BUS passengers can now ride in style between Swindon and Oxford on a fleet of 12 luxury buses.

Stagecoach West splashed out on the fleet of buses for the regular S6 service, investing £3 million in a dozen premium Gold S6 vehicles at £250,000 per bus.

The new buses promise passengers extra leg room, leather seats, free Wi-Fi and USB charging points, and quieter engines.

Guests and councillors went to a special launch event for the buses on Monday.

Chris Parkinson, public transport team leader for Swindon Borough Council, said: “This is a very important service to keep Swindon connected with the major cities around us.

“For Swindon Borough Council it is a great service and we are happy to support it.”

Stagecoach West managing director Rupert Cox said:

“It is a major investment in the future of bus travel but one we believe is well worth making, both for our customers and the environment.”

He added: “Each of the 12 vehicles in the new fleet cost £250,000 and they have the latest engine technology which means a reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions and other particulates by 90 per cent compared to the buses they are replacing.

“We are determined to provide the best possible service we can for our customers and we hope even more people will help the environment and relieve congestion on our roads by taking the Stagecoach Gold bus and leaving the car at home.”