Plugs & POINTS ; in Association With Fish4

SKODA has added a four-wheel drive Scout version to its acclaimed Octavia estate range. The new 4x4 has a muscular look, and will be offered with two engines - a 2.0-litre FSI 150bhp petrol, and a 2.0- litre TDI 140bhp diesel. Scout prices start at pounds 17,585 for the petrol version, and go up to pounds 19,490 for the turbo-diesel model. Standard kit includes twin chrome exhausts, 17-inch Proteus alloy wheels, sunset glass, dual-zone aircon, electronic stability, headlight washers, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and aluminium pedals. You can order one from the middle of March, for delivery in early April.

THE latest Mercedes C-Class reaches British roads in June, and is split into three individual model lines, SE, Elegance, or Sport. All versions get state-of-the-art technology, including the firm's new Agility Control suspension, and the Pre-Safe occupant protection system. Improved four and six-cylinder engines offer up to 13% more power than the outgoing models, plus up to 6% less fuel thirst. The new C-Class is longer and wider, to provide a more generous interior. Mercedes will announce full prices and specification details closer to the UK launch date.

A MOTORING website operation wants to hear of driving disaster stories from the UK's motoring population. UsedCarExpert.com is offering prizes for funny, shocking, or barely-believable tales, covering subjects such as accidents, insurance claims, the quickest breakdown after buying a used car, biggest repair bill, and best home maintenance mistake. For full details of the innovative awards scheme, go to the firm's dedicated web page, found at www.UsedCarExpert.net/awards.

Have you resolved to get fit for the New Year and finding it, as a busy motorist, difficult? No worries - there's now a workout drivers can do from behind the wheel, as the car sits idling in a jam. Women's car insurance specialist Diamond has worked with experts from the University of Wales, in Cardiff, to come up with exercises that can be done while the car is stationary in traffic queues. The full list can be found online at www.diamond.co.uk.

Two special editions have just arrived in the UK's Chrysler showrooms - the PT Cruiser Pacific Coast Highway, with prices ranging from pounds 15,500 to pounds 16,725, and the Grand Voyager Signature, costing from pounds 29,175.

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