The cost of insuring a car in the UK falls by a record amount in 2013; model changes for
Audi and
Toyota; Daimler continues air-con dispute. Car insurance premiums have fallen by a record 14. 1 per cent year-on-year over the course of 2013. The AA British Insurance Premium index found that the average quoted premium for a comprehensive policy has fallen to 533. The report cites a competitive market and tougher whiplash claim legislation as reasons for the fall.
Audi Q7 buyers can now opt for two new top-spec S line models. S line Style Edition cars start at 52,975, and feature new 21-inch wheel designs and a new off-road styling package. Meanwhile S line Sport Edition specification, priced from 54,475, gives the Q7 a sports bodykit, including larger front air intakes and new exhaust designs.
Model year changes to the 2014 Toyota RAV4 include the option of a 122bhp 2. 0-litre D-4D diesel engine with all-wheel drive and the newest iteration of Toyotas touchscreen infotainment system. Other changes include keyless entry on Icon specification models, while top-spec Invincible RAV4s get leather trim and front and rear parking sensors.
Germany is facing legal action from the European Commission over Daimler's use of a now-banned air-conditioning refrigerant. Most major manufacturers complied with an EU directive to switch to a new, greener refrigerant from last year, but Daimler says the new gas has a higher fire risk under some circumstances. Models using the gas include the A-class, B-class and SL-class. Daimler says it is aware of the action.