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Geneva: the Company Car stars

Written by Parkers Published: 7 March 2011 Updated: 1 February 2017

 

The Geneva Motor Show saw plenty of world debuts from a number of manufacturers. There was a mixture of production-ready cars and concepts on show, with a host of key models for company car drivers unveiled.

Here's our pick of the bunch:

1. Hyundai i40

WHAT IS IT?

The most important reveal for the South Korean company was the i40. Set to take on the likes of the Ford Mondeo and Mazda6, this is unknown territory for the brand. It will be fitted with the firm's new 1.7-litre diesel engine and BlueDrive eco package, meaning it should be capable of emissions of around 113g/km.

What appeals to the company car driver?

The low emission engines and expected low list price makes for cheap BIK tax bills.

 VITAL STATISTICS

Price (new) - £20,000 (est)

Power - 113bhp

Fuel economy - 65.7mpg

Available when? - Mid 2011

 

2. Vauxhall Zafira

WHAT IS IT?

Vauxhall unveiled a new Zafira concept. Although not a production car at this time, it's a strong pointer towards what the new Zafira will look like when it finally arrives in the UK. It's the latest new model from the manufacturer and follows the latest design keys seen on the new Astra and Meriva.

What appeals to the company car driver?

An MPV with lots of space, the Zafira is likely to have a range of efficient engines too. Vauxhall is a strong performer in the fleet world. 

VITAL STATISTICS

Price (new) - TBA

Power - TBA

Fuel economy - TBA

Available when? - Potentially 2012

 

3. Ford B-Max

WHAT IS IT?

Ford showed off a production-ready version of the Meriva-sized B-Max. A 1.0-litre three cylinder engine promises 100bhp while returning 70mpg and emitting less than 100g/km CO2. It also features a six-speed Powershift double-clutch automatic gearbox and this combination is almost certainly confirmed for production when it goes on sale early next year.

What appeals to the company car driver?

Those figures tell their own story; the B-Max with the engine mentioned will be eligable for the 10% BIK taxation.

VITAL STATISTICS

Price (new) - TBA

Power - 100bhp

Fuel economy - 70mpg

Available when? - Early 2012

 

4. Citroen DS4

WHAT IS IT?

A concept version of the new DS4 was on display, called the DS4 Purple, it featured upmarket trim and design details. Although only a concept, ignore the Purple name nonsence, it's likely to be extremely similar to the production car when it goes on sale later this year.

What appeals to the company car driver?

The company car driver who wants a touch of style will like the DS4. Citroen also does a good range of diesel engines, meaning there will probably be one with a low BIK tax level.

VITAL STATISTICS

Price (new) - £20,000+ (est)

Power - TBA

Fuel economy - TBA

Available when? - Late 2011

 

5. Audi A3 saloon

WHAT IS IT?

Audi unveiled an A3 saloon concept at this year's show. Powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine, it produces 405bhp which is fed to all four wheels through a twin-clutch automatic gearbox. Although only a concept, it is a sign of what the next-generation A3 model will be.

What appeals to the company car driver?

Audi's premium image appeals to company car drivers, and the A3 has always been a popular proposition for business drivers. A strong range of economical engines will further boost its appeal.

VITAL STATISTICS

Price (new) - TBA

Power - 405bhp

Fuel economy - 26mpg

Available when? - TBA