Hard Shoulder: The Fiat 500 was finally launched on to the Irish market last night with prices starting at €13,995.
After months of hype, the car, which recently won the coveted Car of the Year title for Europe, was introduced to Ireland at a charity auction at the IFSC yesterday.
Three versions of the Fiat 500 are on sale here: Pop, Lounge and Sport. Each version comes with a choice of 1.2-litre 69 bhp petrol, 1.4-litre 100 bhp petrol or 1.3-litre 75 bhp multijet diesel engines. Standard equipment levels include ABS and EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), seven airbags and power steering. The new car comes with a four-year warranty. The 1.2-litre Pop starts at €13,995, with the 1.3-litre diesel and 1.4-litre petrol Pop versions both starting at €15,995.
MONDIAL WINS PEUGEOT CONTRACT IN IRELAND: Mondial Assistance Ireland has agreed a new roadside assistance contract with Gowan Distributors, the importer for Peugeot cars in Ireland. Among Mondial's other clients are BMW, Chrysler, Mazda, Jaguar, Fiat, Ford, Opel and Renault.
NEXT GENERATION ACCORD: Honda has unveiled its new Accord, continuing its crusade to break into the premium executive market. Although it's more of a facelift than a full replacement, it is wider and lower than the current model. The engine line-up includes the debut of Honda's second generation i-DTEC diesel unit, which will offer 150bhp. The new car is set to be on sale before the July tax changes.
NEW BMW APPOINTMENT: Klaus Kibsgaard (47), who led the project to take back control of BMW distribution in Ireland from Frank Keane in 2003, is to become managing director of the brand's British operation. The new role also entails a directorship in the Irish operation. He replaces Jim O'Donnell, who has been appointed president and chief operating officer of the firm's north American operations.
KOLEOS TO GO ON SHOW: Renault is to launch its Koleos 4x4 vehicle in June. The crossover is built by Renault Samsung Motors in South Korea. It will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show next month.