What Car? guide to car supermarkets - Hilton Garage, Hilton

CHOICE
There were over 800 cars on site, covering one of the widest price ranges of any supermarket tested. Prestige, 4x4 and sports cars were on display and most cars were between one and four years old. The absence of data sheets in cars made browsing difficult, though.

PRICES
Hilton had some of the most competitive prices with an average of over 8.5% below guide prices.

DID IT HAVE THE CARS WE SAW ONLINE?
We were able to find most of the cars we'd seen on the company's website.

HIDDEN CHARGES
There were no extra fees to pay other than road tax.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THINGS GO WRONG?
Hilton gave no extra warranty cover as standard if the manufacturer's has expired. However, you can buy additional cover with prices starting at £250. The car would get an inspection before delivery and any small scratches would be looked at.

FINANCE
Hilton was one of the few garages to give a full written quotation. The business manager gave some solid financial advice, but the rate of 13% APR was steeper than the typical rate quoted in the questionnaire What Car? had sent to the company.

PART-EXCHANGE
Our Mondeo received a thorough appraisal and then a valuation of £5000. The sales manger was genuinely apologetic at not being able to give any more.

TEST DRIVE
The garage was happy to let us out on local roads for a test drive and the 10-minute route gave a good impression of a car.

CONDITION
All cars were clean and presentable, but some of the older cars looked a little tired. We also found small scratches on even the newest vehicles.

CUSTOMER SERVICE
We had almost given up being approached by a salesman when Chris asked if he could help. He was fairly knowledgeable about the cars in stock and the difference between the various specifications.

When we asked about finance, business manager Clare was introduced and did a thorough job of explaining our options.
Sometimes it's the small things that make a difference and Hilton was one of the few garages where we were offered a cup of coffee. We didn't feel pressurised and thought that we were looked after in a professional way.

VERDICT
A cramped site and limited customer parking, but the low prices and helpful staff made Hilton Garage well worth a visit.

HILTON GARAGE
The Mease, Hilton, Derbyshire DE65 5FJ
Web: www.hiltongarage.co.uk
Phone: 01283 732527