What's New Week ending: 12 December 2008
The new Toyota iQ
Is the tiny Toyota iQ a clever choice?
Toyota’s new city car is said to be the smallest four-seater on the market. But with a hefty price tag of £9,495, will it be able to tempt drivers away from the popular Smart ForTwo?
On paper, it looks like it might – the iQ emits just 99g/km of CO2, so you won’t pay car tax until at least 2011, and a combined fuel economy of 66mpg promises plenty of miles for your money.
We’ve taken it out on the road to discover how the 68bhp engine copes – both in and out of the city – and you can see the results in our Toyota iQ first drive.
The L16850 washer-dryer
Lighten the load with a powerful washer-dryer
With a powerful 1600rpm spin and the ability to dry loads of up to 5kg in one go, the L16850 washer-dryer from AEG Electrolux looks like it could be one to beat.
It comes with features designed to make the whole washing process easier, including a 20-hour delayed start, childproof controls and an LCD panel that shows the amount of time remaining on each load.
But to see how the AEG Electrolux L16850 stacks up against the competition, you’ll need to read our washing machine reviews.
Interest rates are down again
Which? urges mortgage providers to pass on the rate cut
The Bank of England has slashed interest rates again – and we’re campaigning for mortgage providers to pass on the cut.
Although the base rate is now set at 2% (its lowest level since 1951) many homeowners are still paying up to 4.5%. Why not read about our campaign for banking reform, and email the Chancellor your views?
To see whether you could save money by switching or to find the best deal for you, check out the Which? mortgage calculator.
We test slimming pills
Do slimming pills and diet foods really work?
We’ve all heard the claims, but can over-the-counter slimming pills really help you lose weight?
We’ve been looking at some of the best-known brands and prescription alternatives to see if they can genuinely help you with your weight loss.
Plus, our experts take a close look at so-called diet foods to see if there is any truth behind the claims that they are better for you.
Read our guide to slimming pills and diet foods for more.
Money software rated
Use your computer to manage your money
Whether you're a budding accountant or avoid opening your statements, personal finance software can help you make the most of your money.
We’ve tested four personal accounting software packages that help you to keep track of your money – from supermarket spending to the cost of running your car and planning loan repayments.
With a few clicks of the mouse you can discover where your budget goes and where you can make savings.
Find out more in our guide to personal finance software.
Speed up Christmas dinner with a Best Buy microwave
If the thought of Christmas entertaining puts a strain on your nerves, then a grill or combi microwave could save the day.
We’ve tested the latest models from brands such as LG and Whirlpool and rated them for their speed, ease of use and cooking quality.
You can see which fared best in our rigorous tests, and to find the best price going, read our microwave reviews.
