How can I estimate VRT on a new Kia Niro?

Regarding the Kia Niro hybrid: there are two Irish models and four UK model specifications (1, 2, 3 and First Edition). To date, only one of the UK specs have been imported, the Niro 2, which is why only one appears on the Revenue VRT calculator.

I would like to import the top-spec (First Edition) since this spec is not available in Ireland. The problem with this is that I have been told that I cannot get an estimate of this high-spec'd car until after I purchase it and then bring it to the VRT office for evaluation, after which they compile a report of the extras and then I sit back and wait.

This is too much of a risk for me to take. It is all to do with OMSP value. The difference between the highest Irish Niro spec to the highest UK spec is electric sunroof, front parking sensors and an eight-speaker high quality sound system. In your expert opinion, by how much could I expect the Rosslare Revenue office to increase the OMSP value by for my First- Edition model?

Currently, of the four UK models available, the Niro 2 has a VRT OMSP value of €27,535 (but try adding the previous three extras...).

Apologies for this rant.

Many thanks!

Michael Carey (Letterkenny)

Aug 2017 Filed under: VRT

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Expert answer

Hi Michael,

The price gap, new, in the UK market is around £4,200, but it will depend on whether Revenue treats the extra equipment as a separate model, or extras added to an existing car, in which case the gap would probably be higher still. I think, and this is a pure finger-in-the-air calculation, that if you add about €6,500 to the OMSP of the Model 2, then you’ll be in the right ballpark, but sadly this is yet another example of the inequity of a system that charges you based on what they think you should have paid, versus what you actually paid.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe