Subaru service North East and North Yorkshire

If you live in the North East or North Yorkshire and you’re looking to service your Subaru, then you'll want to be sure your Subaru pride and joy is the loving hands of people who know what they’re doing. Introducing Chris Harrison - the official number one Subaru technician in the country and working right here at Derek Slack Motors in Middlesbrough.

Chris fought off some stiff competition from other UK Subaru finalists before becoming the UK’s Subaru champion to go through to Subaru’s, ‘World Technician Competition’ in Japan. Chris is now recognised as one of the top 12 Subaru technicians in the world and we’re delighted to have him at Derek Slack Motors.

‘It was a fantastic opportunity for me and one I’ll never forget, said Chris, who’s been with Derek Slack Motors since 2011. ‘Progressing through the UK finals and then to be chosen as the sole UK Subaru finalist was a real dream come true. The invitation to attend the competition in Japan was a real honor and to meet so many fellow
Subaru technicians and enthusiasts from around the world was a truly wonderful experience.’

Superb Elegance Laurin and Klement Middlesbrough

The Superb Elegance is now available with a stunning new Laurin & Klement luxury pack, offering the highest levels of specification in the Skoda range. The Superb Elegance L&K will also be available in a new magnetic brown metallic paint, available only on Superb Elegance L&K orders.
The pack includes: 18-inch Sirius bi-colour alloys, Brown leather upholstery with Piano black decorative inserts, Chrome radiator grille, L&K plaque on wheel arch and scuff plates, LED rear brake lights (hatch only), Panoramic sunroof (estate only), 10-speaker sound system, Boot net, Floor mats, Heated rear seats, Park assist (includes front and rear parking sensors), Sunset glass, TV tuner (showing digital and analogue TV on the Columbus satellite navigation display when the car is stationary). When the car is moving (more than six kilometres per hour) the TV audio signal is played without a picture.
For more information call us on: 01642 256100 or visit opur showroom on Cargo Fleet, Middlesbrough.

Subaru BRZ STI

Following months of speculation with only small glimpses and artist impressions, Derek Slack Motors can now reveal Subaru’s RWD (rear wheel drive) BRZ STI.

Subaru’s collaboration with Toyota shares many components with the FT-86, including Toyota’s fuel saving D-4S ‘direct injection system’. However, the chassis and the 2.0 Boxer engine is all Subaru - delivering 250bhp. The BRZ embodies Suabru’s passion for the sports car with a model already booked to appear on the race track in the Japanese Super GT series (GT300 category)
Although the FT-86 and the BRZ models boast very similar profiles, the Subaru BRZ will be more powerfull and sportier with a more recognisable aggressive Subaru bodykit than its Toyota sibling.

We’ll keep you posted on developments and when it’s scheduled to appear at Derek Slack Motors showroom

Subaru STIMULI Track Day

Derek Slack Motors, main dealers for Subaru in Middlesbrough and North Yorkshire, held their first Subaru STIMULI track day on the 4th November at Teesside Autodrome. The electrifying event organised by Subaru allowed a hand-full of Subaru customers the opportunity to put the Subaru STI through its paces at South Tees Motor Sports Park. The track day consisted of a wide range of activities including, breathtaking manoeuvreability and road handling skills. Subaru’s own team of professional rally drivers offered advice, whilst demonstrating the awe-inspiring ability of the new Cosworth Impreza STI as we accelerated from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds (quicker than most of the world’s supercars), the Cosworth Impreza also pumps out a prodigious 400bhp as we went through a series of tight, hair-pin bends with much screeching, (was that the tyres or me?) all very gripping stuff, (literally).

Customers then strapped themselves behind the wheel of the WRX STI to feel the awesome 300bhp, managing 0-62 in just 5.2 seconds. Even though the rally winning, AWD (All wheel drive) STi boasts some serious power, it still proved what an exceptionally easy car it is to drive and why it’s still miles ahead of any competition.

Before breaking for lunch we enjoyed some less physically challenging driving in the shape of a fun Scalextric competition. I think everyone agreed it was a great event and one that really showed why the Subaru WRX STI is a world beater.

Subaru and snow in North Yorkshire and Middlesbrough

It won’t have escaped your notice that autumn’s with us and if last two years are anything to go by the season may quickly slip into winter without warning. More and more people are now switched on to the benefits of Subaru’s unique permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Those fortunate not get stuck in the snow will also tell you about Subaru’s unequalled levels of grip, performance, stability and safety for yourself.

With a range of Boxer engines and a host of luxuries there’s never been a better time to book a test drive at Derek Slack Motors, the home of Subaru in Middlesbrough and North Yorkshire.

Subaru Appeal For Japan Cycle Relay

Although we cycled our leg of the ‘Subaru Appeal For Japan Cycle Relay’ together, nothing could have prepared us for the appalling weather that awaited during Wednesday 12 October.

It really was terrible, as it had rained heavily the night before and the deluge continued throughout our stage of the cycle relay, with passing cars having to use their lights, in order to be seen. Still, after our 10.00am departure time from Middlesbrough, we travelled the back roads, through Yarm, Hornby, Scorton and Brompton-On-Swale, to our final destination in Richmond, North Yorkshire, approximately thirty miles away.

Even on some of the quieter roads, we encountered heavy traffic, including both lorries and buses. Ian Pattison - Warranty Manager at Derek Slack Skoda, did an excellent job of driving the safety car, by ensuring he was right behind us, not allowing traffic to squeeze between the safety car and bicycles, a move several less-considerate motorists actually attempted.

We made only three brief stops on route for refreshments, which enabled us to maintain a steady pace throughout.
On seeing the final 5-miles road sign for Richmond, we were spurred on to escalate the final lengthy climb uphill. Fortunately, the team at the next Subaru dealership were waiting, just as we arrived on the forecourt.

Despite the soaking conditions, we enjoyed the challenging route, which has gained some local publicity interest already from the local radio station, TFM (thanks folks). If you would like to join in with the fund raising and allow the charity to benefit from the UK’s Gift Aid scheme, log on to: http://subaru.co.uk/japan-appeal

Bonneville Speed Week

ŠKODA UK sent an Octavia vRS to Bonneville Speed Week in the USA in August, to try to push a two-litre production car beyond the 200mph barrier. Watch the video of the moment we entered the history books, setting a new record of 227.080mph.

Premiere of the new Subaru XV

Today (13th September) was the world premiere of the new Subaru XV (European specifications) at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. 

The launch of the XV takes Subaru into the compact crossover segment for the first time, combining style with functionality. Jed Thirkell-Subaru Sales Executive at Derek Slack Motors said, “ In this highly competitive segment, the XV offers something different, bringing a whole new level of engineering excellence.

The XV, has achieved its aim in providing a stylish and distinctive crossover with Subaru driving dynamics, combined with high level of functionality and fuel efficiency. 

The XV is a new type of crossover design that combines a stylish, dynamic form with a high body and side cladding to enhance the sense of functionality associated with an SUV.

Equipped with a hexagonal grille and hawk eye headlights, these design features emphasize the unique identity of the newest Subaru cars, while the striking and innovatively designed alloy wheels and cut-away cladding give the XV its sporting appearance.

The corners of the front and rear bumpers were designed with special edges that enhance the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle and also contribute to better fuel efficiency. 

The new, 3rd generation Subaru Boxer engine, introduced this year with a totally new design, is installed in 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre petrol models. Along with the usual merits that horizontally-opposed engines inherently possess, this engine has improved fuel efficiency and exhaust performance. Together with the adoption of the new Lineartronic (CVT), a newly developed 'Auto Start System', the fuel efficiency was further improved. 

A heavily revised version of Subaru's Boxer Diesel, which was specially developed for the European market, is also featured in the XV line-up.”

New Skoda for immediate delivery

If you’re looking to buy a new Skoda for immediate delivery make sure you visit Derek Slack Motors, main delaers for Skoda in Stockton on Tees, Middlesbrough, Thornaby and Hartlepool and now offering nationwide delivery on brand new Skodas from stock. For example, you can driveaway any of the following new 11 registration skodas with savings of up to £2,769 on RRP.

Yeti S 2.0 TDi In Brilliant Silver Only £17,180

Yeti SE 1.2 TSi In Tangerine Only £17,330

Yeti Elegance 2.0 TDi 4x4 In Aqua Blue Only £22,455

Octavia Laurin & Klement 2.0 TDi Hatch In Arctic Green Metallic Price was £22,720 Save £2,769 Now £19,951

Octavia S 1.6 TDi Hatch In choice of colour from...Price was £16,400 Save £1,979 Now £14,421

Octavia SE 1.6 TDi Hatch In choice of colour from...Price was £17,410 Save £2,105 Now £15,305

Octavia vRS 2.0 T FSi Hatch In Anthracite Grey Price was £20,770 Save £2,437 Now £18,333

Fabia Scout 1.6 TDi In Safari Beige Price was £16,070 Save £1,882 Now £14,188

Superb SE 1.8 TSi 4x4 In Cappuccino Price was £22,980 Save £2,691 Now £20,289

Roomster SE 1.6 TDi In Brilliant Silver Price was £15,100 Save £1,816 Now £13,284

Isuzu Teesside

Thanks to our bulk buying power, Derek Slack Motors have secured a cancelled fleet order meaning we have the largest selection of ‘11’ registration Rodeos in the North East and North Yorkshire. All available for immediate delivery and in a choice model and metallic colour. Plus, also in stock, the new shape Denver Max 2.5 Twin-Cab 4x4 also available for immediate delivery nationwide.

We also carry one of the largest selections of used Isuzu pickups, including the Rodeo 2.5 CRD Double Cab Denver. For more information about Isuzu in Teesside, Northumberland, Durham, Cumbria and North Yorkshire, visit Derek Slack Motors on Cargo Fleet, Middlesbrough or call 01642 256100 or visit: www.derekslackmotors.co.uk

Subaru North Yorkshire AWD

We waxed lyrical all winter about Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) transmission, distributing power to front and rear, enhancing straight-line traction, offering sure-footed grip. Here's a clip showing it in practice.

Andreas Mikkelsen takes on the Prime Yalta Rally

Andreas Mikkelsen takes on the Prime Yalta Rally, but it’s been far from a consolidated run in 4th position, as a time-consuming puncture saw him drop to 8th before a fastest stage time began his magnificent climb back up the leaderboard finishing 4th.

Fourth-generation 2012 Subaru

A sneak preview at the New York Auto Show revealed the new 2012 ‘next generation’ Subaru Impreza with improved refinement, interior space and engine and transmissions. Branded as the fourth-generation 2012 Subaru, the new model is set to arrive at Derek Slack Motors sometime next year. We’ve attached a sneak preview, but you can read the full story on our news page.

Skoda GreenLine II Teesside

In a world that’s finally becoming more environmentally sensitive, Derek Slack Motors, (main dealers for Skoda on Teesside and Darlington) are pleased to announced that Skoda have responded by developing Greenline II technology, designed to keep fuel costs down and with an environmental low impact. One of the most unprecedented moves in the history of Skoda sees the arrival of not one, but eight new Greenline II vehicles across the Skoda range, which includes the new model Roomster, Yeti, plus, hatch and estate versions of the Fabia, Superb and Octavia, all of which are now available from Derek Slack Motors.

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, is to create a more aerodynamic vehicle. All of the Skoda GreenLine II models have subtle changes that improve the car’s efficiency without compromising on style. GreenLine II models now have smaller, lighter alloy wheels and low rolling resistance tyres with higher prescribed air pressure to reduce friction.

The GreenLine II models also feature aerodynamic improvements to the body of the car. All the cars have slightly lowered suspension (up to 20mm) and Fabia Hatch features a unique rear spoiler to facilitate better airflow.

Take a closer look and you’ll find the Fabia GreenLine II offers just 89g/km of C02, that’s even less the Toyota Prius hybrid and better than any small car on the road, avoiding the need to pay any road tax. For company car drivers, there’s good news too! The Skoda Superb Greenline can also help make the most of tax breaks with 64.2mpg and 114g/km.

The highly acclaimed Yeti, voted car of the year in 2009 offer figures of 61.4mpg and 119g/km on a SUV which are remarkable. The entire new range of Greenline Skodas all include regenerative braking, stop/start technology, a gearchange indicator, lower ride height, lighter alloys and low rolling resistance tyres.

The happiness of our customers is central to all we do at Derek Slack Motors and the reason why we were recently voted number one for Skoda Customer Satisfaction in the UK. Don’t just take our word for it though, call into Derek Slack Motors in Middlesbrough and experience this for yourself.

Isuzu, Duncombe Park, Helmsley, North Yorkshire

Duncombe Park, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, Friday 13th May was the venue and date for this year’s RODEOACTIVE event organised by Isuzu, for dealers and customers from across the north of England. The event now in its second year, included an extreme off road course designed to test the abilities of the Isuzu Rodeo. Teams took part in two events before lunch which included, clay pigeon shooting, segway (those funny two wheel self-balancing electric vehicles), archery and falconry displays. I've attached a few images to what proved to be an enjoyable day by all.

Thanks for reading
Tony

Teesside Isuzu

As main dealers for Isuzu in Teesside, Derek Slack Motors are pleased to announce the arrival of a new fleet of 11 registration Rodeo Pickups for immediate delivery. Thanks to our huge bulk buying power, Derek Slack Motors secured first refusal from a cancelled UK Isuzu fleet order which means not only can you choose from a choice of colours, but you can also driveaway today. Hurry, stocks are already selling fast. Call Derek Slack Motors-Isuzu in Teesside on 01642 256100.

Skoda vRS S2000 Middlesbrough

The ultimate taxi driver? Check out this amazing video. As part of Skoda’s 110 years of motorsport celebrations in 2011, the brand is proud to announce it will be an official partner to the Goodwood Festival of Speed for the first time. Andreas Mikkelsen (the driver of the vRS S2000) was the youngest ever winner of a British national rally at just 17 years old and 16 days. Look out for a few other celebrities in the video!

Impreza 2012 North East

I was fortunate to visit the Geneva Motorshow back in February 2011 and had my first glimpse of the new Impreza concept model which looks set to become the new Impreza 2012. Subaru has a new brand statement-‘confidence in motion’, coupled with the brand’s core value of ‘enjoyment and peace of mind’.
The new sleek styling looks more in line with the STI, with the roofline creating a silky profile while the slender headlights and slightly exaggerated grille give off real attitude. If these proportions are retained for the 2012 model, then we’re in for a real treat. Word is that Subaru are also looking for economy improvements with estimates amounting to substantial gains over the old model. I’ll keep you posted. All-in-all it was another great show. I’ve attached a few images with a sneak preview of the Impreza 2012. I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts.

Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo in Middlesbrough

The Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo is released to coincide with Skoda celebrating 110 years of motor-sport and also marking the centenary of the rally of the same name. It's in our showroom now and comes in a range of engines sizes including:1.2 TSi 69PS, 86PS and 105PS and 1.6 TDi 75PS and 105PS. Plus for a limited period, you can still drive away VAT FREE.

With an aggressive black design, darkened chrome on top of the grille, gloss black door mirrors and smoked glass headlights. The piano black bodykit, also extends over the wheel arches and along the full length of the car. The interior is also special too, available in a choice of red or black, the handbrake and steering wheel are trimmed in black leather. You can see more by visiting our website here

Skoda Vision D

During our recent visit to the 81st Geneva Motorshow, Skoda unveiled the new Vision D concept vehicle, which marks another big step into the future for Skoda. The Vision D certainly stimulated the imagination of visitors providing a view to Skoda’s future. Cheif designer Josek Kaban talked about a love of simplicity and the style is very clean and easy on the eye.
We’re told the next Octavia may also adopt some of the Vision D’s design cues.
‘We want practical and beautiful’, said Kaban. ‘We want everything – with cars people think you have to go left or right. We want both.’ 

As number 1 Skoda dealer in the UK, Derek Slack Motors will spearhead the launch of a new product offensive commencing in 2012, with new models every six months as the new design language is ushered in. We can expect clean simplicity from them all. Kaban: ‘Lots of cars are like Christmas trees with all their design. I like Christmas, but only once a year!’

Skoda’s freshen up is also signaled by a new logo, though it’s an evolution of the old badge rather than revolution. While it’s green in print, it will be silver and black in the flesh, giving a classier look.

11 registration Skoda, Subaru Isuzu

Phew!, March 1st proved to be just as busy as we expected. Great to meet so many new customers along with many familiar faces too. The new 11 registration proved successful for Skoda, Subaru and Isuzu. New models such as Subaru’s WRX STi have attracted a great deal of attention. The frozen VAT offer and Free Subaru accessory pack also proved popular, as did the VAT free offer on selected Skodas, in particular the £99 per month offer on brand new Skoda Fabia 1.2 S. We’ve also helped put Teesside back on the map following our recent award as the number one Skoda dealer in the UK for customer satisfaction. As one of the few family-run motor retailers, it’s great to see the public voting for an independent dealer who put their customers first rather than their share holders!

Thanks again to everyone for making Derek Slack Motors, number one in the UK for Skoda and first in the north east for Subaru and Isuzu.

The Great North Air Ambulance

Derek Slack Motors in Teesside, were delighted to be recently chosen as the Skoda main dealer to supply two new vehicles to the Great North Air Ambulance ground team. Both the new Skoda Octavia 4x4 Estate and Skoda Octavia vRS Estate will strengthen the service offered by Great North Air Ambulance to the people of the North. These vehicles will be used when the weather is too severe to fly or when the helicopters are undergoing maintenance.

Subaru Boxer Diesel Engine

A closer look at the Subaru Boxer Diesel engine...

Subaru AWD- gripping video!