Currently reading: Quick news: Car insurance premiums drop; new Audi Q7
The cost of insuring a car in the UK falls by a record amount in 2013; model changes for Audi and Toyota; Daimler continues air-con dispute

Car insurance premiums have fallen by a record 14.1 per cent year-on-year over the course of 2013. The AA British Insurance Premium index found that the average quoted premium for a comprehensive policy has fallen to £533. The report cites a competitive market and tougher whiplash claim legislation as reasons for the fall.

Audi Q7 buyers can now opt for two new top-spec S line models. S line Style Edition cars start at £52,975, and feature new 21-inch wheel designs and a new off-road styling package. Meanwhile S line Sport Edition specification, priced from £54,475, gives the Q7 a sports bodykit, including larger front air intakes and new exhaust designs.

Model year changes to the 2014 Toyota RAV4 include the option of a 122bhp 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engine with all-wheel drive and the newest iteration of Toyota’s touchscreen infotainment system. Other changes include keyless entry on Icon specification models, while top-spec Invincible RAV4’s get leather trim and front and rear parking sensors.

Germany is facing legal action from the European Commission over Daimler's use of a now-banned air-conditioning refrigerant. Most major manufacturers complied with an EU directive to switch to a new, greener refrigerant from last year, but Daimler says the new gas has a higher fire risk under some circumstances. Models using the gas include the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Mercedes-Benz B-Class and SL-class. Daimler says it is aware of the action.

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Car review

The Q7 is accomplished, but doesn’t feel as at home on UK roads as more refined rivals like the Range Rover Sport and BMW X5

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289 24 January 2014

Daimler says it is aware of the action......

and that the commission can go to hell in a handbag...
At least, that's what I hope they told them!