What Car? guide to car supermarkets - Bristol Trade Centre

CHOICE
There was a massive range of cars on offer, including a fine selection of prestige models. There were some omissions, though – we couldn't find any new-shape Ford Focuses.

Cars ranged from '05/05 examples back to Y-reg models, but there were some new, unregistered cars as well.

PRICES
It was hard to judge prices because there were no specification sheets in the cars; however, we reckon they were up to 6% higher than the guides suggest. Some models were reasonably priced, though.

DID IT HAVE THE CARS WE SAW ONLINE?
Yes, we found the cars we'd seen online on the day of our visit.

HIDDEN CHARGES
Cars carry a £41 administration fee and, as usual, road tax is extra.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THINGS GO WRONG?
All cars come with a month's warranty and a pre-sales check.

FINANCE
Finance is available through Bristol Trade Centre, but the sales team didn't seem keen to give us a quote. We were asked what sort of rate we had in mind, and when we told them about 5% flat (under 10% APR) they said they'd match it.

PART-EXCHANGE
The sales manger gave us a value of £6000 on our Mondeo without looking at the car. This was a good price, though, and it was valid against any car on site.

TEST DRIVE
Test drives are available, but BTC prefers it if you arrange one in advance. Also be aware that the surrounding roads get busy at peak times, so you may spend your test drive stuck in traffic.

CONDITION
All cars looked clean and shiny, with no obvious marks or defects.

CUSTOMER SERVICE
Salesman Jason spotted us walking around the site and offered his assistance. After learning we were looking for a new-shape Focus, he marched off to find his boss and ask.

We followed, and the sales manager said that he had loads at his suppliers and started to rattle off details from a stock list. We stopped him at one that sounded interesting, but before we could say any more the sales manager took it as read they we were going to buy on the spot, without seeing the car.

We were intrigued and cheekily asked for a discount of £700 – which the sales manager agreed to if we would do a deal. He then used the classic line: 'but I need to know today'.

Verdict
Great site, decent finance rates and plenty of choice, but be prepared for high prices and some no-nonsense selling.

BRISTOL TRADE CENTRE
Netham Road, St George, Bristol BS5 9PQ
Web: www.bristoltradecentre.co.uk
Phone 0845 257 1221