FERRARI LANDS TOP DESIGN AWARDS

FERRARI has scooped four prestigious prizes at the all-important Red Dot Award: Product Design awards.

The Ferrari Daytona SP3 received the Red Dot: Best of the Best, while the 812 Competizione, 812 Competizione A and 296 GTB secured the Red Dot award.

These international accolades once again underline the work of the Ferrari Styling Centre, headed by Flavio Manzoni, devising solutions that render the Maranello-based manufacturer's cars' blend of aesthetics and functionality.

One of the most important and prestigious design industry prizes, the Red Dot Award celebrates excellence and innovative work by the world's best designers.

First held in 1955, this year's award ceremony will take place on June 20 in Essen, Germany.

Between 2015 and 2022, Ferrari has won a total of 23 Red Dot awards, no other car manufacturer coming close to achieving similar results in the award's 68-year history.

This year the Ferrari Daytona SP3 followed in the footsteps of the FXX-K, the 488 GTB, the J50, the Portofino, the Monza SP1 and the SF90 Stradale.

ISUZU EXPANDS D-MAX RANGE

ISUZU UK has introduced six new variants to its award-winning D-Max pick-up range, expanding the customer choice from 11 to 17 models.

The new versions mainly fall within the Business line-up, with automatic transmission now available for Utility Extended Cab, Utility Double Cab and DL20 Extended Cab vehicles, which were previously only offered with manual transmission.

A rear differential lock is now available for Utility Single Cab, Utility Extended Cab and Utility Double Cab models, meaning the rear differential lock is now available across all levels of the D-Max.

The Utility models are ideally suited to hard-working environments, with features like a vinyl floor covering and steel wheels, while the bumpers, door mirrors and door handles are made from durable black plastic.

These models also feature a wide range of safety features while comfort and convenience are assured in thanks to automatic headlights with high-beam assist, auto windscreen wipers, speed-sensitive power steering, DAB radio and a start&stop system.

The Isuzu D-Max range, which starts at £21,999 +VAT, is available in single, extended or double cab body styles.

DRIVERS COULD FACE A £5000 FINE

MOTORISTS who eat food, tune the radio or operate a sat nav whilst behind the wheel face hefty fines for breaching the Highway Code.

Volkswagen Financial Services UK is reminding drivers to avoid such behaviours, which can incur a £5,000 fine, as research from the car finance provider shows that 24 per cent of Brits are planning a domestic road trip this spring.

People who have had reduced time in the car because of the pandemic should note that, according to Rule 148 of the Highway Code, drivers must "avoid distractions when driving or riding such as . . . trying to read maps, starting or adjusting any music or radio . . . eating and drinking."

These behaviours can fall under the ‘careless and inconsiderate driving' offence or be classed as driving without due care and attention.

Volkswagen Financial Services UK chief Mike Todd said:"Not everyone will be aware of these rules in the Highway Code, but it's vitally important that people understand what they can and can't do whilst behind the wheel.

"With Covid restrictions ending in England, we're likely to see more drivers on the road so it's important as ever to be alert and undistracted in the car.

"Knowing and complying with the laws of the road is essential not just to avoid a fine but to keep everyone on our roads safe."

HAYABUSA LEADS SUMMER SALES DRIVE

SUZUKI'S Hayabusa motorcycle leads a summer sales campaign that sees seven of the brand's key models available on a 2.9 per cent, low-rate finance offer, available over three years with no deposit required. Customers can choose from a PCP or Hire Purchase agreement.

The third generation Hayabusa headlines the offer, with its inline four-cylinder motor, Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) suite of electronics which includes traction control, launch control, cruise control, wheelie control, lean angle-sensitive ABS, selectable power modes and a bi-directional quickshifter.

Joining the Hayabusa are six of Suzuki's V-twin models: the V-Strom 1050XT flagship adventure bike and V-Strom 1050XT Tour, the middleweight V-Strom 650 and 650XT adventure bikes, SV650 naked and café racer-inspired SV650X.

It means the Hayabusa can be ridden for £109 per month on a three-year PCP deal, with a £4,077.92 deposit or trade-in.

The SV650X can be had for £69 per month over the same period with a £1,761.47 deposit and the offer runs until June 30.