Welcome to GWA Cars and Finance, GWA Cars & Finance is an independent company specialising in the sale and financing of new and used cars and vans in Chichester, West Sussex and the UK.

More evidence that eco-friendlier cars are entering the mainstream this week from the GWA Cars & Finance news desk: Lexus is expecting big things from its new CT200h compact hybrid, while Skoda is due to introduce greener versions across its range.

I’ve talked about high-performance hybrid car launches in recent weeks, but what is more integral to the success of the eco-friendlier market is the launch of models that are going to see everyday use. Think the Toyota Prius or Auris for example.

I think the new Lexus CT200h is an important launch – sporty and good looking enough to be seen around town in but not outrageously priced (somewhere around £23,000). The car will be launched in March and Lexus are pinning its hopes on the model reviving its performance in the UK.

Another manufacturer looking to bolster sales with some eco-friendly innovation is Skoda, which will launch low-CO2 Greenline versions of every model in its range. The company says it will be a “real winner for fleets and users” and I would agree with them. Given their everyman appeal, Skoda’s move into greener territory should provide a boost to the number of environmentally friendlier cars we see on the roads.

Also interesting is the award of the European Car of the Year award to the Nissan Leaf, an electric five-door family hatchback. The car goes on sale in the UK in March and I think the recent prize is as significant as the launches from Lexus, Skoda and the like in terms of what is happening in the UK car market.

Talking of the car market, we have the new Skoda Superb Saloon available at GWA Cars & Finance from just £246 per month, while we can also source and finance the new Toyota Auris, both the petrol and hybrid versions. The petrol model, a Toyota Auris 1.4 D 4D, is available from only £179 per month. Remember, buy before the end of the year and save on VAT.

To have a chat about buying or leasing a new or used car or van, contact Gary at GWA Cars & Finance on 01243 510 650 or sales@gwacars.com.