Twist in tale as more plan to buy hybrid than diesel; Mini rolls out 150 Sidewalks; new hot-hatch Corolla looks fun; goodbye to i8

ANOTHER week another survey on who is going to buy what this year.

Only this one has a little bit of a twist to it.

Mobility solutions specialist easytrip says 25pc of the drivers it surveyed are planning to buy a new car (different, not necessarily brand new) in 2020.

The more interesting bit to emerge from the survey was that, of those who declared they intend purchasing, 36pc said they would go the hybrid route.

That’s the bit of a twist I just mentioned because it represents 2pc more than those contemplating buying a diesel (34pc).

Next-up preferred buys were plug-ins/electrics at 14pc.

Surprisingly the percentage of buyers looking at a petrol acquisition is down at 13pc.

It makes you wonder what people don’t like about petrol given that diesel has received such a bad press for so long.

Most intending buyers will use a car dealership (84pc) to get their new/newer car, while 11pc said they would opt for a UK import and 3pc plan on doing a private deal.

By the way, easytrip is reminding you that you should update your account details if you change cars so as to reduce the risk of incurring toll charges and penalty notices from motorway operators.

:: Mini has rolled out a limited edition model called the Sidewalk – with just 150 for the UK and Ireland.

The Cooper S engine powering the car draws on twin-turbo technology to pump a significant 192hp.

And you can have the 7spd Steptronic transmission.

The special edition has new ‘Deep Laguna’ metallic body paint, soft-top roof designs, Harman Kardon hi-fi and head-up display as standard spec.

And after all that comes the news that it will cost you from €47,840.

:: A Corolla GR SPORT (pictured above) is just going on sale here.

You can have the hatch with either 1.8-litre or 2-litre hybrid powertrains.

This model has a different front grille with dark chrome finish, lower skirts and side sills as well as a rear diffuser, 18ins alloys, rear privacy glass, front fog lights, LED headlights, smart entry etc.

Inside there are sportsstyled seats in black cloth upholstery and leather-effect side bolsters.

Sounds like it could be a real bit of fun.

:: BMW says it is to cease production of its i8 plug-in hybrid supercar in April.

The decision is reported as the company plans a number of electric vehicles over the next few years.

Sorry to see the i8 go though.

Despite its price it remains a fabulous car to drive and is well ahead of its time.