Five Alternatives To A VW Transporter

The Volkswagen Transporter is massively popular, but what alternatives are there? Mike Armstrong investigates

Petrol heads and ordinary civilians alike cannot deny their admiration and love for the Volkswagen Camper. Particularly the T2, which has seemingly managed to cross genres and win the hearts of everyone on the planet. Even later T25 and T4 models are appreciating in value at a rate which will exclude the majority of those seeking a budget camper.

Many specialists exist across Britain who will convert just about any form of commercial-ish vehicle into a dayvan or fully blown camper conversion. Let's set ourselves a budget of £10,000 and see which vehicles would be a better alternative for the average lover of the great outdoors. Hopefully we can encourage a few readers to begin projects for next spring/summer!

1 - Mitsubishi Delica

A rather overlooked potential conversion in the UK. The Delica is a robust Japanese van/people carrier with attitude. Firstly, it will go just about anywhere thanks to the world renowned four-wheel drive system, which will be equally as effective in sub-Saharan Africa as a muddy field in Cornwall. £3,000 will buy a MK3 Japanese import with around 100,000 miles and a diesel engine. Sources suggest that a firm in Wigan provides the basic conversion starting from £4,000. In total, this reliable and indestructible Delica will cost as little as £7,000.

2 - Mazda Bongo Friendee/Ford Freda

Another dayvan/camper from Japan joins the list. The Bongo has been a grey import hit in many countries, including: the UK, New Zealand and Russia. Not many vans of the late 90's offered electric sliding doors and air conditioning as standard. Some were even specified with cooking units as an option from the factory, making one of these earlier examples preferable for a budget conversion. Furthermore, they came available in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive formats, with the engine situated in the middle. A mid-engine sports car it is not, however with prices around the £4,000 mark, you would be foolish not to consider a Bongo.

3 - Vauxhall Vivaro/Renault Trafic

Surprisingly overlooked amongst the camper scene. Rather unfortunate that is as these vans drive very well, are plentiful and are fairly modern for the price you pay. Conversion specialists are plentiful too, offering various different types of flatpack and custom designs. Due to their modern credentials, spare parts are cheap and specialists common. Furthermore, the diesel engines will return better MPG on a long run than the Delica or Bongo. Not bad for a van which can be obtained from around £3,000 plus conversion costs.

4 - Chrysler Grand Voyager

No, we haven't gone crazy! The Grand Voyager would make a superb camper, and this is why. Unlike most other conversions, the roofline is lower, meaning that campers can park their Voyager in regular sized car parks or travel with regular vehicles on the Eurotunnel. Also, the width and length of the interior is nigh on identical to a T4 VW Transporter, only costing a fraction of the price. Early examples can be had for under £1,000. We'd obviously recommend spending around £2,000 for peace of mind. Conversion costs may be less too, as the Grand Voyager already has windows, therefore the law does not require any extras fitted for re-classification. Similar projects could feasibly be done with the Renault Grand Espace and Kia Sedona to the same effect.

5 - Ford Transit

Britain's best loved work horse certainly makes the list. Price conscious members of the camper conversion society forever rant about how much better the Transit is than the Transporter. Indeed, with a lower starting price, the argument appears to have weight to it. Not to mention, Transits are far more common, cost less to repair and drive pretty well. With prices starting from £1,000 and rising as to your requirements, the Transit will offer a lot of camper space for your money.

So if building your own camper this winter is the ideal project for you. Take these five vehicles into account, and sleep on it to decide which you'd prefer to sleep in. Also feel free to suggest any other vehicles or feedback on your experiences via Twitter or in the comments section below.

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10 Motoring Anniversaries in 2014

The current year has certainly been buzzing with anniversaries from the motoring world. Seemingly every other day, a manufacturer has inflated the party balloons, wrapped the presents and indulged in too much birthday cake. Gather round, light the candles and get ready to sing, for here is a list of ten vehicles and manufacturers celebrating an anniversary in 2014.

Vauxhall VXR - 10 Years

Vauxhall's VXR range has become synonymous with epic performance and giant slaying capabilities. The Australian Commodore badge engineered Monaro became the stuff of legends, outperforming many major German premium offerings. All of this began in 2004 though, with the upgraded Vauxhall VX220, the VXR220. Ever since, the UK has been offered the likes of the Astra VXR, Corsa VXR, Zafira VXR, Insignia VXR, Vectra VXR, Monaro VXR and the VXR8 to list a few. An exciting future still lies ahead for the Vauxhall brand.

Mazda MX5 - 25 Years

Mazda's MX5 has always enjoyed affection from the motoring press and owners alike. Providing superb handling at a relative bargain, the little Japanese sports car has definitely made a hefty impact on our shores. Launched back in 1989, the cute little sports car caught the world's imagination with the inclusion of quirky pop-up headlights, amongst other traits. Many would go so far as proclaim the MX5 as providing the thrills of a true British sports car.

Land Rover Discovery - 25 Years

Also born in 1989 was a best-seller from Land Rover. Originally based on the contemporary Range Rover, albeit at a lower spec and price, the Discovery was designed to compete with many Japanese offerings at the time; i.e the Mitsubishi Shogun/Pajero. Ever since though, the Discovery has sold tremendously worldwide and became one of the best off-roaders that money could buy. The modern equivalent appears increasingly upmarket as the years progressed, however be sure that the current ownership will take this model to new and greater heights.

Seat Ibiza - 25 Years

Quite frankly, the saviour for the Seat brand, who had previously only really offered rebadged Fiat technology. The Seat Ibiza sold strongly due to its Porsche engineered engine. Originally a unit destined for the Volkswagen Golf, the brand was coincidentally later commandeered by the Volkswagen Group. Hence all future models were based upon the contemporary Polo. Ever since, the Ibiza has become Seat's best-selling model, vaguely keeping the Spanish Catalan state afloat financially. Cupra models have continued to excite the motoring world throughout each generation, leaving high hopes for the brand's future.

Peugeot GTI - 30 Years

In 1984, Peugeot created a monster. One of the pioneers of the traditional hot hatch was born, and what a marvellous piece of technology it was. Even 30 years on, teenagers still lust after an original 205 GTI on equal levels to the rivalling Golf GTI. Peugeot had a few greatest hits with the 309 GTI and 106 GTI. For years though, the GTI label has remained little more than a trim level, with lacklustre offerings in the form of the 206 and 207 GTI. Worry not, for the spirit is back with the 208 GTI, which finally handles like a true Peugeot GTI should.

Mitsubishi - 40 Years

Believe it or not, the Mitsubishi brand has existed in the UK now for 40 years. With such famous models as the Colt, Galant, Shogun/Pajero and Lancer, Britain has received the Japanese brand well. Most associate the brand with the Lancer Evo series, which took the rally driving scene by storm with its heated rival, the Subaru Impreza.

Ssangyong - 60 Years

The Korean brand which no one seems to know how to pronounce is now 60 years old. Launched in 1954, the brand manufactured army jeeps and trucks for many years. British consumers only became aware of the brand in the early 90's, following a partnership with Daimler-Benz which created the Ssangyong Musso. Ever since, the brand has earned a reputation for quite questionable styling. Despite the obscure offerings, the brand continues to grow and offers competitive off-road and MPV vehicles.

MG - 90 Years

Of course, MG may not have existed for much of the past decade, however the lads at Longbridge are thrilled to celebrate their 90th anniversary. Following the brand's resurrection, the amount of dealerships is ever-expanding. The brand's history, although rocky at times, is one of the most colourful in the history of British motoring. Many Brits remember fondly the MGB, MGF, MG Metro, MG Maestro, MG ZT and various other offerings. Although current offerings lack the passion of the past, we can only wish the best for the future of the Chinese owned British car manufacturer.

Bentley - 95 Years

One of the best luxury car manufacturers in the world is now celebrating its 95th birthday. In 2013, one in every four luxury cars delivered was a Bentley, impressive despite the limitations of handmade methods of manufacturing. Bentley cars have established themselves firmly throughout history. Bentley models were used as off-road vehicles during World War One, as well as other winning multiple 24 Hour Le Mans races and amongst the ownership of the world's most rich and famous. Since ownership was earned by the Volkswagen Group, sales have risen from strength to ever-growing strength. Expect even bigger things for the Bentley brand

Maserati - 100 Years

Not often in the motoring world do we experience a centenary celebration. But when we do, little more can top the history of the Maserati brand. Started in 1914 by three brothers; Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto, the story began with the First World War. As luxury racers became their pedigree, the brand became synonymous with providing only the best combination of performance and luxury.

By Mike Armstrong

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Has Nissan Unveiled The Next GT-R?

Gamers and motoring fanatics have combined forces for many years now. A love of cars and video games has brought us many titles. Gamers can opt to steal and destroy cars on Grand Theft Auto V, whilst speed freaks can destroy lap times on Gran Turismo 6. The latter has become famous for revealing concept vehicles which later made production. Furthermore, the design team behind the Gran Turismo saga were actually contracted to work on the current generation Nissan GT-R to produce a multi-function display.

Now it seems that Gran Turismo and Nissan have rekindled another former romance. The result is the Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo, a futuristic design featured as a downloadable vehicle. Interesting you might think, however how does this affect the motoring world outside of the realm of virtual reality?

Apparently the concept, formulated by Nissan's young designers during a design study, was so impressive that it encouraged the Japanese manufacturer's European headquarters to draft in the experts engineering teams from the land of the rising sun. The result, the 2020 Vision Gran Turismo Concept has made the giant leap from virtual reality to virtually existing.

Unveiled at this week's Goodwood Festival of Speed, the possibility of a similar production vehicle resulting from this study just edge a tiny bit closer. Joining a class of manufacturers, including; Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi and automotive design company Zagato, Nissan's new concept vehicle is part of the Vision Gran Turismo series. A series commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Gran Turismo brand, Vision Gran Turismo was created to demonstrate innovative new designs and futuristic concept vehicles from brands involved in its history.

The Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo is a 2+2 sports car comprising of race and track technology. The purposeful and sleek design implies sublime performance, and was crafted skillfully by aerodynamics technicians. To put it simply, air will flow along this body like a hot knife through butter.

Nissan state that although innovative, the design features some elements typical of previous models. Modernised certainly, but there is surely only one destiny for this concept besides video games.

Piecing together this jigsaw, some may conclude that this could eventually be the next generation Nissan GT-R. Whilst unconfirmed, everything certainly does add up. Nissan unveiled the concept for the current model in 2001 at the Tokyo Motor Show, six years prior to the Japanese launch of the production model. This current concept arrives in 2014, six years prior to the 2020 date hinted in the name.

Should this prove too coincidental for you, try to deny the 2+2 sports car layout isn't in a similar class to the current model, as are some of the design elements. Gran Turismo's involvement is also a large hint, as the 2001 concept was available in Playstation 2 title, Gran Turismo Concept in 2002, even featured as the cover art.

A conspiracy theory for sure, if not merely an intelligent speculation, the potential is certainly there for future release. Although no word has been given on power sources, figures or prices, we can be safe in the knowledge that Nissan will take their sweet time to perfect this supercar killer - six years to be precise. Instead of carting me off to the lunatic asylum amongst those who consider 9/11 an inside job, wait and see what is revealed in the coming years. Mark my words, this will probably be a large portion of the design for the Nissan GT-R for the next generation.

By Mike Armstrong

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Three Motoring Fails from The Week

This past week has witnessed an unusual amount of motoring related fails. Embarrassing moments and news which are comical and sometimes borderline forcing us to question the integrity of humanity. Rest assured, this is the internet and we tend to bask in the smugness and amusement which comes with witnessing major fails.

At Speedmonkey, we are certainly no different. Of course we love to read about supercars and rare classics, but we also love to laugh at the misfortune of a seemingly expanding population of idiocy. Here we have three laughable fails from around the world.

1 - Chav gatecrashes Brands Hatch

During a Volkswagen Fun Day race at Kent's prestigious Brands Hatch race track, a complete hoon decided to crash the party with his girlfriend's Volkswagen Polo. Ignoring pleas from her to pull over, the thick skulled have-a-go Hamilton passed pit crew and emerged onto the track, during the middle of the race.

With a barrage of glottal stops and the most displeasing accent ever forced upon this writer, the 21 year old male from Tonbridge in Kent completed an entire lap of the track before later finding himself remanded in custody for the false imprisonment of his petrified significant other.

Whilst this amoeba of human being is obviously a complete joke in himself, the actual fail here is the security at Brands Hatch. As many Twitter users exclaimed, someone such as this driver should not have even reached the paddock, let alone the pit lane and track. Some even suspect that the entire charade was little more than an elaborate hoax by the Volkswagen PR team, however this can instantly be dismissed by the commentator for the race mistaking the Polo for a Golf, and various tweets by the Kent police force. The fact is that this incident was very much real and concerning for the safety of everyone competing.

At the time of writing this, the suspect; Jack Cottle, has been released on bail.

Here's the video:

2 - Drunk Firefighter Topples Truck

A firefighter in Yunlin County, China, had one drink too many this past week. Instead of passing out in a hedge or vomiting over a pretty lady's dress like a normal person, the bumbling buffoon decided to take a local fire engine for a joy ride. Predictably, the entire charade ended with an over-turned engine, several crashed cars, a damaged lorry and a toppled telegraph pole.

Adding to this awful scenario was the fact that this particular engine was a state of the art machine, the flag ship of the local fire department, worth over £500,000. Brand new and manufactured in Finland, replacement parts will have to be sourced from Scandinavia, at a terrible cost and delay.

Predictably, a spokesperson from the local fire department has stated that 32 year old Chen Huangxin will never work again as a firefighter. To add insult to injury, Chen now face a potential two years in prison after his drunken rampage. Lesson learnt, don't drink and drive...or wreck a £500,000 fire engine. There will be no way to extinguish this guy's blazing lunacy.

3 - Audi loses laser headlights arms race to BMW

After promotion throughout the media about the limited edition Audi R8 LMX, which was supposed to feature the world's first laser headlights on a production vehicle, it appears that the German manufacturer had the lights switched out on themselves. Following their appearance at the Le Mans 24 hour race, Audi's LMP1 cars demonstrated the futuristic technology to the masses.

See an article written on the Audi R8 LMX written by myself just two weeks ago here.

This week however, the first customers received deliveries for the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid. As you guessed it, these vehicles came equipped with the very same technology which Audi claimed to have pioneered for road vehicles recently.

Please don't feel too depressed on Audi's behalf though, as their "pioneering" design was actually stolen from BMW. Announced at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show by BMW, Audi hijacked the design and announced the technology for the R8 LMX. BMW simply exacted some sweet revenge by beating the plagiarisers to the chase, forcing Audi to flick the fail switch.

By Mike Armstrong

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Renault Now Owns 100% Stake in Alpine

French car fans and performance motorists alike will find themselves jumping for joy over the latest news released by Renault. Early on Tuesday morning the French car manufacturer announced that a higher stake had been acquired in Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham. To be precise, a 100 per cent stake.

Now under complete ownership by the French brand, Alpine Caterham will join Renault's other stable mate, Dacia, as a subsidiary brand under the Parisian diamond. Rest assure though that Renault are planning more exciting things than budget superminis and crossovers, and they're planning to launch it during 2016.

But what shall they release? A revitalised sports Clio? A tweaked Twingo? These assumptions are far off the mark. In their own words, Renault and Alpine stated that they plan to create the "Berlinette of the 21st century". Certainly, Renault's new acquisition has quite the task on their hands.

The Berlinette, most well-known in Britain as the Alpine A-series, was a Renault powered series of performance cars which gained legendary status worldwide. Launched in 1955 by Jean Rédélé, the first A106 was based on mechanical components from the ancient Renault 4CV. Three years later, the next model arrived. The A108 was designed with components equally borrowed from the Renault Dauphine, although this time the Gordini engine was used to provide some real sporting pedigree.

Fast-forward to 1961 and the most iconic design in the series was launched. The A110 was simply beautiful and cemented its legacy as a spirited rally car. Powered by the Gordini unit from the R8, the A110 became the first World Rally Champion and the 1973 Monte Carlo Rally winner. The next model, the A310, later utilised a rear-mounted V6 power plant, Renault 5 Turbo suspension and provided all of the tail-happy handling characteristics of a Porsche 911. The Renault Alpine GTA which followed was a more modern and sleek design, which featured polyester plastics and fibreglass body panels. This design, which arrived in 1986, proved faster and lighter than the Porsche 944. Power came from 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre Renault sourced V6´s. The Alpine name died however with the 1991 A610 which followed, with the only other Renault produced at the Alpine plant being the Spider ever since.

Alas, what can we expect from this new acquisition by Renault? Well according to Renault's Laurens van den Acker, senior vice president of corporate design, the future design is "as good as finished", with a launch in 2016 reported by the brand. Also, Bernard Ollivier, Manager of the project, stated more recently that: “90% of design specifications [are] complete and an interior design to be finalised before the summer". We can also expect it to resemble the design from 2012, the A110-50 Concept, with a Caterham based variant already confirmed for simultaneous production.

The concept car from 2012 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6, producing 400bhp. Although the engine size and output has yet to be confirmed for the production model, and will probably fail to reach the aforementioned output.

The news of the corporate takeover of this legendary French sporting brand is certainly an exciting episode in the Berlinette saga, with the new model promised in two years amidst almost completion at this early stage. So eager are some customers that some orders have already been placed, despite very limited figures officially revealed. The motoring world will be keeping a close eye on these developments, for they are certain to whet our appetites further in the coming two years.

by Mike Armstrong

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Volkswagen Reveals Next Passat

Rewind back to late 2012 and early 2013, a winter dragging on the coat-tails of the Olympic Games in London. A certain excitement was in the air, incited by German car brand Volkswagen. The release of the seventh generation Golf was certainly huge news in the motoring world. So big was the hype surrounding it that this writer donated his own MK3 for a launch ceremony where all previous generations of Golf were celebrated. Back to the present though, and Volkswagen are hot on the heels of another media storm.

This time, the hype will surround the forthcoming Passat. The humble saloon and estate model makes a triumphant return with an eighth generation incarnation. Company car and minicab drivers will rejoice over claims of improved fuel economy, to quoted figures of a 20 per cent benefit. Certainly, a 20 per cent increase in economy is an impressive and tall claim to bring to the table.

Indeed, the realistic figure may not remain too far off the mark, due to an 85kg weight loss program. Advanced lightweight materials, including: high-strength and hot-formed steel and a smattering of aluminium, shall be common place in the new design. In addition, the overall dimensions of the vehicle have actually marginally shrunk. Thus promising a more light-footed chassis which will skip majestically along motorways and country roads.

Light-footedness in combination with a four-cylinder 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine producing 237bhp and 500Nm or torque, will definitely put a smile on many faces. A seven-speed DSG gearbox will be mounted onto this unit, driven by Volkswagen's brilliant 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. The more economy minded and environmentally conscious individuals will be pleasantly surprised to learn of a plug-in hybrid model, similar to the current Jetta Hybrid, with a total range of around 600 miles and the ability to travel 31 miles on battery power alone.

Safety will be a high priority too, with Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert alerting to dangers lurking in the driver's blind spots. Furthermore, the new Passat will come with Traffic Jam Assist, Emergency Assist and Front Assist system with City Emergency Braking. In a nutshell, there will be enough radar systems to detect and potentially prevent many low speed collisions with other traffic, road furniture and pedestrians.

Illumination will also add to the safety aspect, with fully LED rear lights. Headlights will be halogen, although LED will presumably be a cost option or standard on higher spec models. Dynamic Light Assist will help to prevent dazzling other road users, whilst ensuring that the road ahead is superbly illuminated for maximum vision.

On-board technology will also be ahead of the game, with the inclusion of the Active Info Display and a fully configurable interactive 12.3-inch TFT display. Interestingly, this shall include the Car-Net remote app; a further-developed 360-degree Area View function; and the latest generation of Park Assist. Those with phobias of parking in supermarket car parks will be pleased to hear about the new ability to park perpendicularly, which aims to make parking a stress free and accurate ordeal. A world first is Volkswagen's new Trailer Assist, which aims to simplify the difficult task of reversing with a trailer attached.

Interior space will also be increased, allowing for superior rear legroom for backseat passengers. Furthermore, luggage will easily be swallowed in the much larger boot space, hence promising a highly practical package. To what extent has not officially been revealed, although Volkswagen are definitely promising significant improvements on the previous generation.

The next generation Passat needs to offer a vast improvement to compliment the illustrious history of previous versions. After 41 years and in excess of 23 million worldwide sales, safe assumptions can be presumed that the motoring world will be watching closely. More details and official photos will arrive in July, with an official unveiling scheduled for October's Paris Motor Show. Sales will commence later in the year, with earliest deliveries expected at the beginning of 2015.

If it proves as successful as the MK7 Golf in its respective sector has yet to be seen. Whilst the jury is still out, we can predict from the details recently released that the upcoming Passat will be brilliant.

By Mike Armstrong

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2014 Dacia Sandero Stepway Review

Mike Armstrong reviews the Dacia Sandero Stepway

Budget cars need not be cheap and uncheerful, as Dacia's new Sandero Stepway has proven. Available to purchase brand new in the UK right now, supermini buyers can mix the compact dimensions with the rugged appeal of a crossover.

What is it?

In a nutshell, the Stepway is essentially a regular Sandero with 40mm more ground clearance and off-road style body fittings, including: plastic arch extensions and bumpers with imitation underbody protection plates and roof bars. Although, surely there must be a better reason to purchase one than a false off-road gimmick?

Indeed there is, for the Stepway comes with an increased list of standard options by comparison to the ordinary hatchback model. Body coloured door mirrors, Satin Chrome roof bars and front fog lights are three of the extras on offer for the equivalent Ambience trim models, whilst Lauréate spec also benefits from the inclusion of rear parking sensors. Stepways are only available in Ambience and Lauréate trim, thus eliminating the entry level Access trim offered on the regular Sandero. Furthermore, a cost premium of approximately £1,000 doesn't do wonders for the Stepway's austere favours.

On the road

Road handling certainly is a winner by comparison to the regular model, despite a noticeable amount of extra body roll. Steering is accurate enough, although far from spirited; plus the larger wheels actually cause the ride to appear more plush and pleasant. Grip is nigh on identical, despite the extra ground clearance. Plus, the utility of this vehicle is obviously improved due to the extended ride height, although don't be fooled into believing that the Stepway is an off-roader - it's far from it with a front-wheel drive only layout. Refinement is also poor by comparison to mainstream competition due to intruding road and wind noise and the noticeable diesel clatter protruding from the engine bay.

Two engines are available, including the 898cc TCe 90 three-cylinder petrol unit. Whilst the TCe unit is fairly liveable, most buyers will quite justifiably opt for the diesel engine. The 1.5 dCi offers superior fuel economy (70.6mpg combined vs 52.3mpg) and is far cheaper to tax at £20 because of it's emissions figures of just 105g/km of CO2, a saving of £90 on the petrol. A price difference of £1,000 between the petrol and diesel equivalents will pay for themselves in terms of taxation, fuel costs and residual values in the coming years. Not to mention that the dCi unit is arguably better to drive, although one second slower to 62mph from a standstill at 12.1 seconds. Neither will set the world on fire quite frankly, although the diesel is the best all-rounder.

Obviously those opting for the Stepway should select the diesel unit, although which trim level is the overall winner? As buyers will obviously be seeking a new car on a budget, the entry level Ambience trim represents the best value for money. At £9,395 (£8,395 for the petrol), Ambience models come equipped with electric front windows, front fog lights, and roof bars, Bluetooth, metallic paint, and a radio/CD system, driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags and electronic stability control. Add another £1,600 and addition niceties will include air-conditioning, a chrome front grille, electric rear windows, electric heated door mirrors, cruise control, speed limiter, rear parking sensors, Sat Nav and entertainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen and AUX and USB inputs.

Interior space is identical to the regular hatchback, and arguably quite impressive. The only real benefit of the Stepway is accessibility to the vehicle, thanks to the raised suspension. In light of the more expensive competition, 320-litres of boot space dwarfs that of the popular Ford Fiesta, with a mere 290-litres on offer. Furthermore, the Sandero and Sandero Stepway punch above their weight considering that a Ford Focus offers only 316-litres with the seats folded up. Space for four adults is quite impressive, and interior fittings are cheerful enough, although noticeable cheaper than the new Renault Clio.

Is it worth buying?

Essentially yes. Providing that your criteria demands a supermini for a sub-£11,000 price bracket, and that the raised suspension and beefier looks float your boat. Whether or not the regular Sandero is the way to go though depends on whether the supermini in crossover's clothing puts the skip in your step. The Stepway is a no-frills product with all the essentials that most motorists will require, and reasonably priced at that.

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Five Peugeots/Citroens Never Sold In The UK

Citroen's DS range has certainly caught the imagination of the motoring public in recent years. The DS3 certainly is cute and has plenty of charisma, along with the DS4 and DS5 which boast daring and interesting lines and angles. Following the interest and success, the line continues with the DS 6WR, a compact crossover unveiled at the Beijing Motorshow.

The stylish angles and design language certainly appears more desirable than the current Mitsubishi ASX-based Citroen C4 Aircross and Peugeot 4008 siblings, which have proven ineffective in terms of European sales. Therefore the Citroen DS 6WR, equipped with one of the PSA family's infamous diesel units has the recipe for a potential sales success. Alas unfortunately not, as with the Ford Escort revealed last week on Speedmonkey.co.uk, PSA have decided to offer the DS 6WR exclusively to the Chinese market.

Apparently PSA are striving to increase sales of Peugeots and Citroens in the affluent Chinese market, where they currently sell 13 per cent of their worldwide output. In fact, this figure is currently on course to become 50 per cent by 2016 and 60 per cent by 2020. Whereas it may seem that the French brands are conspiring to leave us Europeans in the dark, a deteriorating reputation for poor build quality, dwindling sales and dangerously walking the tightrope of bankruptcy has called for drastic measures. With China's demand for foreign brands rising, manufacturers are beginning to change their priorities. The DS 6WR, available in China with only the e-THP 160 and 200 Prince engines mounted on a six-speed automatic transmission, is not the first PSA product not available throughout the entire European market. Below we explore some special market vehicles which were never available in Britain.

5 - Citroen DS 5LS

Coming soon to the Chinese market, along with the aforementioned DS 6WR, the DS 5LS is a C-segment saloon with a surprising amount of flare. As Citroen aims to push the DS name as a fully-fledged brand in the Chinese market, logically more models will arrive in Shanghai instead of Salisbury. More interesting though is the hardcore DS 5LS R concept, which promises to be the most powerful Citroen yet. If priced correctly, Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3 Saloon buyers may find themselves surprised at the lights.

4 - Citroen Axel

Your eyes do not deceive you, this image is not of a regular Citroen Visa. The Axel was a special vehicle produced exclusively for the Romanian market between 1984 and 1990. Also known as the Oltcit Club, the Axel was a three-door vehicle produced on an assembly line in Craiova. Unfortunately, quality was atrocious by comparison to contemporary Citroen products and only amounted to just over 60,000 sales.

3 - Citroen C-Elysée/Peugeot 301

Regular readers will have recently learned of the sister C-segment saloon's existence. Unsurprisingly, they shall make an appearance once again. Selections of the European market can opt for either/or, or occasionally both, however the main focus is on the developing markets worldwide. For instance, the C-Elysée's previous generation was based on the ancient Citroen ZX in China as late as last year. Following the discontinuation, the Citroen version is also assembled within China, along with Vigo in Spain.

2 - Peugeot 4008/Citroen C4 Aircross

Readers who were scratching their heads during the second paragraph of this article will now be satisfied and safe in the knowledge that the mystery vehicles referred to remain enigmatic in the UK market. Based upon the familiar Mitsubishi ASX crossover, the 4008 and C4 Aircross have proven disappointing in terms of sales figures throughout Europe, including in the French market. Naturally, PSA were targeting the developing markets with this model, with Russia and Ukraine receiving the earliest launch date worldwide.

1 - Peugeot 206+

Yes, Britain certainly received the Peugeot 206 with a whirlwind in terms of sales throughout its life time. However, the legend died in 2006 and thus was the end of the chapter. Not entirely, as Citroen produced a face-lifted model called the 206+ in Europe, or 207 Compact in Argentina. With the front end from the replacing 207, and a low retail price, the 206+ was aimed to compete with a similar project by Renault with the Clio based Dacia Logan. Sales weren't terrible either, with production lasting until late 2012 in Europe. Production ended at the Mulhouse plant in Paris following strong demand for the 208 and the launch of the 207-based Peugeot 301.

By Mike Armstrong

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Ford Escort To Return!

Hear ye, Hear ye! Ford enthusiasts across the length and breadth of the British Isles gather round to the ringing of glorious news to our ears. Wave the Union Flag and gather the Morris Men, for the legendary Ford Escort is back.

Indeed this is neither a misprint nor Doctor Who's automotive time-travelling report, the Escort nameplate will certainly be making a welcome return to the Ford line-up. Ford revealed a new model at the Beijing Motor Show last week that the new Escort will enter production shortly. "Hurrah!" commends the British motoring public, but all readers would be advised to take a seat, place all hot drinks on the table and prepare themselves for a bit of bad news.

The new Escort will not be coming to Britain. Ford states that the upcoming model is destined only for sale in the Chinese market, with design cues to suit the buyers of Beijing instead of Birmingham. For instance, readers of Mike Armstrong's recent post will be fully aware of the flat-lining demand for compact saloon cars in the British Isles, therefore news that the new model will be available as a four-door saloon would deter most would-be consumers in Blighty if it were to reach our showrooms.

Escort, Orion or Focus?

The Chinese market typically is a large consumer of small saloon cars, therefore Ford's choice to offer the new Escort in this body form will surely prove intelligent. Traditionalists will immediately notice a problem with this though, as typical Escort saloons were branded Orion until the last couple of years of production. Notably, the Mk1 and Mk2 Escort were available in saloon format too. Some would deem this a continuity error or patronising of the Chinese market's blissful unawareness of the car's history. Others would disagree with the notion of a continuity error, as Ford are simply picking up where they left off with the previous batch of Escort badged Orions.

Regardless of traditionalist views, the Chinese market Escort will share a chassis with the current Focus and borrows styling cues from other worldwide offerings. The front grill is stylistically similar to the current Fiesta, the headlights are inspired by the B-Max and some of the body akin to the Focus on which it is based. But is it simply a badge engineered Focus saloon? Apparently not, as the interior is reportedly downmarket to Ford's global offerings, according to some western journalists. Though Ford themselves hint the Escort to providing more upmarket appeal than the Focus currently on sale in China. Also, it appears that interior space may have been increased to cater to the market's expectations.

The last Escort available in the British Market, 1995-2000

"Even as the Ford Focus remains the best-selling nameplate in China, we recognize that many consumers in China are looking for something else in a compact car," said Luo Minggang, Executive President, Changan Ford Automobile. "The Ford Escort is the answer to the question of what these consumers really want and value in a car for themselves and their families." Presumably these values consist of more interior room for rear seat occupants and plenty of gadgetry; including MP3 compatibility and Bluetooth connectivity. Six airbags will also be standard in a bid to provide above average safety equipment for Chinese motorists.

Power will come from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder Ti-VCT petrol unit, supposedly providing smooth power delivery and high efficiency. No diesel variant has been announced, mainly due to the market's preference towards petrol powered units.

China is now recognised as the largest market for new car sales in the world, and Ford's recognition of this has encouraged a strategy to release 15 new blue oval vehicles to the market before 2015. Ford's global strategy of One Ford, which has seen the Mustang introduced to Europe and the Fiesta to the USA, has certainly echoed well in this instance. Despite the Escort name, the use of the global C-Car platform used in the current Focus, input from Australia's Asia Pacific design team and local efforts from the Ford Research and Engineering Center in Nanjing assure that not only are consumers in the Chinese markets catered for, but also costs are cut as successful knowledge and technology from a worldwide standpoint are utilised efficiently.

Is it truly an Escort though? Probably not, although this shall remain ambiguous for now. But equally a Mustang with an EcoBoost engine is a break from a similarly upheld tradition. However most can agree that Ford's latest offering is certainly demonstrating a trend towards superior market awareness to previous generations and shall be worthy of commendation.

By Mike (Saloon) Armstrong

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Ten Saloons Unavailable In Britain

British motorists have historically possessed and insatiable love for hatchbacks. A platonic romance almost poetic in construction, whereby the buying public and the vast array of hatchbacks small and large were seemingly made for one another. Seldom romanticised though are the saloon variants which they spawn.

Frequently spotted in other markets, including Russia, the United States and the Middle East, saloon variants prove more popular for various reasons. The love from the British market has all-but gone sour, and unrequited over recent years. Of course, British motorists can purchase a Volkswagen Jetta, based on the humble Golf, or the freshly launched Audi A3 saloon. Unknown to many British motorists are these saloon variants on foreign markets, based upon our most cherished small and medium sized favourites. Below is a list of sedans available to purchase in Europe, but remain fiction upon our shores

1 - Citroen C4 C-Elysée

Based upon the latest Citroen C4 hatchback, the C-Elysée is produced in Spain and sold in North Africa, Spain and Eastern Europe. The sedan variant has spanned across two generations in Europe.

2 - Peugeot 301

Built on exactly the same chassis as the C-Elysée, and indeed in the same factory in Vigo, the 301 is Peugeot's answer to the Dacia Logan in developing markets. Customers in Eastern Europe and Turkey can place an order down for this entry level Peugeot without too much of a financial burden.

3 - Dacia Logan

British motorists will recognise the Logan name from the Logan MCV, an estate version of the budget Sandero. Unknown to many is that the Logan saloon was the Dacia which caused the resurgence of the Romanian brand worldwide, prior to the Sandero or Duster. A true global conqueror.

4- Opel Astra Notchback

Us Brits have memories of the Vauxhall Astra Belmont of previous generations. However, the Astra saloon has ceased to exist in Britain since the Astra G. Rest assure, the notchback is still available in much of mainland Europe to purchase immediately, and it's not a bad looker either.

5- Ford Focus Saloon

Similarly to the Opel/Vauxhall Astra, the Ford Focus saloon has been non-existent in the United Kingdom for nearly a decade. Roll up to a European Ford Dealer today though, and you can purchase a lovely saloon model with all of the familiar features, including the fabulous EcoBoost engine.

6- Renault Fluence

Stop press, British dealerships do indeed sell one form of the dreadful Renault Fluence. However, European buyers are treated to the options of conventional power-plants from dCi diesel engines and regular petrol units. European models are produced in Turkey, and are competitively priced.

7- Fiat Linea

A replacement for the forgotten Fiat Marea, the Linea is also manufactured in Turkey. Based on the Grande Punto, the Linea is a frequent site as a taxi in cities like Barcelona. Similarly to many in this list, the Linea design is intended as a world car, manufactured and sold in many developing nations worldwide.

8 - Chevrolet Aveo

Check it out quickly before it's gone! General Motors has revealed the withdrawal of the Chevrolet brand from Europe, including the sedan version of the bland Chevrolet Aveo. Car bashing certainly has little place in journalism, however few will shed a tear when this endangered species disappears forever.

9 - Kia Rio

Kia's budget model is only available in the UK as a three and five-door hatchback. Markets such as Poland also receive the saloon version of the budget contender. Interest for this model in the UK would be doubtful, but markets which traditionally prefer the sedan shape and frugally priced new cars would eat it up.

10 - Volkswagen Polo Sedan

Volkswagen's current Polo is certainly an impressive supermini. Surprising to many is the sedan variant, mostly available for the Russian and Indian markets. Ukrainian customers can however purchase a brand new Russian spec Sedan. Due to political reasons, the Ukrainian market is a harshly fought battle ground, however a positive is the availability of this notchback Polo.

By Mike Armstrong

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Are Car-based Pick-ups Extinct in the UK?

Since the beginning, the motor industry has been endlessly evolving. New concepts arrived and caught on like a drought fuelled wildfire, whilst others dithered and face extinction. Adding substance to Darwin's theory of evolution, albeit in a different context, is a brilliant example by David Ross about the extinction of car-based vans in the UK market. To summarise, a once affluent market sector dwindled and became extinct, with the exception of the novelty Mini Clubvan.

Another sector of the market which faces similar problems is the car-based pick-up. Once upon a time, manufacturers loved to subject their hatchbacks to a Frankenstein style metamorphosis into a hybrid hatchback-come-pick-up truck. These 'Hick-Ups' tended to display great practicality, ideal low-loading ride heights and the driver appeal from the model which it butchered. All of the following were inspired by key American designs, including the Chevrolet El Camino and Ford Ranchero.

Ford P100 Pickup-up

Although sometimes awkward in proportions, Hick-Ups and Sick-Ups (Saloon-based pick-ups) were rather popular among business users. A perfect example of the popularity of these vehicles was the Ford P100. Originally based on a Mk5 Cortina, the later Sierra based design became a sales sensation between 1988 and 1992. Until recent years, many wandered the streets of Britain far-and-wide, however rust and age has finally began to diminish their frequency.

Volkswagen Caddy

Volkswagen also had their own variation based on the legendary Mk1 Golf chassis. Originally a design experiment, also featuring an estate version, the US market demanded the pick-up. Once arriving in Europe with the Caddy nameplate, the handy man´s Golf enjoyed undeniable success. Similarly to Ford's P100, the Caddy has enjoyed a fond modifying following and would later become and outright van model.

Subaru 284

Subaru fans will fondly remember the Subaru 284, an all-wheel-drive saloon/hatchback based pick-up, which exists in ridiculously small numbers to this day. A lesser-known spiritual successor to the Subaru 284 was the short-lived Proton Persona-based Jumbuck.

Vauxhall VXR8 Maloo

Past examples need-not just be mundane and utilitarian, for the recently deceased Vauxhall VXR8 Maloo was enough to blow anyone's mind. Based upon General Motors Australian division's Holden HSV Maloo Ute, Vauxhall's import created what became a final hurrah for this entire genre of Hick-Ups and Sick-Ups. No sensible business user could ever justify 425bhp from a thirsty V8 with a £50,000 price tag. Bonkers as it was, the VXR8 Maloo was certainly iconic in Britain - although extremely rare. Indeed Australia too, whereby the shifting of production of the Commodore to China on a front-wheel drive platform forces global extinction of the Holden Ute.

Many will wonder what caused this species to die out. An asteroid? Disease? A great flood? Similarly to the Honest John article from last August, the development in commercial vehicles is squarely to blame. Nowadays, van design has evolved to be on-par with regular no-commercial models. Interior qualities have increased, driver comfort has become more plush and road handling has become safer and infinitely more enjoyable. As Darwin theorised, it's simply survival of the fittest. Hick-ups and Sick-ups were becoming dodos in a world of eagles.

You might also like: Spotted - BMW 3-Series Pick-up

By Mike Armstrong

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