Mazda has recognised the top performing dealerships, across the sales and aftersales departments in its annual All Stars awards. Now in its seventh year, the awards celebrate dealerships that placed within the top 25 in the 2025 Mazda Sales and Aftersales leagues, alongside top performing dealers within Fleet and Used Cars. The evening also celebrates a group of ‘star performers’ – individuals that are nominated for individual stand out performance and contribution in their areas. 

With a strong network of 114 dealerships across the UK, the All Stars Sales and Aftersales Leagues measure dealer performance across a number of different categories for both respective areas, including customer satisfaction surveys, renewals performance and service loyalty.

With high performing scoring in metrics across the board, Edwards Mazda Kempsey achieved first place in the sales league rankings, while Romford Mazda secured the top spot as number one Aftersales Dealer for the third time since the inception of the awards.

Oakmere Mazda Northwich, winners of the overall 2025 Mazda Dealer League, took home the prize for ‘Enquiry Management’. For the third consecutive year, Newport Mazda once again claimed the award for Mazda Approved Used Car, while TW White & Sons Great Bookham has been recognised for Parts Performance for the second year in a row.

Other winners from the 13 award categories include: previous All Stars award winners RRG Mazda Stockport for Fleet Specialist Dealer, Bourne Road Mazda Crayford for Customer Satisfaction across service, plus Magna Mazda Dorchester for Customer Satisfaction across sales.

In addition, nine individual Star performers were honoured by Mazda Business Managers and Regional Business Managers in special recognition for their performance excellence over the last 12 months. Among those who received individual awards were Amanda Savage at Vertu Mazda Redditch for her focus and leadership guiding her sales team, Paul Snowball from Stoneacre Newcastle for his outstanding performance and Briony Widman at Sandicliffe Nottingham for her strong leadership.

Commenting on this year’s All Stars results, Laura Brailey, Sales Director at Mazda UK, said: “The Mazda All Stars awards evening is a fantastic opportunity for Mazda UK to celebrate exceptional performances of the top performing dealers across sales, service, fleet and used cars, as well as certain hand selected star performers from each territory”.

Adding, “We recognise that delivering a strong performance across a variety of areas consistently throughout a 12-month period takes focus, resilience and passion. Mazda UK is grateful to be able to host this very special awards evening so that we can thank everyone involved in contributing to the success of our brand”.

Full list of winners include:

Falken Tyre Europe GmbH (Falken) is launching a new chapter with its Adventure Camp initiative, placing the FALKEN WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA all‑terrain tyre at the centre of real‑world testing. The Falken Adventure Camp New York State will take place from 28 May to 7 June 2026, guiding participants through a variety of landscapes and road conditions across the State of New York. Interested participants can apply until 31 March 2026 via the campaign website www.falken-adventure.com.

The Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA is designed for drivers who regularly switch between urban traffic, country roads and unpaved routes. The aim of the camp is to make this transition tangible and to demonstrate how an all‑terrain tyre performs both on everyday journeys and in more demanding off‑road environments.

The Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA enters the Adventure Camp with strong credentials: in the Auto Motor und Sport off‑road tyre test (September 2025), it took first place overall, outperforming six other all‑terrain models. The tyre delivered particularly impressive results on loose surfaces, offering short braking distances, stable lateral grip and high traction across a range of terrains.

The planned routes link urban areas with expansive natural landscapes including forests, gravel tracks, remote trails and open countryside. The tour is intended to demonstrate how modern mobility and nature‑focused exploration can complement one another. The camp’s approach deliberately avoids extreme off‑road scenarios, instead highlighting real‑world driving situations in which an all‑terrain tyre can showcase its versatility.

With initiatives such as the Adventure Camp, Falken aims to make its marketing activities more experience‑driven. Rather than presenting products in isolation, the intention is to make them tangible in real‑life scenarios. In doing so, Falken seeks to highlight the strengths of its products while creating opportunities to experience their performance first‑hand.

17 February 2026 – GWM UK has handed over a new GWM POER300 Ultra pick-up to NFU Scotland (NFUS), supporting the organisation’s day-to-day operations across the country and marking the newly launched GWM–NFU Scotland affinity programme. The partnership gives NFU Scotland members access to exclusive discounts on the POER300 range, as part of the Union’s ongoing work to secure practical, cost-saving benefits for farming and crofting businesses.

Supplied by Scottish GWM retailer A F Noble, the vehicle was officially handed over with Steven Cooper from A F Noble and Alan Coyle, Regional Sales Manager at GWM UK, in attendance. The pick-up was received on behalf of NFU Scotland by Jackie Saunders and Tom Graham.

The POER300 will be used as a shared vehicle by NFU Scotland staff, supporting activities such as attending agricultural events, towing equipment, visiting farms and rural businesses, and transporting equipment across Scotland. It will also be used by the organisation’s Chief Executive when attending official functions. The new pick-up replaces a previous vehicle in the NFUS fleet.

Finished in Crystal Black, the GWM POER300 Ultra is fitted with a modular canopy and towbar with ball and pin, making it well-suited to the varied demands of NFU Scotland’s work. The vehicle also features NFU Scotland branding, including official NFUS decals and a QR code directing users to NFUS membership sign-up.

The POER300 has been added to NFU Scotland’s fleet as part of the organisation’s participation in GWM UK’s affinity programme, reflecting its role as the programme’s first partner.

Alan Coyle, Regional Sales Manager at GWM UK, said: “We’re delighted to see NFU Scotland take delivery of the POER300 and put it straight to work supporting their operations across the country. The POER300 is designed to meet the real-world demands of farming and rural life, and NFU Scotland is a natural partner for GWM as we continue to grow our presence in the UK. This handover is a great example of how our affinity programme brings practical benefits to trusted organisations and their members.”

Jackie Saunders, Member Services Manager at NFU Scotland, said: “The POER300 has been selected to support NFU Scotland’s operational needs, including travel to events, farm visits and towing equipment across Scotland. Through our affinity partnership with GWM, we’re pleased to be able to highlight this vehicle to members as an option available through the scheme.”

GWM and NFU Scotland Affinity Programme
The launch of the POER300 pick-up represents a key opportunity for GWM to broaden its appeal, particularly within the farming and agricultural community. GWM’s ‘Get a Truckload More’ marketing campaign has helped establish the brand as a distinctive new entrant in the UK pick-up market, and the affinity programme builds on this momentum.

NFU Scotland is the first official partner in GWM UK’s affinity programme, which provides the NFUS members with access to information and offers associated with the POER300 as part of a wider range of vehicle options. Additional affinity partners will be announced over the coming months as GWM continues to strengthen awareness and sales opportunities across the UK.

About NFU Scotland
At NFU Scotland, our mission is to support and promote our members to achieve a sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture.

Formed in 1913, NFU Scotland is Scotland’s leading agricultural organisation, representing 9,000 farmers, crofters, growers and supporters across the country. NFUS works closely with sister organisations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as rural, business and consumer groups, to deliver on its purpose.

NFU Scotland keeps members informed on major policy and legislative issues affecting their businesses, supported by 52 Group Secretaries, 10 regions, and 72 local branches. The organisation also provides strong political representation, lobbying the Scottish Government, Westminster and European institutions to ensure the voice of Scottish agriculture is heard.

With a high public profile and hundreds of media engagements each year, NFU Scotland continues to influence public opinion and champion the interests of Scottish farmers.

Founded in 1914 as Quay Garage Co. Ltd, the business has remained in the same family since 1932 and has served the South Hams community for more than 110 years. Over the decades, the dealership has built a strong reputation for dependable service, expert repairs, and customer care.

Now operating from modern premises on Higher Union Road, Quay Auto Centre offers customers in Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas access to the full KGM range. This includes the flagship Rexton 7-seater SUV, multi-award-winning Musso pick-up, compact Tivoli, and family-ready Korando, along with the all-new Actyon and Torres Hybrids, and electric Torres EVX.

Michael Trembath, Dealer Principal at Quay Auto Centre, said: “We’re proud to represent KGM and to bring such a dynamic, capable range of vehicles to our customers in South Devon. Our long-standing history in the town is built on quality service and local trust. Values we see reflected in the KGM brand. We’re excited for this next chapter in our journey and for all customers, new and old, to come and see the KGM range for themselves.”

The appointment of Quay Auto Centre comes as KGM UK continues to expand its nationwide presence and product line-up. Following its rebrand from SsangYong in January 2024, KGM has launched an exciting portfolio of new models, including the striking Actyon, a bold, coupe-inspired SUV available exclusively in high-spec K50 trim, and the first model launched under the KGM name as part of the brand’s 70th anniversary.

Kevin Griffin, Managing Director at KGM Motors UK, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Quay Auto Centre to the KGM family. Their long-standing service to the community and proven track record makes them a valuable addition to our network. Their appointment strengthens our coverage in the South West and ensures more customers can experience the quality, value and practicality KGM vehicles offer.”

For more information or to book a test drive, visit: www.kgm-motors.co.uk

Road safety and breakdown recovery specialist GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to get their cars winter‑ready, as cold, wintry conditions bring a higher risk of breakdowns and difficult driving over the coming days. ​ 

Met Office yellow warnings for snow and ice are in force across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern and eastern England, with icy stretches also expected in some eastern counties further south¹. Forecasters say an Arctic maritime air mass is bringing colder air southwards, with rain, sleet and snow creating slippery surfaces and the risk of travel disruption, particularly on higher routes and untreated roads.

GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst says a little preparation now can prevent a lot of inconvenience later. “Cold weather puts real strain on a car’s 12‑volt battery, and its ability to hold charge drops significantly as temperatures fall,” he said.

“That means it may be at its weakest just when you need it most, so it makes sense to carry out a few simple checks before you set off.

“It is also important to stay tuned to the latest weather forecasts, as conditions can change quickly over short distances. Snow in particular is difficult to predict with precision, so an area with only a low risk in the morning could see heavier falls or icy surfaces by later in the day.

“By checking updated forecasts and travel advice before your journey, you can hopefully avoid the worst of the weather and make the right decision on whether, when and how to travel.”

Keep on top of the cold:
GEM’s five checks for motorists facing wintry conditions: 

• Check your battery age and condition; consider a test or replacement if it’s more than five years old. ​ 
• Inspect tyres for tread and pressures so they can grip properly on cold, wet or icy roads. ​ 
• Top up screenwash and make sure wipers and lights are clean and working well. ​
• Allow extra time, reduce your speed and increase following distances on icy or untreated roads. ​ 
• Pack warm clothing, a fully charged mobile phone and a scraper or de‑icer for every journey. ​ 

Elliott Fewster was diagnosed with Development Coordination Disorder – otherwise known as dyspraxia – from an early age, yet, despite his condition, training with Young Driver® from the age of 11 not only provided him with the tools to pass his test in double-quick time at 17 (recording just one minor fault), but also the confidence to take on the highly competitive sport of rallycross.

Now leading the junior category in the BTRDA’s Rallycross Championship, Elliott only passed his driving test in May this year, and according to his mum, Sonya, “…he now has independence and is a confident, well-prepared, safe young driver.”

Elliott’s incredible journey towards driving and motorsport success has been all the more impressive given the challenges that dyspraxia presents to anyone wanting to drive. Described by the NHS as causing a person to perform less well than expected in daily activities, and also affecting coordination skills when learning to drive a car, many dyspraxia sufferers shy away from taking driving lessons, especially in cars with manual gearboxes.

But from the start, Elliott clearly found driving liberating. As he told the Yorkshire Post recently: “I was rubbish at everything else. I wanted to find something that I was actually good at.”

And Elliott’s first experience in a car came at the age of 11 when he started to train with Young Driver at one of the company’s nationwide network of venues near his home in East Yorkshire. It was here that his natural talent behind the wheel was revealed, spurring him to taken on the Young Driver Challenge in 2019, where he managed to reach the national final in Birmingham, despite being one of the youngest competitors.

“We’re immensely proud that Elliott’s passion for driving started with Young Driver,” said Ian Mulingani, Young Driver’s managing director. “We see so many kids – some as young as nine – enjoying refining their skills behind the wheel, but when they have to overcome other challenges, as in Elliott’s case, it’s doubly rewarding to see. The fact that he’s developed not only into a highly competent and safe driver on the road, but also into a skilled competition driver, proves that honing these skills at an early age can have considerable benefits when you’re old enough to hold a driving licence.”

In a happy coincidence, Elliott now competes in a competition-prepared Suzuki Swift, the road-going version of which is the staple of Young Driver’s current 170-strong fleet of dual-controlled training cars used across its 75 UK sites.

For more information about Young Driver go to www.youngdriver.com

• When: Wednesday 15 October 2025 (held every year on the third Wednesday of October). CURE Epilepsy

• Theme: #BreakDownBarriers — tackling the obstacles people with epilepsy face and spotlighting what we can do now to prevent epilepsy deaths. SUDEP Action+1

• Why it matters: SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) is rare but real—about 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP each year, with risk higher in those with persistent generalised tonic-clonic seizures. Awareness and practical prevention steps save lives. Epilepsy Action+1

What is SUDEP?

SUDEP stands for Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy—a death in someone with epilepsy without a clear alternative cause (such as trauma, drowning, or a specific medical condition identified at post-mortem). Many cases are unwitnessed and occur during sleep. The precise mechanism isn’t fully understood, but researchers point to a mix of breathing, cardiac rhythm, and brain recovery problems following seizures—particularly generalised tonic-clonic seizures. Wikipedia

In the UK, charities and clinical bodies emphasise two connected truths:

1. SUDEP is uncommon—and scare-mongering helps no one.

2. Risk is not equal, and there are concrete steps that reduce it. Epilepsy Action+1

SUDEP risk: who is more vulnerable?

While anyone with epilepsy can be affected, research and clinical guidance consistently associate higher risk with:

• Frequent or uncontrolled seizures, especially generalised tonic-clonic seizures.

• Missed or irregular medication.

• Nocturnal seizures or seizures during sleep.

• Recent changes in medicines or lifestyle that increase seizure likelihood.

• Drug-resistant (refractory) epilepsy not yet escalated to specialist review or advanced therapies. Wikipedia+2CURE Epilepsy+2

Key UK stat: Around 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP each year (and around 1 in 4,500 among children). Epilepsy Action+1

The 2025 theme: “Break Down Barriers”

This year’s theme from SUDEP Action, #BreakDownBarriers, calls on all of us—patients, families, clinicians, schools, employers, and policymakers—to dismantle the obstacles that stop people getting timely information, individualised risk discussions, specialist care, and reasonable adjustments at home, work, and education. The aim is simple: remove friction, reduce risk, and save lives. SUDEP Action+1

Common barriers include:

• Silence: Some people are never told about SUDEP, or it’s mentioned without practical guidance.

• Access gaps: Long waits for epilepsy specialists; fragmented care across neurology, primary care, and mental health.

• Lifestyle hurdles: Work or study schedules that disrupt sleep; difficulty maintaining medication routines; stigma that prevents asking for help.

• Digital divide: Limited awareness of wearables, alarms, and tools that may help some people manage risk at night (when appropriate, and after clinical advice).

Concrete steps to reduce SUDEP risk (UK-focused)

You can’t eliminate risk completely—but you can reduce it. The following actions are drawn from NICE guidance and leading health organisations. Use them as a conversation checklist with your clinician. NICE+2CDC+2

1) Medication: “boringly brilliant”

• Take anti-seizure medication as prescribed—it’s the single most important risk-reduction step for most people.

• Don’t stop or change doses abruptly without medical advice.

• If you’re still having seizures, push for review: dose optimisation, combination therapy, or alternatives (surgery evaluation, neuromodulation). CDC+1

2) Tackle triggers

• Guard your sleep—many SUDEP cases follow nocturnal seizures; sleep loss is a common trigger.

• Alcohol and recreational drugs can lower seizure threshold—discuss safe limits frankly.

• Manage illness, stress, and dehydration; create a plan for sick days. Epilepsy Foundation

3) Escalate when needed

• If seizures persist or worsen, ask for referral to an epilepsy specialist or comprehensive epilepsy centre. Persistent generalised tonic-clonic seizures warrant urgent optimisation. CDC+1

4) Night-time safety (individualised)

• If you have nocturnal seizures, talk with your clinician about supervision options (e.g., someone nearby, listening devices) and the pros/cons of monitors or wearables; these are not for everyone, but may be appropriate in selected cases. Wikipedia

5) Agree a personal risk discussion & plan

• UK guidance recommends honest discussion of SUDEP for people with nocturnal seizures (and others when appropriate) and clear steps to minimise risk—get this documented in your care plan. NICE

6) Tell your circle

• Share simple seizure first-aid steps with family, friends, teachers, housemates, and employers; make sure someone knows when to call 999 and what to do after a tonic-clonic seizure.

What NICE says (in plain English)

The NICE epilepsy guideline (NG217) advises clinicians to:

• Discuss SUDEP risk—especially for those with seizures during sleep—and involve families/carers where appropriate.

• Emphasise medication adherence and strategies to minimise risk.

• Consider interventions when seizures remain uncontrolled, including timely referral and evaluation for advanced options. NICE+1

If you feel SUDEP hasn’t been discussed with you—and you want it to be—ask. It’s your right to understand risks and options.

Start the conversation: questions to ask your clinician

Take these to your next appointment (or email them in advance):

1. What is my current SUDEP risk and what drives it?

2. What’s our step-by-step plan to reduce seizures, especially night-time generalised tonic-clonic seizures?

3. Could I benefit from a different drug regimen, dose optimisation, or referral to a specialist/surgical evaluation?

4. What should my family/flatmates know about seizure first aid and when to call 999?

5. Should we discuss any night-time supervision or devices for me, and what are their limits?

6. How do I manage sick days, alcohol, travel, and jet lag without derailing seizure control?

7. When will we review this plan (e.g., in 3–6 months)? Epilepsy Foundation

How to take part in SUDEP Action Day 2025 (UK)

This year is about practical momentum. Pick one or more:

• Share a post with #SUDEPActionDay and #BreakDownBarriers that points to risk-reduction tips and NICE guidance. Even a short message can start a life-saving conversation. SUDEP Action+1

• Book a review: if you’ve had a recent generalised tonic-clonic seizure, a night-time seizure, or a medication change, ask your GP for an expedited check-in or specialist referral. NICE

• Do “My Way to 5K” your way: walk, run, wheel, swim, or cycle any time in October; raise funds and awareness alongside the Day. sudep.mwb.digital+1

• Educate your network: share first-aid steps, a seizure action plan, and link to trusted UK resources. Epilepsy Action

• Workplace/School pledge: commit to reasonable adjustments (protected sleep, flexible scheduling for meds/appointments) and anti-stigma training.

FAQs (clear, concise, evidence-based)

Is SUDEP common?
No—most people with epilepsy will not die from SUDEP. But it is a leading cause of epilepsy-related death, so risk-reduction matters—especially if you have persistent generalised tonic-clonic seizures. Wikipedia

What’s the #1 risk-reduction step?
Take your seizure medicine as prescribed and push for optimisation if you’re still having seizures. Don’t alter doses without advice. CDC

Does night-time monitoring help?
For some people with nocturnal seizures, supervision or certain devices may reduce risk as part of a personalised plan, but they’re not universal solutions. Always discuss with your clinician. Wikipedia

Should my child’s school know?
Yes—schools should have a seizure plan, staff trained in basic first aid, and awareness of triggers like sleep disruption. (Work with your epilepsy nurse/specialist.)

Is talking about SUDEP scary or harmful?
Silence creates confusion. Plain-English discussions rooted in facts and practical steps empower families and reduce risk. UK guidance supports tailored risk conversations. NICE

For families bereaved by epilepsy

If you’ve lost someone and suspect SUDEP, you are not alone. UK charities provide specialist bereavement support, advocacy on accurate death certification, and help navigating inquests and data collection (so future families benefit). Consider connecting with national organisations for confidential support. SUDEP Action

Make it real today: a 30-minute action plan

In the next half hour:

1. Message your GP practice or epilepsy team: ask for a risk-reduction review and copy in these questions.

2. Set medication reminders on your phone (alarms, app, or blister packs).

3. Share a short post on #SUDEPActionDay linking to risk information and the 2025 theme.

4. Brief your inner circle on seizure first aid and when to call 999.

5. If you have nocturnal seizures, email your clinician asking whether night-time strategies apply to you. CDC+1

Trusted UK & international resources

• SUDEP Action – SUDEP Action Day (theme, activities, support). SUDEP Action+1

• CURE Epilepsy – SUDEP Action Day 2025 (date confirmation; global info). CURE Epilepsy

• NICE Guideline NG217 – Reducing risk of epilepsy-related death (plain-English summary for patients to discuss with clinicians). NICE+1

• Epilepsy Action (UK) – SUDEP overview and practical tips. Epilepsy Action

• Epilepsy Society (UK) – SUDEP facts and UK statistics. Epilepsy Society

• CDC – Practical risk-reduction advice (helpful for checklists). CDC

• Background reading – Mechanisms, risk factors, and evidence summaries. Wikipedia+1

Key takeaways

• Date & theme: 15 Oct 2025, #BreakDownBarriers. CURE Epilepsy+1

• Risk exists but is modifiable—especially by controlling generalised tonic-clonic seizures, taking medication as prescribed, improving sleep, and escalating care when seizures persist. CDC+1

• Ask for a personalised SUDEP discussion and document a plan per NICE guidance. NICE

• Act today: book a review, share first-aid info, and consider taking part in My Way to 5K to raise awareness and funds throughout October. sudep.mwb.digital

Milton Keynes, 07 October 2025 – Škoda is marking 130 years of innovation and performance with a special addition to its line-up: the Fabia 130. Building on the specification of the current Monte Carlo variant, the special-edition model is Škoda’s fastest series-produced Fabia model to date with an output of 177 PS and a top speed 142 mph. 

Developed by the brand’s Technical Development team and inspired by Škoda’s ongoing rallying success, the Fabia 130 features an updated 1.5 TSI engine and bespoke chassis dynamics designed to deliver the most engaging Fabia driving experience yet. A revised DSG transmission, selectable driving modes and a series of chassis and aerodynamic upgrades all combine to make it the most responsive Fabia ever built.

Performance and precision: the fastest Fabia ever
At the heart of the new Fabia 130 lies a reworked 1.5 TSI EVO2 engine that now produces 177 PS (130 kW) – a 27 PS increase over the standard model. Škoda engineers have optimised components including the intake plenum, vibration damper and rocker arms to handle the higher output.

The result is sharper, stronger performance across the rev range: peak power is delivered between 5,750 and 6,000 rpm, with 250 Nm of torque available from just 1,500 rpm.

The seven-speed DSG transmission has also been reprogrammed with higher shift points for faster acceleration, double-clutch downshifts in Sport mode, and revised braking logic for immediate re-acceleration. The result is quicker responses and a more engaging drive.

In terms of performance, the Fabia 130 sprints from 0–62 mph in 7.4 seconds (0.6 seconds quicker than the standard 1.5 TSI), and achieves a top speed of 142 mph – making it the quickest series-produced Fabia ever. Mid-range performance has also improved, with 37-62 mph (60-100 kph) taking just 3.8 seconds (compared with 4.1 seconds), and 50–70 mph (80-120 kph) in 4.8 seconds (compared with 5.3 seconds).

To match the additional power, the Fabia 130 is equipped with sports suspension lowered by 15 mm, 18-inch Libra alloy wheels and recalibrated steering for greater precision and feedback. New Normal and Sport driving modes adapt both steering weight and throttle response, while a two-stage Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) can be turned off to deactivate traction control and allow a controlled slip in appropriate surroundings. Selecting ASR Sport + ESC Sport mode allows greater wheel slip while the ESC system intervenes later, ensuring an exciting yet safe driving experience.

Exterior design: a confident nod to motorsport heritage
Based on the Monte Carlo variant, the new Fabia 130 is offered in four exterior colours: Moon White, Velvet Red, Race Blue and Black Magic – each with a gloss black roof, pillars and mirrors.

Motorsport-inspired detailing includes black front and rear spoilers, a rear diffuser, and special 130 badges on the front wings and boot lid. Distinctive smoked 18-inch Libra wheels complement the lower stance, while black-tinted headlight housings sharpen the car’s appearance. At the rear, a black horizontal stripe pays tribute to the Fabia Rally2’s livery, while twin exhaust tips emphasise the car’s performance credentials.

Interior: sportiness meets practicality
Inside, the Fabia 130 combines performance-oriented design with everyday comfort. Sports seats with firm side bolsters offer excellent support during dynamic driving, while a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with DSG paddles, and stainless-steel pedals complete the cockpit feel.

Decorative grey and black aluminium trim runs across the dashboard and doors, while bespoke Fabia 130 door sills underline the car’s exclusivity. A 10-inch Virtual Cockpit is fitted as standard, along with a 9.2-inch infotainment display providing seamless connectivity.

UK pricing
Positioned at the top of the Fabia range, the new 130 variant is priced from £29,995 OTR with UK order books open from 30 October 2025. As befits a new sporting flagship of the line-up, the Fabia 130 comes generously equipped with metallic paint, Bi-LED headlamps and keyless start/stop + entry all included as standard. Buyers also benefit from a rear camera, voice control, privacy glass and 18-inch Libra alloys as standard.

130 years of innovation: inspired by motorsport success
The Fabia nameplate has been a core part of Škoda’s success story since its debut in 1999, with over five million cars produced to date. From the original Fabia vRS TDI, through the turbocharged 1.4 TSI vRS, to the R5 and Rally2 competition cars that have dominated international rallying, the Fabia has long embodied Škoda’s performance spirit.

Since 2015, Škoda Motorsport has developed successive generations of Fabia Rally2 cars that have achieved countless victories in WRC2, ERC, and national rally championships, making the Fabia the most successful rally car in its category.

The new Fabia 130 pays tribute to this rich heritage, combining everyday usability with authentic motorsport DNA.

Young driver safety is a topic rarely out of the headlines, with tragic collisions still too common an occurrence.

Various solutions have been discussed and whilst graduated driving licences have been seriously considered, the government has confirmed they won’t be implementing them.

One driver training scheme is proposing a new idea which it believes could have a significant impact on young driver safety – getting driving on the school curriculum. It’s an idea backed by others, including MPs, Headteachers, The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAMRoadsmart) and Suzuki GB.

Young Driver, the UK’s largest pre-17 driver training scheme, asked 2,700 parents and grandparents if they felt driving should be on the school curriculum – and two thirds (65%) felt it should.

“We also asked if parents supported the idea of a graduated licence,” said Adrian Harding, who now works for Young Driver but was previously a senior teacher. “Whilst the majority (67%) did agree with it in some form, one in four (23%) said they thought with proper education, it wouldn’t be so necessary. Having delivered more than 1.5 million pre-17 driving lessons in the UK, we have seen first-hand the difference they can make to young driver safety. We take driving lessons into schools through our Foundation and the feedback is staggering.”

In the UK, one in five newly qualified drivers has a crash within the first six months after passing their test. However, research with 450 of Young Driver’s past pupils showed them to be 84 per cent less likely to have an accident in that critical first six months than the national average, at only 3.4%.

Caroline Nokes MP for Romsey and Southampton North, commented: “Having seen Young Driver in action at their Barton Stacey site, I was incredibly impressed by the way it equips young people with vital driving skills and road safety awareness well before they reach 17.  We know the accident statistics for young drivers need improvement, and these programmes can really help.  The Young Driver Foundation has been running programmes in schools, and I am sure if included in the curriculum it could help to save lives and reduce collisions on our roads.”

Euan Stainbank, MP for Falkirk, visited a Young Driver event in his constituency. He added: “It is essential that safe driving education is supplemented by safe instruction by trained professionals and the opportunity to do it before the age of 17 can only enhance the safety of a newly qualified driver.”

Having spent 16 years teaching nine to 17 year-olds how to drive on private property, Young Driver ran 109 school events in the previous 12-months, equating to 4,500 pupil lessons, through its not-for-profit arm, the Young Driver Foundation. Lessons focus on safety and responsibility, helping youngsters get to grips with the basics of driving a car before they get anywhere near a real road. Some lessons are in the scheme’s Firefly Sport electric cars, which have been specially designed for four to nine-year olds.

Adrian Harding, who heads up the Young Driver Foundation, continued: “The younger they begin, the more seriously they take the safety side of things. Eight out of 10 of the parents (82%) that we surveyed agree that children are more receptive to road safety concepts at an earlier age. Learning to be a good driver takes time, patience and experience. And to make it accessible to all, school is the best place to facilitate that. This is something we’d like to see the government really consider if they’re serious about young driver safety.”

Jo Lawrence is Vice Principal at Joseph Chamberlain 6th Form College, in Birmingham, which has had the Young Driver Foundation delivering lessons to pupils. She commented: “Too many young lives are lost on our roads each year. Giving students the chance to learn about safe driving helps equip them with vital skills and awareness that could one day save lives. We would very much welcome seeing this kind of opportunity available more widely in schools and colleges.”

Young Driver offers anyone aged nine or over and more than 1.4 metres tall the chance to get behind the wheel of a dual controlled Suzuki Swift, or similar car, with a qualified ADI driving instructor. Those aged four to nine-years can drive the electric Firefly Sport. Lessons take place on private land, including school grounds, which are developed into a realistic road system complete with road signs, junctions and car parks. For more information, go to www.youngdriver.com

• Nearly 40% of UK vehicles are running on illegal or dangerously worn tyres¹
• Neglecting tyre checks causes more than two million MOT failures each year
• GEM reminds drivers that every tyre’s palm-sized grip patch is critical to safety

Just imagine if everyone’s tyres could silently adjust their pressures, repair their damage and renew their worn treads. There would be little need for awareness campaigns, no sharing of tips for checking tread depths… and fewer incidents on the roads.

Sadly, tyres are not self-repairing, and that is why Tyre Safety Month exists. With an estimated 39.5% of vehicles on our roads running on tyres that are either below the legal limit or dangerously close to it¹ – and more than two million MOT failures attributed to tyre defects each year – we need to keep raising the alarm.

That is why I am pleased to confirm GEM’s full support for this excellent annual initiative, which not only raises awareness but also provides drivers with the practical knowledge they need to make small, regular checks that can save lives.  We know that tyres are the only part of a vehicle that make direct contact with the road surface. Each tyre offers no more than a patch of grip roughly the size of a hand. That small contact area carries not only the vehicle’s weight but also controls acceleration, steering and braking.

When tyres are neglected – whether under-inflated, over-worn, or damaged – the consequences can be devastating. Yet many drivers seem to think tyres will somehow look after themselves, and that their car will alert them when something is wrong. Technology certainly has a role, but it cannot replace individual responsibility and the need for regular checks.

Here are some basic warnings:

• Under-inflated tyres can overheat, reduce fuel efficiency and wear unevenly, not to mention increasing stopping distances.
• Tyres that fall below the legal tread depth of 1.6mm pose serious risks in wet conditions, as they will become less able to disperse road surface water. 
• Three-quarters of tyre defects in fatal collisions were due to a lack of maintenance – and more than half of car tyres on our roads are believed to be underinflated² by at least 4 psi

A practical approach
At GEM, we know life is busy for everyone; it’s hard keeping up with every aspect of car maintenance. That’s why our advice for Tyre Safety Month boils down to simple steps we can all carry out with minimal time and effort: 

• Check tyre pressures at least once a month.
• Use a reliable pressure gauge or an airline found at most petrol stations.
• Familiarise yourself with the car manufacturer’s recommended settings, which are usually found in the driver’s manual or on a panel inside the fuel flap or door frame. Do your checks when tyres are cold, ideally before a journey rather than after one. 
• Write your car’s tyre size and inflation levels on a piece of paper kept in the glove box so you can check quickly when putting air in them. Alternatively place a dot of nail varnish next to the settings relevant to your vehicle on the chart on the inside of the door. It’s another quick way of knowing the pressures you need.
• Keep a small tyre check bag (pressure gauge, 20p coin and card with tyres sizes and pressures) in the glovebox or boot storage. This will save a lot of time when you do your monthly checks.
• Make regular visual checks: look for signs of damage such as cuts or bulges.
• Care about the spare: don’t overlook the condition of your spare tyre. You won’t want to find it unusable on the one occasion you need it.  

We all share responsibility for safety on journeys: our own, our passengers and other road users. By committing to just a few minutes’ attention each month, we’re reducing the risk of collisions, breakdowns and potentially expensive repairs. 

At GEM, we encourage all drivers to put tyre safety on their regular checklist. Autumn’s sure to bring its share of wind, rain and wet surfaces, so we need our tyres to be at their best. Tyre Safety Month is an excellent reminder that a few simple checks, performed regularly, can help keep us safe all through the year.

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