Hi DonnyGirl.
I was told by my local dealer that their showcars have an optional protective coating to reduce the need for polishing & waxing.
I didn't believe it would work & I imported the car anyway, so I wasn't bothered!
I use
Autoglym products & love them.
Here's a few shots of my car after using their Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner, Vinyl & Rubber Care, Super Resin Polish & finally the Extra Gloss Protection.
I've got their Leather Care Cream also, but haven't yet used it on the Dakota Black leather- it still looks like the day I got it 6 months ago.
I wouldn't use a valet service, because I like doing it myself & I wouldn't use a carwash, because I don't trust them!
My 162s have been very easy to keep clean, although that might be because I never leave them dirty for more than 2-3 weeks at a time!
I just use the bodywork shampoo on them to take of the grime- I've NEVER yet needed anything stronger- just a tougher brush & using it like a toothbrush occasionally for the alloy corners.
I let the alloys dry & then wipe them with a small amount of the super resin polish- they come up clean & dirt just comes off them very easily the next time they are cleaned.
If you just wany to use the minimum for an easy life, then I'd recommend the bodywork shampoo & the super resin polish- I think you'll love the long-lasting finish they provide.
I aint a die-hard fanatic by any means, but I still fancy trying out some Zaino somtime maybe!
Viv
PS- are you coming to the first UK meet, DonnyGirl ?