News in Brief

Drivers ignoring texting message
Britain’s motorists still haven’t got the message that texting on their mobile phones while behind the wheel is unacceptable – as well as illegal. New figures from the RAC Foundation show that nearly half of the UK’s drivers continue to use their hand-held phones to send messages, despite the threat of stiff penalties if they’re caught. Only 11 per cent claim to turn off their mobiles altogether, as recommended, leaving 89 per cent open to distraction from their phone on the move. An RAC Foundation spokeswoman said: “Using a mobile while driving means you are four times more likely to crash. Our message is clear: it’s not safe.”

New Leon gets ready for battle
SEAT is beefing up its Leon Cupra to celebrate the launch of its new British Touring Car Championship competitor. A limited-edition styling kit gives the turbocharged model the extreme look of the SEAT Sport BTCC car, thanks to bespoke K1 badging, reworked bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler and unique exhaust. All this adds £1,000 to the standard Cupra’s on-the-road price – which has just been trimmed by £200 to £19,495. Other new options include xenon headlamps for £870 and special 18-inch alloys for £205.