Monday February 17
Starting my week off in southern France and by spending the day at BMW's Research and Development facility at Miramas. The reason? Mainly, I'm here to drive a plug-in hybrid prototype of the BMW X5, though we will also be experiencing the firm's new Predictive Drivetrain Technology, as well as getting the latest news on BMW's plans for much greater utilisation of carbon technology. It's a whirlwind day with lots to do and take in before making a dash back to the airport to fly home.
Tuesday February 18
A spot of running around to do this morning in the form of picking up my test cars for this week; both offer a bit of variety - Fiat's 500S and Volkswagen's Golf GTI (with Performance Pack). Have long had a soft spot for the Fiat 500, but it's getting a little long in the tooth now; hopefully we'll see a new one that is equally as cool in the not too distant future. As for the GTI, I'll be keen to see just how much of a difference the optional Performance Pack really makes. With all that done I head back to the airport as I'm off to London tonight to get a head start for tomorrow.
Wednesday February 19
Today's destination is Frankfurt, where Ford is giving us a sneak preview of its revised Focus, which has been updated and now is more in keeping with the rest of the Ford family in terms of looks. Apart from the front, little has changed outside, but inside it's a far nicer cabin design and feels more upmarket. The reaction on the day seemed quite positive. It'll be another long day as I fly back home with a stopover in Heathrow. At least I have that Golf GTI waiting for me at the other end.
Thursday February 20
Most of this morning is spent getting more writing done before finally setting aside some proper time to drive my two test cars. I can't but love the charm of the Fiat 500, but the GTI is a hugely impressive car and proved useful in dashing to the dry cleaners to pick up my tux for tonight's SIMI Annual Dinner. The night is always a great chance to catch up with colleagues and friends from the industry and the mood was surprisingly positive, which is great to see.
Friday February 21
It has been non-stop all this week, and I kick off my Friday with an early-morning meeting with a car brand's marketing folk to discuss some interesting plans for later this year. Suitably caffeinated after the meeting I set up station at the desk for the remainder of the day and finish off some more client work from some of this week's trips.