IRISH CAR OF YEAR: The shortlist for the Semperit Irish Car of the Year features the Nissan Micra, Renault Megane Scenic, Toyota Avensis, Opel Meriva and the Fiat Panda, a favourite for the European Car of the Year crown. The winner of the Irish title will be announced on Thursday, November 20th.
AUDI'S CHALLENGER: Audi's Porsche Boxster challenger, the new high-powered 3.2 litre, V6 versions has been launched here. Available in both Coupé (€67,050 ex-works) and Roadster (€71,100 ex-works) models, with four-wheel-drive , the new TT offers 250 bhp at 6,300 rpm, a 0-62 mph figure of 6.4 seconds, and a top speed limited to 155 mph. But its most impressive feature is the new direct shift gearbox (DSG). It won us over when we drove the car last year, and is the way forward for gearboxes.
LAND ROVER FREELANDER: Land Rover has announced prices for its new Freelander range. Starting at €29,790 for a three-door 1.8-litre diesel and there are three specification levels plus a new two-litre diesel Sport version, with 18-inch wheels and starting at €38,840 for the three-door version.
PRIUS PRICES:Toyota has announced prices for its new hybrid Prius (below), due for its international launch next week. Available here from January 2004, the greatly improved petrol-electric model will sell at €28,500 ex-works after a 50 per cent VRT rebate.
KIA'S NEW IRISH BOSS: Kia Motors has appointed Chris Haughton as its new general manager, weeks after taking back control of its Irish distribution. Haughton (38) worked with former Kia importer Pino Harris and has prior experience with Honda, Suzuki and Daewoo.
TALLAGHT FORD TO MOVE: More moves afoot within the industry post-block exemption, as Tallaght Ford Centre, part of the Forte Motors group, is to move from the Square to the Airton Road, near the M50. The development, set to cost €6 million, is on a 1.75 acre site, with a 15,000 sq ft showroom.
DEATH OF BRIAN THORNTON: Irish motoring is mourning the loss of Brian Thornton, a motoring journalist of many years standing with the Connaught Tribune and the Clare Champion. Brian also contributed frequently to local radio in the West, and was a keen motorsport enthusiast.