Norwich Union’s pay as you drive scheme allows young drivers will be able to keep their premiums to more affordable levels

Norwich Union’s “pay as you drive” scheme allows young drivers will be able to keep their premiums to more affordable levels by driving mainly during “‘off peak” times. But it always pays to just shop around.”Until a couple of years ago insurance had been a bit of nightmare,” says Katherine Alison, 25, from Bedford. “I remember, after passing my test at 19, ringing around and getting sky-high quotes. I ended up paying over pounds 100 a month, which was more than my Renault Clio was worth.

But two and half years ago, I bought a new Peugeot 206 and decided to shop around. I was surprised to see that Tesco were doing cover and even more surprised by the quote.” Katherine reduced the insurance by pounds 120; she now pays pounds 28 a month, including breakdown cover. Therefore you like Pepsi.”

The real motor in this story is the US State Department, which in the mid-Fifties made the export of jazz its pet project. THE 1-SERIES has one big argument in its favour; it is a proper BMW. Except for a trace of harshness – perhaps caused by its run-flat tyres – our test 1-series steered and handled very nicely, vindicating BMW’s choice. For pounds 20,000, I don’t think it is worth it.”Nicola: “The car’s styling was quite groovy in places with echoes of the Mini, reflected in the rounded wing mirrors and rear-view mirror, and there were some excellent features such as automatic rain sensors and lights.

Would I spend upwards of pounds 19k on this? I don’t think so. Phil Brown is looking to replace his failing VW Golf TDI with a used diesel estate, automatic if possible, on a T or X registration. He is not keen on Ford or Citroen but he has read some encouraging things about Skoda diesels Otherwise, he is reasonably open-minded. Phil should be open-minded, especially when it comes to Citroens and Fords, because to overlook these makes is to ignore the good value and low running costs that they offer.

In particular, Citroens are renowned for their great diesel engines. On the subject of diesel, Car Choice is repeatedly asked about smaller automatic models, and the fact is that until recently they have been a rarity on all but the most prestigious models. As Phil is an existing user of diesel technology, he probably appreciates the benefits and characteristics of this frugal and tough unit. For many though, paying the extra for a used diesel may not be that advantageous, especially in the shorter term.
The demand for used diesels is on the increase and this is reflected in much higher prices.