Latest news with #SunMotors
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
The Sun's ultimate motoring festival guide – from race day where kids go FREE to best track days for every supercar fan
Take a look at some of the best festivals featuring high-performance cars, live music and family fun coming to the UK this summer NEED FOR SPEED The Sun's ultimate motoring festival guide – from race day where kids go FREE to best track days for every supercar fan THE UK hosts some of the world's greatest car events - ranging from family-friendly festivals to petrol-fuelled gatherings. With the sun shining, it's the perfect time to start planning your car-themed outing - and Sun Motors has pulled together the ultimate guide for petrol-heads this summer. Advertisement 10 Whether you're a serious car enthusiast or simply looking for an event for the entire family, there's something for everyone happening across the country between now and the end of August. Tom Jervis, Consumer Editor at Auto Express, revealed his top picks for the best car shows, meets and motorsport weekends that are coming up. Best for Families British Grand Prix, Silverstone – 4–6 July 10 Lewis Hamilton celebrated his first victory since December 2021 at last year's British Grand Prix at Silverstone Credit: Getty Details: Advertisement The iconic Silverstone circuit, located in Northamptonshire, is the home of British motorsport. Its pinnacle event, the British Grand Prix, is the ultimate summer spectacle. But it's not just for the F1 superfans, as the weekend's action is varied and tailored for everyone - from hardcore racegoers to casual attendees - with something for the whole family. Tom says: 'Yes, it's loud and packed, but the British Grand Prix is one of the ultimate shared experiences for motorsport-loving families. 'With child-friendly zones, merchandise galore, live music from acts like Sam Fender, RAYE, Becky Hill, and Fat Boy Slim, and a weekend of thrilling track action, this is a must-see event. Advertisement 'Watching British talent like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris compete on home soil is unforgettable. 'While it's not the cheapest family weekend, the atmosphere and excitement make it worth it.' Hot lap around Silverstone in an Aston Martin with James Bond's stunt driver Tickets for the British Grand Prix went on sale last September, with prices ranging from £99 for a single day (Friday) to £349 for the full weekend. For those on a budget, general admission offers generally excellent views around Silverstone as well as roving access to most grandstands on Friday. The most affordable grandstands include Vale and Village A. Advertisement For those on a mid-range budget, grandstands that are recommended include the Hamilton Straight - located on the start/finish line and pits - as well as the iconic Woodcote A-B, and Becketts. Fans can buy tickets through the Formula 1 Ticket Portal via the official F1 website, the Silverstone site, or secondary markets like StubHub. London E-Prix, ExCeL London – 19–20 July 10 High-speed action meets sustainability at the London E-Prix, where electric racing cars light up the streets of the capital Credit: Getty Details: Racing action in the capital? You bet. Advertisement Formula E is rapidly becoming a hugely popular form of motor racing, with the unique, all-electric series bringing the action to major cities across the world - including London for the season finale. 'The all-electric Formula E championship brings a high-speed spectacle to London on a unique indoor/outdoor circuit at the ExCeL centre,' adds Tom. 'It's perfect for families interested in greener motoring, with less noise than traditional motorsport." This quieter nature of Formula E is one of its big advantages over Formula 1 and allows races to be held in urban areas with less disturbance to residents. Indeed, parents often find Formula E events more suitable for families, as the reduced sound levels create a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ages. Advertisement Tom added: 'The Fan Village offers racing simulators, live music, driver meet-and-greets, and a Kids' Corner with games and activities. 'It's ideal for tech-savvy children and eco-conscious parents.' Tickets for the London E-Prix start from £21.00 for single-day admission (Saturday or Sunday), with weekend tickets priced from £110.25 - a cheaper day out for those on a budget. Category tickets range from £52.50 to £187.95, depending on seating and age group, while children under 3 years old can attend for free if seated on a parent's lap. For those seeking premium experiences, hospitality packages are available - including the aptly named Platinum Suite which is priced at £920.00 for single-day access (Sunday) or £1,325.00 for the weekend. Advertisement British Motor Show, Farnborough – 14–17 August 10 Celebrate all things automotive at the British Motor Show, featuring exciting car displays, live demonstrations and family-friendly fun Credit: Getty Details: The British Motor Show, held in Farnborough, aims to cater to both car enthusiasts and families alike, blending entertainment, interactivity and a range of family-focused exhibits. 'Quickly becoming a staple of the family motoring calendar, the British Motor Show offers new car launches, driving experiences, and live stunt shows,' said Tom. 'Kids will love attractions like face painting, a magician, Lego zones, and giveaways, while adults can enjoy celebrity guest appearances and exciting displays like the Supercar Showdown and the Red Devils Parachute Display Team.' Advertisement Known for offering great value for money, tickets for the British Motor Show start at just £24.95 for an adult single-day pass, while a family single-day ticket - for 2 adults and 2 children - costs £59.90. For those planning to attend across all three days, an adult three-day pass is £49.90, with a family three-day pass priced at £119.90. CarFest, Hampshire – 22–24 August 10 Fans can enjoy a spectacular weekend of cars, live music and family entertainment at CarFest Credit: Getty Details: Described as 'a celebration of fast cars, comedy, music, and more', CarFest - created by DJ Chris Evans to raise funds for children's charities - is held at Laverstoke Park Farm over three jam-packed days. Advertisement Tom added: "It features rare high-performance cars, live music from artists like Travis and Madness, and family attractions like KidsFest, complete with appearances from Hey Duggee and Pudsey Bear. 'SpaFest and FoodFest add wellness and culinary experiences to the mix, making it a well-rounded family weekend.' Weekend camping tickets for CarFest cost £234 for adults aged 17+, while it's £67 for children aged 6 to 16. A family weekend camping pass, consisting of two adults and two children, starts at £566. Non-camping weekend tickets are £200 for adults and £55 for children. Advertisement Single-day tickets range from £89 to £102 for adults and £21 to £26 for children, depending on the day, with children under 6 able to attend for free. Caravans and campervans are welcomed too, with permits available for £275. Silverstone Festival, Silverstone – 22–24 August 10 Motorsport heritage, classic cars, live racing and family entertainment come together at the Silverstone Festival Credit: Getty Details: Silverstone isn't just about Formula One, with the Silverstone Festival - taking place over a month after the British Grand Prix - hosts one of the country's most popular motoring events. Advertisement Held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the festival offers a celebration of motorsport and music. This year's event is set to be extra special as the F1 championship celebrates its 75th anniversary. Tom said: 'The Silverstone Festival offers 30 hours of track action, junior racing, and Classic GTs, alongside three nights of live music featuring Natasha Bedingfield and Craig David. 'The Foodie Fest adds culinary flair, with chef demos and tasting experiences to suit every palate. 'It's a brilliant day out for the whole family.' Advertisement The Silverstone Festival's general admission for adults starts at £50 for Friday, £75 for Saturday or Sunday, and £145 for a three-day weekend pass. Children under 16 can attend for free. Car club members intending to display their vehicles can take advantage of a 2-for-1 ticket deal, with prices varying by booking period. For instance, during the Super Early Bird phase, a three-day pass was £145, rising to £155 during the Standard period. All tickets are digital and accessible via the "Silverstone Tickets" app. Advertisement Best for Enthusiasts London Concours, The Honourable Artillery Company, London – 3–5 June 10 An elegant celebration of motoring excellence can be found at the London Concours, showcasing the finest classic and modern cars Credit: Getty Details: This week's London Concours is described as 'an automotive garden party in the heart of the city' - filled with your favourite motors and a few other fancy things, too. Featuring exquisite displays like 'A British Icon', which celebrates Aston Martin, and 'The Greatest Marque', showcasing 50 Mercedes-Benz models. It's not just about cars, either, with flowing drinks, gourmet food and live music alongside over 100 of the UK's rarest cars. Advertisement What's more, for those looking to fix up a classic, the Restoration Showcase hosts some of the UK's finest craftsmen - offering insight into the specialist world. Tom added: 'With luxury retail chalets, artisan goods, and gourmet food, it's a standout event for corporate gatherings and car enthusiasts alike.' Tickets for the London Concours are priced at £60 for an adult day admission and includes a complimentary catalogue. Children get in at £30, while student's are charged £40. Afternoon-only tickets are available for £40, which grants entry from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, or 7:00 pm on Thursday. Advertisement For those looking for something extra plush, "Cocktail @ The Concours" tickets cost £35, including entry from 4:00 pm and a complimentary Jim and Tonic cocktail. Additionally, tickets for the "Smith and Sniff Live" event are £40 and include automatic entry to the London Concours. Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex – 10–13 July 10 Goodwood's Festival of Speed brings together legendary cars, thrilling hill climbs and much, much more Credit: Getty Details: The Goodwood Festival of Speed is the ultimate celebration of motorsport - and something every petrolhead should experience at least once. Advertisement A mecca for racing enthusiasts set against the backdrop of idyllic British countryside, this year's FOS pays tribute to 75 years of the F1 Championship and 125 years of motorsport history. But our personal highlight? The little-known forest rally stage, tucked away in the shade of the wooded area at the far side of the site, is great for those who prefer their motorsport with a taste of rough surfaces and the occasional jump. Tom said: 'Despite rising costs and traffic challenges, the Goodwood Festival of Speed remains a highlight of the motoring calendar. 'It's where you can see the latest road cars, air displays, and sporting exhibits like BMX trick competitions. 'While it's geared towards petrolheads, children under 12 get free entry, making it a potential family day out too.' Advertisement First and foremost, petrolheads should know that only tickets for Thursday, July 10, remain on sale. All tickets to the 2025 FOS include roving access around the Goodwood House grounds - and that means you can get up close and personal with some of motor sport's greatest machines. Access also includes the Future Lab, Electric Avenue and the Supercar Paddock, as well as standing areas alongside the hillclimb and the forest rally stage. General admission tickets vary in price depending on the day, ranging from £67 for Thursday, £81 for Friday, £108 for the action-packed Saturday and £89 for Sunday per person. Roving grandstand passes are also available for £45 each, while general admission and grandstand packages range from £130 to £183 per person. Advertisement Festival of the Unexceptional, Grimsthorpe Castle – 26 July 10 The Festival of the Unexceptional celebrates the overlooked and ordinary cars in a charming tribute to everyday classics Credit: Supplied Details: The Festival of the Unexceptional, dubbed by Hagerty as a classic car show like no other, does exactly as advertised: it celebrates all the motors considered delightfully unremarkable. Tom said: 'This event celebrates the everyday cars we grew up with. 'Think pristine Austin Allegros and lovingly restored Ford Orions. With its relaxed vibe, picnic-friendly setting, and low ticket prices, it's a nostalgic treat for enthusiasts and families alike.' Advertisement Tickets for the Festival of the Unexceptional start at a bargain £25 for general admission, with children under 15 entering for free. Early bird tickets, which were available earlier in the year, were priced at £20. For those keen on access to the Hagerty Drivers Club Members Area, it costs £10 per person, with free entry for children accompanied by a paying adult. For those selling their unexceptional cars, the "FOTU For Sale" package is available at £30, which includes car entry and driver admission. EVO Track Days – Various Locations and Dates 10 Push your driving skills to the limit at an EVO Track Day, offering the chance to put pedal to the metal at some of the UK's most iconic circuits Credit: Getty Advertisement Details: Organised by EVO Magazine, EVO Track Days offer car enthusiasts the opportunity to drive their own cars on famous race tracks across the UK - with focus on a friendly, non-snobby environment that caters to a range of drivers, from beginners to experienced racers. Tom said: 'For those who love noise, grip, and G-forces, EVO's Track Days are second to none. 'Held across top circuits like Goodwood and Donington Park, these events offer expert instruction and camaraderie. "They're also a brilliant gift idea for Father's Day.' Advertisement As you can probably expect, prices for Evo Track Days in the UK vary depending on the track and the type of session. Typically, evening sessions at tracks such as Donington Park, Bedford Autodrome, and Brands Hatch cost £219, while full-day experiences at Goodwood Circuit are priced at £449. For 2025, confirmed events include an evening session at Donington Park on June 24 and an evening session at the Bedford Autodrome on August 8 - both priced at £219. Later in the year, drivers can head to Brands Hatch for an evening session on September 3 - also priced at £219 - while a full day at Goodwood Circuit, at a cost of £449, takes place on September 25. Petrolheads can generally bring most standard cars, provided they are in good mechanical and structural condition and meet the track's requirements. Advertisement This includes working seat belts, brake lights and indicators, as well as being free of fluid leaks. Noise limits apply and are strict, so your motor must pass a noise test to be allowed on the circuit. There are restrictions on certain types, including single-seaters, open-wheel cars and sports prototypes like Radicals, depending on the event. Slick tyres may be permitted at some track days, but only if the car has roll bars or a roll cage. It's best to ensure your car complies with the specific event's regulations before booking - including relating to noise limits and safety standards.
The Irish Sun
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
BMW 1 Series used cars: I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW is by far a standout
OK, so 47 is an estimate, but I have driven a lot of hatchbacks, and the BMW Series 1 is a standout. The quintessential hatchback is, of course, the Golf, which in all its incarnations has delivered – but the BMW pips it, and I'll explain why. Advertisement 4 I'd always associated BMWs with committed middle managers driving company cars. A few minutes behind the wheel of the BMW Series 1 M Sport changed all that. I'm not going to say that the VW Golf has had its day (or make a joke that the current version of the car is as unfashionable as the sport, as that would be cruel). But the BMW Series 1 does everything you need a hatch to do – but better than the others. What is a hatchback? A hatchback is a car with a large rear door that opens to create a large boot space. Advertisement READ MORE BUYING USED CARS Hatchback cars are flexible. You can typically carry 4 or more passengers in comfort. When you need extra carrying space, you can lower the back seats. (Make sure the passengers aren't in there first.) The VW Golf pretty much defined what a hatchback is and what it does, and – despite what we've written above – we still love it. Reviewers know it still does the business, but the Golf spawned a whole lot of imitators – some of which are now ready to challenge for the hatchback king's crown. Advertisement Most read in Buy Benefits of a hatchback Small, manoeuvrable, great handling Excellent visibility from the large rear window Sporty looks (especially souped-up variants, including GTI, M Sport, FR, etc.) Versatile, with space for 4 passengers and luggage Fold-down seats provide extra carrying capacity Perfect for families, city drivers or country dwellers BMW 1 Series: An overview When you're buying a hatchback, it's 50% heart and 50% head. It's got to look great and have the speed and performance you want. It's also got to be fuel efficient, reliable and – in these cash-strapped times – affordable. Let's work through the list. The BMW 1 Series looks, to me, fantastic. Looks are personal, so feel free to disagree. Advertisement The M Sport version goes above and beyond with 18' alloys, a rear spoiler and splitters, as well as a full leather interior and a beast of an engine. (Ticks box) It's hard to argue with performance. The majority of modern (post-2019) Series 1s are front-wheel drive with either a 3- or 4-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive makes more space for luggage at the back without impacting the driving experience, which is impeccable. (Ticks box) In-car entertainment and tech is top-notch, as you'd expect on a premium BMW. (Ticks box) Advertisement It's not a class leader (and real-life returns will vary on your driving style, condition, etc.), but you can The BMW Series 1 was one of only two cars that achieved a 100% reliability rating from Affordable? Check out this round-up of used BMW Series 1 cars for sale. Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors Advertisement Used BMW 1 Series for sale Here are some of the BMW Series-1s for sale on Sun Motors that piqued our interest… Great value: BMW 1 SERIES 1.5 118i SE 4 Model: BMW Series 1 1.5 118i SE This Advertisement The mileage is low, with 65,000 miles half that of others on the market. The relatively low use shows up in the condition of the car, which is excellent. It's a well-presented car – and the good bits don't stop. The 118i SE model is a slightly more premium package (just below M Sport). The 138 bhp engine is a bit of a beast, but you'll still get almost 40mpg. (Check out the full specs on If we were looking for a great family runaround that would still turn a few heads, this would be a perfect choice. Advertisement M Sport Monster: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport 4 Model: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport BMW M Sport is legendary, with better internal trim, external styling and engine. If you're buying a BMW, we all want that little badge, don't we? (Forget about the insurance premiums for a minute…) Advertisement If comfort, acceleration and speed are important to you, then check out this You'll get the better body kit, leather interior, and large alloys. It's a superb-looking car. Under the bonnet, the BMW has a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that will fly when you put your foot to the floor. Thinking with the head, it's a good price for a relatively new BMW Series-1 with just 61,000 miles under its belt. Advertisement Go on, you know you want it. 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 Latest model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive 4 Model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive We've gone for the super powerful and ultra-cool Advertisement That's achievable because of the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that knocks out 301 bhp. Ouch. It's a 4WD car, which delivers good handling, traction and stability. The 2025 model here is the latest version with updated and improved external styling. This isn't your average motorway munching BMW, but a powerful sports car that's been somehow sanitised a little bit. Our choice is basically a new car with 100 miles on the clock. Advertisement If you buy it, can we have a drive? Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars? The BMW 1 Series is the best in class for build quality, which means an ultra-reliable drive, which is vital for families. OK, things can still go wrong, but buy a good BMW Series 1, and you should be OK. Buying a used car? Check out Advertisement
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Top five affordable luxury cars to get back into driving this summer from a used car expert
DESIGNER DRIVER Top five affordable luxury cars to get back into driving this summer from a used car expert Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) EARLY mornings, late nights, and lots of sun are the perfect driving conditions. Don't like the car outside your doorstep or on the driveway? Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Check out Sun Motors' selection of the best and most affordable luxury cars for sale in time for summer. Why buy a luxury car? Because you're worth it. Prestige cars – like those featured below – look better, feel better and drive better than your average car. Luxury cars aren't just bought with the heart but involve the head, too. When you buy used, you're getting a bargain, with the original owner taking the hit. If you're searching for an inexpensive luxury car, Sun Motors gives you access to the UK's best selection of premium cars. You'll find luxury cars from all manufacturers for sale at competitive prices. In fact, we've found some seriously cheap luxury cars that won't break the bank. Here's our top-five affordable luxury cars… What is a luxury car? Luxury cars are, as their name suggests, a cut above your bog-standard, basic models. You'll find bigger and better engines, refined looks, better interiors and enjoy a smoother driving experience. Most read in Buy NEED FOR SPEED I'm a used car expert, these are the top FASTEST selling cars I'd recommend There are companies that specialise in building prestige, performance cars like Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Maserati etc. These are all considered luxury cars. You'll also find that pretty many of the established names like Mercedes Benz, BMW, VW, Audi, Ford and more produce luxury rages. Some of these are featured below, like the S Class, a luxury executive car that oozes class and sophistication. Most car brands also produce luxury versions of standard models. The Golf GTIi is a good example of how a manufacturer can improve the engine, internals and externals to transform a good one into a truly great one. Buying a used luxury car Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but luxury cars look good. (Or at least, they should do!) Nobody is going to argue that a Porsche Cayman isn't perfection, are they? Luxury cars should be as attractive on the inside as the outside, with fine internal fittings, comfortable seats, and ultra cool in-car-entertainment. You'll also find a more powerful engine, precision steering, super smooth suspension and higher levels of driving technology. Depreciation on a luxury car can be massive. When you buy a used luxury car, you're getting a huge amount of engineering and performance at a much lower price tag. Top 5 affordable luxury cars This is our list of the best and most affordable luxury cars for sale today. This list isn't scientific or based on any fixed criteria. That's the point with a luxury car, it's about your personality… Range Rover Evoque 6 Model: Range Rover Evoque Considered an 'entry level' Range Rover, the Evoque was still over £40,000 when new – and it feels it. The crossover SUV is a firm favourite among families, yummy mummies and what we used to call yuppies (ask your dad). The Evoque is a proper luxury car and, for us, is a better investment than the BMW X3. (Opinions on this may differ.) It's luxurious inside, with amazing in-car entertainment and a smooth ride all around. This used-approved 2020 Evoque is top of budget at £25,000, but that's still a bit of a bargain. Porsche Boxster 6 This 2015 Porsche Boxster has done 45,000 miles and is on sale currently for £28,500 Model: Porsche Boxster Who doesn't love the Porsche Boxster? It's a super capable mid-engine roadster that tears up the road. 'Sensationally to drive and beautifully built,' is WhatCar's opinion and it's all true. The Porsche Boxster is a super convertible. This 2015 Porsche Boxster Convertible is a shade over £25k, but with some careful negotiation could get you closer to "affordable" levels. Open top cruising probably doesn't get any cooler. Mercedes S Class 6 Sun Motors houses multiple Mercedes S Classes for a perfect price Model: Mercedes S Class The ultimate executive car? Lexus might disagree, but the S-Class range of sedans and coupes has been carrying the rich and powerful around for over 50 years. They are exquisitely built and near silent while driving. Under the bonnet of every S-Class is a finely tuned beast. A brand new S-Class can easily run you over £100,000 – but you can pick up a used bargain. This awesome Mercedes-Benz S Class 2.9 S350L d AMG Line car comes in at around £23,000 – which is an amazing price for this 9-speed, diesel-powered beast. BMW 6 series 6 This 2016 BMW 6 series is available for £400 per month on finance on has only done 54,000 miles Model: BMW 6 series The BMW 6 series is classed as a grand tourer and is built for cross-continental journeys on those unregulated German motorways. But don't worry, it'll also fit in just as well in the Lidl car park. The BMW 6 series is no longer in production, being replaced by the 8 Series. That means you can pick up a bit of a bargain. It's summer, so our choice is this BMW 6 SERIES 3.0 640d M Sport Convertible. You get a super convertible with the all-important M-series badge on the back. If you don't buy it, I might. Jaguar XE 6 Model: Jaguar XE Jaguar is the quintessential luxury car to any kid brought up in the 70s and 80s. It may no longer be British-owned, but the brand is as part of our culture as apologising for nothing in particular. Jaguar executive care, like the Jaguar XE, can lose a huge amount of value in the first 3 years – in some cases, almost 50%. Spare your tears for the sad banker and instead start looking for a bargain, like this 2019 JAGUAR XE 2.0 [250] R-Sport. The 250 in brackets refers to the 250 horsepower, turbocharged petrol engine. The R-Sport trim describes the aggressive and sporty styling which continues inside. Trust us, arrive in this luxury car and you'll turn heads at the golf club. 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. Luxury car FAQs What are some luxury car brands? When you think of luxury cars, you naturally think of prestige brands like Jaguar, Porsche, Aston Martin, Range Rover, etc. These are all luxury car brands. You'll also find mainstream brands like Mercedes Benz, BMW, VW and any other you can think of with luxury lines, as well. Cheapest luxury cars to look out for A cheap luxury car isn't necessarily a great thing because they're notoriously complex to work on and costly to fix. Instead, let's look at the biggest depreciation. We can see the Maserati Levante, Audi A8, Audi S6, Maserati Ghibli are all luxury cars that lose *a lot* of value, says AutoExpress. If you're looking for bargain luxury cars that won't break the bank, check out our list above! What is luxury car tax? The luxury car tax is an additional £425 levy applied to any car that costs over £40,000 when new. Introduced in 2017, the increase in vehicle excise duty (VED). The increased cost is paid for 5 years. New cars are sold with a year's VED paid, so the luxury car tax is paid from when the car is 1 year old to 6 years old. Does luxury car tax apply to second-hand cars? Sadly, yes, the luxury car tax covers used cars, too. Are luxury cars more expensive to insure? Yes. Bigger, more powerful and more expensive cars will cost you more money to insure than a smaller car. But the total price you pay depends on more than the make and model of car but your circumstances, age, driving history and more. In the end, many people think a few extra quid a month to insure a prestige car is money well spent, and who are we to argue? Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
The Sun
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
Top five affordable luxury cars to get back into driving this summer from a used car expert
EARLY mornings, late nights, and lots of sun are the perfect driving conditions. Don't like the car outside your doorstep or on the driveway? 6 Check out Sun Motors' selection of the best and most affordable luxury cars for sale in time for summer. Why buy a luxury car? Because you're worth it. Prestige cars – like those featured below – look better, feel better and drive better than your average car. Luxury cars aren't just bought with the heart but involve the head, too. When you buy used, you're getting a bargain, with the original owner taking the hit. If you're searching for an inexpensive luxury car, Sun Motors gives you access to the UK's best selection of premium cars. You'll find luxury cars from all manufacturers for sale at competitive prices. In fact, we've found some seriously cheap luxury cars that won't break the bank. Here's our top-five affordable luxury cars… What is a luxury car? Luxury cars are, as their name suggests, a cut above your bog-standard, basic models. You'll find bigger and better engines, refined looks, better interiors and enjoy a smoother driving experience. There are companies that specialise in building prestige, performance cars like Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Maserati etc. These are all considered luxury cars. You'll also find that pretty many of the established names like Mercedes Benz, BMW, VW, Audi, Ford and more produce luxury rages. Some of these are featured below, like the S Class, a luxury executive car that oozes class and sophistication. Most car brands also produce luxury versions of standard models. The Golf GTIi is a good example of how a manufacturer can improve the engine, internals and externals to transform a good one into a truly great one. Buying a used luxury car Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but luxury cars look good. (Or at least, they should do!) Nobody is going to argue that a Porsche Cayman isn't perfection, are they? Luxury cars should be as attractive on the inside as the outside, with fine internal fittings, comfortable seats, and ultra cool in-car-entertainment. You'll also find a more powerful engine, precision steering, super smooth suspension and higher levels of driving technology. Depreciation on a luxury car can be massive. When you buy a used luxury car, you're getting a huge amount of engineering and performance at a much lower price tag. Top 5 affordable luxury cars This is our list of the best and most affordable luxury cars for sale today. This list isn't scientific or based on any fixed criteria. That's the point with a luxury car, it's about your personality… Range Rover Evoque 6 Model: Range Rover Evoque FIND HERE Considered an 'entry level' Range Rover, the Evoque was still over £40,000 when new – and it feels it. The crossover SUV is a firm favourite among families, yummy mummies and what we used to call yuppies (ask your dad). The Evoque is a proper luxury car and, for us, is a better investment than the BMW X3. (Opinions on this may differ.) It's luxurious inside, with amazing in-car entertainment and a smooth ride all around. This used-approved 2020 Evoque is top of budget at £25,000, but that's still a bit of a bargain. Porsche Boxster 6 Model: Porsche Boxster FIND HERE Who doesn't love the Porsche Boxster? It's a super capable mid-engine roadster that tears up the road. 'Sensationally to drive and beautifully built,' is WhatCar's opinion and it's all true. The Porsche Boxster is a super convertible. This 2015 Porsche Boxster Convertible is a shade over £25k, but with some careful negotiation could get you closer to "affordable" levels. Open top cruising probably doesn't get any cooler. Mercedes S Class Model: Mercedes S Class FIND HERE The ultimate executive car? Lexus might disagree, but the S-Class range of sedans and coupes has been carrying the rich and powerful around for over 50 years. They are exquisitely built and near silent while driving. Under the bonnet of every S-Class is a finely tuned beast. A brand new S-Class can easily run you over £100,000 – but you can pick up a used bargain. This awesome Mercedes-Benz S Class 2.9 S350L d AMG Line car comes in at around £23,000 – which is an amazing price for this 9-speed, diesel-powered beast. BMW 6 series 6 Model: BMW 6 series FIND HERE The BMW 6 series is classed as a grand tourer and is built for cross-continental journeys on those unregulated German motorways. But don't worry, it'll also fit in just as well in the Lidl car park. The BMW 6 series is no longer in production, being replaced by the 8 Series. That means you can pick up a bit of a bargain. It's summer, so our choice is this BMW 6 SERIES 3.0 640d M Sport Convertible. You get a super convertible with the all-important M-series badge on the back. If you don't buy it, I might. Jaguar XE Model: Jaguar XE FIND HERE Jaguar is the quintessential luxury car to any kid brought up in the 70s and 80s. It may no longer be British-owned, but the brand is as part of our culture as apologising for nothing in particular. Jaguar executive care, like the Jaguar XE, can lose a huge amount of value in the first 3 years – in some cases, almost 50%. Spare your tears for the sad banker and instead start looking for a bargain, like this 2019 JAGUAR XE 2.0 [250] R-Sport. The 250 in brackets refers to the 250 horsepower, turbocharged petrol engine. The R-Sport trim describes the aggressive and sporty styling which continues inside. Trust us, arrive in this luxury car and you'll turn heads at the golf club. Luxury car FAQs What are some luxury car brands? When you think of luxury cars, you naturally think of prestige brands like Jaguar, Porsche, Aston Martin, Range Rover, etc. These are all luxury car brands. You'll also find mainstream brands like Mercedes Benz, BMW, VW and any other you can think of with luxury lines, as well. Cheapest luxury cars to look out for A cheap luxury car isn't necessarily a great thing because they're notoriously complex to work on and costly to fix. Instead, let's look at the biggest depreciation. We can see the Maserati Levante, Audi A8, Audi S6, Maserati Ghibli are all luxury cars that lose *a lot* of value, says AutoExpress. If you're looking for bargain luxury cars that won't break the bank, check out our list above! What is luxury car tax? The luxury car tax is an additional £425 levy applied to any car that costs over £40,000 when new. Introduced in 2017, the increase in vehicle excise duty (VED). The increased cost is paid for 5 years. New cars are sold with a year's VED paid, so the luxury car tax is paid from when the car is 1 year old to 6 years old. Does luxury car tax apply to second-hand cars? Sadly, yes, the luxury car tax covers used cars, too. Are luxury cars more expensive to insure? Yes. Bigger, more powerful and more expensive cars will cost you more money to insure than a smaller car. But the total price you pay depends on more than the make and model of car but your circumstances, age, driving history and more. In the end, many people think a few extra quid a month to insure a prestige car is money well spent, and who are we to argue? Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
The Sun
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
I'm an ex-parking officer – I've issued thousands of tickets but I always let drivers off the hook for four reasons
SEEING a big yellow sticker on your window screen as you approach your parked car fills every motorist with dread. But every so often, a stroke of luck means you might get away with paying the fine after all - especially if you bump into a friendly parking officer like Martin Holloway who spent over a decade issuing tickets across UK streets. 4 4 Many drivers believe their only hope of avoiding a hefty fine is to find some sort of complicated legal loophole. However, charm, humour, and the occasional snack could make all the difference, according to the retired meter attendant. Speaking to Sun Motors via Plate Express, Martin said: 'I've printed more tickets than I can count, but I've also walked away from plenty. 'If someone was respectful, had a bit of wit, or just seemed unlucky – I'd sometimes give them a pass.' One particularly memorable instance he recounts involved a driver rushing over just as he was inspecting his car. 'He said, 'Look, don't fine me and I'll grab you lunch. 'I thought he was joking – but five minutes later, he came back with a chicken burger, fries, and a drink. 'I let him off. He was over the time limit, sure, but not by much. I appreciated the gesture.' But Martin, 59, says he certainly wasn't the first officer to bend the rules, and won't be the last. 'We all had our days. Sometimes you just didn't feel like ruining someone's afternoon over a couple of minutes. 'If they were decent and not taking the mick, I'd move on.' Major parking change for ALL drivers in England Martin also said he would give drivers a chance to buy a valid ticket on the spot rather than issuing a fine if they were kind and honest. 'If they were reasonable, I'd say, 'Look, go buy a ticket now and I'll pretend I didn't see anything.' 'That way, they paid – but avoided the big fine. I'd much rather that than slapping someone with a penalty for something they clearly didn't mean to do.' Tricks of the trade Naturally, not every officer will be quite as forgiving as Martin, and once a fine is issued, drivers should act quickly and smartly to resolve the matter. That includes paying promptly, which helps to avoid added fees. Most areas offer a 50 per cent discount if the fine is paid within 14 days, but missing that can see the fine doubled. One simple trick is to always take a photo when parking, including a snap of the dashboard ticket, nearby signs and anything unusual. If an appeal is needed later on, these images could come in handy. GIFT OF THE GAB Martin, who spent many years as a parking officer before retiring, says certain behaviours can make the difference between receiving a ticket – or having it waived. He said: 'You can have all the rules in the world, but after ten years of doing the job, you get a feel for people. Some genuinely made mistakes. 'Others were just chancers – and you could spot them a mile off.' Be friendly, not aggressive - 'If someone marched over shouting, I didn't hesitate. But if they were nice? I'd pause.' Catch them early - 'If I hadn't printed the ticket yet, it was fair game. Timing really mattered.' Honesty wins - 'Telling me your alarm didn't go off beats a made-up emergency. We've heard every excuse - believable ones worked best.' A small gesture goes a long way - 'You don't need to offer lunch, but even offering a coffee or saying thanks made an impression. It's just human decency.' When it comes to challenging a fine, it's important to make sure everything you do is fair and does not come from emotion. That means, if you think the fine is wrong, appeal with facts and photos in a calm, evidence-based challenge – instead of an angry, insult-laden rant. And, as we've learned, a smile, good timing, or simple human connection could make the difference when it comes to dodging a fine – proving that much of it comes down to attitude instead of luck. But if it doesn't go your way, being prepared and proactive is always your best defence. Parking changes A major change has recently been announced in how drivers pay for parking in England, with the introduction of the National Parking Platform designed to simplify the process for millions. Supported by Labour, this "one app fits all" system will allow motorists to pay for parking through a single app - eliminating the need to download multiple apps for different operators. The platform, developed by the British Parking Association and industry leaders like RingGo and JustPark, aims to provide clarity and flexibility for drivers, and will also reduce confusion and the risk of fines. It will connect participating car parks to a shared system, enabling payments through any approved app. Already rolled out in 10 local authorities, the platform will eventually expand nationwide - operating on a not-for-profit basis with government oversight. The initiative also addresses issues with private parking firms, including a rule change requiring payment before leaving car parks using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. 4 4
