Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Auto Dealers in East Sussex
Established in 1960, SLM Group has grown from a small garage into a leading automotive dealership network spanning East Anglia, Sussex, Kent, Surrey, and Hampshire. Our history of family ownership and strategic acquisitions, including Dingles Motor Group and SMC Motor Group, reflects our commitment to excellence. We offer an extensive range of new and used vehicles from prestigious brands such as Toyota, Vauxhall, GWM, SEAT, CUPRA, Dacia, Renault, Alpine, Lexus, and Bosch Car Service. Our manufacturer-trained technicians utilise cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to ensure your vehicle receives the highest standard of care, minimising downtime and maximising reliability.With over 60 years of industry experience, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and comprehensive aftersales support. Our dedication to innovation is evident in our adoption of sustainable technologies, including electric vehicle offerings and state-of-the-art service facilities. We maintain transparency in all operations, offering fixed-price servicing plans and clear finance options. Our team's deep local knowledge and passion for automotive excellence position us as a trusted partner for all your vehicle needs.
Services
New Cars
Used Cars
Servicing
MOT Testing
Parts Supply
Vehicle Finance
Body Repairs
Electric Vehicles
Commercial Vehicles
Warranty Services
Details
- Year established: 1960
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of automotive industry experience
- Our technicians are manufacturer-trained with cutting-edge equipment
- We offer competitive pricing across 15+ vehicle brands
- We provide fixed-price servicing plans with genuine parts
- Our network covers East Anglia and the South East region
What people say
Excellent service
Competitive pricing
Knowledgeable staff
Wide selection
Efficient repairs
Services
New Car Sales
We offer the latest models from 15+ premium automotive brands including Toyota, Vauxhall, GWM, SEAT, CUPRA, Dacia, Renault, and Alpine. Our sales team provides expert guidance through the purchasing process, with competitive pricing and flexible finance options available. Customers benefit from manufacturer warranties and access to exclusive new car promotions.
Used Car Sales
With over 388 used vehicles in stock, we provide a comprehensive selection of quality pre-owned cars and commercial vehicles. Our inventory includes Toyota Approved Used vehicles and SLM Select certified pre-owned models with full service histories. Finance options and part-exchange facilities are available for added convenience.
Vehicle Servicing
Our manufacturer-trained technicians deliver scheduled servicing using genuine parts and advanced diagnostic equipment. We offer fixed-price servicing plans, MOT preparation, and warranty-compliant maintenance across all vehicle makes. Bosch Car Service centres provide specialist technical support for enhanced reliability.
Body Repairs
Our body repair centres in St Leonards and Norwich provide accident damage repair using OEM-quality parts and paint matching technology. Services include dent removal, paintwork restoration, and structural repairs to manufacturer standards. Insurance-approved repair processes ensure seamless claims handling for customers.
Electric Vehicles
We offer a growing range of electric and hybrid vehicles including Toyota's electrified models and Vauxhall's electric lineup. Our EV specialists provide charging solution advice, government grant information, and access to home charging installation services. Dedicated EV servicing facilities ensure expert maintenance support.
People
Graham Wakeford
Founder
Founded St Leonards Motors in 1960 after engineering training, establishing the family business that evolved into SLM Group. His vision for quality service and strategic growth laid the foundation for the company's enduring success.
Brian Wakeford
Co-Founder
Joined father Graham in 1958 to establish the business, bringing aviation engineering expertise that influenced the company's technical standards. Instrumental in early expansion through strategic acquisitions and service diversification.
Mark Phillips
Managing Director
Appointed Managing Director in 2019 after 40 years with the company, overseeing SLM Group's transformation into a multi-franchise automotive network. Leads strategic growth initiatives and operational excellence across all dealership locations.
Questions
What brands does SLM Group offer?
We represent Toyota, Vauxhall, GWM, SEAT, CUPRA, Dacia, Renault, Alpine, Lexus, and Bosch Car Service across our dealership network.
Do you provide vehicle finance options?
Yes, we offer PCP, HP, and leasing options through our panel of lenders with competitive APR rates and flexible terms.
What servicing options are available?
We provide manufacturer-approved servicing, fixed-price plans, MOT testing, and warranty-compliant maintenance using genuine parts and diagnostic equipment.
Are there electric vehicle options?
Yes, we offer Toyota's hybrid range, Vauxhall electric models, and have charging solution specialists at selected locations.
What are your service hours?
Sales open 8:00-18:00 Mon-Fri, 8:45-17:00 Sat, and 8:30-17:00 Sun. Service departments operate similar hours with some location variations.
Do you have a price match policy?
We offer competitive pricing and will consider genuine written quotes from local competitors for identical vehicle specifications.
Reviews (5)
Felicity Evans
Apr 17, 2022
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SLM Toyota Uckfield and at St Leonards always provide a professional and friendly service. Thank you for all your help over the many years and most recently.
Abi Slater
Dec 17, 2021
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If you are foolish enough to get your car mot'd and serviced by toyota, don't leave anything valuable in your car. Apparently its ok to steal money from their customers.
Simon Taylor
Jul 31, 2021
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We bought a used Yaris from them on the 10 July and we were thoroughly impressed by the service. The car is great and we were able to drive away the same day. The salesperson that looked after us, Jack Heasman, is a credit to the garage. Would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone.
Andrew Griffiths
Mar 06, 2019
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Nothing but praise for this place. Very helpful staff. Just one example, i decided to wait while they gave my wife's Yaris a service and MOT. I brought my laptop along so i could work whilst i waited. The staff let me use a small side office and kept me refreshed with tea and coffee. They know how to treat their customers. Thanks SLM staff.
Alan Chatfield
Jan 20, 2019
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I've have now found my way around the car, which I'm really enjoying taking out. I would like to thank you for getting hold of the car after losing out on the original I came to look at the day it was sold. You worked hard to get the replacement back from Norwich, I appreciate your efforts and those of your colleagues for getting the car ready for me promptly as promised. Many Thanks Alan Chatfield
