Twingo star’s a Cup winner

Even lighter Renault Twingo on the way…

Renault’s up for the Cup! Hot on the heels of the recent Clio Cup, the French firm has announced details of another stripped-out model.

This time, the Renaultsport Twingo 133 city car is getting the treatment.

Engineers have ditched the air-conditioning, sliding rear bench and the auto headlights and wipers to ensure the all-new 133 Cup is as light as possible.In addition, £700 has been shaved off the price – so the new car costs £11,795.

That buys you the Cup lowered suspension pack, tuned dampers and 17-inch alloy wheels with an Anthracite finish. The 133bhp 1.6-litre engine is unchanged, so 0-62mph still takes 8.7 seconds and it hits 125mph.

Orders are being taken now.

Source | Auto Express

Pearn leads from the front

Mark Pearn led from the front as Lifestyle Ford sponsored East Grinstead put their injury problems behind them to make it two wins out of two in the premier division.

Player-coach Pearn was pushed into the forward line for the home match with promoted Brooklands and responded with a hat-trick of goals from open play in an 8-5 win.

The former England and Great Britain player made his name as a forward but has generally played in midfield for Grinstead.

He started off in midfield on Saturday when Grinstead were missing six players but soon joined the attack, adding real class and impetus to their forward play.

There were some great performances all round from a patched-up side.

Ben Payne and Dave De Prez had excellent games up front as well, summer signing Gareth Carr marked his home debut with a hat-trick while youngsters Matt Needle and Harry Thomas did not look out of place as they gained valuable pitch time.

But Pearn’s ‘lead by example’ attitude was the catalyst for a second successive victory for the defending champions.

Manager Matt Jones said: “It is the first time in his time at East Grinstead Mark was able to lead from the frontline where he led England and Great Britain on many occasions and it was clear to see why he is a former international and Olympic striker.

“That is what the team needs – individuals stepping up to the plate. It was great to see Mark do that but Ben Payne and Dave De Prez had fantastic games in the frontline as well.

“Mark’s pedigree is historically as a forward. He was keen to get back into the forward line and with Danny Hall not available we had that opportunity.

“He clearly demonstrated why he is so key in that forward line. He mixes it up and asks questions of the opposition.”

Grinstead went into the game still missing Hall, Christian Pryce, Chris Hardy, David Cresswell, Jack Marfleet and Dominic Male while goalkeeper George Harris was only able to sit on the bench.

The champions will not be happy to have let in five goals but the positives far outweigh the negatives when you take the absentees into account.

Jones said: “The injuries have left us with the bare minimum available. It has been a testing time for the squad and management. Regardless, the team spirit is fabulous which I am delighted about.

“They have a real vibrancy and togetherness about them.

“Most of the people on the injured list were there on Saturday. There is a real sense of getting behind each other which is a vital component of a successful team.”

Brooklands took a sixth-minute lead, Grinstead then went 3-1 up thanks to two short corner strikes by Carr and Pearn’s opener only to be pegged back by two replies.

Niall Stott made it 4-3 at half-time with his first goal for the club and that lead was extended to 8-3 in the second half when Carr converted a third short corner, Pearn hit two more and De Prez also got on the scoresheet.

The visitors pulled two goals back in the closing stages.

Jones added: “We clearly need to do a lot of work defensively as a team. We have to pick and choose our time when to attack rather than doing it all the time. We are good going forward but you can’t do that for 70 minutes.”

East Grinstead prepare to entertain at Saint Hill

Lifestyle Ford sponsored East Grinstead got the defence of their National League premier title underway with a comfortable 4-3 win over Cannock.

A brace from new signing Gareth Carr and goals from Ben Payne and Dave De Prez sealed victory after Cannock had given them an early scare.

But manager Matt Jones believes there is much more to come from Grinstead who were missing key players.

“We had a handful of exceptional players unavailable for this opener, and to perform the way they did, especially in the second half, is a real testament to the strength we have in the squad.”

Jones said it was important the team won away from home ahead of Saturday’s visit of newboys Brooklands who won 1-0 over University of Exeter .

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Cannock opened the scoring as early as the second minute on Sunday, but Carr scored with his first corner before the hosts pulled further ahead.

In the second half, Carr and Payne scored in as many minutes, before De Prez sealed what would have been a two-goal cushion until Cannock scored again in the closing minutes.

Jones said the team can go some way to fulfilling their potential but will not be taking any games for granted.

Saturday’s visit of Brooklands is scheduled for a 5.30pm start following a late floodlight test.

Saint Hill will also be hosting the European Cup as part of a Trophy Tour in celebration of England winning the men’s EuroHockey Nations Championship for the first time.

Grinstead’s Glenn Kirkham, who played a crucial role in the teams succsess will be present with his gold medal.

Supporters are being encouraged to take in the team’s first home match of the new season before posing for photos with the prestigious trophy.

Speaking ahead of the event, England Hockey’s Commercial and Membership Director Mark Armitage said, “The team’s victory in the Netherlands was England’s best result in an international tournament in nearly 90 years and the team are delighted to be able to share that success with their clubs, team mates and local supporters.

“It’s a great opportunity for young hockey players in particular to come and see the Trophy and watch someone like Glenn Kirkham, one of our gold medal winners, in action and hopefully that will inspire them to success in their own hockey careers.”

Jones said the club cannot wait for the weekend: “We are delighted to have been invited to host the European Nations Trophy at Saint Hill this Saturday which promises to be a truly special day.

“Not only is it a fabulous opportunity for hockey enthusiasts to watch the defending champions play their first competitive match at home since lifting the title last season.

“It’s a unique chance to see a major trophy on English soil alongside Glenn Kirkham who played such a key role in securing the historic win over the Germans in Amstelveen. A feeling that fellow East Grinstead member and now President of Great Britain Hockey, Richard Leman knows only too well having won Olympic Gold in Seoul ’88.”

England won the EuroHockey Nations Championships in the Netherlands, after a heroic 5-3 victory over rivals Germany in the final.

Also in the side that day was former East Grinstead man Ashley Jackson, whose two goals in the game helped secure such a momentous victory.

National Champions East Grinstead start title defence

Photo Courtesy of John O'Brien | First Focus Photography

Lifestyle Ford sponsored East Grinstead Hockey Club Mens 1st XI start the defence of their National League title this weekend with experienced new faces among their international ranks.

Their campaign starts at Cannock on Sunday and manager Matt Jones is under no illusions his English champion team is the one to beat.

After winning the premier division title, Grinstead also triumphed in the National League outdoor version of the game and reached the last eight in the Euro Hockey League.

“It’s a tough challenge,” admitted Jones. “The side will take time to settle and our performance levels have been improving in pre-season games, but don’t read too much into those results.

“Whereas a few years ago we were looking to compete with the likes of Cannock and Reading, we are now regarded as big guns in our own right.

“Our outstanding results last season have put us up there, and the season will be tough in that respect.

“The hardest part is getting up and motivating ourselves. We will have to match our opponents in the mental side of playing as well as the physical.

“It is crucial we drive forward, continue to progress and develop. We are fortunate that our progression in recent years has been upward, but we remain realistic about what is achievable and everyone is a threat,” he added.

Having lost German international Martin Haner back to his homeland, Grinstead have spent the close season finding more defensive cover to fill his shoes and players with the ability to take successful penalty corners.

Gareth Carr, South Africa’s leading penalty corner specialist, has joined the squad along with Rick Gay who succeeds in the same department.

Jack Marfleet has made an excellent recovery from a severe cruciate ligament injury having been playing for England A two years ago. He had been making good progress on the injury before picking up a viral infection which took a further eight months of recovery.

He will also be looking to restore his place in the England side.

Scottish and GB international Niall Stott, who has played at two Olympics (Athens and Beijing) has a EHL gold medal from two years ago, and is regarded by Jones as “a fantastic talent”.

The club has also earmarked a number of promising young talented players coming into the squad in the form of Harry Thomas and Chris Hardy.

For the defence of their double outdoor titles, Grinstead hope to have Ashley Jackson, currently playing in Holland, available.

With so many internationals, call ups for their country’s will impact on the squad, but Jones is confident they have the strength in depth to cover.

“We are faced with a massive task to emulate our achievements, but we relish the challenge,” he added.

“The youngsters have a great opportunity to put in their bid for a place, and the inevitable unavailability of our internationals give them another chance to grasp the opportunity and show us what they can do,” he added.

Grinstead have also recently teamed up with Multi-franchise car dealer Group Lifestyle Europe. Who’s successes over recent years provide a very positive platform on which to build a further winning formula.

Carys Jukes, Group E-Commerce Manager at Lifestyle is very positive about the the blossoming relationship.

“As a business we greatly admire East Grinstead’s approach and are proud to be involved with an organisation who share our drive and passion to be at the top of our game”.

East Grinstead’s first home National League game will be on September 26 against Brooklands, 5.30 pm push back.

Mazda MX-5 Named as ‘Best Ever Roadster’ and ‘Best Used Car by Automotive Experts

Mazda’s range of ‘Zoom-Zoom’ vehicles continue to impress automotive experts, with the iconic Mazda MX-5 roadster receiving critical acclaim from Auto Express and Carsite.co.uk.

Lifestyle Mazda in Horsham is expecting to welcome a flurry of new and used car buyers to the dealership, looking to own the highly-regarded Mazda MX-5 after it was named ‘Best Roadster’ in the 2009 Auto Express Used Car Honours and ‘Best Used Car’ by online retailer Carsite.co.uk.

This is the fourth successive year the Mazda MX-5 has won the coveted Auto Express award, beating BMW and Porsche rivals for the top ranking.

“To have such high profile motoring experts, such as Auto Express and Carsite.co.uk, confirm that Mazda products are among the very best on the market really does reinforce the fact that Mazda is Britain’s favourite sports car brand, both on the new and used market,” enthused Mark Spowage dealer principal at Lifestyle Mazda in Horsham and Crawley.

“The Mazda MX-5 is unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar that can also be used for everyday motoring all year round, with low running costs and high levels of specification – and the whole sportscar ownership experience is supported by Mazda’s legendary reliability and durability,” adds Spowage.

The latest exterior, interior and technical upgrades to the 2009 Mazda MX-5 range ensure that the soft-top continues to offer the purest, fun-to-drive thrills, while the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe delivers an even more coupe-like, premium experience together with the same driving excitement. Both models are available at Lifestyle Mazda and carry-over the key features which have made the Mazda MX-5 the world’s best-selling sportscar.

Commenting on the Mazda MX-5’s victory, Auto Express stated: “The pretty roadster is the default choice for affordable wind-in-the-hair thrills thanks to its simple folding fabric hood, entertaining rear-wheel drive handling and incredibly attractive prices. The folding hard-top Roadster Coupe variant only serves to boost the car’s appeal, providing improved refinement and security. Prices start from £16,345, which makes the MX-5 something of a bargain.”

Praising the Mazda MX-5’s achievement on the used car market, Carsite.co.uk commented: “The Mazda MX-5 deserves the top position thanks to strong reliability, value-for-money, residual performance and driveability. Its success in our poll only goes to further support the British love affair with the drop-top.”

Significantly upgraded for 2009, the 10-strong range of new Mazda MX-5 sportscars, available with either traditional soft-top or in Roadster Coupe form featuring a powered retractable hard top, have a fresh design that enhances their dynamic appeal and is harmonised with Mazda’s next-generation Mazda6, Mazda3 and Mazda2 line-up.

Prices for the Mazda MX-5 2009 soft-top range start from £16,345 on-the-road. The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe range starts at £18,345 on-the-road and boasts the world’s fastest powered retractable hard top – up or top-down in just 12 seconds. Lifestyle Mazda is currently offering 0 per cent APR* finance, with a minimum 50% deposit, or 3.9% APR** finance with no minimum deposit, on all upgraded models until 30 September 2009.

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, call Lifestyle Mazda on 01403 254 331 or 01293 845 000 or visit the showroom at Bishopric, Horsham or Manor Royal, Crawley.

Reduce Fuel Costs with Mazda

For drivers in Crawley and Horsham looking to save on the cost of fuel but still enjoy a stylish and thrilling drive, Lifestyle recommends choosing a Mazda.

“Due to its policy of reducing the weight of new models, through clever design and the use of lightweight ultra-high tensile steels, Mazda has led the way in increasing fuel economy while also improving the safety, refinement and performance of its cars,” explains Mark Spowage, dealer principal at Lifestyle Mazda.

“For the fuel-conscious car owner who still wants to enjoy exciting driving, a Mazda is a logical choice when purchasing a new car or when trading-in a gas-guzzling vehicle over 10 years old through the scrappage scheme,” adds Spowage.

In the lightweight, streamlined Mazda2, Mazda’s weight-reducing strategy translates into an unrivalled, class-best blend of performance and fuel economy.

Mazda2 drivers can benefit from real savings, with fuel economy of up to 68.9mpg, as well as CO2 emissions as low as 107g/km without compromising on performance. For example, the Mazda2 1.6 Diesel accelerates to 62mph in 11.4 seconds, yet achieves 67.3 mpg (combined cycle) and has a CO2 rating of only 112 g/km, qualifying for Band B annual road tax of just £35.

With a starting price of £9,295 (on-the-road), or just £7,295 under the scrappage scheme, the entry-level Mazda2 (TS, 3dr, 1.3-litre, 75ps petrol) with air-conditioning as standard, is one of the most price-competitive small cars in the UK.

The all-new Mazda3, priced from £13,500 (on the road), boasts a bold shape that has lowered aerodynamic drag to a class-leading Cd 0.28 (saloon) and 0.30 (hatchback). The improved aerodynamics and retuned powertrains have resulted in significant reductions in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

In addition, the new Mazda3 2.0 Sport, which is fitted with Mazda’s i-stop technology, delivers fuel economy improvements of up to 16 percent (combined cycle) over the previous equivalent model, with CO2 emissions reduced by up to 19 percent.

“Drivers whose mileage is predominantly city-based can achieve even greater fuel-savings,” continues Spowage. “A further benefit is this model’s official CO2 rating (159g/km) crucially falls below the benchmark 160g/km capital allowance tax threshold, thereby enabling companies to maximise corporate tax savings following April’s changes to the taxation system. The car also falls into the 19 percent benefit-in-kind tax bracket in 2009/10, making it a cost-effective choice for fleets and user-chooser company car drivers.”

“Both the Mazda2 and the all-new Mazda3 ranges are proving very popular with those wishing to reduce fuel costs by trading-in old cars under the scrappage scheme,” continues Spowage. “Further cost savings are also available for Mazda3 buyers thanks to an increased Mazda Scrappage Allowance of £2,000, in addition to the £1,000 government contribution.”

Until 30 September 2009, Lifestyle Mazda is offering drivers the chance to purchase all Mazda2 and new Mazda3 models with typical 0 per cent APR* finance with a minimum 50 per cent deposit required or 3.9 per cent APR** with no minimum deposit.

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, call Lifestyle Mazda on 01403 254 331 or 01293 845 000 or visit the showroom at Bishopric, Horsham or Manor Royal, Crawley

Retail sales only. Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered between 1 July and 30 September 2009. *0% finance available on Mazda Conditional Sale on new Mazda2 models with minimum 50% deposit required. **3.9% finance available on all new Mazda2 models. Offers not available in conjunction with Government Scrappage Scheme. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantees/Indemnities may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR.

Four Wheel Drive With A Difference at Lifestyle

Lifestyle Europe, the company behind Horsham, Crawley and Redhill’s Lifestyle Ford dealerships, has broadened its appeal to Surrey and Sussex motorists with the opening of a new showroom for the diverse and exciting quad brand Apache.

Lifestyle Quad Bike World, based alongside Lifestyle’s used and prestige car outlet, Carzone, opened its doors to the public this week and, as Sales Manager, Richard Clapshoe, explains, interest has already been high:

“For both rural and commercial users who need a reliable work vehicle without the size constraints of a traditional 4×4, quads represent an extremely economical option. Able to negotiate varied terrain quickly and pull small loads, Apache quads have broad appeal. Plus, with fuel economy approaching 70mpg on several models, these multi-purpose vehicles are also increasing in popularity amongst cross-town commuters.”

As well as catering for the agricultural market with its range of rugged utility vehicles, specialist race prepared models are available, alongside fully road-legal Apache quads – CE approved and complemented by a range of parts and accessories.

Plus, in a special opening offer, Lifestyle is giving away a free helmet to each purchaser of a new Apache vehicle.

“Although it’s not a legal requirement to wear a helmet whilst riding a quad, we want our customers get maximum enjoyment out of their quads and stay safe on the roads.”

Lifestyle Quad Bike World is open seven days a week. For more information on Apache vehicles, which range from entry level youth quads to the exciting RLX 450 Sport, call Lifestyle on 0844 346 1032, visit Quad Bike World or simply pop into the showroom.

The Lifestyle brand was created to establish and promote a new initiative and contemporary image for today’s market place; reflecting the forward thinking of the directors and the diverse products of the business.

The Lifestyle Group has been recognised as ‘Best Retail Group’ at The Automotive Industry Awards for the second year running. This tremendous achievement is the industry’s affirmation of the impact, progress and success of the company and its employees.

Soaring Scrappage Sales at Lifestyle Mazda Creates Greener, Safer Roads in Horsham & Crawley

Drivers in Horsham and Crawley are discovering the money-saving and environmentally-friendly advantages of owning a Mazda, following an overwhelming response to Mazda’s enhanced scrappage offers at local Mazda retailer Lifestyle Mazda.

According to the Horsham and Crawley-based dealerships, there has been a significant number of customers trading-in their older vehicles for a brand-new Mazda since the programme began earlier this year, attracted by the generous scrappage offers available at Lifestyle Mazda and the overall low running costs attached to models across the range.

“We have received a high number of enquiries from customers wishing to participate in the Government-backed scrappage scheme,” says Mark Spowage at Lifestyle Mazda.

“The enhanced scrappage deals offered by Mazda have meant that it is much more affordable for motorists in Horsham and Crawley, who qualify for the scheme, to own a safer, more eco-friendly car than ever before. As a result, our local road network is becoming increasingly populated with cleaner, more reliable cars.”

The Mazda2 and Mazda3 have proved to be extremely popular model choices for customers trading in their older cars at Lifestyle Mazda, attracted by impressive fuel economy, generous levels of specification, high safety levels and low tax banding.

With a starting price of £9,295 (on-the-road), or just £7,295 under the scrappage scheme, the entry-level Mazda2 (TS, 3dr, 1.3-litre, 75ps petrol) with air-conditioning as standard, is one of the most price-competitive small cars in the UK. Prices for the Mazda2 5dr start at £9,645 (TS 1.3-litre, 75ps), or just £7,645 under the scrappage scheme.

Occupant safety levels are amongst the best in class, with the Mazda2 5dr achieving a five-Star EuroNCAP crash test safety rating. The three-door also benefits from the same level of safety design, engineering and equipment.

The all-new Mazda3 is available priced from £13,500 on-the-road or just £10,500 for customers trading-in vehicles over 10 years old under the scrappage scheme.

The newly launched model now has best-in-class aerodynamics, retuned powertrains and reduced weight (down by 15 kilos on some models), resulting in significant reductions in CO2 and fuel consumption.

Safety is paramount on all-new Mazda3, with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and an Emergency Stop Signaling (ESS) System standard on all models. This system automatically activates the hazard warning lights at cruising speeds when the ABS sensors detect emergency braking – and cancels the emergency signal when either the demand for ABS relaxes or when the brake pedal is released.

Customers trading in a car of 10 years old or more for a new Mazda can now benefit from extra savings, ranging from a total of £2,000 minimum up to £6,000 maximum on some models at Lifestyle Mazda.

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, call Lifestyle Mazda on 01403 254 331 or 01293 845 000 or visit the showroom at Bishopric, Horsham or Manor Royal, Crawley.