Welcome to Business Car Manager

Small businesses are under the cosh. Costs are rising while trade goes the other way. And the banks, despite weasel words, aren’t helping. The Federation of Small Businesses says 50% of members have found funds hard to get – and those that do get money face interest rates hikes on loans and overdrafts. So minimising your business motoring costs is a must. And we have great stories to help. Some of it’s not rocket science, such as investigating new ways of doing things more efficiently. Some of it’s taking more control of costs. And some is pure genius – like the clever iQ.

Unlike the banks, however, SEAT is listening to small businesses. It wants your views. That’s why it’s asked readers to provide feedback on the new Exeo saloon. The event is exclusive. No one in the UK has driven the car yet and this is your chance to influence the final specification of the Exeo. There are five places; first come first served. So reserve your place. Now.

Ralph Morton - editor

HEADLINE NEWS

Wanted! Test drivers for the new SEAT Exeo

SEAT wants the views of small business on its new Exeo. So it’s invited Business Car Manager readers to attend an exclusive test drive. Fancy it? More here.

ALSO IN THE NEWS

Go green – and save on the bottom line

Commercial Group did just that, shaving 89,000 miles from its delivery schedules and winning the small fleet green award. Could your business make similar gains?

Toyota takes on the MINI with its clever iQ

Toyota’s tiny tot iQ is small. Small in size; small on running costs; and small in tax bills. But inside it’s all grown up with room for four. Smart iQ.

Values for Jaguar XF stay rock solid

The stock markets might be in freefall but not Jaguar’s used values. The desirable XF made a storming start in the auction halls with super strong values. More here.

ROAD TESTS

Road test: Nissan Qashqai+2 adds up

Nissan’s street-savvy SUV stretches out: and now the Qashqai can seat seven. But is more better? Bob Murray, editor of 4x4 & MPV Driver, finds out.

ADVICE CENTRE

Control costs with a fuel card

Scared off by the thought fuel cards might cost you money? Don’t be. Use them to control costs and claim back VAT. Arval’s Corrine Harrison explains.

My business car choice: Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton is Britain’s F1 champion in waiting. But when he steps out of the cockpit and into his car, what’s his transport of choice? Find out.

Business Car Manager Ltd, 95 Station Road, Hampton, Middx TW12 2BD. Registered as a company in England and Wales 5581943, and a member of the Federation of Small Businesses.