Get 2012 off to a flying start with a new car

Now the Christmas festivities are out of the way for another year, thoughts may well return to buying items required for spring.

People say ‘new year, new start’, and what better way to start off 2012 than by purchasing a new car. The most difficult decision when purchasing a new car is which one to buy, as there are so many different considerations that need to be taken into account.

People with families will require something that can hold the kids and a decent amount of luggage for days out, while single people will probably want something that’s reliable and says something about their personality.

There are two common factors that many people consider when buying a new vehicle: one is the environment (and with the production of greener cars on the rise there is something that can suit everyone's tastes while still being environmentally friendly); the other is the cost of running the vehicle (and purchasing low emission cars means that large savings can be made on fuel).

The range of hybrid cars available from Honda includes the Insight, an economical family car that has all the features that you would expect from Honda.

There are a number of features that are included as standard with the Insight, these include airbags, alloy wheels, and climate control; meaning the whole family can travel in comfort while doing their bit for the environment.

For those who want something a little sportier the CR-Z is ideal. With three driving modes (sport, normal and economy) the CR-Z provides comfort alongside low fuel emissions.

The CR-Z is available in three models, the S, the Sport and the GT. The GT model has a number of added features including heated seats, automatic headlights and wipers, and luxurious leather upholstery.

Another of the new car offers from Honda is the world's first hybrid super mini, the Jazz. The Jazz is available with keyless entry as standard, as well as climate control and privacy glass.

The Jazz also comes in three models, with the HX benefitting from a panoramic glass roof, leather upholstery and heated seats. All three versions of the car are available with or without an integrated satellite navigation system, as well as a Bluetooth hands-free phone system, ensuring that those driving are kept safe throughout the journey.

There are two sources that power all the hybrid vehicles: a small petrol engine and an electric motor. The energy the car produces is put to good use by powering a battery that in turn provides power to the electric motor.

The electric motor then gives the petrol engine a boost meaning less fuel is required, making hybrid cars more environmentally friendly and economical to run.

The United Kingdom, like many countries in the world, is actively promoting the idea of the hybrid vehicle to the consumer by introducing benefits for those that purchase them.

The main benefits to people who drive hybrid vehicles include paying a lower rate of Vehicle Excise Duty and exemption from the Congestion Charge when driving through London.

The amount that can be saved by drivers travelling though London on a daily basis is £40 per week. This is because driving a hybrid car means that they are eligible for a 100 per cent discount on the charge.