< Previous70 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCOUNTY MOTORINGticks the boxes though as a plug-in hybrid that cantackle most daily journeys up to 30 miles on electricpower, or 584 miles using the engine. Hybrids certainly have their place for those looking tocover a lot of miles and the Toyota Prius Plug-in with itsrange of almost 700 miles has to be worthy ofmention. However, if you need somethingthat’ll fit in with the rural life style thatliving in Lincolnshire entails, you’ll needsomething with serious pulling power (I’mtalking load lugging here chaps, not theother type of pulling power!) For this,we can seriously recommendMitsubishi’s Outlander PHEV11) Renault Zoe: awarded‘Best Electric Car for lessthan £20,000’ by What Car.2) Audi A3 e-tronsportback: £29950 on theroad and offers up to176mpg on a full charge.3) BMW i8: This 135 mpgsupercar clinched victoryat the 2015 World CarAwards in the categoryWorld Green Car and forgood reason.BACKGROUND: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/ALLEGRO68-71_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:13 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRETODAY71COUNTY MOTORINGwhich blew us away on our test driveand seems to be leading the charge interms of sales this year, beating rivalshands down. The PHEV has a towingcapacity of 1,500kg and it’s the world’sfirst plug-in hybrid SUV which can bedriven up to 32.5 miles on batterypower alone or coupled with its enginewill take you up to 513 miles.Not quite as versatile as the PHEV isthe all-electric Nissan e-NV200Combi, which caters for up to fivepassengers while still retaining fairlydecent load space. For those who needa larger seating capacity you could optfor the seven seater version, and with arange of up to 106 miles, it’s not to besniffed at. Of course, if what you really want is aluxury sports car that ticks all the boxes,then you’ll just love BMW’s i8. It’sa plug-in hybrid that delivers expertlyon all fronts. It boasts CO2 emissions aslow as 49g/km, yet sprints to 60mph inless than 4.5 seconds. Here atLincolnshire Today, we had the pleasureof driving one around the county andit’s a real head turner that offers up to373 miles and all in utter luxury.32It’s easy to understand the attractionfor plug in vehicles when you’ve triedand tested them, as we have. But,apart from the ride quality there’s alsothe tax benefits, particularly so forcompany car drivers (who havediscovered they can save over £6,000in benefit-in-kind company car taxover a five year period). But even forthose who don’t have the luxury of acompany car and are perhaps dauntedby the higher purchase cost, it’s worthbearing in mind that this is more thanoffset by the cost of running - as little asa fifth of that of a traditionalpetrol/diesel car, in fact. Then there’sthat warm fuzzy glow you get from thenotable environmental benefits thatthese cars bring and being able to smilesweetly the next time someone accusesyou of driving a Chelsea tractor to theschool run. 68-71_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:13 Page 472 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCOUNTY MOTORINGNew Mini Clubmancomes of age There was a fair old buzz at the launch party for the all new Mini Clubman, and for good reason.New Mini Clubmancomes of age There was a fair old buzz at the launch party for the all new Mini Clubman, and for good reason.FACT FILE Tested: 1,998cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine,six-speed manual gearbox, front-wheel driveTop speed: 143mphAcceleration: 0-62mph in 7.2secFuel economy: 45.6mpg (EU Combined)CO2 emissions: 144g/kmVED band: F (£145)72-73_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:15 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY73COUNTY MOTORINGThe German marque has been busy of laterefreshing the rest of the mini range and theClubman has just received its somewhatcomprehensive re vamp. In place of the three sidedoors it now has four, it’s also been given a widerstance and is more spacious inside. But it doesn’tstop there, you can also expect much improvedperformance a wider range of options and a host ofexterior and interior changes too. Initially, there’s three different models to choosefrom: the entry-level 1.5 litre model at £19,965 the148 bhp 2.0 litre Diesel at £ 22,245 OTR or therange topping 189 bhp Cooper S version at£22,755. All provide excellent value for money andcome with climate control, cruise control, sat-nav,Bluetooth, USB connectivity, keyless start and air-con as standard. Our test model for the day was to be the sixspeed manual Cooper S Clubman, powered by aturbocharged 189bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine. Appearance wise this is one characterful car - andwe mean this in a good way. It’s well engineeredhas four doors plus the two rear cargo doors whichcan be operated simply by poking your toe underthe rear bumper (very handy for loading with yourarms full).Climb inside and there’s lots of room and a verygood range of seat adjustments, which shouldplease even the tallest or shortest of drivers. Rearseat passengers are well catered for too withenough space for up to three adults abreast, in therear.There’s so much to like about the interior, it’shard to know what to commend - the ambientlighting system perhaps which glows in whatevercolour you dial in, or the wrap around half leatherhalf suede seats, the Harman Kardon stereo fittedto our model, or the heads up speedo which alsoallows you to read the sat nav without taking youreyes off the road. This car exudes qualitythroughout. Admittedly our car had been deckedout with the ‘chilli pack’ which is a host ofadditional extras costing a further £2,785 (rising to£4525 for the John Cooper works chilli pack) butthis gets you distinctive goodies like: bum warmers,park distance control, mini driving modes (a choiceof three settings: sport, normal and green so,depending on what mood you’re in that day, youchoose), upgraded wheels and countless more. The new clubman drives as well as it looks too.The wider wheelbase and aerodynamics give itplenty of grip and poise and the throaty growl ofthe exhaust adding to the experience, especiallywhen we drop it into sport mode. Thanks to theavailable power and smooth six speed box, itneeds very few gear changes too, and has suchprecise steering and plenty of grip with very littlebody roll.All in all, a stylish premium car that’s as practicalas they come yet still delights the senses. Test car courtesy of Soper of Lincoln,Tel: 01522 68888972-73_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:15 Page 2Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Clubman Range: Urban 35.3-60.1 mpg (8-4.7 l/100km). Extra Urban 52.3-76.3 mpg (5.4-3.7 l/100km). Combined 44.8-68.9 mpg (6.3-4.1 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 147-109 g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Test drive is subject to status and availability.GO WITH YOUR GUT.Fully loaded with MINI Navigation System, MINI Connected and distinctive looks as standard. With space for five and a range of advanced TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines, the stunning new MINI Clubman creates a powerful feeling that makes perfect sense.Pre-book a test drive* at www.sopermini.co.uk/contact-us/test-drive Soper of LincolnRoman Way, South HykehamLincoln LN6 9UH Tel: 01522 688889THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN.74_Layout 1 16/11/2015 14:40 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY75SOCIAL SCENEAn evening witha difference…Soper MINI hosted the long awaited new MINI Clubman at The Strait and Narrowbar in Lincoln on Thursday 29th October, and what a night!Guests were welcomed with “MINI gin + Tonics” and had a cocktail or mocktailmade for them based on the Clubman concept of Stylish and Ingenious. Soper MINI Brand Manager Luke, thanked guests for joining them and gave anintroduction to the third generation Clubman before it made its appearance fromdown the Strait.The new generation model is a complete re-vamp and everyone was intrigued tosee what the designers had accomplished before booking a test drive. Book your test drive by visiting www.sopermini.co.uk75_Layout 1 16/11/2015 14:41 Page 176 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYWHAT’SONLincolnSaturday 28 – Sunday 29 NovemberLincolnshire Showground Returning on 28 and 29 November 2015, the 15thLincolnshire Food & Gift Fair brings together over 150 excitingexhibitors, festive entertainment from choir groups, cookerydemonstrations from top local chefs and producers and hands-on craft workshops for all of the family. The annual event, heldacross two indoor halls, promises tonnes of Christmasinspiration for all of its visitors - the ideal place to stock up onyour Christmas essentials. For more information, visitwww.lincolnshowground.co.uk.SkegnessFriday 4 – Monday 7 DecemberThe Great British Folk Festival, Butlins Now in its firth year, 2015 is set to be the most rambunctiousto date. Boasting a line-up of award winning folk players,including Billy Bragg, Steeleye Span, Tom Robinson and more,the festival is one of the most anticipated music events thecounty has to offer. Why not make an entire weekend of it, andenjoy the event in its entirely by booking accommodation andexperience the costal pizzazz of Skegness town. For moreinformation, call 01754 762311. HorncastleSunday 6 December Christmas Cracker Market, Horncastle High StreetFrom 11am to 4pm, Horncastle High Street is closed off andlined with an assortment of Christmas-themed craft stalls,artisan manufacturers and a bounty of food suppliers.Entertainment will be provided by a variety of streetperformances including Taiko drummers, Punch & Judy and,of course, Father Christmas. There’ll also be local bands andmusicians performing on the main stage. For moreinformation, visit www.horncastlefestivals.co.uk.GrimsbySunday 8 DecemberA Celebration History of Christmas, The GrimsbyInstitute This talk, led by Andy Thomas, is set to be an eveningwith a difference. Having revealed the secrets of crop circlesin past presentations, Andy will tackle Christmas this timearound. The presentation promises to be both fascinatingand uplifting in offering a background to the festive seasonthrough the ages. Education and entertaining, this is anideal event for the family just in time for the festive rush. Formore information, e-mail infocent@grimsby.ac.uk. 76-79_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:35 Page 1Martin Saturday 12 DecemberHome-made Hampers & EdibleGifts, The Manor House For anyone who’s evercontemplated making their ownbread and other produce, this newcourse is not to be missed. Just in timefor Christmas, the course teachesvisitors how to make and bake ediblegifts for their friends and families. Asif that wasn’t exciting enough,there’ll also be the opportunity tomake your own cheese, chocolate,jam and biscuits. For moreinformation, e-mailinfo@manorhousestables.co.uk. 78 ÁChristmas Cracker Market,Horncastle High StreetSkegnessDecember - JanuaryEmbassy Theatre – The East Coast’sPremier Entertainment VenueDecember entertainment for all agesawaits at the Embassy Theatre, includingthe popular That’ll Be The Day ChristmasShow, up close and personal with Russell‘The Voice’ Watson and the magical familypantomime, in association with JamieMarcus Productions, Snow White and theSeven Dwarfs from 18-27 December.2016 will start in style with Janice SuttonTheatre Production’s New Year Spectacular, Fantazia, a fantastic family show withperformances from 1-3 January inclusive. Tickets are also on sale for Peppa Pig’sSurprise, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, the hilarious politically incorrect AvenueQ and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story. For more information, visitwww.embassytheatre.co.uk.PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/IAKOV FILIMONOV76-79_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:36 Page 2WHAT’S ONLincolnSunday 13 December Roy Wood’s Rock & Roll Christmas Party,The Engine ShedIt’s hard to imagine any Christmas without thechortle of Roy Wood’s ‘I Wish it Could Be ChristmasEveryday’, so Lincoln will be very merry to welcomethe man himself for a touch of rock to the festivities.Big on hits and bigger on beard, Roy Wood will beperforming his string of singles from across his careerincluding ‘BlackBerry Way’, ‘Flowers in the Rain’ andmore. For more information, visit www.roywood.co.uk. Woodall SpaSunday 20 DecemberThe Nightmare Before Christmas, Kinema inthe WoodsCombining the holiday seasons of Halloween withChristmas Henry Selick’s Nightmare Before Christmas.A firm favourite with both kids and adults, Woodall Spa’sidyllic Kinema in the Woods is offering fans the chance tocatch the classic stop-motion movie on the silver screen. It’snot often that a chance like this comes along. For moreinformation, visit www.thekinemainthewoods.co.uk. Gainsborough Sunday 20 DecemberThe Nutcracker – The Bolshoi Ballet, Trinity ArtsCentre With this live stream, locals across Lincolnshire can gather atGainsborough’s arts centre to enjoy the mesmerising BolshoiBallet. A staple of the Christmas season, the performance, withthe enchanting music of Tchaikovsky, is choreographed by YuriGrigorovich. The story, which takes place on Christmas Eve,sees Marie given a wooden nutcracker as a gift. But when theclock strikes midnight, the nutcracker transforms into aprince and saves Marie from the Mouse King and hisarmy. For more information, call 01427 676655. LouthSunday 3 January The 17th Annual MacmillanRound Louth Walk Bring in the New Year by walking forcharity in this self-guided route, organisedby Macmillan Cancer Support. A choice of2, 6 or 14 mile routes are option, with anentry fee of £5.00, which goes to thecharity as well as providing a charity badgeand route map. Children and dogs arewelcome to participate, at the responsibility oftheir parent/owner. The meeting point isHallington Road, southern end of Hubbard’s Hills. Formore information, e-mail jdavenport@macmillan.org.uk. PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/TERI VIRBICKISThe Nutcracker – TheBolshoi Ballet, Trinity ArtsCentre, Gainsborough‘Tis the season SkegnessMonday 14 - Thursday 17 December The Wizard of Oz, Grand Central What Christmas would be complete without the misadventures of Dorothy?Instead of the usual sit down in front of the movie, why not enjoy the rollicking reverieswith a panto reimagining of that most magical story. For more information, visitwww.grancentralskegness.com. BostonFriday December 11 - Sunday January 3 2016 Jack and the Beanstalk, Blackfriars Arts CentreStarring Ian More as Dame Trott and, back by popular demand, Mike Carnell as Silly Billy, thistraditional panto promises to be a mix of myth, mayhem and a healthy dose ofmisunderstanding. For more information, visit www.blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk. GranthamFriday December 10 – Saturday January 2 2016Beauty and the Beast Pantomime, Guildhall Arts Centre Presented by Polka Dot Pantomimes, this classic story is set to be a sure-fire hit withall members of the family. With its blend of audience participation, modern sing-along songs and copious laughter, it’s sure to be a success. For moreinformation, visit www.guildhallartscentre.com. 76-79_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:36 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRETODAY79Image: Stephanie HopkinsSaturday 28 November 201510am to 4pmgifted.15NCCD’s 4th annual contemporary Christmas Market Specialist craft & food, live music and festive activities for all the familyFree entry & parking, everyone welcome.76-79_Layout 1 16/11/2015 15:36 Page 4Next >