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The tax busters

With motoring bills soaring, it’s never been more vital to keep costs under control. In this special, we tell you which cars to go for in each tax band to slash your outgoings – and what to avoid!

Tax busters

Road tax – two words that are sure to send shivers down the spine of any motorist.

With prices rising once again in Chancellor Alistair Darling’s recent Budget, keeping an eye on your automotive costs is more important than ever.

That small paper disc in the corner of your windscreen is likely to have cost you plenty. But if you choose carefully when buying a car, you could save hundreds of pounds – especially when new rules come into effect next year. Road tax is governed by how much carbon dioxide (CO2) your car emits – and over the next eight pages we show you how you can save money in this road test special.

We point out which models are particularly clean or dirty. We also highlight the difference that adding optional extras such as an automatic gearbox – or choosing between certain engines and bodystyles – can make. You’ll be surprised at the results!

Each of the seven road tax bands is dealt with in ascending order – so join us as we reveal how to ‘cheat’ the Treasury...

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New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £4,805 off RRP*Used from £6,595
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,075 off RRP*Used from £11,800
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £5,321 off RRP*Used from £11,399
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £25,235Avg. savings £2,720 off RRP*Used from £11,553
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
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