Based on looking at the website, Mantles.co.uk appears to be the online presence for Mantles Group Limited, an automotive dealership based in Royston, Hertfordshire, UK, specializing in new and used Kia and BYD vehicles. The site serves as a digital storefront for their physical dealership, offering vehicle sales, servicing, parts, and information on Motability schemes. It also provides options for booking services and reserving vehicles online. While the site focuses on vehicle sales and maintenance, which are permissible activities, it explicitly mentions “financial disclosure” and their role as a “credit broker” for a “limited number of lenders,” where they earn “commission based on the amount you borrow or the vehicle you purchase.” This directly points to involvement in interest-based financial transactions, which is not permissible. Therefore, while the core business of selling cars is fine, the financing aspect, which includes interest riba, makes engaging with their financial services problematic. For those seeking to acquire a vehicle, exploring halal financing alternatives is always the most beneficial path, ensuring transactions are free from riba.
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Mantles.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon initial review, Mantles.co.uk presents a clean, professional, and well-organized interface.
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The website’s primary function is to serve as a digital extension of Mantles Group Limited, an established automotive dealership.
It quickly funnels visitors towards key actions: searching for new or used cars, booking service appointments, or exploring finance options.
The overall impression is one of a reputable business aiming for transparency, particularly with its detailed “Company info” and “Financial disclosure” sections.
User Interface and Navigation
The navigation is straightforward, with clear menus for “New Car Ranges,” “Used Cars,” “Servicing & Parts,” “Latest Offers,” and “Motability.” The “Used Car Search” is prominently featured on the homepage, allowing users to quickly filter by franchise. Arrowelectricals.co.uk Reviews
This user-centric design makes it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for, whether it’s a specific vehicle model or details about their service offerings.
Initial Impressions on Transparency
The site’s inclusion of detailed legal and financial disclosures, such as their FCA registration number 747381 and explicit mention of commission structures related to credit brokering, indicates a commitment to transparency.
While the nature of these financial arrangements interest-based lending is not permissible, the clarity with which they are presented is notable.
This allows individuals to make informed decisions and, for those seeking permissible options, to identify potential areas of concern quickly.
Mantles.co.uk Cons
While Mantles.co.uk offers a seemingly comprehensive automotive solution, the significant drawback, from a permissible standpoint, lies in its explicit involvement with interest-based financial services. As a “credit broker,” they facilitate loans that typically involve riba interest, which is strictly forbidden. This compromises the overall permissibility of engaging with their full suite of services, even if the underlying product the car is permissible. Camerasdori.com Reviews
Reliance on Interest-Based Financing
The website clearly states: “Mantles Group Limited is an appointed representative of Ingeni Services Group Limited… which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.” It further clarifies, “Ingeni Services Group Limited permitted business is to act as a credit broker, not as a lender, for the introduction to a limited number of lenders… This commission can be based on the amount you borrow or the vehicle you purchase.” This structure confirms that the primary financing options offered through their brokerage involve conventional loans, which are inherently interest-bearing.
For those seeking permissible alternatives, this makes direct engagement with their finance offerings problematic.
Lack of Halal Financing Options
A notable absence on Mantles.co.uk is any mention or provision for halal financing solutions. In a market where ethical and permissible financial products are increasingly sought after, the exclusive focus on conventional credit brokering represents a significant limitation for a segment of the population. This forces individuals to seek external, compliant financing, adding an extra layer of complexity to the vehicle purchase process.
Mantles.co.uk Alternatives
For individuals seeking to acquire a vehicle in a permissible manner, avoiding interest-based transactions is paramount.
Fortunately, several robust alternatives exist that prioritize ethical and permissible financial structures. Thomaskralow.com Reviews
These options allow for vehicle ownership without compromising one’s values.
Halal Financing Providers
Numerous institutions now specialize in halal car financing, often employing structures like Murabaha cost-plus financing or Ijarah leasing with a promise to sell. These models ensure that no interest is involved in the transaction.
- Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions: In the UK, several banks and financial services companies offer dedicated halal auto finance products. These include Al Rayan Bank, Gatehouse Bank, and various cooperative models. These institutions undergo rigorous Sharia compliance audits to ensure their offerings adhere to Islamic principles.
- Cooperative Purchasing Models: Some communities and organizations facilitate cooperative buying, where members contribute funds to a pool, and vehicles are purchased outright, then distributed or sold on an ethical basis to members, avoiding conventional loans.
Direct Purchase and Saving
The most straightforward and universally permissible method is to purchase a vehicle outright using savings. This eliminates any debt, interest, or complex financial contracts.
- Dedicated Savings Accounts: Establishing a specific savings goal for a vehicle and consistently contributing to a dedicated account allows for a debt-free purchase. This promotes financial discipline and long-term planning.
- Pre-owned Market: Exploring the pre-owned market often yields excellent value, making cash purchases more attainable. Websites like Auto Trader or Motors.co.uk offer vast selections of used vehicles, allowing for direct cash transactions with sellers.
Peer-to-Peer or Community Lending Interest-Free
While less common for high-value items like cars, some community-based interest-free lending schemes exist.
These are typically informal networks where individuals lend to each other out of goodwill, without charging any interest. Hangersat.com Reviews
- Family and Friends: In some cases, a temporary interest-free loan from family or close friends can be a viable option for a portion of the vehicle’s cost, to be repaid responsibly.
Mantles.co.uk Pricing
Mantles.co.uk does not display specific pricing for individual vehicles directly on the main product listing pages in the way an e-commerce site might for a smaller item.
Instead, pricing information is presented through calls to action like “Find your perfect vehicle.
Buy or reserve online for only £99!” and invites to “Explore the New Kia and BYD ranges as well as our latest offers.” This approach aligns with traditional car dealership models where the final price is often subject to negotiation, trade-ins, and specific financing arrangements.
Vehicle Listing Pricing
For new cars, the website showcases “latest offers,” which typically involve promotional prices, deposit contributions, or specific monthly payment examples tied to finance agreements. For used cars, listings generally show a sticker price, but the focus quickly shifts to “Buy or reserve online for only £99!” This £99 is a reservation fee, not a deposit or full payment, indicating that the full transaction, including the final price and any financing, occurs later.
Service & Parts Pricing
The “Servicing & Parts” section promotes trust in “approved technicians” but does not offer a public price list for standard services like oil changes, MOTs, or tire rotations. Feiyr.com Reviews
Users are encouraged to “Book a service,” implying that pricing for services is provided upon inquiry or booking, likely due to variations in vehicle models and specific service requirements.
This is common practice for automotive service centers, where quotes are often customized.
Finance-Related Costs
The most significant “pricing” aspect, from a financial perspective, involves the costs associated with their credit brokering services. While Mantles.co.uk clearly states they earn commission from lenders, they do not disclose the Annual Percentage Rate APR or the total cost of credit on general vehicle listings. These figures would only become apparent during the application process, once a specific vehicle and financing terms are discussed with a sales representative. They do mention, “We will inform you of the amount of commission that we will earn in good time. We will require your consent to receive this commission. You do not have to take our finance as it is available through other distributors. You can arrange funding for your vehicle elsewhere and it may be cheaper.” This implies transparency will be provided at the point of sale, but not upfront on the website.
Mantles.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Mantles.co.uk against its competitors in the UK automotive market, the comparison primarily revolves around dealerships offering Kia and BYD vehicles, used car sales, and after-sales services.
Key competitors would include other authorized dealerships for these brands, large multi-franchise groups, and independent used car retailers. Brandsrepublic.co.uk Reviews
Franchise Specificity
Mantles.co.uk’s primary strength is its focus on Kia and BYD as authorized dealerships. This means they offer:
- New Car Ranges: Access to the latest models directly from the manufacturer, often with exclusive offers and warranties. Competitors like Lookers, Vertu Motors, or Arnold Clark are large groups that might also carry Kia, but Mantles.co.uk presents itself as a dedicated specialist for these brands in its region.
- Approved Used Cars: A selection of manufacturer-approved used vehicles, which typically come with enhanced warranties and quality checks, a differentiator from purely independent used car dealerships like CarShop or local garages.
Service and Aftercare
Mantles.co.uk emphasizes “Trust our approved technicians to look after your Kia” in its “Servicing & Parts” section.
This aligns with the value proposition of franchised dealerships, which often have:
- Specialized Training and Equipment: Technicians are trained by the manufacturer, and workshops are equipped with diagnostic tools specific to Kia and BYD vehicles. Independent garages, while often more affordable, might lack this specialization.
- Genuine Parts: Dealerships typically use genuine manufacturer parts, which can be a selling point for long-term vehicle health and warranty validity.
Online Presence and Sales Experience
Mantles.co.uk offers online reservation for £99, which is common among modern dealerships. Large online car retailers like Cazoo or Cinch offer a fully online purchase experience, including home delivery, which Mantles.co.uk does not explicitly emphasize as a core offering though it’s common for dealerships to arrange delivery. Mantles.co.uk seems to blend online information with the expectation of an in-person visit for test drives and final negotiations.
Financial Offerings
This is where the distinction becomes crucial from a permissible standpoint. Many large competitors, including dealer groups and online platforms, also heavily rely on conventional interest-based financing through their credit broker partnerships. For instance: Shrigshop.com Reviews
- Pendragon PLC Evans Halshaw, Stratstone: A major UK dealer group, they also offer a wide array of finance products, almost exclusively conventional.
- Arnold Clark: Another large group, similar in financial offerings to Pendruses, heavily promoting HP and PCP deals.
The key difference here isn’t that Mantles.co.uk is unique in offering interest-based finance, but rather that it’s the prevalent model across the industry. For individuals seeking permissible options, Mantles.co.uk is no better or worse than most large competitors in this regard. they all necessitate sourcing external halal financing.
How to Cancel Mantles.co.uk Reservation
Based on the information available on Mantles.co.uk, the website offers a “Buy or reserve online for only £99!” feature. While the explicit process for cancelling this £99 reservation isn’t detailed step-by-step on the public-facing pages, standard industry practices for car dealerships offer a clear path. The £99 is typically a fully refundable deposit that secures the vehicle for a short period, allowing the buyer to complete checks or arrange financing.
Standard Cancellation Process
To cancel a reservation made on Mantles.co.uk, you would typically follow these steps:
- Contact Mantles Directly: The most immediate and effective method is to contact the dealership directly.
- Phone: Look for a contact number on their website, usually under “Contact Us” or prominently displayed on the homepage. The website mentions “Call Us Back” and has a phone number though not directly visible without expanding the “Contact” menu on the provided text, it’s typically there.
- Email: Use the contact email address provided on their site, if available, or fill out their contact form.
- State Your Intention to Cancel: Clearly communicate that you wish to cancel your £99 vehicle reservation. Provide all relevant details, such as:
- Your full name
- Contact information phone, email
- The make, model, and registration number if assigned of the vehicle you reserved
- The date of your reservation
- Any reservation confirmation number you received.
- Request Refund: Explicitly ask for a refund of your £99 reservation fee. Confirm the method by which the refund will be processed e.g., back to the original payment card and the expected timeframe. Dealerships typically process these refunds promptly.
Terms and Conditions for Reservation
While not fully elaborated in the provided homepage text, the “Terms & Conditions” link at the bottom of the Mantles.co.uk website would contain the precise legal terms governing the £99 reservation.
It is crucial to review these terms when making a reservation to understand any specific clauses regarding cancellation periods or conditions, though refundable reservations are standard practice to encourage online engagement. Buywake.co.uk Reviews
- Key takeaway: The £99 reservation is designed to be a low-risk commitment, making cancellation generally straightforward and refunds expected.
Mantles.co.uk Financial Disclosure Details
The “Financial disclosure” section on Mantles.co.uk is a crucial element for understanding their business model, particularly regarding how they handle vehicle financing.
This section is a legal requirement in the UK for businesses involved in credit brokering, ensuring transparency for consumers.
Role as a Credit Broker
Mantles Group Limited explicitly states it is an “appointed representative of Ingeni Services Group Limited,” which is “authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA Number: 747381.” This clarifies their role:
- Not a Lender: Mantles does not directly lend money to customers. Instead, they act as an intermediary.
- Credit Broker: Their business is to “act as a credit broker, not as a lender, for the introduction to a limited number of lenders.” This means they connect potential car buyers with financial institutions that provide loans.
- Agent for Insurance: They also act “as an agent on behalf of the insurer for insurance distribution activities only,” indicating they can also facilitate vehicle insurance.
Commission Structure
A significant point of transparency is their disclosure about commission:
- Commission-Based: “The lenders that we use are given first right of refusal. This is because these lenders will pay us a commission for introducing you to them.” This is a standard practice in the credit brokering industry.
- Variable Commission: “This commission can be based on the amount you borrow or the vehicle you purchase.” This implies the commission might vary depending on the value of the deal.
- Disclosure and Consent: “We will inform you of the amount of commission that we will earn in good time. We will require your consent to receive this commission.” This commitment to inform customers about the exact commission and obtain their consent is a regulatory requirement designed to protect consumers.
- No Obligation to Use Their Finance: “You do not have to take our finance as it is available through other distributors. You can arrange funding for your vehicle elsewhere and it may be cheaper.” This is a vital piece of information, explicitly empowering customers to seek financing from other sources, including those that offer permissible alternatives.
Implications for Permissible Transactions
For individuals seeking to avoid interest-based transactions, this disclosure is incredibly important. It confirms that the standard financing options facilitated by Mantles.co.uk likely involve interest riba. However, the explicit statement that “You can arrange funding for your vehicle elsewhere” provides a direct pathway for customers to utilize halal financing solutions from Islamic banks or other permissible sources, and then simply use that pre-arranged financing to purchase the vehicle from Mantles.co.uk, effectively separating the permissible purchase from the impermissible financing. Mercieruk.co.uk Reviews
Mantles.co.uk Customer Experience and Support
Based on the website’s offerings and the typical operations of an automotive dealership, Mantles.co.uk aims to provide a comprehensive customer experience, from initial browsing to post-purchase support.
The site highlights several avenues for customer interaction and service, crucial for a high-value purchase like a car.
Pre-Purchase Support
The website offers multiple ways for potential customers to get information and assistance before making a purchase decision:
- Contact Forms/Call Back Request: The “Contact Us” section, including a “Call Us Back” option, indicates a proactive approach to engaging with inquiries. This suggests a dedicated sales team ready to assist with vehicle details, offers, and potentially financing questions.
- Online Reservation: The £99 online reservation feature streamlines the initial commitment, allowing customers to secure a vehicle and then follow up with the dealership for a test drive and final paperwork.
- “Find Us” Feature: Providing a physical location and clear directions helps customers who prefer an in-person experience, reinforcing the dealership’s brick-and-mortar presence.
After-Sales Service and Maintenance
A significant part of the customer experience for an automotive dealership comes from its after-sales support, particularly servicing and parts. Mantles.co.uk dedicates a clear section to this:
- “Servicing & Parts”: This section emphasizes “Trust our approved technicians to look after your Kia,” suggesting a commitment to qualified staff and manufacturer-specific expertise.
- Online Service Booking: While not explicitly detailed, the “Book a service” call to action typically leads to an online portal where customers can schedule maintenance appointments, often selecting preferred dates and times. This convenience is a key factor in customer satisfaction for car owners.
- My Account Portal: The presence of a “My account” link implies a personalized area where customers might view their service history, manage bookings, or access vehicle-specific information.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
The mention of “Mantles Kia Royston – reviewed on JudgeService.com” indicates that the dealership actively solicits and monitors customer feedback through external review platforms. Taskers.com Reviews
This is a common practice for businesses focused on customer satisfaction and transparency.
- JudgeService.com: This is a reputable independent review platform specifically for the automotive industry in the UK. Positive reviews on such platforms can significantly enhance a dealership’s reputation and build trust with potential customers.
- Importance of Reviews: For car buyers, especially for high-value purchases, external reviews are often a critical factor in decision-making. A dealership’s willingness to showcase these external reviews even if only by mentioning the platform signals confidence in their customer service quality.
The overall impression is that Mantles.co.uk strives for a supportive customer journey, from initial inquiry to ongoing vehicle maintenance.
The reliance on external review platforms further underscores their commitment to perceived customer satisfaction.
Mantles.co.uk Company Information and History
Understanding the background and operational context of Mantles Group Limited, the entity behind Mantles.co.uk, provides valuable insight into its stability, experience, and strategic direction within the automotive industry.
The website’s “Read More” section under “Welcome to Mantles Group Limited” offers a glimpse into their journey. Lifeessentialsrefillery.com Reviews
Established Presence and Recognition
Mantles Group Limited presents itself as an established and reputable player in the UK automotive retail sector, evidenced by their self-proclaimed accolades:
- “AWARDED UK DEALER OF THE YEAR”: This prestigious award suggests significant recognition for their sales performance, customer service, or operational excellence within the industry.
- “KIA CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AWARD”: This specifically highlights their commitment to customer satisfaction, particularly within the Kia brand.
- “KIA GLOBAL PRESTIGE DEALER STATUS”: Achieving “Global Prestige” status from Kia indicates a high level of performance and adherence to manufacturer standards on an international scale. These awards, if verified, would underscore their reputation and operational quality.
Strategic Downsizing and Focus
The company’s history reveals a strategic decision made in early 2017:
- Sale of Biggleswade Site: “a strategic decision was made to downsize the business by selling the Biggleswade site for re-development into a 70 bed Care Home.” This indicates a deliberate consolidation of operations.
- Franchise Relinquishment: “It was decided to relinquish the Ford and Mitsubishi franchises.” This was a significant move, as it meant shedding established brands from their portfolio.
- Increased Focus on Kia and BYD: The core of the strategic shift was to “apply more focus to the growing and highly successful Kia and BYD brand.” This suggests a belief in the growth potential of these brands and a desire to specialize rather than diversify across too many manufacturers. BYD, in particular, represents a forward-looking move into electric vehicles, aligning with current market trends.
Company Details and Legal Information
The footer of Mantles.co.uk provides essential legal and contact information, reinforcing their legitimacy:
- Registered Company Number: “Reg. Company Number: 338770.” This allows for verification of their legal registration with Companies House in the UK.
- VAT Registration Number: “VAT Reg. No.” though the number itself was not provided in the prompt, its mention implies its presence.
- Registered Address: “York Way, Royston, United Kingdom, SG8 5HJ.” This confirms their physical location.
- Copyright and Year: “© 2025 Mantles Group Limited. All Rights Reserved.” The copyright year 2025 is unusual for current content but might reflect a forward-looking site update or a typo in the provided text.
The company’s history shows a business that has made deliberate strategic choices to adapt to the market and focus its resources, particularly on key growing brands like Kia and BYD.
Their self-reported accolades suggest a strong track record in customer service and industry performance. Celticwebmerchant.com Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mantles.co.uk?
Mantles.co.uk is the official website for Mantles Group Limited, an authorized automotive dealership based in Royston, Hertfordshire, UK, specializing in new and used Kia and BYD vehicles, as well as providing servicing and parts.
Does Mantles.co.uk sell new cars?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk sells new cars from the Kia and BYD ranges, featuring the latest models and various offers.
Does Mantles.co.uk sell used cars?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk offers a selection of approved used cars, which can be searched and reserved online.
Can I reserve a car online with Mantles.co.uk?
Yes, you can reserve a vehicle online for £99, which typically secures the car for a short period.
Is the £99 reservation fee refundable on Mantles.co.uk?
Yes, based on common industry practice, the £99 reservation fee is generally fully refundable if you decide not to proceed with the purchase. Bercert.com Reviews
How do I contact Mantles.co.uk for inquiries?
You can contact Mantles.co.uk via their “Contact Us” section on the website, which often includes options for a call back or email.
Does Mantles.co.uk offer car servicing?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk provides servicing and parts for Kia vehicles, handled by approved technicians.
Can I book a service online through Mantles.co.uk?
Yes, the website features a “Book a service” option, allowing customers to schedule maintenance appointments.
Does Mantles.co.uk provide vehicle financing?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk acts as a credit broker, connecting customers with lenders for vehicle financing, though they do not lend money directly.
Is the financing offered by Mantles.co.uk interest-free?
No, the financing offered through Mantles.co.uk’s credit broker services typically involves interest, as they work with conventional lenders. Industriousoffice.com Reviews
Can I use external financing with Mantles.co.uk?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk explicitly states that you do not have to take their finance and can arrange funding for your vehicle elsewhere.
What car brands does Mantles.co.uk specialize in?
Mantles.co.uk specializes in Kia and BYD vehicles, focusing on these brands after strategically relinquishing Ford and Mitsubishi franchises.
Where is Mantles.co.uk physically located?
Mantles Group Limited’s dealership is located in Royston, Hertfordshire, UK, at York Way, Royston, SG8 5HJ.
Does Mantles.co.uk offer Motability services?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk has a section dedicated to Motability, allowing eligible individuals to explore options.
What is the company name behind Mantles.co.uk?
The company name behind Mantles.co.uk is Mantles Group Limited. Hookies.co.uk Reviews
Is Mantles Group Limited regulated by the FCA?
Yes, Mantles Group Limited is an appointed representative of Ingeni Services Group Limited, which is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA Number: 747381.
Does Mantles.co.uk disclose the commission they earn from financing?
Yes, Mantles.co.uk states they will inform you of the amount of commission they will earn from introducing you to lenders and will require your consent.
How long has Mantles Group Limited been operating?
The website indicates a strategic decision was made in early 2017 to downsize and focus on Kia and BYD, suggesting a long-standing operation before this strategic shift.
Does Mantles.co.uk provide prices for servicing online?
The website encourages booking a service but does not typically display a public price list for standard services, with pricing likely provided upon inquiry.
What awards has Mantles Group Limited received?
Mantles Group Limited claims to have been awarded UK Dealer of the Year, the Kia Customer Experience Award, and Kia Global Prestige Dealer Status.
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