driver, nothing more, nothing less." It is also more expensive at purchase, with basic models sneaking in just under the £2,000 cap online. Ford KA 11 The Ford has been known to suffer from some engine issues Credit: Handout Back to the inline-fours, the Ford is still a touch sluggish, reaching 60mph in 13 seconds. However, in terms of running costs, it's a steal, with a tax bill of just £30 and a 57 mpg economy rate. JB said that the model's shared development with the Meanwhile, initial purchase costs are high, with a starting price right on the £2,000 line. Kia Picanto 11 The Picanto is the slowest car on the list Credit: supplied The slowest car on the list, with a 0-60 of just 14.6 seconds. However, again it is just £30 for the tax and its economy is a generous 58mpg. It was initially marketed by Basic models are available for around £1,000, with plenty of options under £2,000. Suzuki Alto 11 It was pipped to the top spot by its sister car, the Alto Credit: Autotrader A sister car of the Pixo, sharing the same frame and drivetrain, the Suzuki just edges it out as it's 0.5 of a second quicker, with the same excellent economy. JB revealed that it was originally designed for the Indian market but came over to Europe shortly after. It was even built in response to rising prices after the 2008 financial crisis, making it ideal for today's tough times. The Alto is available online for around £1,900 but is a bargain considering its affordability in terms of running costs. Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start * If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW Financing options Trusted dealers Fiat Grande Punto 11 The Punto has struggled with its safety rating over the years Credit: Handout With a similar engine to the Renault, the Fiat is a few seconds off the pace, but slightly more economical at 52 mpg. It is also identical in its JB added: "One strange fact about these is that, on release, they had the highest level of safety when they were retested in 2012, they go zero stars." He suggested this was likely due to a lack of updates on the The Grande Punto is available for around £1,500, while high-mileage but more recent examples clock in at £2,000. However, JB warned that issues with "build quality" could lead to some dangerous flaws, including steering failure. Mini Hatch 11 The Mini Hatch brings its unique British heritage to the table Credit: Getty The Mini Hatch ties the Clio for pace and comes with its unique British heritage. Earlier models can be found online for as little as £1,000, though these are likely to be high-mileage. JB explained: "It's quoted as doing 53 mpg...I can attest to them being very solid little cars. "The only negative is them being four-seaters, rather than five, so slightly less practical. "But, I would consider it to be amongst the nicest of the cars on the list and if you find a first example it's even more economical." Peugeot 107 11 The 107 uses a Toyota engine despite its Peugeot badge Credit: Handout JB perhaps summed this model up best when he said: "I had to bring back the Peugeot 107 into this vide, given how incredible the running costs really are." And incredible they are, costing only £20 in tax and doing a whopping 61mpg. He added that the Toyota engine under the Peugeot shell is "renowned for its reliability", but did cite issues around boot space and water leakage. Still for just £1,000 at the bottom end, many will consider this a great deal. Hyundai I10 11 The Hyundai costs just £20 in road tax Back on the quicker side, with a 0-60 of 11.8 seconds, the Hyundai, like the Peugeot, is £20 for the year's worth of tax and manages 61 mpg. JB said: "This is the sister car to the Kia Picanto we mentioned before. "Though they are very cheap feeling, they are the definition of cheap and cheerful." Although, they do start at the limit of £2,000 so are on the more expensive end of the list. Nissan Pixo 11 The Pixo famously appeared on Top Gear Credit: Nick's Picks Hatchbacks The Pixo is another slower option, but manages a list-topping 65mpg and still only costs £20 in road tax. JB said: "What made the Pixo famous for me was its appearance on Top Gear." They clock in at a minimum of £1,500, with 2010 models at £2,000. Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace * Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help , get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
I'm a motors expert - here are the best used cars you can get under £2,000 which WON'T guzzle your fuel
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A MOTORS expert has revealed a list of the best cars you can buy for under £2,000 that won't guzzle all your fuel. JB, from CarswithJB on YouTube, posted a video running down a range of cheap and cheerful rides that you can enjoy on a budget. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 11 A YouTuber ran down a top ten list of cheap and cheerful cars As the cost of living crisis bites and petrol prices soar with inflation, JB's advice couldn't come at a better time. Renault Clio 11 The Renault Clio will do 0=60 in 10.6 seconds Credit: Getty First up, he recommended the much-loved family classic Renault Clio. The 1.2-litre inline-four is not as thirsty as many other hatchbacks, while it can still get you where you need to go with a 0-60 time of 10.6 seconds. JB said: "It's the joint-quickest car on the list but, despite that, it will still manage 51 miles per gallon (mpg) and costs £135 per year in road tax. "This is the perfect first car, but it can substitute as a family hatch instead, given it's not too small in size." Within the budget, drivers should target the third-generation models, starting at around £1,800 online. Skoda Citigo 11 JB said the Skoda is best used as a city car A slightly smaller engine powers the Citigo, with a titchy 1-litre inline-three putting out a 0-60 time of 13.9 seconds. It's more expensive on the tax side, too, with an annual bill of £165, but is more economical than the previous options, at 55mpg. JB said: "It's not my cup of tea due to how small it is, and I'd maybe only recommend it as a city car that's focussed on short journeys. "But I do like how basic it is, with all the amenities you need as a driver, nothing more, nothing less." It is also more expensive at purchase, with basic models sneaking in just under the £2,000 cap online. Ford KA 11 The Ford has been known to suffer from some engine issues Credit: Handout Back to the inline-fours, the Ford is still a touch sluggish, reaching 60mph in 13 seconds. However, in terms of running costs, it's a steal, with a tax bill of just £30 and a 57 mpg economy rate. JB said that the model's shared development with the Fiat 500 led to common issues, including engine problems and corrosion. Meanwhile, initial purchase costs are high, with a starting price right on the £2,000 line. Kia Picanto 11 The Picanto is the slowest car on the list Credit: supplied The slowest car on the list, with a 0-60 of just 14.6 seconds. However, again it is just £30 for the tax and its economy is a generous 58mpg. It was initially marketed by rallying legend Marcus Granholm but JB said it drives more like a city car. Basic models are available for around £1,000, with plenty of options under £2,000. Suzuki Alto 11 It was pipped to the top spot by its sister car, the Alto Credit: Autotrader A sister car of the Pixo, sharing the same frame and drivetrain, the Suzuki just edges it out as it's 0.5 of a second quicker, with the same excellent economy. JB revealed that it was originally designed for the Indian market but came over to Europe shortly after. It was even built in response to rising prices after the 2008 financial crisis, making it ideal for today's tough times. The Alto is available online for around £1,900 but is a bargain considering its affordability in terms of running costs. Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start *If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue Sun Motors is a seamless, straightforward, transparent platform that ranks by customer searches, not payments. It offers innovative financing and concierge services, ensuring a simple, fair car-buying experience. Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW Financing options Trusted dealers Get started finding your next used vehicle here. Fiat Grande Punto 11 The Punto has struggled with its safety rating over the years Credit: Handout With a similar engine to the Renault, the Fiat is a few seconds off the pace, but slightly more economical at 52 mpg. It is also identical in its road tax expense so is still good value all round. JB added: "One strange fact about these is that, on release, they had the highest level of safety when they were retested in 2012, they go zero stars." He suggested this was likely due to a lack of updates on the safety features between the car's 2005 debut and its retest seven years on. The Grande Punto is available for around £1,500, while high-mileage but more recent examples clock in at £2,000. However, JB warned that issues with "build quality" could lead to some dangerous flaws, including steering failure. Mini Hatch 11 The Mini Hatch brings its unique British heritage to the table Credit: Getty The Mini Hatch ties the Clio for pace and comes with its unique British heritage. Earlier models can be found online for as little as £1,000, though these are likely to be high-mileage. JB explained: "It's quoted as doing 53 mpg...I can attest to them being very solid little cars. "The only negative is them being four-seaters, rather than five, so slightly less practical. "But, I would consider it to be amongst the nicest of the cars on the list and if you find a first example it's even more economical." Peugeot 107 11 The 107 uses a Toyota engine despite its Peugeot badge Credit: Handout JB perhaps summed this model up best when he said: "I had to bring back the Peugeot 107 into this vide, given how incredible the running costs really are." And incredible they are, costing only £20 in tax and doing a whopping 61mpg. He added that the Toyota engine under the Peugeot shell is "renowned for its reliability", but did cite issues around boot space and water leakage. Still for just £1,000 at the bottom end, many will consider this a great deal. Hyundai I10 11 The Hyundai costs just £20 in road tax Back on the quicker side, with a 0-60 of 11.8 seconds, the Hyundai, like the Peugeot, is £20 for the year's worth of tax and manages 61 mpg. JB said: "This is the sister car to the Kia Picanto we mentioned before. "Though they are very cheap feeling, they are the definition of cheap and cheerful." Although, they do start at the limit of £2,000 so are on the more expensive end of the list. Nissan Pixo 11 The Pixo famously appeared on Top Gear Credit: Nick's Picks Hatchbacks The Pixo is another slower option, but manages a list-topping 65mpg and still only costs £20 in road tax. JB said: "What made the Pixo famous for me was its appearance on Top Gear." They clock in at a minimum of £1,500, with 2010 models at £2,000.
The Irish Sun
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Busy Dublin road set to close this weekend due to ‘gas works' with diversions in place
A BUSY road in the capital is set to close this weekend due to "gas works" with diversions in place. Dublin City Council has alerted about the temporary closure on their website. Advertisement 1 A major road in Dublin is set to close all weekend Credit: Google Earth Windsor Terrace in The closure is taking place from 8am to 8pm between Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13. And The council stated: 'Windsor Terrace (from Bloomfield Avenue to Longwood Avenue), Dublin 8. Advertisement READ MORE IN MOTORS 'Date – Saturday 12th July 2025 to Sunday 13th July 2025.' Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the duration of the closure, and local access to and from Longwood Avenue will be facilitated at all times. Traffic marshals will be on-site at closure points to assist with traffic management and ensure access where needed. For Advertisement Most read in Motors This includes those at the junction with Longwood Avenue, directing vehicles via South Circular Road, Bloomfield Avenue and onto Portobello Road. Clear signage will be installed to direct motorists and road users are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time during this period. TEST CHECK I'm an Irish driving instructor and here's exactly what your tester is looking for on the day The council added: 'Pedestrian access will be facilitated at all times.' Meanwhile, a busy Dublin street is set to close to traffic in days as a new rule change comes in. Advertisement It is believed that up to 23,000 people pass through the street on a daily basis. ROAD TRANSFORMATION This new measure will permanently close the space to It will also provide green and public seating. Advertisement The council said: "This space will provide an attractive north-south pedestrian and It will link with Capel Street as well as between the east and west areas of Temple Bar. In May 2025, 90 per cent of respondents to a survey said they were in favour of enhancing public space and enabling two-way cycle lanes. The presentation to the South East Area committee showed a positive reaction, as the majority said they had a desire for fewer Advertisement People referenced the success of Capel Street as an example, citing the increased vibrancy, improved atmosphere and greater foot traffic as positives for local businesses. SAFER AREA They mentioned that the proposed measures would make the area safer and more pleasant to walk and cycle through. It would also encourage families and
The Irish Sun
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
‘Disaster waiting to happen', people cry as 4 drivers fined over ‘ignorant' move in Irish seaside town
FOUR drivers have been fined for what people have blasted as "ignorant" parking in a seaside town in Co Wexford. Gardai on the beat in Cahore, a small fishing village in North Wexford, handed out the fines after spotting four cars illegally blocking the slipway. Advertisement The slipway is a vital access point for Inshore Rescue Boats responding to But people have said parked cars blocking the access point "happens more frequently than you think" as others blasted the drivers for the move. This is despite there being "ample parking" available for those who want to head to the nearby Cahore beach. Advertisement READ MORE IN MOTORS Motorists can also be hit with fines and prosecutions. Gardai said: 'Last weekend, four cars illegally blocked this slipway at Cahore, a vital access point for Inshore Rescue Boats responding to emergencies on the water. 'While fines were issued, the real danger is the risk of rescue crews being delayed — or completely blocked — from reaching someone in life-threatening difficulty. 'Emergency access routes must always remain clear. Vehicles found obstructing them can be towed and prosecutions may follow. Advertisement Most read in Motors 'Wexford County Council has provided ample free parking less than 100 metres from the beach. Our picturesque seaside town is being ruined by tourists driving their expensive cars and getting them stuck on the beach 'Please park responsibly. Don't be the reason help doesn't arrive in time.' People took to the comments on social media to share their thoughts on the issue. One person said: 'Happens more frequently than you think. Advertisement "Greystones slip, always blocked. It's a disaster waiting to happen.' Another said: 'Actually dreadful that this has to be highlighted. "It's just pure ignorance to block emergency services.' While another added: 'Some people have no respect for man or beast. So long as they are OK. Advertisement 'And no matter what you say to them, it doesn't seem to sink in? Except a good hefty fine.' DUBLIN FINES Meanwhile, in Dublin two drivers were hit with €150 Gardai issued the fines to the motorists at Dollymount Beach in Clontarf over the weekend. When gardai quizzed one of the drivers, they replied: "I'll move when someone with a disabled permit wants to park." Advertisement A garda spokesperson said: 'Gardai down at Dollymount Beach in Clontarf over the weekend issued both these drivers with fines for using the disabled parking bay without a permit. Please respect disabled parking bays.' It's an offence to park a vehicle in a disabled parking space unless the driver has a valid card. This increases to €225 if it's not paid within 28 days. The fixed charge amount for misusing a disabled parking badge is €200 and this also hiked to €300 if you do not pay within 28 days. Advertisement Traffic wardens and gardai have the power to request and inspect a parking card to ensure it is not being misused. 1 Four drivers were fined for parking in a vital access point for emergency services Credit: An Garda Siochana Wexford
India Today
07-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
Chennai startup wins Rs 3 lakh for safety tech in old buildings at IIT Madras event
A startup developing fibre-optic sensors to monitor ageing infrastructure has bagged the top prize of 3 lakh at Sangam 2025, the annual global innovation and alumni summit hosted by IIT Madras and its alumni Sensing emerged as the winner at the startup pitchfest, held on July 4 in Bengaluru, where 20 deep tech and AI startups pitched their ideas to a gathering of over 250 investors and venture firm's product uses fibre-optic sensing systems for real-time monitoring of critical infrastructure, offering a scalable solution to detect structural gaps in bridges, buildings, and industrial facilities. The technology is poised to transform infrastructure safety, particularly in ageing urban environments.Q-AXIS MOTORS AND ZENTOR MEDTECH WINNERS TOO The second prize went to Q-axis Motors, a startup that has developed India's first sub-100rad precision gimbals, designed for use in defence, drone, and surveillance systems. Their high-precision motion control devices offer vital improvements in stability and targeting for unmanned systems and aerial third place was Zentor Medtech, which has created the world's first patented solid-state laser technology for eye surgery. The innovation promises to enhance the precision and safety of ophthalmic procedures, offering an alternative to conventional laser equipment with solid-state AI, INNOVATION, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIPHeld on July 4 and 5 in Bengaluru, Sangam 2025 brought together over 500 participants, including entrepreneurs, faculty, alumni, and investors. The theme revolved around Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and entrepreneurship, reinforcing IIT Madras's position as a national leader in deep tech research and commercialisation. (L_R) Prof Ashwin Mahalingam, Prof V Kamakoti, Shri Piyush Goyal, Shyamala Rajaram at Sangam 2025 Event in Bangalore on 5th July 2025 Speaking at the event, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said: 'I have seen the passion, the enthusiasm, the bright ideas and the willingness to explore the unknown, the spirit of inquiry that all of you have demonstrated, it truly makes all of us proud of your work so much that now, having committed the entire first tranche of 'Fund of Funds' of Rs. 10,000 Crore in the last budget, now another Rs. 10,000 Crore has now been provided as Tranche 2.'He further shared that the Cabinet has approved a $12 billion (Rs 1 lakh crore) interest-free loan to the Department of Science and Technology, aimed at supporting new technologies through flexible funding models that can be reinvested as innovations MADRAS PUSHES FOR 'VIKSIT BHARAT 2047'advertisementSpeaking earlier, Prof. V Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, 'IIT Madras is committed to playing a pivotal role in shaping 'Viksit Bharat 2047'. At the forefront of its agenda are innovation and entrepreneurship, which are key drivers for National progress. The upcoming 'Sangam 2025' event embodies this vision, with a series of thoughtfully curated events designed to empower India to emerge as a nation of entrepreneurs and a global leader in product innovation.'The event was also addressed by other eminent personalities, including Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman of Axilor Ventures & Co-founder of Infosys, Dr S Somanath, Vikram Sarabhai Professor and Former Chairman of ISRO -- both distinguished alumni of IIT Madras -- and Shri Tejasvi Surya, Hon'ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Bengaluru event also featured high-profile sessions with Aparna Chennapragada (Microsoft), Srinivas Narayanan (OpenAI), Tarun Mehta (Ather Energy), Kris Gopalakrishnan (Infosys), and Dr S Somanath (former ISRO Chairman) -- all IIT Madras STARTUPS TO GLOBAL IMPACTThe Pitchfest showcased innovations across AI, health, biotech, quantum computing, logistics, and climate tech. All selected startups will now receive support from the IIT Madras Innovation Ecosystem, which has already nurtured over 500 startups in the last Shyamala Rajaram, President of the IIT Madras Alumni Association, said: 'Sangam 2025 is the powerful confluence of IIT Madras and its global alumni -- sparking bold conversations on innovation and entrepreneurship.'With initiatives like these, IIT Madras continues to strengthen its role as a global hub for technology-driven transformation and economic progress.- Ends
