The Car Expert

Jeep Compass

Stuart Masson

-

24 July 2019

Summary

The Jeep Compass is a mid-sized SUV, which was revealed in America in late 2016 but did not reach UK showrooms until early 2018. It sits between the smaller Renegade and larger Cherokee in the Jeep range.

In late 2025, this second-generation range was replaced by a new third-generation Compass line-up, which consists of petrol mild-hybrid and electric models.

Despite a more urban focus than traditional Jeep models, the Compass retained the company’s traditional off-roading ability and is far more suited to rough terrain than most of its rivals.

No longer on sale, our industry-leading Expert Rating index places the Compass right down near the bottom of the mid-sized SUV/crossover segment with a Used Car Expert Rating of E and a score of 50%.

The Compass received praise for its impressive off-road abilities, being one of the few SUVs that is actually comfortable on anything tougher than a gravel driveway. However, was criticised for its on-road dynamics and lack of sophistication in one of the most competitive segments in the UK new car market.

More Jeep ratings, reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Medium-size SUV
Engines: petrol, plug-in hybrid
Price when new: From £34,580 on-road

Launched: Winter 2017/18
Last updated: Summer 2020
Replaced: Winter 2025/26

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Featured reviews

“The Jeep Compass stands ahead of its compact crossover rivals as a proper SUV, for those who want this sort of car for more than just looks.”

Score: 7.6 / 10

Read full review

Andrew Charman

“The Jeep Compass is a tough looking family SUV with impressive off-road capabilities, but it’s not as good to drive as some alternatives.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 5 / 10

Read full review

Carwow

More reviews

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“Stylish, comfortable and more usable off-road than the average crossover, the Jeep Compass has plenty to offer.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric hybrid
Score: 7 / 10
“While Jeep hasn’t gone fully hybrid with the Compass e-Hybrid, it’s an interesting and tempting step. The Compass itself is now more of a contender with a bit of added Jeep cool, too, although this model does without four-wheel drive. Its biggest problem, though, is the strength of the more efficient fully-hybrid competition.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Trailhawk
Score: 6 / 10
“The new Jeep Compass Trailhawk is a compelling option if you’re in the market for a rugged family SUV.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“Plug-in hybrid option and updated tech give the Jeep Compass a much-needed leg-up in the competitive mid-size SUV sector.”
Read review

Business Car

Model reviewed: 1.3-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 4xe S
Score: 8 / 10
“Its 30-mile EV range is evenly matched with PHEV rivals except those more expensive to buy. It’s enough to make the Jeep Compass look worth checking out for company car drivers who want four-wheel drive with their SUV.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: Trailhawk
Score: 6 / 10
“If you’re an adventurous family who off-road regularly, then in Trailhawk guise the Jeep Compass makes a compelling argument for itself, despite its occasionally unruly road manners.”
Read review

Car Keys

Model reviewed: 1.3-litre plug-in hybrid 4xe
Score: 8 / 10
“Compared to the previous Compass, this new model is better in every possible way. It’s the interior that represents the biggest step up, with technology and quality that really move the game on significantly for Jeep. It’s also better to drive, while the addition of the 4xe plug-in hybrid is welcome, too.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“The Compass is a great addition to Jeep’s range, and it slots neatly in the off-road centric range of this American manufacturer. It’s not a class-leading model, and there are rivals with better interiors and more enjoyable drives, but it’s an interesting left-field option to other established SUVs.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6.2 / 10
“Offering more space than the Renegade and better driving manners than the rugged Wrangler, the Jeep Compass is a capable SUV with its own individual style… and flaws.” (Ben Custard)
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual Limited
Score: 7.9 / 10
“The Jeep Compass offers an interesting change to the regular small SUV options. It looks good, is efficient and has a good residual value, but refinement could be better.”
Read review

Green Car Guide

Model reviewed: 4xe plug-in hybrid
Score: 6 / 10
“The Jeep Compass S 4xe PHEV 4×4 has a number of areas for improvement. Chief amongst these is the issue of the car having various off-road control systems, but being equipped with road tyres that resulted in the car getting stuck on a flat area of muddy grass. Another issue is the lack of performance in electric mode due to the 60 hp electric motor.” (Paul Clarke)
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“Some will be willing to overlook its lack of on-road prowess in favour of its genuine off-road capability. Just like Land Rover, Jeep plays hard on its reputation as a maker of cars that won’t leave you stranded in the rough stuff.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 7.8 / 10
“A mid-sized crossover with genuine off-road prowess”
Read review

The Sun

“Just like the England football team, on paper the Jeep Compass has got the goods to take the fight to the others, but it’s no guarantee they’ll win at their own game.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: (range review)
“I’d strongly urge anyone considering the Jeep Compass to test drive some rivals. The benchmark is incredibly high in this segment now, and the Compass – while ten times better than its awful predecessor – isn’t there yet.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“More an SUV than a soft-roader. Patchy dynamics but well finished and has good off-road ability.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: September 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 90%
Child protection: 83%
Vulnerable road users: 64%
Safety assist: 59%

Notes on safety rating

The Jeep Compass was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2024 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

Although the rating has now expired, the score is still useful if you are comparing a used Compass to vehicles of similar age – whose ratings will have probably also expired.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Jeep Compass was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 18
Average repair cost: £392.25
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Jeep Compass has a better-than-average reliability rating according to warranty claim data provided by our partner MotorEasy. The caveat to this score is that we don’t have data from a large number of vehicles yet, so this score could fluctuate over time as more data is added to our system.

The good news is that repair costs are one of the most affordable across the board, especially when compared to the high warranty claims of many other SUVs in this class. The exception is fuel system repair costs, which have been quite high to date.

An average repair bill of less than £400 is reasonable, although some other small SUVs are cheaper.

If you’re looking at a used Jeep Compass, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all the potential problem areas shown above. You’re more likely than other cars to need repairs, but hopefully they’ll cost less than most others.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	36 mpg	D
Diesel models	44 mpg	C
Plug-in hybrid models	149 mpg	A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	132 g/km	B
Diesel models	166 g/km	D
Plug-in hybrid models	47 g/km	A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	23 miles	E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	49	E

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£259	C
Year 2	£667	D
Year 3	£1,108	D
Year 4	£1,312	D
Year 5	£1,705	C
Overall	£5,051	D

The Jeep Compass has a mixed bag of scores when it comes to running costs, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Fuel economy is poor for the petrol models, and only average for the (now discontinued) diesel versions. The plug-in hybrid looks great on paper, but this is more a function of the inaccurate EU/UK government lab testing process, which is pretty much useless for plug-in hybrids.

Insurance group ratings are high on average but with significant variation across the range, so make sure you get several insurance quotes before committing.

Finally, servicing and maintenance over the car’s first five years look to be pretty good.

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Buy a Jeep Compass

If you’re looking to buy a new or used Jeep Compass, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car.

Find your next used car with Cazoo. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

MG ZS EV test drive

Andrew Charman

-

23 July 2019

0

MG launched the ZS compact SUV last year and has enjoyed great success with it – the brand’s year-to-date sales of almost 6,300 cars are around 2,000 up on the same period in 2018 and 1,500 of those sales are the ZS.

The success of the ZS is largely down to one factor – price. According to our unique Expert Rating, which aggregates reviews from 15 of the top UK motoring websites, the ZS currently holds a score of 55% – the lowest score of any compact SUV/crossover we have analysed this year. But it’s also one of the cheapest.

Now MG hopes to further boost the ZS sales success story with an electric version – the brand’s first EV and the standard-bearer for four electrified cars to launch by 2021. These will comprise another battery-electric model and two plug-in hybrids including the production version of the E-Motion sports car concept.

MG describes the ZS EV as ‘the first truly affordable, family-friendly electric car’. These are brave words in a market growing ever more competitive – can it live up to the billing?

What’s new about the MG ZS EV?

The MG ZS EV is basically the brand’s standard small SUV, but with its internal combustion engine and transmission replaced by an electric drivetrain. This is no compromise aftermarket solution, however – MG insists that from its earliest design sketches the ZS was always intended to incorporate electrics.

There are other changes – some styling elements and an increase in specification, some of this attempting to put right previous areas of criticism, particularly where safety is concerned. But basically, you will be buying the ZS EV because you want an electric car and want to pay as little as possible.

How does it look?

The MG ZS EV looks very much like its internal combustion sister, and that’s not a bad thing. The design has an unpretentious exterior presence that will merge into its surroundings to sit unobtrusively alongside rivals from larger brands.

There are some bespoke touches to the electric model, however. It gets its own design of alloy wheels, created to be both light in weight and to increase aerodynamic efficiency – both essential to extending battery range.

The grille is evolved from MG’s standard ‘star-rider’ design. Dubbed ‘Stellar Field’ it includes a section that flips up to reveal the battery charging sockets. And finally, there’s a new paint finish, following the trend to identify electric vehicles with blue colours and dubbed ‘Pimlico Blue.’

What’s the spec like?

The MG ZS EV is offered in two trim levels, Excite and Exclusive, but one immediate plus point is that both come with an impressive safety package – though perhaps this is not a surprise considering that when launched in 2017 the standard ZS received poor reviews for its safety package and a mere three-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

MG’s Pilot Driver Assistance Suite, standard on all cars, includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go facility, a lane departure warning and lane-keeping assistant, and a traffic-jam assistant which brakes, accelerates and keeps the car in its lane.

Highlights of the Excite trim are those 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, and an eight-inch touchscreen with sat-nav plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.

Buy the top-spec Exclusive, and you also get blind-spot detection and a rear cross-traffic alert included.

An extra £2,000 buys an Exclusive, and as well as the extra active safety it includes a panoramic opening sunroof, electric heated folding mirrors, leather-style seats with the fronts heated and the driver’s electrically adjustable, and a rear parking camera.

It’s also worth remembering that all ZS models come with MG’s seven-year warranty, which also covers the battery and adds a significant value extra to the car.

And the cost? Well on the road the Excite is priced at £28,495 and the Exclusive £30,495. But applying the Government’s plug-in car grant takes £3,500 off these prices, which does bring the ZS into affordable territory even before one considers the launch offer, more of which directly…

What’s the MG ZS EV like inside?

Basically, just like the standard ZS. And that’s slightly a shame, because while it is practically laid out and easy to use, the quality of the surfaces does put the MG somewhat in the shadow of its perceived rivals from the likes of Kia and Hyundai. There’s a lot of plastic that appears hard to the touch and proves to be so.

Where the ZS does score is in space. It is a roomy contender in the small SUV market, and housing the battery under the floor ensures none of this is compromised in the cause of green motoring. The boot space of 448 litres, for example, is more than 90 litres larger than in the likes of the Ford Ecosport, Nissan Juke or Mazda CX-3.

What’s under the bonnet?

In the space previously occupied by the three-cylinder 1.0-litre or four-cylinder 1.5-litre internal combustion engine, the MG ZS EV houses an electric motor of 105kW (143hp). This is allied to a one-speed automatic transmission and powered by a 44.5kWh battery pack housed under the floor.

The ZS claims a range under the WLTP combined cycle of 163 miles, and 231 miles on a city driving cycle. The battery pack is water-cooled, which makes it compatible with CCS rapid chargers. Using a 50kW rapid charger an 80% charge can be achieved in 40 minutes – with a 7kW wall box a full charge takes 6.5 hours.

What’s the MG ZS EV like to drive?

Overall, we have yet to find out. The driving time on the launch event was confined to a tortuous route through central London streets, which ensured we seldom crested 20mph. But what this did show is that the ZS EV will be a willing companion in one of its prime target markets, for city-centre workers or dwellers seeking to avoid paying out in congestion or low-emission zones.

It is a very easy car to drive. The steering is light, though not overly so, taking much of the stress out of manoeuvring through the inevitable queues. And the instant torque of the electric drivetrain really comes into its own when getting away from yet another set of traffic lights – MG quotes a 0-60mph time of 8.5 seconds but a 0-30mph time of just 3.2 seconds.

One notable aspect is the kinetic energy recovery system. There are three levels of regeneration, and on the maximum setting the ZS becomes virtually a one-pedal car, using engine braking to slow the car as soon as one lifts off the throttle pedal and at the same time sending some charge back to the battery.

So on the streets of a city, the MG ZS EV is an effective proposition. As to whether it stacks up once out of the jams and onto the open road, we will need to reserve opinion until our full review later in the year.

Verdict

One of the biggest compliments paid to the MG ZS is that those seeking a smaller SUV should consider it alongside much bigger-selling models from the better-known names in the business, so it’s no surprise that MG has chosen this car with which to step into the electric arena. And this could be an inspired move. We can’t give the car a complete thumbs-up until we undertake a more rounded review, but first impressions are positive.

Meanwhile, if you’ve read enough already and are taken by the MG ZS EV, you should move quickly. For the first 1,000 examples, MG is matching the Government grant, which brings the entry point to electric motoring down to just £21,495 (as well as throwing in a free home callbox charger).

Based on that asking price of £21,495, MG is hoping to target monthly PCP payments that slide under the magic £300 a month mark, although this will very much depend on how you configure your deposit, term and annual mileage.

When you equate the cost of fuel, MG reckons you’ll save £75 a month on your motoring costs compared to the equivalent ZS petrol model. And over four years, with the lower servicing charges of an EV, the saving is claimed to be more than £6,000. Tempting…

Similar cars

Key specifications

Model as tested: MG ZS EV Exclusive
Price as tested (on-road): £26,995 (after plug-in car grant)
Powertrain: Synchronous electric motor supplied by batteries
Gearbox: single-speed automatic
Power: 143 hp
Torque: 260 Nm
Top speed: 87 mph
0-60mph: 8.5 seconds
Range between charges (WLTP combined): 163 miles
CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km

Bentley Flying Spur launches with limited edition model

New model

Andrew Charman

-

22 July 2019

0

Bentley Flying Spur launches with limited edition model

Bentley has revealed a First Edition version of its new Flying Spur luxury saloon that will only be available for the first 12 months of the car’s production run.

The trim level will have a higher specification than is usual on the Flying Spur, including various features as standard that would typically be optional.

These include the Flying B mascot on the bonnet, a rotating display on the dashboard, configurable mood lighting, 22-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof. The car also includes a suite of safety systems, including adaptive cruise control, night vision and a head-up display.

Unique to the First Edition are various Union Flag badges with a number one in the centre, a winged emblem on the seat headrests, and Union Flag First Edition treadplates.

To celebrate its centenary and to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation Gala, Bentley will auction a Flying Spur First Edition. The new owner will be allowed to specify their car using the British firm’s ‘Co-Creation Luxury Service’, which is usually “offered only to a tiny selection of clients”. A member of Bentley’s design team will work with the new owner to make their car unique.

The third-generation Flying Spur was unveiled in June, described as a ground-up redesign and on the same chassis as the Continental GT coupe, extending the wheelbase by 13cm despite being less than 2cm longer than its predecessor overall.

Power for the Flying Spur is provided by a 6.0-litre W12 petrol engine with 635hp and 900Nm of torque. It can complete a 0-60mph sprint in 3.7 seconds and go on to a top speed of 207mph.

More Bentley news, reviews and features

Volvo issues vehicle recall over fire risk

Stuart Masson

-

22 July 2019

1

Volvo issues vehicle recall over fire risk

Nearly 70,000 Volvo cars in the UK are being recalled over a fire risk related to an engine problem, the manufacturer said.

Certain models built between 2014 and 2019 are affected by the issue.

The firm’s investigations found that “in very rare cases” a piece of plastic fitted as part of the engine can melt, causing a fire “in the most extreme cases”.

A spokesman for the Swedish company said it has received reports of “a very small number” of cars catching fire, but no-one has been injured.

The 69,616 UK cars affected are among more than half a million being recalled globally.

The affected models have four-cylinder diesel engines and are 2014-2019 versions of the following:

S60 and S60 Cross Country saloon
S80 saloon
S90 saloon
V40 and V40 Cross Country hatch
V60 and V60 Cross Country estate
V70 and XC70 estate
V90 and V90 Cross Country estate
XC60 SUV
XC90 SUV

Volvo said it was contacting all customers whose vehicles are affected to alert them to the fire risk issue. Drivers are being told it is “safe to continue to use your car” if it does not show any symptoms indicating a problem, such as an engine warning light illuminating, a lack of power or an “unusual smell”.

A second letter will be sent confirming when a solution to the problem is available.

Volvo said it notified the relevant authorities about the issue “as soon as it was identified”. It apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused, stating that it is taking “full responsibility to ensure the highest quality and safety standards of our cars”.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) head of vehicle safety branch Ian Bartlett said: “DVSA’s priority is to protect everyone from unsafe drivers and vehicles.

“After being informed of the risk by Volvo, we worked with the manufacturer to recall the vehicles as soon as possible to help protect the public.

“We will ensure that the owners of these vehicles are notified of the recall and that vehicles are inspected as a priority.”

If you have any of the cars above registered from 2014 onwards, you can find out whether your car is affected by the recall by calling your local Volvo dealer. There is also information here on the Volvo Cars UK website. Any remedial work required will not be charged to you.

More Volvo news, reviews, features and offers

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2018 to 2021)

Stuart Masson

-

22 July 2019

0

Summary

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a medium-sized SUV/crossover, unveiled in early 2017 and launched in the UK in early 2018. it sat between the smaller ASX and larger Outlander in the Mitsubishi SUV range until the company withdrew from the UK market altogether in September 2021.

Unlike the other traditionally rugged Mitsubishi SUVs in the family, the Eclipse Cross prioritises style over practicality, and competed against car-based crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar and countless other rivals.

The Eclipse Cross received praise for its sharp styling and general comfort, but was criticised for its driving experience and lack of sophistication compared to the class leaders.

No longer on sale, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 63%. It scores top marks for its low running costs, although its CO2 emissions and safety rating are only average, and its media review scores were poor.

More Mitsubishi Expert Ratings, reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Medium SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £21,930 on-road

Launched: Winter 2017/18
Last updated: N/A
Removed from sale: Autumn 2021

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Black Connected
Score: 5 / 10
“In a class where there are so many talented options, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Black Connected edition struggles to stand out. While it’s spacious inside, and the sliding rear seat bench adds to its practical appeal, there are simply too many compromises elsewhere.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a big step forward for the brand and worth a second look, even if it does fall behind class leaders.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“Enthusiasts will probably find the drive a little frustrating, but families looking for a spacious, civilised and iconoclastic compact SUV now have a new contender to consider, from a brand with true 4×4-pedigree.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7.4 / 10
“The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross may not be as polished as some SUVs, but it looks sharp inside and out.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is an eye-catching family SUV with plenty of standard kit and some fairly spacious back seats but alternatives do feel much posher inside.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a reasonably stylish SUV with a rugged edge that helps it stand out from numerous rivals that include cars such as the Skoda Karoq, Volkswagen Tiguan, SEAT Ateca, Peugeot 3008 and Toyota CH-R.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“Where the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross falls down is on the road. It’s not especially good to drive with too much lean in corners, a hard ride on models with bigger wheels and artificial feeling steering. It’s disappointing given how promising the rest of the car is.”
Read review

Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is an adventurous take on the crossover formula, with bold styling, a focus on delivering a sporty drive, plus a generous level of standard equipment.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 7 / 10
“An interesting addition to the small-SUV crossover ranks”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: (range review)
“The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is entering a packed market but strikes a winning balance of smart, practical and affordable.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual 4
Score: 6 / 10
“A perfectly capable mid-size SUV with a good petrol engine and tidy handling, but the small boot stands out like a sore thumb in this hotly contested class, and the lack of satnav seems like an oversight too. If you can master pulling away smoothly, this manual version is a nicer car to drive than the CVT.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol automatic 3
Score: 6 / 10
“Nicely styled with a commodious cabin and well equipped (if confusing) facia, the Eclipse drives reasonably well, but it would drive better without that CVT transmission and a bit more concentration on the medium-speed dynamics.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“A comfy, versatile crossover that looks distinctive enough to be recognisable in this crazily crowded market. Better to drive than the first impression suggests, but in the 4×4 you’ve got to fight your way past an obstructive CVT.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 97%
Child protection: 78%
Vulnerable road users: 80%
Safety assist: 71%

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

No reliability rating

As of March 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross to generate a reliability rating.

The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the Eclipse Cross, we’ll publish the score here.

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More news, reviews and information about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross at The Car Expert

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Outstanding results in latest safety tests

Geneva: Mitsubishi Eclipse sharpens up

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross compact SUV revealed

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross to debut at Geneva

Geneva debut for Mitsubishi ‘Qashqai rival’

Buy a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

If you’re looking to buy a used Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

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Dacia Sandero Stepway (2013 to 2020)

Stuart Masson

-

22 July 2019

0

Summary

The Dacia Sandero Stepway was an upgraded and off-road styled version of the Sandero supermini hatchback. The model seen here is the second generation, which was launched in 2013 and facelifted in 2017. Production ended in 2020 ahead of an all-new Sandero that arrived in the UK in Spring 2021.

Despite the looks, the Sandero Stepway had minimal off-roading ability and was not available with four-wheel drive. However, this is relatively common among similar hatchback-based SUV/crossover vehicles.

The Sandero Stepway received particular praise from reviewers for its spaciousness, decent equipment levels and low running costs. Like all Dacia models of its generation, its absolute performance in any area against rivals wasn’t great, but when considered against its very low prices, it was considered excellent value for money.

As of February 2026, the Dacia Sandero Stepway holds a Used Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 59%. It scores top marks for its excellent reliability record and also gets good grades for its low running costs. However, its safety scores are poor compared to newer cars and media review scores were not very flattering.

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door hatch/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £9,195 on-road

Launched: Spring 2013
Last updated: Winter 2018/19
Replaced: Spring 2021

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6.8 / 10
“It won’t write any headlines for its road dynamics but the Dacia Sandero Stepway is good value for a low price – a better option than the standard Sandero.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Dacia Sandero Stepway adds a touch of rugged off-road presence to the value-focused Sandero hatch.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Techroad TCe 90
Score: 6 / 10
“Taken as cheap, honest and decently equipped family transport, the Dacia Sandero Stepway is cheery and hugely affordable.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 0.9-litre petrol manual 90 TCe
Score: 6 / 10
“Austerity has never been so endearing. I can’t wait to park one next to the Range Rovers at Waitrose.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6.8 / 10
“The Dacia Sandero Stepway is a rugged supermini with SUV aspirations, lots of space and small running costs.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 5 / 10
“The Dacia Sandero Stepway defines cheap and cheerful motoring. It’s spacious and well equipped for the price, but you always feel like you’re in a basic budget car”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Dacia Sandero Stepway laughs in the face of the prices asked for other crossovers and jacked-up hatchbacks. We think the Stepway treatment gives the Sandero an unlikely touch of class, although this doesn’t necessarily pull through to the interior. Cheap to buy, cheap to run and easy to live with – what’s not to like?”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Sandero Stepway is the butched up, more purposefully styled version of Dacia’s bargain small car. Its looks are more or less just for show, but that doesn’t detract from the excellent value offered.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 90 TCe
“For people living in the country who don’t want the expense of four-wheel drive and anyone in the suburbs who wants a butch looking car for sensible money the Dacia Sandero Stepway makes sense.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 6 / 10
“Visually appealing SUV-aping looks provide no real advantage”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: 0.9-litre petrol manual TCe
“The leap of quality from the standard Sandero was staggering, and it would only cost you around £2,500 more. I’m not normally a fan of crossovers but the ride quality afforded by the raised suspension was worth the money alone.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“Family transport on a budget, but you can see the compromises.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol/LPG manual Bi-Fuel SE Twenty
Score: 6 / 10
“Dacia’s alternative to electrification is surprisingly simple. What’s even more surprising is how effective LPG is. It’s better for the environment than a petrol model, quieter and sweeter to drive than a diesel, and if you keep it running on gas the majority of time, it’ll save you a tonne of cash.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Dacia Sandero Stepway is far from perfect, both in the way it drives and its poor crash test rating. However, it offers a lot of space for the money and the off-roader inspired looks will appeal to SUV buyers on a budget.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 4 stars
Date tested: May 2013
Date expired: January 2020
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 80%
Child protection: 79%
Vulnerable road users: 57%
Safety assist: 55%

Notes on safety rating

The Dacia Sandero range (which includes the Sandero Stepway) was awarded a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP back when this model was launched in 2013. However, this rating expired in January 2020 as the Sandero no longer met the requirements for a four-star car. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used Dacia Sandero Stepway to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Dacia Sandero Stepway was never assessed by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 14
Average repair cost: £419.72
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

As of April 2025 (our most recent data point), the Dacia Sandero range (including the Stepway) has a good reliability score, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy.

Although only based on a relatively small number of cars so far, the average repair bill is less than £400. This is reasonable, although it should be noted that engine repairs to date have been more expensive, with an average repair cost of nearly £800.

Similar cars

More news, reviews and information about the Dacia Sandero family at The Car Expert

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Buy a Dacia Sandero Stepway

If you’re looking to buy a used Dacia Sandero Stepway, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

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Nissan Leaf e+ review

Andrew Charman

-

20 July 2019

1

60-second summary

What is it?
The Nissan Leaf e+ is a version of the electric car with a new battery pack that extends its power and range.

Key features
Longer battery range, more power, driving assistance tech.

Our view
The Nissan Leaf e+ is a worthy range-topper with significant advantages from its new, denser battery pack.

Owners will appreciate the more enthusiastic performance and more miles between recharges, but they still won’t be able to keep up with some of the car’s newer rivals.

Similar cars

Full review

Introduction

Anyone who knows anything about electric cars will know of the Nissan Leaf. When the all-electric car launched in 2010 it soon grabbed the unofficial title of ‘green motoring’ standard-bearer from the Toyota Prius hybrid.

Since then the Leaf has become the world’s biggest-selling electric car, with 400,000 finding owners across the globe. More than 25,000 of these have gone to UK buyers, boosted by European Leafs being built at Nissan’s UK plant in Sunderland.

A second-generation Leaf launched in February 2018, a complete redesign with a less ‘distinctive’ but far more satisfying body shape. The look of the first Leaf shouted, “I’m an electric car, buy me if you want to shout to the world that you are saving the planet!” But the current one will slide far more unobtrusively into the office car parking space alongside traditional family hatches.

But even as the new car arrived rivals were stacking up – rivals with significantly greater ranges between charges. So now we get a second version of the Leaf, the e+ – a top-specification model with a new, much denser battery pack which means a greater range, and more power under the right foot.

But is a more muscular battery enough to stem the rivals that are already here, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia e-Niro, and those still to come from European brands such as Volkswagen and Peugeot?

Buying and owning a Nissan Leaf e+

The big difference between the Nissan Leaf e+ and the standard Leaf tested by The Car Expert in January 2018 is the battery pack.

Nissan says that the newly-developed 62kWh pack offers 55% more capacity and approximately 25% better energy density, yet it remains virtually the same size and shape as the pack in the standard 40kWh Leaf.

Which means that in terms of size and crucially interior space, the Leaf e+ is just the same as the existing version – well it’s 5mm higher on the standard-fit 16-inch wheels.

Those interested in the technical stuff may like to know that the pack uses a new design that allows varying numbers of cell modules and a laser welding technique that reduces each module’s overall length. And changing the number of lamination layers of each cell means it is much easier to match the shape of the pack to the vehicle’s dimensions.

What it actually means is that the Leaf e+ puts out 217hp and 340 Nm of torque, compared to the 150hp and 320Nm of the most potent standard model. This sees the new car through 62mph from rest in 6.9 seconds, more than 4.5 seconds ahead of the cheapest standard sibling though only a second faster than the 150hp version.

All that extra capacity also has a big effect on range – the Leaf e+ is quoted at up to 239 miles between charges under the latest WLTP testing protocol and that is more than 70 miles further than a standard car.

So that’s good then? Well yes, but not entirely. Yes, the range is a big improvement, but it still does not come up to new kids on the block such as the e-Niro or Kona, both of which still go 40 miles further than a Leaf e+ before the juice runs out. And that becomes all the more relevant when one talks prices.

Nissan is marketing the e+ as the halo version of its electric car. That means it only comes in the top Tekna trim level, and that new battery hardware adds £4,900 to the cost compared to the 150hp Tekna. The e+ costs a whopping £35,895, three grand more than its Korean rivals, and that’s once the Government’s £3,500 plug-in car grant has been taken off – without that you’d be looking at an almost £40,000 electric car.

There is one advantage to that top specification – the e+ does include as standard Nissan’s ProPilot active driving assistance technology, with an adaptive cruise control that keeps the car centred in its lane and will slow it to a stop, and restart it, in congested traffic. The standard Leaf earned a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating last year and this system adds an extra level of protection.

There is one more minus – battery recharging. The recharging market is still very confused, and Nissan has stuck with the Chademo system, basically because there are suitable public connections at most motorway service stations and many other locations. And the e+ can use 50kW DC chargers to recover 80% of battery life in around 40 minutes, which is around the same time as its 50kWh sister car despite the extra range.

However, the Nissan’s air-cooled battery pack won’t cope for long with the faster chargers being introduced by rivals such as CCS – and yes, the Hyundai and Kia can…

Inside the Nissan Leaf e+

This is a version of the Leaf we tested last year so what we said about the interior of that car still applies. The interior is functional, with plenty of space, well laid out and the plastics of acceptable quality.

Tekna means such niceties as heated leather seats and steering wheel and plenty of equipment. However, Nissan has not taken the opportunity to put right a major criticism from testers last year, the lack of reach adjustment on the steering wheel, which by the way is of that slightly stylish flat-bottomed design.

The centre console is well designed with the large eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display placed right at the top. All Leafs, e+ included, get the NissanConnect infotainment system, which includes TomTom Live traffic updates on the navigation and the ability to send routes to the car from a smartphone app. You can even use the app to pre-set the air-con or heating while the car is recharging.

Admittedly the graphics of the sat nav are not up to the standard of some rivals, but that doesn’t really matter as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity is also standard, which means one can use the generally more up-to-date Google Maps.

Driving the Nissan Leaf e+

The Leaf e+ is enthusiastic off the line, the beauty of the instant torque served up by an electric powertrain. And this makes it great for swift overtaking manoeuvres. It cruises well on the motorway too.

However that extra dense battery pack does add 150 kilos to the car’s kerb weight, and you do feel it. It’s by no means alarming – the steering isn’t unnaturally heavy and the car does go where it’s pointed, but there is an impression that one is hauling more poundage through the bends, and especially when under heavy braking. This may be a more sporty Leaf, but it’s no sports car.

One major aspect of all second-generation Leafs is the e-pedal, effectively a kinetic energy regeneration system. It’s very easy to get used to driving while hardly ever using the brake pedal, relying instead on the drivetrain to slow the car while also adding to the range.

Generally the Leaf e+ remains an easy car to drive, with the only significant minus point the large body pillars which don’t help with peripheral vision.

Summary

The Nissan Leaf e+ adds a significant extra option to those wanting to join the rapidly increasing numbers driving the UK’s most popular electric car. It comes with extra safety technology that is worth having, and in terms of power and range the battery pack brings the car closer to its growing number of new rivals.

However this new top-model Leaf does not beat those rivals, either for range or driving enjoyment – and compared to them it is the expensive option.

Good points

Higher performance than standard Leaf
Extended range between charges
More safety technology as standard

Bad points

Pricier than rivals
Still does not have range of rivals
Charging tech limits speed of recharges

Key specifications

Make & model	Nissan LEAF	Kia e-Niro	Hyundai Kona Electric
Specification	e+ 3.Zero	First Edition	Premium 64 kWh
Price (on-road)	£35,895*	£32,995*	£32,845*
Powertrain	62 kWh electric motor	64kWh electric motor	64kWh electric motor
Transmission	single-speed automatic	single-speed automatic	single-speed automatic
Power	217 hp	204 hp	204 hp
Torque	340 Nm	395 Nm	395 Nm
0-62mph	6.9 seconds	7.5 seconds	7.6 seconds
Top speed	98 mph	104 mph	104 mph
Range (combined)	239 miles (WLTP)	279 miles	279 miles
CO₂ emissions	0 g/km	0 g/km	0 g/km
Insurance group	TBA	28	26
Euro NCAP rating	5 stars (2018)	5 stars (2016)**	5 stars (2017)**

* all prices include the Government plug-in grant
** non-electric version crash-tested

Chevrolet Corvette changes to middle lane

New model

Andrew Charman

-

19 July 2019

0

Chevrolet Corvette changes to middle lane

The all-new Chevrolet Corvette has been revealed after years of rumours and teasers – and the new model is very different from what has gone before.

While latest versions of the other pillars of the US muscle-car establishment, the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, clearly evoke their predecessors, the new Corvette Stingray is turning from muscle car to supercar format.

It retains a traditional V8 power plant, but this has been moved from beneath the bonnet to behind the driver in a mid-engined layout.

Chevrolet says the new positioning of the 6.2-litre engine improves weight distribution. It also allows the driving position to be moved forward and closer to the axle, which is said to improve responsiveness and a sense of control.

The V8 develops 495hp, put through the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. With the Z51 Performance Package, the car completes the 0-60mph sprint in under three seconds, making it the fastest-accelerating Corvette ever.

The aggressive styling treatment is said to be inspired by modern fighter jets and Formula One race cars, while still incorporating classic Corvette cues.

According to Michael Simcoe, vice president of global design at General Motors, redesigning the Corvette Stingray from the ground up; “presented the team with a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years.

“It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class – we know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer,” he says.

Pricing for the Corvette Stingray has not yet been revealed, but Chevrolet has hinted at a sub-$60,000 (£53,700) price tag in the US. And Chevrolet is following the example of Ford with the Mustang by confirming that the new Corvette will be sold in the UK as a right-hand drive model for the first time.

Skoda updates Kodiaq and Karoq with new tech

Model update

Andrew Charman

-

19 July 2019

0

Skoda updates Kodiaq and Karoq with new tech

Skoda has revealed updates to its Karoq and Kodiaq SUVs for the 2020 model year.

The changes include a minor styling tweak that brings the models in line with the latest exterior visuals applied to more recent Skodas, plus new safety technologies.

We’ve gathered the top UK reviews of the Skoda Karoq and Kodiaq – how do they stack up?

A fresh engine option is also now available on the Karoq, a 2.0-litre turbodiesel already available in the Kodiaq. It has a power output of 190hp and includes a diesel particulate filter so that it meets the latest emissions regulations.

Both models can now be supplied with side assist as optional safety equipment, replacing the blind spot monitoring system. The technology uses radar sensors to monitor the driver’s blind spot and includes an alert that warns if cars are moving behind the driver while reversing.

The optional adaptive chassis system, which includes drive mode selection, is now available on front-wheel-drive models, where it was previously only an option for four-wheel-drive models. It changes the suspension’s settings depending on whether it’s in comfort, normal or sport mode.

Skoda has updated its keys to protect against keyless theft, which is becoming a major issue in the UK. They now deactivate after a period of inactivity, which prevents criminals from gaining entry to a vehicle by boosting the signal of a key that is left in a house overnight.

The exterior styling changes are minor. Both models now include the word ‘Skoda’ written across the boot lid in large lettering, as seen on the new Scala and Kamiq models. Meanwhile, a new 20-inch alloy wheel design is available on the Kodiaq’s Sportline, L&K and vRS trims.

Prices for the updated Skoda Karoq start at £21,945, while the Kodiaq is available from £29,095.

Jaguar XE (2015 to 2024)

Stuart Masson

-

19 July 2019

0

Summary

The Jaguar XE was a medium-sized premium saloon and was the entry-level saloon in the Jaguar range. Unveiled in Autumn 2014, it first hit UK roads in Summer 2015 and was in production until Summer 2024.

Built here in the UK at Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich factory in the Midlands, the XE was given a major overhaul and facelift in early 2019, with improved specification and a lower price. While it was praised for its stylish design and engaging driving experience, it was also criticised for its lack of practicality and underwhelming infotainment system compared to its rivals.

Sean Carson of Auto Express stated that the XE “really feels like a desirable product on every front”, while Stuart Gallagher of Evo said it had “sharper styling than ever inside and out”, and the Top Gear team concluded it was “comfy and quiet yet brilliant to drive. The handling-nerd’s car in this class.”

However, the XE was also criticised for its practicality. Carwow noted that, while the XE did come with a premium interior that was significantly improved after its 2019 facelift, its back seats were “very cramped”.

Parker‘s Keith Adams was critical of the car’s infotainment system, as it could be “quite difficult to press items on the lower screen accurately while on the move, especially as it’s partially blocked by the gear selector.”

Overall, reviewers concluded the Jaguar XE was a refined executive saloon and a good leftfield alternative to its German rivals in the premium compact executive car segment. As Heycar‘s Andrew Brady wrote, “people looking for a sporting, enjoyable to drive alternative to the 3 Series, A4 and C-Class are well served by Jaguar’s stylish XE. It’s a good choice if you dare to be different, and enjoy your driving.”

No longer on sale, the Jaguar XE holds a Used Car Expert Rating of D with a score of 59%. It gets good grades for its media review scores and decent CO₂ emissions, but its running costs and safety score are only average, while reliability has been very poor.

More Jaguar Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

The Car Expert Best of British horizontal banner

Key specifications

Body style: Mid-sized saloon
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £33,210 on-road

Launched: Summer 2015
Last updated: Spring 2019
Discontinued: Summer 2024

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Featured reviews

“The Jaguar XE has undergone a mid-life revamp that ticks boxes on all fronts. Jaguar has clearly listened to complaints and set out to answer its critics.”

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic S

0Read full review

The Car Expert

“The Jaguar XE is a small saloon that delivers a fine balance between performance, efficiency and luxury.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 9 / 10

Read full review

Auto Express

More reviews

Auto Express

Model reviewed: P250
Score: 8 / 10
“The updated XE really feels like a desirable product on every front. If you want to buy a slice of what will soon become a chapter in Jaguar’s history, there are few models out there as good as this.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Reims Edition
Score: 9 / 10
“Still, it doesn’t change the fact that the XE remains one of the best four-door execs in its class, and the cosmetic upgrades added here represent great value for money.”
Read review

Model reviewed: P300 R-Dynamic S AWD
Score: 9 / 10
“You could argue that the revised and much-improved Jaguar XE has become the car it always should have been. Either way, with its excellent new cabin and effectively redesigned exterior, the XE really is now good enough to compete head-on with the very best from its German competitors in this class.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: SV Project 8
Score: 8 / 10
“I hope it’s a success, and that its success encourages SVO to produce more extrovert machines in its likeness.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“Has Jaguar succeeded in improving the appeal of the XE? Yes, it’s sharper-looking and offers better interior quality than before. Dynamically it’s up there with the best, and it’s no longer the rolling disappointment it used to be inside.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8.6 / 10
“The Jaguar XE is an excellent rival to German executive saloons but engine choices are now very limited.” (Andy Goodwin)
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“The Jaguar XE is a sporty saloon car that’s fun to drive and comes with a premium interior but its back seats are very cramped and alternatives come with a much broader choice of engines.”
Read review

Daily Mail

Model reviewed: (range review)
“Clearly, it’s not a sports car but it does impart sportiness – and a subtle Jaguar growl, or should that be a purr– to the brand which features a leaping cat as its symbol.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: D180 HSE R-Dynamic AWD
Score: 8 / 10
“Jaguar’s small saloon finally shines in a congested market. Chassis quality from ride to dynamics is exemplary, and its style is sharper than ever inside and out.”
Read review

Model reviewed: SV Project 8
Score: 9 / 10
“Jaguar’s XE SV Project 8 takes a rather extreme approach to the supersaloon recipe than most, but has an equally extreme price tag to match.”
Read review

Model reviewed: P300 R-Dynamics S AWD
Score: 8 / 10
“Mid-life makeover for Jaguar’s 3 Series rival means sharper style, classier cabin, more tech and a stronger, keener value package.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Jaguar XE chassis is one of the best but it lacks sparkle in other areas.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“Ubiquity in the premium class plays to the Jaguar XE’s favour, as people looking for a sporting, enjoyable to drive alternative to the 3 Series, A4 and C-Class are well served by Jaguar’s stylish XE. It’s a good choice if you dare to be different, and enjoy your driving.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“With attractive styling, a satisfying drive and – from 2019 – a much-improved interior, the Jaguar XE is a strong competitor to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“Great to drive and characterful, usefully improved by minor facelift”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: (range review)
“The facelifted Jaguar XE delivers the Audi, BMW and Mercedes competitor it should have been all along. So would I buy an XE? Probably not. The 3 Series is still top dog in my book. And if I wanted something different, something not German, I’d go Volvo S60 for the interior alone.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: S P300 AWD 2.0-litre petrol automatic
Score: 8 / 10
“Baby Jag grows up thanks to a plusher interior and sportier styling.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic R-Dynamic
Score: 8 / 10
“There was never much wrong with the way the Jaguar XE drove, but this revision has made huge strides in cabin quality, facia appearance and driver interfaces. If you like driving, there’s not much out there to touch this car – and now you don’t have to sacrifice anything like as much as you used to.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“Comfy and quiet yet brilliant to drive. The handling-nerd’s car in this class.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: December 2015
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 92%
Child protection: 82%
Vulnerable road users: 81%
Safety assist: 82%

Notes on safety rating

The Jaguar XE was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2015 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

Although the rating has now expired, the score is still useful if you are comparing a used XE to vehicles of similar age – whose ratings will have probably also expired.

Eco rating

Independent emissions and efficiency ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Jaguar XE was not tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 290
Average repair cost: £1103.15
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Jaguar XE has a very poor reliability rating of just 26%, according to workshop and warranty claim data provided by our partner MotorEasy.

Like other saloons in the Jaguar range, a common repair that XE owners claim for is electrical repairs, which in this case cost over £400 on average. The most common, though, are engine problems. Unfortunately, they’re also by far the most costly, with an average repair fee of more than £2,100.

If you’re looking at a used Jaguar XE, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	193 g/km	D
Diesel models	133 g/km	B

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	29	C

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£278	C
Year 2	£631	C
Year 3	£1,040	C
Year 4	£1,318	C
Year 5	£1,724	C
Overall	£4,991	C

The Jaguar XE is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

While insurance premiums are expected to be around the market average, maintenance and servicing costs should be good over the course of five years of ownership.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Jaguar XE has received

2016

UK Car of the Year Awards – Best Executive Car
Auto Express Awards – Compact Executive Car of the Year
BusinessCar Awards – Business Car of the Year
SME Company Car of the Year Awards – Company Car of the Year + Best Large Company Car

2015

Fleet World Awards – Best New Car
Auto Express Awards – Compact Executive Car of the Year
Scottish Car of the Year Awards – Best Executive Car
Diesel Car Awards – Best Large Car
Telegraph Awards – Car of the Year + Best Business Car
Festival Automobile International – Most Beautiful Car of 2014

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The petrol Mazda 3 with ‘diesel-like’ fuel economy

Model update

Andrew Charman

-

18 July 2019

1

The petrol Mazda 3 with ‘diesel-like’ fuel economy

Mazda 3 models with the brand’s new Skyactiv-X petrol engine will arrive in showrooms in October, at prices starting from £23,555.

The family hatchback is the first Mazda to be fitted with the supercharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. A new saloon model is set to join the Mazda 3 line-up in the autumn and that will also be offered with the Skyactiv-X.

The new engine is claimed to offer the best of both worlds – combining technology used in both petrol and diesel engines to offer petrol-like performance but with diesel economy and emissions.

Skyactiv-X is said to be the world’s first production petrol engine to use compression ignition to provide drivers with the free-revving performance of a petrol engine with the superior response of a diesel.

Producing 180hp with 224Nm of torque, the unit has the highest compression ratio for a production petrol engine in the world, while its lean-burn capabilities produce long fuel economy and low emissions.

Mazda 3 Saloon the Car Expert — Mazda 3 saloon will join ange in the Autumn.

Mazda claims fuel consumption figures of up to 51.4mpg while producing CO₂ emissions of 103g/km. The car will reach 62mph from rest in eight seconds and go on to 134mph.

The powertrain joins a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and a 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel in the car’s list of engine options. It will be offered with six-speed manual or auto transmission options, while top-specification models will be available with all-wheel drive.

Trim levels range from entry-level SE-L to range-topping GT Sport Tech, while standard equipment on all cars includes LED headlights, rear parking sensors, cruise control and an eight-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.

More Mazda news, reviews, features and offers

New Lotus Evija is £1.7m electric hypercar

New model

Andrew Charman

-

18 July 2019

0

New Lotus Evija is £1.7m electric hypercar

Lotus has unveiled a long-awaited all-new model in the form of an electric hypercar.

The Norfolk sports car maker claims that its Evija is “the world’s most powerful series production road car”.

Evija – pronounced Eh-vi-ya – means ‘the first in existence’, highlighting the car’s status as beginning a new chapter in Lotus history.

Performance figures for the Evija will be ‘targeted’ at 2,000hp and 1,200Nm of torque, giving the model a 0-60mph time of less than three seconds and a top speed in excess of 200mph.

Lotus has not yet revealed any technical details of the Evija’s powertrain. However, the brand’s technical partner in the project is Williams Advanced Engineering, sister brand to the famed Formula One racing team and with extensive electric drivetrain experience for the likes of Jaguar and the all-electric Formula E motorsport series.

According to Lotus, the Evija will employ the “lightest, most energy-dense electric power package ever fitted to a road car”. Design parameters include targeted overall weight of just 1,680kg, which would make the car impressively light for an electric vehicle.

Achieving this will involve extensive use of carbon-fibre, including the monocoque chassis and bodywork.

Active aerodynamics will feature on the car with the rear spoiler deploying as required, while large venturi tunnels will channel air from the front and sides of the car through the bodywork at the rear.

Lotus claims that the Evija will have a 250-mile range between charges, and will recharge to 80% capacity using a 350kW charger in 12 minutes. This is the highest-capacity charger currently available but the car will be capable of accepting a charge of up to 800kW, future-proofing it for when faster systems are released.

According to Lotus Cars CEO Phil Popham, the Evija will re-establish the brand in the hearts and minds of sports car fans and on the global automotive stage.

“This is another amazing moment in the history of our company – the Evija is a true Lotus in every sense, it has been developed with an unwavering passion to push boundaries, to explore new ways of thinking and to apply groundbreaking technologies,” Popham said.

Only 130 examples of the Evija will be built and each will cost £1.7m. Lotus is now taking £250,000 deposits for the car.

More Lotus news, reviews and features

Suzuki Vitara

Stuart Masson

-

17 July 2019

0

Summary

The Suzuki Vitara is a small SUV/crossover. The current model is the fourth-generation Vitara, which went on sale in 2015 and was given a substantial facelift in late 2018.

The Vitara has received generally review scores from the UK motoring media, which have declined over time as the Vitara has been on sale since 2015 and has long been overtaken by newer rivals.

It has received particular praise for its practicality, versatility and value for money, but has been criticised for the low quality of its interior fittings compared to rivals.

As of March 2026, the Suzuki Vitara holds a New Car Expert Rating of D with a score of 58%. This score places the car firmly in the lower end of the small SUV category in our Expert Rating Index.

More Suzuki Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Small SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, petrol/electric hybrid
Price: From £23,749 on-road

Launched: Spring 2015
Last updated: Spring 2022
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Featured reviews

“The first hybrid drivetrain in the Suzuki Vitara is not a massive step forward, but it is a useful one on an SUV that is good value for money.”

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric hybrid SZ5

Score: 7 / 10

Read full review

The Car Expert

Andrew Charman

“The Suzuki Vitara is a no-fuss SUV that’s perfect for a growing family. It’s good to drive and offers decent space, but alternatives look more luxurious inside.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 6 / 10

Read full review

Carwow

More reviews

The Car Expert

“The BoosterJet engine adds welcome performance to the Suzuki Vitara, but without sacrificing its impressive efficiency.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“An SUV in the traditional mould, the Suzuki Vitara is showing its age in some key areas.”
Author: Dean Gibson, Max Adams
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: Vitara S
Score: 8 / 10
“What a fine car. When you look at the prices being asked for supposedly more premium products that are actually no roomier or quicker, nor better built, you can feel pretty smug that you’re in a Suzuki Vitara S. Not just because it’s practical and versatile, but because it’s a satisfying, if low key, car to drive.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7.6 / 10
“The Suzuki Vitara is an affordable, practical and reliable small SUV that’s good to drive.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.4-litre petrol (mild hybrid) manual SZ5 Allgrip
“It’s a specific place the market, but if you need a small, low-cost SUV with good four-wheel drive, a decent boot and competitive emissions the Suzuki Vitara is excellent value for money.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: Vitara S
Score: 6 / 10
“The Suzuki Vitara S is one of the more entertaining options for family types forced to put a small crossover on the driveway.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Suzuki Vitara softens up as a mid-size crossover.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“All rounder and family favourite”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“We think the Suzuki Vitara offers a lot of space and equipment for the money. It may not be as stylish as other small SUVs nor as desirable, but we think the smart money would go on the Vitara every time.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol manual AllGrip SZ5
“The Suzuki Vitara remains one of the best value SUVs with genuine four-wheel drive capability.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.4-litre BoosterJet petrol manual S
“The BoosterJet is certainly the engine to choose. It’s the perfect choice for the Suzuki Vitara, combining impressive on-road flexibility and performance with affordable running costs. Factor in the added peace of mind afforded by the all-wheel-drive system and it’s a great family car.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“Cheap crossover is good to drive and great value”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: SZ5
“The Suzuki Vitara might not be the most seductive small SUV, but with AllGrip technology it’s one of the most capable — and affordable.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: Vitara S 1.4-litre petrol manual
Score: 6 / 10
“Flimsy but likeable.” (Jeremy Clarkson)
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol manual SZ-T
Score: 6 / 10
“Suzuki’s sensible SUV is as likeable as ever, but it isn’t quite as good as it needs to be to truly justify its increased price. And while the new 1.0-litre engine is fun if you wind it up, it can be frustrating to use around town – which is where most Vitaras will find themselves.”
Read review

Top Gear

Score: 6 / 10
“The Suzuki Vitara isn’t the coolest crossover on sale, but it might be the best value. More to like here than you might expect.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: April 2015
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 89%
Child protection: 85%
Vulnerable road users: 76%
Safety assist: 75%

Notes on safety rating

The Suzuki Vitara was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2015 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

Although the rating has now expired, the score is still useful if you are comparing a used Vitara to vehicles of similar age – whose ratings will have probably also expired.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

Model tested: 1.0-litre petrol manual 110hp

Overall score: 2 stars
Date tested: November 2020
Read the full Green NCAP review

Clean Air Index: 3.3 / 10
Energy Efficiency Index: 4.9 / 10

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 21
Average repair cost: £451.38
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Suzuki Vitara has a reliability score that’s better than average, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both the current-generation Vitara and the earlier (pre-2015) versions which were called ‘Grand Vitara’.

Faults are reportedly cheap to fix across the board for Vitara owners, but watch out for gearbox issues which, although more rare, can cost around £800.

If you’re looking at a used Suzuki Vitara, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	51 mpg	C
Hybrid models	52 mpg	B

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	124 g/km	B
Hybrid models	123 g/km	B

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	19	A

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£178	B
Year 2	£518	B
Year 3	£861	C
Year 4	£1,113	C
Year 5	£1,548	C
Overall	£4,218	C

The Suzuki Vitara is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

The fuel economy of both petrol and diesel models is very good when compared to other compact crossovers, and the Vitara’s insurance and maintenance costs are predicted to remain manageable over the course of five years of ownership.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Suzuki Vitara has received

2019

Honest John Awards – Best Small Crossover
Cargurus Used Car Awards – Best Small Crossover

2016

Honest John Awards – Car of the Year
Tow Car Awards – Ultralight Tow Car of the Year

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Suzuki Vitara, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More Suzuki Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

More news, reviews and information about the Suzuki Vitara at The Car Expert

Suzuki e Vitara

Everything you need to know about Suzuki

Suzuki Vitara hybrid review

Facelifted Suzuki Vitara goes on sale

Suzuki rolls out new finance offers

Suzuki Vitara 1.4 BoosterJet review

Suzuki Vitara review 2015

Buy a Suzuki Vitara

If you’re looking to buy a new or used Suzuki Vitara, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car.

Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Lease a Suzuki Vitara

If you’re looking to lease a new Suzuki Vitara, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.

Personal contract hire deals from Carparison Leasing. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more

Subscribe to a Suzuki Vitara

If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)

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Mazda CX-5 (2017 to 2026)

Stuart Masson

-

16 July 2019

0

Summary

The Mazda CX-5 was a medium-sized SUV/crossover, with this second-generation model launched in 2017 and on sale until 2026. Globally, it was Mazda’s best-selling model.

The CX-5 received plenty of positive reviews from across the UK automotive media, with particular praise for its clever engineering, strong engines and comfortable cabin. It was considered a strong all-rounder that served as a very competent family car.

A few titles criticised the driving experience for not being as good as some rivals, but other sources praised the way it drove, so this is not a unanimous opinion.

This generation of CX-5 ended production in 2025 ahead of an all-new model arriving in 2026.

As of March 2026, the Mazda CX-5 has a Used Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 59%. It gets good grades for its low running costs and media review scores, but its CO₂ emissions are only average and its reliability record is very poor.

More Mazda Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Medium-sized SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £31,045 on-road

Launched: Summer 2017
Last updated: Winter 2018/19
Replacement due: Summer 2026

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Featured reviews

“The Mazda CX-5 is a competent and popular SUV with no major vices and nothing needing major change – so in this refresh Mazda hasn’t.”

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol manual Newground

Score: 7.4 / 10

Read full review

The Car Expert

Andrew Charman

“The Mazda CX-5 is good to drive, while decent levels of comfort, space and tech help it challenge the leading mid-size SUV pack.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 8 / 10

Auto Express

Shane Wilkinson

More reviews

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual 184hp Sport
“if you’re looking for a spacious, comfortable SUV, the Mazda CX-5 should be one of the first cars on your shopping list.”
Read review

Score: 8.6 / 10
“Improved in all areas, the Mazda CX-5 is a definite contender for crossover buyers, particularly in diesel form.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol manual Sport Edition
Score: 8 / 10
“The facelifted Mazda CX-5 is still a well-rounded SUV. Chassis changes have made it more comfortable to live with on a daily basis, the styling tweaks have added a little more kerb appeal and it seems relatively affordable given the level of kit on offer. Our only complaint is the breathless engine’s lack of torque.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“There’s a lot to like about the Mazda CX-5, from its comfortable and family-friendly cabin to its sharp, enjoyable handling. It’s also safe and exceptionally well equipped, while it’s great to look at, inside and out. It’s well worth your consideration.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual Sport Nav
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mazda CX-5 is not the most obvious crossover – nor is it the cheapest, or the most economical. It’s a good all-rounder, however, with sharp styling, a comfortable cabin, tonnes of standard kit and some fantastic diesel engines. Take those into account and it could be one very savvy SUV buy.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Mazda CX-5 tackles the challenges faced by all manufacturers surrounding economy and emissions not by falling back on hybridisation, but with clever engineering and its gramme strategy. Result? The CX-5 is even better to drive. Keep ‘em coming, Mazda.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mazda CX-5 is stylish, well equipped, great to drive and painless to own.”
Author: Charlie Harvey
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mazda CX-5 doesn’t just look smart – it’s packed with loads of high-tech kit too. It’s a shame it’s not as comfortable or as roomy as some alternatives, however.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual Sport Nav
Score: 7.8 / 10
“There are plenty of positives in the new Mazda CX-5, not least the much-improved and impressive cabin quality. Decent all-rounder worthy of a place in the mainstream.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“As well as being one of the best-looking SUVs thanks to a sharp line and concept-car nose, it’s also one of the best to drive.”
Read review

Green Car Guide

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual SE-L Nav
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mazda CX-5 remains one of our favourite cars in this class.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“While the Mazda CX-5 isn’t an obvious choice like more conventional rivals, it’s a classy offering in a competitive sector. Its engine line-up doesn’t shine, but its interior is practical and upmarket and it’s great to drive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic
“Spec for spec, both Mazda CX-5 trim levels are extremely well equipped for the money. And, at a time when almost everything else is a CVT or a dual-clutch automatic, it’s a real pleasure to enjoy a smooth, vice-free, proper torque converter petrol automatic.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual
“There’s little to find fault with the Mazda CX-5. It’s well-equipped, competitively priced, well-made and great to drive. So much like the old CX-5, only better.”
Read review

Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mazda CX-5 is a midsize family SUV that takes on the Ford Kuga and Volkswagen Tiguan. It’s a worthy contender in a crowded class.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 9 / 10
“Pricing, equipment and strong diesels make great SUV”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel manual Sport Nav
“Despite not being the most thrilling of rides, the CX-5 crossover from Mazda is hard to fault.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol manual Sport Nav
Score: 10 / 10
“Mazda’s new petrol-powered CX-5 is great fun, so why aren’t all cars made like this?”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 2.2-litre diesel automatic Sport
Score: 8 / 10
“In a big SUV, exciting handling must play second fiddle to more practical considerations. But the Mazda CX-5 gets most of those boxes ticked too. Is it comfortable? Yes. Is it safe? Yes. Is it well equipped? Yes. Is it a pleasant place to be? Oh yes.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The CX-5 is another great car from Mazda. Not only is it spacious, well equipped and good value, but it’s great to drive too. If you’re in the market for an SUV and don’t require seven seats, it should definitely be on your shortlist.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The CX-5 is a cracking SUV that really will exceed your expectations. Well worth a look.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: September 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 95%
Child protection: 80%
Vulnerable road users: 78%
Safety assist: 59%

Notes on safety rating

The Mazda CX-5 was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2024 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used CX-5 to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

Model tested: 2.0-litre petrol manual 165hp

Overall score: 2 stars
Date tested: November 2020
Read the full Green NCAP review

Clean Air Index: 3.8 / 10
Energy Efficiency Index: 4.1 / 10
Greenhouse Gas Index: 3.7 / 10

Green NCAP reviewed the 2.0-litre petrol CX-5 back in 2020, saying: “With a 121 kW 2.0 litre Skyactiv engine, the car has a three-way catalyst but no gasoline particulate filter. Under normal test conditions, the car performs well for pollutant abatement, with good control of most emissions.

“However, when the engine is pushed, as it is in Green NCAP’s robustness tests, emissions control deteriorates and values of CO and particulates become very high. However, emissions of some important greenhouse gases are tightly controlled and the vehicle scores relatively well in that part of the assessment. All in all, a balanced performance that earns the CX-5 a two-star overall rating.”

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 129
Average repair cost: £1276.77
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Mazda CX-5 has a poor reliability score of just 17% as of April 2025 (our most recent data point), according to workshop and warranty data provided by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This covers both first- and second-general models.

The average repair bill for the CX-5 is very high, at nearly £1,500. This is due to very high repair costs for engine and gearbox, although other bills are also above average.

The big issue for the CX-5 is the engine, which makes nearly half of all warranty claims. It’s also an expensive problem, with an average repair cost of more than £2,500.

However, it’s not just our data that has flagged reliability issues with the Mazda CX-5. In August 2022, warranty provider Warrantywise ranked the CX-5 ninth in the least reliable used cars (up to ten year old) on sale in the UK.

So if you own or are considering buying a used Mazda CX-5, it’s certainly worth considering a used car warranty that covers all of the potential trouble spots shown in the charts above – especially the engine.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	42 mpg	C
Diesel models	46 mpg	C

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	153 g/km	C
Diesel models	161 g/km	C

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	20	B

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£222	C
Year 2	£568	C
Year 3	£909	C
Year 4	£1,141	C
Year 5	£1,570	C
Overall	£4,410	C

The Mazda CX-5 is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

While petrol models are thirstier than the average car, diesel models offer good fuel economy, and the CX-5’s insurance premiums are on the cheaper side.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Mazda CX-5 has received

2020

Scottish Car of the Year Awards – Best Used Car

2018

Auto Express Driver Power Awards – Interior and Comfort category winner

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Mazda CX-5, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More Mazda ratings, reviews, news and features

Buy a Mazda CX-5

If you’re looking to buy a new or used Mazda CX-5, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

Lease a Mazda CX-5

If you’re looking to lease a new Mazda CX-5, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal

Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more

Subscribe to a Mazda CX-5

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Honda HR-V (2015 to 2021)

Stuart Masson

-

15 July 2019

0

Summary

The second-generation Honda HR-V is a small SUV/crossover that shares its platform with the previous Jazz supermini. This model was launched in 2015 and it came to the end of its production cycle in early 2021, ahead of an all-new hybrid-only HR-V model launching later the same year.

The HR-V received average to good reviews from the UK motoring media across its production life, with our overall Expert Rating generally placing it in the middle of the small SUV/crossover field over the last couple of years. The HR-V Sport model that arrived towards the end of its model life tended to receive poorer reviews than the rest of the range.

The Honda HR-V received particular praise for its spaciousness, practicality and versatility, but was criticised for a lack of refinement and poor value for money compared to rivals.

No longer on sale, the Honda HR-V has a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 62%.

Key specifications

Body style: Small SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £20,040 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2015
Last updated: Spring 2019
Replacement due: Late 2021

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: HR-V Sport 1.5-litre petrol manual
“The Honda HR-V Sport is a seriously fun and genuinely interesting small SUV, although the price is a hefty jump over other HR-V models in the range.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Honda HR-V is a reliable small crossover that offers decent space and excellent levels of safety.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sport
Score: 6 / 10
“It’s quite bizarre to have such a feisty four-cylinder engine in what is a family crossover, and it’s linked to a sweet, mechanical six-speed manual action that really wouldn’t feel out of place in a good hot hatchback.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“Style is a strong motivation for buyers of these cars and remains a personal choice but, objectively, the HR-V is competent, refined, reliable and blessed with a few neat touches of its own, though the infotainment system isn’t the sharpest in the class.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual
Score: 6 / 10
“Artfully packaged but no oil painting, then, this is a solid effort which somehow fails to blow the frock up in any particular department.”
Read review

Car Keys

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“If practicality is a top priority, the Honda HR-V is a great choice thanks to its versatile seats and big boot. It’s also good to drive and looks the part, while most of the range also represents good value for money.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Honda HR-V is a spacious crossover with a stylish exterior and plenty of equipment inside.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“Its looks might not appeal to everyone but the Honda HR-V’s high-quality cabin and practical boot make it an appealing choice for small families looking for something a bit different.”
Read review

Daily Mail

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual EX
Score: 4 / 10
“Comfy seats, bags of room and great visibility, but this car bored the pants off me – and driving it left me cold…” (Chris Evans)
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Honda HR-V is a very good family car. Unfortunately, the high price tag limits its appeal from an economic standpoint, while individuals and families seeking a little more driving fun would be better served by some of the HR-V’s less expensive rivals.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Honda HR-V combines a reputation for reliability with a big boot and stylish crossover looks, making it a superb buy on the used market. It represents decent value for money, too, although you’ll have to hunt out an expensive Sport model for the most desirable features.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“Owners are cynical about the Honda HR-V 1.6-litre diesel’s economy, suggesting it’s capable of up to 60mpg. Some way off the official figure, but still very good for its size.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sport
“A single word describes the new Honda HR-V Sport: Fun.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual EX
” The Honda HR-V 1.6 iDTEC fuel economy, space, practicality, handling and ride comfort make it a viable alternative to rivals, while legendary Honda reliability makes the experience entirely painless.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 9 / 10
“Whichever specification of Honda HR-V you choose, you’ll be impressed by the level of standard equipment packed into the car.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual EX
Score: 8 / 10
“In the new HR-V Honda has created a solid, competent compact crossover that is more versatile than most of the competition. Its conservatism and practicality will probably make the HR-V more of a success this time round.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: Sport
Score: 6 / 10
“The HR-V Sport’s curious mix of comfort and pace means it’s rather idiosyncratic, but its quirky character might appeal to SUV buyers fed up of having to accept a firm ride as the payoff for a potent petrol engine. If you’re after a genuinely exciting small SUV, though, this isn’t it.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Honda HR-V certainly has its appeal, but insist on a longer test drive than normal before committing to purchase to ensure you get on with the firm seats.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7 / 10
“Not as good to drive as we hoped, but the interior design and space make up for it. Solid effort.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2015
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 86%
Child protection: 79%
Vulnerable road users: 72%
Safety assist: 71%

Note on safety rating

The second-generation Honda HR-V was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2015 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used Honda HR-V to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Honda HR-V was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 12
Average repair cost: £348.58
Last updated: October 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

As of April 2025 (our most recent data point), the Honda HR-V has a good reliability score of 79%, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy.

The only caveat to this score is that it comes from relatively few vehicles to data, so the score may fluctuate as more data is added over time.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	42 mpg	C
Diesel models	55 mpg	B
Hybrid models	52 mpg	B

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	153 g/km	C
Diesel models	134 g/km	C
Hybrid models	122 g/km	B

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	22	B

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£224	C
Year 2	£524	B
Year 3	£902	C
Year 4	£1,093	C
Year 5	£1,530	C
Overall	£4,273	C

The Honda HR-V is a reasonably expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Although it gets decent scores for servicing and maintenance, and the hybrid and diesel models look fairly economical, the better-selling petrol models have poor fuel economy for quite a small car.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Honda HR-V received

2017

Honest John Awards – Best Small Crossover

2016

AM Awards – New Car of the Year
Tow Car Awards – Best Tow Car, under 1,400kg

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Honda HR-V, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Buy a used Honda HR-V

If you’re looking to buy a Honda HR-V, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car.

Search less, live more. We make finding the right car simple. Find out more

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Discover great deals available on both new and used cars. Find out more

Citroën C3 Aircross (2017 to 2024)

Stuart Masson

-

14 July 2019

0

Summary

The Citroën C3 Aircross was a small SUV/crossover that shared its platform and many components with its sister models, the Peugeot 2008 and Vauxhall Crossland. It was revealed in early 2017 and went on sale at the end of that year. It was replaced by an all-new model in late 2024.

An updated C3 Aircross arrived in the UK in Summer 2020. It was a facelift of the existing car, rather than an all-new model, so the updates were relatively minor.

The C3 Aircross received average to good reviews from the UK motoring media throughout its production life, although it struggled to match newer rivals in its later years. It received praise from reviewers for its versatility and individual styling that distinguished it from many of its rivals, but was criticised for a lack of refinement and relatively poor standard specification.

As of January 2025, the Citroën C3 Aircross has a Used Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 65%. It scores top marks for its running costs, while the C3 family’s reliability record is also good. However, its Euro NCAP safety rating has expired due to age and its media review scores are relatively poor.

More Citroën Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Small SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £20,770 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2017
Last updated: Spring 2020
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Score: 6.4 / 10
“The C3 Aircross is a notably stylish new entrant to the small SUV market, both outside and in. However, too much is left to the options list rather than being included as standard.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Citroen C3 Aircross offers relaxed cruising ability and promising fuel efficiency from a strong range of petrol and diesel engines. Ride comfort is decent, too, while the distinctive interior has lots of kit and useful family-friendly touches.” (Shane Wilkinson)
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Shine Plus (2021 facelift)
Score: 7 / 10
“Updated version of Citroën’s distinctive compact crossover adds new tech and trim options as well as fresher looks.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“The Citroen C3 Aircross is a comfortable car, soaking up most lumps and bumps with ease. It’s also extremely airy and spacious, with a funkily-styled interior and a big boot. Overall, it’s a very competent and highly likeable family car.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol automatic Rip Curl
Score: 4 / 10
“Citroen has made some great and truly interesting cars in the last few years. This isn’t one of them. If you’re set on a Citroen C3 Aircross, keep it cheap and get a manual model. If you’re more of a floating baby SUV voter and have a bit of financial flex, then a Ford Puma is far better to drive, a Peugeot 2008 has a far better interior, a Vauxhall Mokka is far more stylish, and a VW T-Cross is far more practical.” (Jake Groves)
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Feel
Score: 8 / 10
“This is an appealing, distinctive and well-equipped little SUV. Good value, too. It’s roomy, versatile and rides well – at least for a modern small car. The supple suspension absorbs nasty bumps and pimpled roads, and – surprisingly – it’s more entertaining to drive than the rather anodyne normal C3 hatch.”
Read review

Car Keys

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The tweaks on this latest Citroen C3 Aircross might not be hugely significant, but they build on what this crossover already excelled on. With even more comfort on offer than before, as well as additional technology, it’s quite capable of challenging some of the best in this class.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The Citroen C3 Aircross is a quirky small SUV with cool looks, a cosy interior and plenty to like about the way it drives.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Citroën C3 Aircross is a quirky family SUV with a stylish, spacious and practical interior. It’s a comfortable car, but large blind spots can make it tricky to manoeuvre in town.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Shine Plus (2021 facelift)
“Styling upgrade and spec enhancements to top trim level, in particular, make the Citroën C3 Aircross an even more likeable and practical crossover.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Feel
Score: 7.6 / 10
“Stand-out design, efficiency and very competitive pricing are among the strong points of a new model worth considering in what is now a rather crowded segment.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 6 / 10
“A regular supermini remains a better option if you’re looking for fun, but the Citroën C3 Aircross is a likeable small SUV.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Citroen C3 Aircross is like an East London warehouse conversion – relatively cheap, practical and roomy, but also cool. It doesn’t drive like a tin-roofed storage facility thankfully and the PureTech petrol is peachy if you want a grunty motor that sips fuel.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“There’s a joy about the Citroën C3 Aircross that you don’t get with most of these small SUV things. It’s different. It’s fun. And it is so while being one of the most practical of the lot – possibly the most practical. And for many, that will be a winning and definitive combination.”
Read review

“It’s unremarkable to drive, but the Citroën C3 Aircross is neatly designed, well equipped and competetively priced, while safety equipment across all models is impressive, too.”
Read review

Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Citroen C3 Aircross is let down by mediocre dynamics and questionable interior quality, but we love its sense of fun.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“Quirky compact crossover majors on style, space and technology”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual Flair
“The Citroën C3 Aircross is a ‘soft-roader’ with chunky styling and some genuine all-terrain tech in case you need to head into the rough stuff.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Flair
Score: 6 / 10
“If you want a crappy little urban crossover MPV car, the Citroën C3 Aircross is good value. And while there’s plenty to annoy you 362 days of the year, it’s brilliant on the three days when we have snow. It is far and away the best off-roader I’ve driven.” (Jeremy Clarkson)
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol manual Shine Plus
Score: 8 / 10
“There are two big caveats with this facelifted C3 Aircross review. First is that it applies only to this Shine Plus model; lower down the range, the Aircross becomes a less compelling proposition. Second is that you have to buy online to get the benefit of a longer warranty.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 110 petrol manual Feel
Score: 7 / 10
“The Citroën C3 Aircross represents a refreshingly different take on the compact SUV formula that places comfort ahead of a sporty drive. However, the reality is that for a decent level of specification you’ll pay the same or even slightly more than you do with rivals.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“Citroen’s little crossover has a very useful cabin, and it’s more individual than many of its ilk. Pity it’s not as comfy as billed.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 85%
Child protection: 82%
Vulnerable road users: 64%
Safety assist: 60%

Notes on safety rating

The Citroën C3 Aircross was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2024 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used C3 Aircross to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Citroën C3 Aircross was not assessed by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 127
Average repair cost: £358.44
Last updated: October 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Citroën C3 family (including the Aircross) has a better-than-average reliability rating as of our last data point of October 2024, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This includes both current and previous-generation C3 models.

Fortunately, the average repair price is quite respectable at less than £400. However, engine faults are the most common issue and average about £600 for repairs, while gearbox repairs – although rare – average nearly £1,000.

If you own a Citroën C3 Aircross, or you’re interested in buying a used one, make sure that any used car warranty you purchase covers all of the potential problem areas shown above.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	50 mpg	C
Diesel models	67 mpg	A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	140 g/km	C
Diesel models	130 g/km	B

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	16	A

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£163	A
Year 2	£456	B
Year 3	£722	B
Year 4	£973	B
Year 5	£1,352	B
Overall	£3,666	B

The Citroën C3 Aircross should be a very affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our technical partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

The petrol models will use a bit more fuel than the diesel versions, but they’ll be cheaper to buy and will probably hold their value better over time.

Insurance costs are excellent, as are servicing and maintenance costs over the first five years. You’ll struggle to find a cheaper small SUV/crossover to live with than the Citroën C3 Aircross.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Citroën C3 Aircross has received

2022

Auto Express Awards – Best Used Small MPV

2020

Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Crossover

2019

Auto Express Awards – Small SUV of the Year
Business Motoring Awards – Best Small SUV
Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Crossover

2018

Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Compact Crossover
UK Car of the Year Awards – Best Small Crossover

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Citroën C3 Aircross, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More Citroën ratings, reviews, news and features

More news, reviews and information about the Citroën C3 Aircross at The Car Expert

Electric car grant – all the EVs with discounts in 2026

New Rip Curl trim tops Citroën C3 Aircross range

Citroën launches new C3 Aircross Rip Curl edition

Citroën C3 Aircross gains auto braking as standard

Outstanding results in latest safety tests

Citroën C3 Aircross review

Details of new Citroën C3 Aircross

Bye Picasso, hello Citroën C3 Aircross

Geneva: Citroën plots crossover future

Citroen C-Aircross to take on Nissan’s Juke?

Buy a Citroën C3 Aircross

If you’re looking to buy a new or used Citroën C3 Aircross, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

Renault Mégane RS (2018 to 2022)

Stuart Masson

-

12 July 2019

0

Summary

The Renault Mégane RS (which stands for Renault Sport) was a high-performance model based on the regular Mégane mid-sized family hatchback. This model was launched in 2018 and was the third (and final) generation. Unlike previous versions, it was only available as a five-door model rather than a three-door.

The Mégane RS was available with 280hp in Sport or Cup specifications, and with 300hp in Trophy or Trophy-R specification.

The Renault Mégane RS received good to very good scores from the UK motoring media, although the top-spec models generally received better ratings than the entry-level 280hp model. It was particularly praised for the quality of its driving experience, with outstanding handling and road holding. The only real criticisms were that it wasn’t as fun on a track as previous generations.

This was the last Mégane RS model, with the petrol Mégane family replaced by the all-new 2022 Renault Mégane E-Tech EV. Future performance Renaults are also expected to be branded as Alpine models, much like Abarth does with performance Fiat models or Cupra does with performance SEATs.

As of March 2026, the Renault Mégane RS holds a Used Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 57%. It gets good grades for its media review scores and the Mégane’s historic reliability record, but all its other scores are poor.

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door hatch
Engines: 280hp or 300hp petrol
Price: From £32,995 on-road

Launched: Spring 2018
Last updated: Spring 2019
Ended production: Spring 2022

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express

Model reviewed: 300 Trophy
Score: 7 / 10
“The now auto-only Renault Megane R.S. Trophy is a great hot hatch that, despite the gearbox, still immerses you in the action – but we do miss the manual. The chassis serves up huge grip and plenty of enjoyment on the right road. However, it also feels firm, fidgety and a little flighty on the wrong one.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Trophy-R
Score: 8 / 10
“The new New Renault Megane R.S. Trophy-R isn’t cheap at over £50k, but there’s no other hot hatch quite like it.”
Read review

Model reviewed: RS 280
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s utterly composed at speed and incredibly nimble but it feels like a car that has more to give; it lacks that last degree of aggression and engagement that the Honda Civic Type R delivers.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s an impressive modern hot hatch.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The Renault Megane R.S. is one of the fastest front-wheel-drive hot hatches around, but it requires some serious attention if you want to get the best out of it on a twisty country road.”
Read review

Daily Mail

Model reviewed: 1.8-litre petrol manual RS 300 Trophy
Score: 10 / 10
“On public roads, this hatch is as brisk as any exotic supercar. It crashes over the worst bumps and ridges but it is by no means unpleasant on a long trip. The 300 Trophy is more than practical enough to be a day to day family car – but your loved ones might baulk at the stiff ride.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: RS 300 2021
Score: 9 / 10
“The new Renault Megane RS 300 shines, with a fluidity and poise that makes for a fantastic road-biased hot hatchback.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Trophy-R
Score: 9 / 10
“It might not drive like the other Renault Sport Méganes we’ve known and loved, but this version is still mightily impressive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Trophy
Score: 8 / 10
“The first thing that hits you on the move is that this car is properly firm.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Renault Megane RS is certainly back with a bang, making this one of the best hot hatches on the market. Would we choose it over the Ford Focus RS? Not quite, but it has lots of appeal nonetheless and is a car guaranteed always to put a smile on your face.”
Read review

The Sun

“The Renault Megane RS hot hatch turns track days into real-life PlayStation games.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: Trophy
“When you take this car by the scruff of the neck it’s a riot of colour and sound and terror.” (Jeremy Clarkson)
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: RS 280
Score: 8 / 10
“No one combines handling and ride like the French and Renault’s RS team is back on form with this third-series hot Mégane. Not as communicative as past models, but fast and assured with astonishingly good road holding and cornering.”
Read review

Top Gear

Score: 7 / 10
“Rear-steering Renault Megane RS has a charm, if you like your hot hatches firm, edgy and demanding attention.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“The Renault Megane RS has a newfound maturity. Better for tackling the Golf GTI, worse for tackling your local trackday.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Paddleshift gearbox
Score: 8 / 10
“The 0-62mph time is 5.8secs (identical to the manual), the top speed 155mph (down 3mph) with a 23kg weight penalty for going automatic.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Trophy R
Score: 9 / 10
“It brings the drama of a racecar to something you can drive easily over speed bumps and leave in less salubrious car parks without fretting.”
Read review

Model reviewed: RS Trophy 6-spd manual
“The driving position is good, and there’s space in the back although the rear compartment is dark and the bench is more of a perch.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: December 2015
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 88%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 71%
Safety assist: 71%

Note on safety rating

The Renault Mégane RS shared its safety rating with the regular Mégane hatchback, which was tested by Euro NCAP in December 2015 and awarded a five-star rating with very good scores across the board. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid. This is normal for Euro NCAP ratings, as the standards required to achieve each star rating get tougher every year.

However, if you’re looking at purchasing a used Mégane RS, you should certainly consider it to be a very safe car when compared to other cars from the same era (2016 to 2021).

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Renault Mégane RS was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production cycle.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 203
Average repair cost: £345.63
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Renault Mégane has a reliability rating that’s better than average, according to exclusive warranty data provided to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This score covers both this generation of Mégane and Mégane RS, as well as previous models.

The most common problems for Mégane owners, with a quarter of all warranty claims, are braking system issues. Fortunately, these have been relatively inexpensive, with an average repair cost of less than £200. Likewise, suspension faults are fairly common but relatively inexpensive.

It’s worth noting that gearbox issues have cropped up in Méganes and are relatively common, with an average repair cost of about £600. If you’re looking at a used Mégane, make sure any extended warranty you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	34 mpg	D

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	186 g/km	D

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	37	D

The Renault Mégane RS is a relatively expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Due to its age, we don’t have any five-year servicing cost data, but fuel consumption is poor (and will be worse if you exploit the Mégane’s exceptional performance) and insurance costs are likely to be relatively high for the car’s value.

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Renault Mégane RS, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More Renault Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Buy a Renault Mégane RS

If you’re looking to buy a used Renault Mégane RS, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

Electric cars to be exempt from company car tax

Stuart Masson

-

11 July 2019

0

Electric cars to be exempt from company car tax

Businesses looking to add electric cars to their fleets are set for a boost next year — with zero-emission vehicles set to be exempt from company car tax in 2020.

Following a review of the changes to the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) regulations, the Treasury has abandoned benefit-in-kind charges (BiK) on electric cars next year.

As a result, cars emitting less than 50g/km of CO₂ and capable of at least 130 miles of electric range will be covered by a 0% BiK rate from April 6 next year. This theoretically stretches to hybrids and plug-in hybrids as well, although no models fitting these criteria are currently available in the UK.

Charges will apply from the 2021/22 financial year though, with a 1% BiK rate on these vehicles, which will increase to 2% in 2022/23. A 2% rate had originally been planned to be applied in 2020/21.

A statement from the Treasury said it “recognises the value of the company car market in supporting the transition to zero-emissions technology” and also considers that by encouraging more company car drivers into low-emission cars, it can help generate “a competitive second-hand market in these vehicles”.

More industry news at The Car Expert

New Mini Electric launched at Oxford factory

New model

Stuart Masson

-

10 July 2019

0

New Mini Electric launched at Oxford factory

The Mini Electric, the company’s first fully-electric model, has been unveiled at the car-maker’s Oxford factory.

Mini claimed the car could be a “tipping point” and encourage motorists who have been considering switching to an electric vehicle to “take that step now”.

Manufacturing of the Mini Electric will begin at the plant in Cowley, Oxford, later this year, with deliveries beginning in spring 2020. The zero-emission vehicle will be fully integrated into the production process at Oxford, running down the same lines as conventionally-fuelled Mini models.

Mini Electric at its Oxford factory | The Car Expert

The Mini Electric forms part of parent company BMW’s electric vehicle offensive. By 2023, the company plans to have 25 electrified (regular hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric) models on the market, with more than half of those being fully-electric cars.

Unsurprisingly, the Mini Electric is immediately recognisable as a three-door Mini hatchback, with only a few visual clues to distinguish it from the rest of the range. The biggest giveaway is the enclosed grille instead of the traditional louvred design.

Boot space is claimed to be exactly the same as regular Mini hatch models, at 211 litres with the rear seats up. Inside, the Mini Electric gets a new digital dashboard in place of traditional analogue dials, which can also display charging and battery use information.

Mini claims the electric powerplant will allow off-the-line acceleration comparable to the Cooper S performance model, with a 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds. Top speed, however, is rather lower than the petrol models at 93mph – which is common for electric cars. In real-world use, it means that motorway driving at 70-ish mph is pushing the car’s limits rather than a comfortable cruise.

Range on a full charge is claimed at 124-144 miles, according to the official WLTP lab tests. In the real world, this is likely to mean about 100 miles.

Pricing starts at £24,400 on-road (after the government plug-in grant is included), with Mini targeting customers who want to finance or lease the car for under £300 per month. Like most Mini models, however, this can quite quickly be ramped up by several thousand pounds once you start delving into the options list.

The Mini Electric is on sale now. Production will commence later this year, with first customer deliveries expected early next year.

More Mini news, reviews, features and offers

Range Rover (2013 to 2021)

Stuart Masson

-

10 July 2019

0

Summary

The Range Rover is the flagship SUV model from Land Rover, and is separate to smaller models that share its name (Range Rover Sport, Velar and Evoque). This model here is the fourth-generation Range Rover, which was built from 2012 until 2021.

Although an SUV and very capable off-road, this Range Rover was the first to be genuinely viewed as a luxury car alongside traditional prestige saloons from the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW. And as the luxury SUV market has boomed in recent years, it also faced challenges from more expensive luxury brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce.

The Range Rover received almost universally positive scores from the UK automotive media across its nine-year lifespan. It was particularly praised for its ability to combine off-road ability, practicality and opulence into a single package.

However, like most Land Rover models, it has repeatedly been criticised for numerous reliability and quality faults that buyers should not expect to have to put up with. In fact, as of October 2022 it has the worst reliability score of any car we currently track, with a shockingly bad score. Similarly, in August 2022 it was branded as the least reliable used car on sale in the UK by car warranty provider Warrantywise.

This model ended production in late 2021, replaced by an all-new model that arrived in UK showrooms in Spring 2022.

As of March 2026, the Range Rover holds a Used Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of just 41%. Despite its desirability and good review scores from the media, the Range Rover is let down by its abysmal reliability rating and high running costs. Its safety rating is also long out of date, which is not surprising due to its age.

Key specifications

Body style: Large SUV
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £83,655 on-road

Launched: Winter 2012/13
Last updated: Spring 2018
Production ended: 2021

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: SDV8 4.4-litre V8 diesel automatic Autobiography
“The Range Rover SDV8 is truly superb for crossing vast distances in comfort – when it’s working – while effortlessly dealing with any terrain.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Plug-in hybrid
“Whichever form you buy it in, the Range Rover is a serious rival to the best luxury cars out there – and one that makes you feel like a king every time you drive it.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“Excellent off-road ability, big power and unprecedented luxury make the Range Rover a worthy rival to any luxury saloon.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel (mild hybrid) D350 Autobiography
Score: 8 / 10
“The Range Rover swaps its old V8 diesel for a straight-six with mild hybrid assistance, and feels none the worse for it.”
Read review

Score: 8 / 10
“While it’s not our pick of the range, the Range Rover SDV8 offers a fantastic combination of luxury, performance, economy and space.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Range Rover invented the luxury 4×4 sector, and this latest version promises to be just as opulent as its forebears with a welcome slug of tech thrown in for good measure.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: P400e PHEV
Score: 8 / 10
“The new P400e PHEV powertrain is harder to wholeheartedly recommend in the grand scheme of the whole range. Still, the P400e’s combination of relatively low running costs and potential for near-silent progress in traffic will make it the Range Rover to go for.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Range Rover is an SUV icon, built to be one of the most upmarket and comfortable ways to travel, whatever terrain you need to cross.”
Read review

Model reviewed: P400e PHEV
Score: 8 / 10
“The scope for all-electric travel makes the Range Rover PHEV even more relaxing to drive than conventionally powered models.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Range Rover is luxurious, comfy and impressively capable off-road. It can’t carry as many passengers as some alternatives, though, and there are better infotainment systems.”
Read review

Daily Mail

Model reviewed: P400e plug-in hybrid
“The car is helping the British luxury 4X4 brand shed the ‘gas-guzzler’ slur which environmentalists have thrown at it for years. What’s more, this beautifully appointed Range Rover P400e plug-in hybrid has a decidedly green tinge.”
Read review

Evo

Score: 9 / 10
“Everything to everybody, everywhere – the Range Rover is unsurpassed.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Huge luxury SUVs are everywhere these days, but this is a trick that the Range Rover has been pulling for decades.”
Read review

Honest John

Score: 8 / 10
“No other car, 4×4 or otherwise, can do what the new Range Rover can do. Of course this doesn’t come cheap, with prices starting at more than £70,000. But this is the ultimate four-wheel drive vehicle and feels worth every penny.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 9.2 / 10
“Promises the ultimate luxury on- and off-road, largely delivers”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: P400e plug-in hybrid
Score: 8 / 10
“Loses some practicality and refinement, gains some eco-credentials.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: SDV8 Autobiography
Score: 8 / 10
“The Range Rover is getting on a bit and it’s not without its faults. It’s expensive, it’s thirsty, and it isn’t quite as comfortable as it should be. But for all that, and despite an influx of pricier rivals, nothing quite combines old-money image, off-road ability and unfettered luxury like it.”
Read review

Model reviewed: P400e plug-in hybrid
Score: 8 / 10
“Range Rover needed a plug-in hybrid for lots of reasons, mainly environment and to avoid punitive taxation. This is a good solution with a powerful, if noisy, petrol engine and an in-transmission electric motor. It isn’t a match for a big diesel unit and there’s work still to do, but the P400e is recognisably a Range Rover both to look at and drive.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“One of the best luxury cars money can buy: this really is a bit of an all-round superstar.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel (mild hybrid) automatic D350 MHEV
“The Range Rover remains imperial. The smartly calm design, inside and out, is still a draw and hasn’t aged. But at times there’s a bit of secondary harshness in the suspension and a gentle whistle of the body rushing through the air. Those things remind you that this is its ninth autumn.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2012
Date expired: January 2019
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 91%
Child protection: 84%
Vulnerable road users: 63%
Safety assist: 86%

Notes on safety rating

The Range Rover was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2012 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2019 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

Although the rating has now expired, the score is still useful if you are comparing a used Range Rover to vehicles of similar age – whose ratings will have probably also expired.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Range Rover was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 926
Average repair cost: £1087.55
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

Like most Land Rovers, the Range Rover has earned an abysmal reputation for reliability. As of April 2025 (our most recent data point), it has a shockingly bad reliability rating of 10% – one of the lowest of any car we currently track. This applies to both this generation of Range Rover and earlier generations.

However, it’s not just our data that paints the Range Rover in a bad light. A report from Warrantywise found it to be the UK’s least reliable used car up to ten years old.

If you own or are considering buying a used Range Rover, we’d strongly recommend a used car warranty that covers all of the potential trouble spots shown in the charts above.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the fourth-generation Range Rover received

2021

carwow Awards – Best Luxury SUV (P400 PHEV)
Motor Trader Industry Awards – Best Premium Used Car

2013

Auto Express Awards – Best Luxury Car

More news, reviews and information about the Range Rover at The Car Expert

Everything you need to know about Land Rover

Electric cars – what’s on sale and what’s coming in 2024?

Best large SUVs of 2022

Five-star crash test results for 15 new cars

Range Rover named the UK’s most unreliable used car

Range Rover

All-new Range Rover SV and PHEV available to order

All-new Range Rover unveiled

Range Rover gets mild hybrid update

Range Rover SDV8 test drive

Six SUV pioneers that blazed the trail for today

Range Rover plug-in hybrid test drive

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Range Rover, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More Land Rover ratings, reviews, news and features

Buy a Range Rover

If you’re looking to buy a used Range Rover, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

Search less, live more. We make finding the right car simple. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more

Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more

SEAT Tarraco (2019 to 2024)

Stuart Masson

-

10 July 2019

0

Summary

The SEAT Tarraco was a large seven-seat SUV/crossover, which made its premiere at the 2018 Paris motor show before going on sale in the UK in early 2019. It was discontinued in the summer of 2024.

The Tarraco shared its platform with the similarly-sized Skoda Kodiaq, and received generally average scores from the UK motoring media. It was particularly praised for its practicality, spaciousness and value for money. The main criticism was that the third row of seats was cramped compared to other seven-seat SUV rivals.

As of March 2026, the SEAT Tarraco holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 62%. Most of its scores are average to poor.

More SEAT ratings, reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Large SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £33,415

Launched: Winter 2018/19
Last updated: Spring 2019
Discontinued: Summer 2024

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: Excellence Lux 2.0-litre diesel automatic
“The SEAT Tarraco may be yet another entry into the SUV segment, but it’s one worth considering. It’s laden with standard equipment, spacious and practical too.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco is closely related to the Skoda Kodiaq, but the SEAT edges the Skoda in terms of styling and driver appeal. Pricing is more competitive and there’s now a more comprehensive model line-up, offering logical progression in levels of equipment and power units.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Xcellence 2.0-litre petrol automatic 4WD
Score: 8 / 10
“Practicality is a really important factor here, so it’s reassuring to see that the SEAT Tarraco has 700 litres of boot space with the third row folded down, which puts it among the most accommodating cars in its class for luggage.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Score: 8 / 10
“The Tarraco – like the Skoda Kodiaq with which it shares pretty much everything – is a fabulous family car that offers seven-seat practicality, impressive quality, generous equipment and excellent value-for-money.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic
Score: 8 / 10
“SEAT’s definitely got a fine contender on its hands in the seven-seat SUV segment, but we can’t help but feel shortchanged that it’s not gone straight to the top of the class. It doesn’t feel like an improvement over the Kodiaq or Tiguan Allspace, just an alternative to them.”
Read review

Car Keys

Model reviewed: (2023)
Score: 8 / 10
“While Seat’s Tarraco might have been on sale for a few years, it remains a very credible large SUV. Offering plenty of space, it comes well-equipped, and if you stay mellow with engine and trim choice, good value for money as well.” (Ted Welford)
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic
Score: 8 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco is a car that’s certainly worth considering if you’re in the market for a seven-seat SUV, with the model excelling when it comes to spaciousness and standard equipment levels.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco is attractive and pleasant to drive but only its style sets it apart”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco is a practical, well-equipped seven-seater SUV with a durable cabin. It’s available with a good choice of engines but it’s very similar to the Skoda Kodiaq.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel manual SE Technology
Score: 8.1 / 10
“Ride quality could be better but there’s very little else to criticise with Seat’s third new SUV in just over three years. Good costs, practicality and looks all help it shine.”
Read review

Daily Mirror

Score: 6 / 10
“The new SEAT Tarraco does the job of providing spacious and comfortable family transport. But so does the Skoda Kodiaq and it is cheaper.”
Read review

Green Car Guide

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel manual SE Technology
Score: 8 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco SE Technology 2.0 TDI 150PS manual offers space for seven occupants, good looks, a functional interior, reasonable efficiency, a mostly refined driving experience, and good value. And the manual gearbox eliminates the delay of the DSG transmission.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The SEAT Tarraco is a practical seven-seat SUV wrapped up in a more stylish package than the Skoda Kodiaq. It’s got a premium and versatile cabin, is good to drive and should be cheap to run. While it represents good value for money, high-spec models are surprisingly expensive.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 8.6 / 10
“A strong contender, but not the new class leader”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual
“The seven-seat SEAT Tarraco is a decent family motor with lots of room and handy cubbyholes.”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel manual SE Technology
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s not particularly exciting, but as a big, family-friendly SUV, the SEAT Tarraco is hard to fault – practical, comfortable, versatile, and very pleasant to drive. It’s just a shame the spark you’ll find in smaller SEATs isn’t really in evidence here, making it hard to differentiate from its platform-mates.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7 / 10
“The Tarraco is a roomy, good-looking seven-seater and probably the poshest SEAT ever.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Xcellence Lux 2.0-litre petrol
“The middle seats, slid back, are great for long-journey comfort and stretching space.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: February 2019
Date expired: January 2026
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 97%
Child protection: 84%
Vulnerable road users: 79%
Safety assist: 79%

Notes on safety rating

The SEAT Tarraco was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2019 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2026 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

Although the rating has now expired, the score is still useful if you are comparing a used Tarraco to vehicles of similar age – whose ratings will have probably also expired.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The SEAT Tarraco was not assessed by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

No reliability rating

As of April 2025 (our most recent data point), we don’t have enough reliability data on the SEAT Tarraco to generate a reliability rating.

The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using workshop and extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy, sourced from both official dealerships and independent workshops.

As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the Tarraco, we’ll publish the results here.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	37 mpg	D
Diesel models	48 mpg	C

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	175 g/km	D
Diesel models	156 g/km	C

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	24	B

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£203	B
Year 2	£523	B
Year 3	£917	C
Year 4	£1,167	C
Year 5	£1,578	C
Overall	£4,388	C

The SEAT Tarraco is a relatively expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

The biggest ownership bills are usually fuel, and the Tarraco doesn’t do too well here (which is not that surprising, given that it’s a large seven-seat SUV). However, servicing and insurance bills are likely to be much more reasonable.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the SEAT Tarraco has received

2022

Fleet World Awards – Best Fleet Large SUV

2021

Auto Express Awards – Best Large SUV
Fleet World Awards – Best Fleet Large SUV

2020

Parkers New Car Awards – Best Large Family Car
Auto Express Awards – Best Large SUV
Fleet World Awards – Best Fleet Large SUV

2019

Auto Express Awards – Best Large SUV

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the SEAT Tarraco, you might also be interested in these alternatives

More SEAT ratings, reviews, news and features

More news, reviews and information about the SEAT Tarraco at The Car Expert

Everything you need to know about SEAT

SEAT Tarraco test drive

Five-star safety ratings for Mercedes, Honda and SEAT

Pricing and specs confirmed for Seat Tarraco SUV

SEAT Tarraco third and biggest SUV

Buy a SEAT Tarraco

If you’re looking to buy a new or used SEAT Tarraco, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car.

Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more

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Lease a SEAT Tarraco

If you’re looking to lease a new SEAT Tarraco, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.

Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more

Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more

Subscribe to a SEAT Tarraco

If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)

Car subscriptions from Cocoon.
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SEAT Tarraco test drive

Jack Evans

-

9 July 2019

0

SEAT has had a successful time of it recently. It was the fastest-growing car manufacturer in the UK last year, and has seen sales increase steadily too. This has been bolstered by the introduction of two SUV models — the Ateca and the smaller Arona — which have both gone down a treat with consumers.

Now, the Spanish firm is hoping to extend its appeal with this – the SEAT Tarraco.

Sitting above the Ateca and Arona in terms of size, it’s aiming to capture the attention of those who want the sporty looks of a SEAT, but with a touch more practicality – and seven seats, to boot.

What’s new about the SEAT Tarraco?

As mentioned, the Tarraco comes into the SEAT line-up as the largest SUV the firm offers. It’s underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A long wheelbase platform – the same as the one you’ll find underneath the Kodiaq from sister company Skoda. It means that though the smaller Ateca is restricted to just five seats, the Tarraco can deliver three genuine seating rows, matching the number in the manufacturer’s other seven-seater, the Alhambra people carrier.

But whereas the Alhambra is about out-and-out spaciousness, the Tarraco has been designed to not only be practical, but good to drive too. It’s why you’ll find sporty driving modes fitted, along with all-wheel-drive in certain models.

How does it look?

SEAT has applied some new features to the Tarraco to help differentiate it from the rest of the range, while still maintaining some degree of lineage from the rest of its line-up. It’s why the headlamps have a similarly sleek design to the Ateca, but set further back up the bonnet. And while the sharp crease line running along its flank may appear similar to that seen on the Arona, it’s longer and bolder, giving the seven-seater a more dynamic appeal.

Overall, it’s a well-executed design. The full-width brake light at the rear is certainly eye-catching, and the variety of chrome elements dotted along the car’s exterior make for a premium-looking vehicle.

What’s the spec like?

SEAT has simplified its trim levels and essentially eliminated any optional extras. In fact, you’re only able to add a space-saver spare wheel, a tow bar or panoramic sunroof – and that’s it. Otherwise, you have to pick from one of four trim lines; SE, SE Technology, Xcellence and Xcellence Lux.

Our test car was finished in the final and most luxurious trim level, which brings with it a multitude of features – though it’s worth noting that even base-spec cars get an eight-inch central touchscreen and ten-inch digital cockpit fitted as standard.

Xcellence Lux cars get 20-inch alloy wheels, front sports seats and a top view camera, as well as heated front and outer rear seats. In truth, the standard specification is so comprehensive that we’d struggle to see many drivers wanting for more features.

In terms of safety, the SEAT Tarraco scores highly, with a five-star rating from independent experts Euro NCAP awarded earlier this year.

What’s the SEAT Tarraco like inside?

Because of its Volkswagen Group connections, the interior of the Tarraco is likely to feel familiar to anyone who has been in a current-generation Tiguan, Karoq or Golf. That’s no bad thing whatsoever; it’s very well put together, with decent materials used throughout. Chrome accents at the front of the cabin help brighten it up, while the widescreen infotainment screen gives it a high-tech feel.

But though tech is all well and good, how does the Tarraco do in an area where’s it important in this segment – spaciousness? For the most part, very well. The first and second rows are roomy, with big windows helping to give an airiness to the cabin. And while the third row of seats may not be a favourite place to be for adults, they’ll be more than enough room back there for children.

In terms of boot space, there are 230 litres to play with when that third row is in place, rising to 700 litres with it folded down. With both third and second rows flat, there’s a huge 1,775-litre space on offer.

What’s under the bonnet?

Our test car came fitted with the most powerful diesel on offer – a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit with 190hp and 400Nm of torque. Here, it sends power to all four wheels via a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Seat says the Tarraco, when powered by this engine, is good for a 130mph top speed and will do the 0-60mph sprint in a very respectable 7.8 seconds.

Economy-wise, it’s par for the course in this segment. The 2.0-litre engine puts out 147g/km of CO2 and will return between 37.2 and 38.2mpg on the combined cycle.

There’s just one other diesel option, and that uses the same 2.0-litre lump, albeit with 150hp. Then there’s a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol (SEAT expects this to be one of the most popular), and a more powerful 2.0-litre petrol too.

What’s the SEAT Tarraco like to drive?

SEAT has always pitched itself towards the more driver-orientated end of the market, and while that may make sense with hot hatchbacks, it doesn’t key in quite as well with the seven-seater, family-angled end of the segment.

Fortunately, it has dialled back things with the Tarraco; the steering is relatively light around town (which makes it easy to pilot at slow speeds), while the DSG gearbox in our test car shifted smoothly when up and running – though power delivery can be a touch sluggish when going from a dead stop.

Our only issue came with the ride; the 20-inch alloys fitted to our test car may look excellent, but add a level of harshness that you don’t expect from a car of this type. We tested another vehicle on smaller 18-inch units and this helped ease the problem, though it still wasn’t eradicated completely.

Verdict

The Tarraco may be yet another entry into the SUV segment, but it’s one well worth considering. It’s laden with standard equipment, is spacious and practical too. The ride may be harsh, but stick to smaller-wheeled versions and it’s unlikely to be troublesome to most.

The diesel engine fitted to our test car fitted the character of the vehicle, and will suit long-distance drivers. However, the variety of other powertrains means there’s undoubtedly going to be one for all buyers.

As of July 2019, the SEAT Tarraco has an Expert Rating of 77% on The Car Expert’s analysis of the leading UK automotive media reviews. This is slightly better than its sister model, the Skoda Kodiaq. We’ll keep updating this score as more reviews are published over the coming months.

Similar cars

Key specifications

Model as tested: SEAT Tarraco Xcellence Lux
Price as tested (on road): £40,090
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel
Gearbox: Seven-speed automatic
Power: 190 hp
Torque: 400 Nm
Top speed: 130 mph
0-60mph: 7.8 seconds
Fuel economy (combined): 37.2-38.2 mpg
CO₂ emissions: 147 g/km

Britain’s best-selling cars – June 2019

Car industry news

Stuart Masson

-

8 July 2019

0

New car registration numbers published last week show that the market was down 5% in June 2019 compared to the same month last year.

It was a hot month for hatches, with nine of the top ten models being entirely or predominantly of a hatchback body style. Only one SUV/crossover model, the Nissan Qashqai, featured in the running, while no saloon models featured at all this month.

June was a good month for Dacia, Lotus, MG, Toyota and Volvo, who all saw growth of at least 10% compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile, things were not so rosy for Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Bentley, BMW, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Honda, Infiniti, Maserati, McLaren, Skoda, Smart, SsangYong, Suzuki, Vauxhall and Volkswagen, who all saw double-digit declines compared to the same month last year.

Check out our report on the registration numbers: New car sales down 5% in June.

Despite the overall theme being another month of falling sales, there are still plenty of popular cars flying out of new car showrooms. Here are the ten best-selling cars for June 2019.

Ten best-selling cars – June 2019

1. Ford Fiesta

Ford Fiesta news, reviews, safety and eco ratings | Britain's best-selling cars | The Car Expert

Seasons change, governments rise and fall, another World Cup has come and gone, and still the Ford Fiesta reigns supreme at the top of the UK new car sales charts.

The Fiesta currently holds an Expert Rating of 85% in The Car Expert’s all-new New Car Ratings database, which compares reviews from across the UK motoring media. This is higher than any other car in the supermini class and also the highest rating in the top ten best-sellers list, so it seems that motoring journalists and the buying public are in agreement on the Fiesta’s qualities.

2. Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa 2017 - ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

The Vauxhall Corsa is in full run-out mode, and it appears that plenty of people are snapping up a deal as production of the current model comes to a halt later this year. Second place this month means that the Corsa solidifies its fourth-place position overall as we hit the halfway mark for 2019.

The Vauxhall Corsa holds an Expert Rating of 63%, which is one of the lowest scores among the Top Ten cars in The Car Expert’s New Car Rating database. The current model is due for replacement late this year or early next year, and Vauxhall dealers will be eager for the new Corsa to take the fight to the ever-dominant Ford Fiesta.

3. Mini hatch

Mini three-door hatch (2018) ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

The Mini hatch range bounced back from outside the top ten to claim third spot this month, which comes as a bit of a surprise. The Mini has been yo-yoing its way up and down the sales charts this year, and June’s good result has helped push it up one place to eighth in the year-to-date results after the first six months of 2019.

The Mini hatch holds a very solid score of 81% in our New Car Ratings aggregator, which is better than most cars in its class despite being older than many of its rivals.

4. Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf 2017 - ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

The current generation of Golf may be reaching the end of its life, having been launched back in 2012, but it remains popular among UK buyers. The Golf is the country’s third most popular new car at the halfway point of 2019, right behind its arch-rival, the Ford Focus.

The Volkswagen Golf holds an Expert rating of 84% in The Car Expert’s New Car Ratings database, so it’s popular with journos as well as buyers.

5. Ford Focus

Ford Focus 2018 - ratings and reviews | Uk's best-selling cars | The Car Expert

The Ford Focus slipped back from second to fifth place this month, narrowly pipped for fourth by the Volkswagen Golf (by just over 20 cars). It still holds second place in the overall year-to-date standings, basically maintaining its margin over the Golf in third.

The Focus currently holds an Expert Rating of 82% in our New Car Ratings database, and was also listed by safety gurus Thatcham Research as one of the ten safest cars for 2019.

6. Nissan Qashqai

2019 Nissan Qashqai wallpaper | The Car Expert

The Qashqai wasn’t the most popular British-built new car in Britain for a change in June, with that honour going to the Mini hatch. However, it was the only SUV/crossover model to feature in this month’s top ten, as small to mid-size hatchbacks dominated the sales tables.

A decade ago, the original Qashqai almost had the compact SUV/crossover market all to itself. Today, it’s the fastest-growing segment in the new car market. Despite this, the current Qashqai continues to see of every new challenger – despite being one of the oldest models in the sector, having being launched in 2014.

The Nissan Qashqai currently holds an Expert Rating of 74% in our New Car Ratings database, which is midfield for the compact crossover segment and in the bottom half of scores for a Top Ten-selling car.

7. Toyota Yaris

Toyota Yaris Y20 review 2019 | The Car Expert

Another re-entry this month was the Toyota Yaris supermini, which was also the only hybrid vehicle in the top ten. Seventh place meant it outsold the Volkswagen Polo and also crept back up to tenth place in the overall year-to-date figures as we reached the halfway mark for the year.

The Toyota Yaris currently has an Expert Rating of 68% in our New Car Ratings database, which is below average for both the top ten club and compared to the best performers in its class. However, it remains the only hybrid supermini currently on sale.

8. Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo (2018) - ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

The Volkswagen Polo was up one spot to eighth in May, although it’s still fairly comfortable in seventh position in year-to-date registrations as 2019 reaches half-time.

The Polo holds an Expert Rating of 79% in The Car Expert’s New Car Ratings calculator, which is good but a fair way behind the class-leading Ford Fiesta.

9. BMW 1 Series

BMW 1 Series (2015-2019) ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

Another model in run-out mode is the BMW 1 Series, with the existing model due to make way shortly for its all-new replacement from about September. The current model is now out of production, so BMW dealers will be clearing out their stocks of whatever’s left. This will probably mean that sales start to fall off rapidly as they run out of vehicles, so this could be the last time we see the current-generation 1 Series in the top ten.

The current BMW 1 Series still holds a reasonably strong Expert Rating of 77% in our New Car Ratings aggregator, which is not too shabby for a model that was launched back in 2011.

10. Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2018 - ratings and reviews | The Car Expert

Still in the top ten, but falling back to the bottom of the table in June, is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It’s a sign of how popular the car is that tenth place in the sales charts will be considered a disappointment for Mercedes management.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has an Expert rating of 78% in The Car Expert’s New Car Rating system. The overall score is dragged down somewhat by lower ratings from a couple of performance car titles (Evo and Top Gear), otherwise it would be a solid 80% or more.

Hyundai i30

Stuart Masson

-

8 July 2019

0

Summary

The Hyundai i30 is a mid-sized family car range that consists of hatchback, liftback (i30 Fastback) and estate (i30 Tourer) body styles. The current model is the third generation i30, launched in late 2016 before going on sale in the UK in early 2017.

There is a high-performance version of the i30, called the i30 N. We have a separate page for this model here.

The Hyundai i30 has received average to good reviews from the UK motoring media, and ranks right in the middle of the midfield for this sector. It has been praised for its practicality and low running costs, although has been criticised for a lack of driver appeal compared to some of its rivals.

The i30 was updated in late 2020, with the most obvious difference being sharper front-end styling. There were also some equipment updates, while the engines are now all mild-hybrid units for extra electrical boost. This was an update to the existing vehicle, rather than an all-new model.

As of March 2026, the Hyundai i30 has a New Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 63%. It scores highly for running costs, low CO₂ emissions and excellent reliability, while its score is dragged down by poor media reviews. However, its low ownership costs and strong reliability help it to achieve an A grade in our used car calculations.

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door hatch, liftback and estate
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price: From £21,260

Launched: Winter 2016/17
Last updated: Autumn 2020
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Featured reviews

“The Hyundai i30 is a well-built and refined family car, but it fails to excite in a class with plenty of dynamic and stylish rivals.”

Model reviewed: Hatchback range

Score: 6 / 10

Read full review

Auto Express

“The Hyundai i30 is a spacious, comfortable family car with a big boot but it’s slightly let down by some cheap-feeling interior trims – especially in entry-level models.”

Model reviewed: Hatchback range

Score: 6 / 10

Read full review

Carwow

More reviews

Auto Express

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol automatic Fastback N Line
Score: 6 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 N Line Fastback certainly adds a little more excitement to the compact family car class, but behind the looks is a car that falls short in key areas. The sluggish dual-clutch gearbox and overly firm ride compromise the overall package and its ability as a family car.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Fastback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The i30 Fastback adds some coupe style to the Hyundai compact hatchback formula.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 6 / 10
“Spacious, economical, safe, and well-equipped, but an unrewarding drive lets the Hyundai i30 Tourer down.”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Fastback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 Fastback is comfortable, smooth and good value for money.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Tourer (estate) range
Score: 7.2 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 Tourer is not short of appeal. However, the i30 is nowhere close to being the last word in quality or driving pleasure, and as a result, some rivals are better all-rounders.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 is an appealing car, especially if you value comfort. It’s also well-equipped, spacious, attractively priced and comes with the reassurance of a five-year/unlimited mileage, no-quibble warranty. However, some of the i30’s rivals are higher quality and more fun to drive.”
Read review

Business Car

Model reviewed: SE Connect 2021
Score: 6 / 10
“The 120hp i30 is handsome enough but feels more sluggish than expected.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol (mild hybrid) manual facelift hatchback
Score: 6 / 10
“Don’t for one moment think the Hyundai i30 has actually changed its place in the market. This update has made it slightly more appealing, but it’s ultimately a solid, dependable, fairly boring family hatchback with a solid five-year warranty.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (estate range)
Score: 6 / 10
“Estate cars can be very good, or at least interesting. But the Hyundai i30 isn’t class leading in any area, nor is it particularly remarkable.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (fastback range)
Score: 6 / 10
“The Fastback is a niche proposition, but one that’ll appeal to a particular type of buyer. It’s certainly the elegant option in the Hyundai i30 line-up, if that’s what you’re looking for, and thanks to that design it’s a far more interesting proposition than most cars of this size and price point.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.4-litre petrol manual hatchback Premium
Score: 6 / 10
“The main issue in our eyes is that it’s simply not very interesting, with derivative styling and a capable but not captivating drive. It’s solid and staid, and ideal for those looking for a straightforward car that’s effortless to live with.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: (hatchback range)
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 is comfortable enough for long motorway drives and loaded with safety kit, making it easy to overlook its weaker points.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (fastback range)
Score: 7.4 / 10
“The talented Hyundai i30 gets the five-door coupe treatment.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (estate range)
Score: 8.4 / 10
“If practicality and safety are priorities, make a beeline for the Hyundai i30 Tourer.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: i30 Tourer estate range
Score: 6 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 Tourer is spacious, comfortable and looks classy, but it’s not in any way exciting.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Fastback range
Score: 6 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 Fastback takes a regular i30 hatchback and adds a lower roof and a sleeker front end for some extra style points. Sadly, this coupe-like shape limits rear-seat headroom.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.0 petrol manual SE Connect
“Sleeker new front-end design is an enhancement, and increased efficiency and spec are welcome additions to an understated and underrated core lower-medium model.”
Read review

Evo

Score: 4 / 10
“An all-new interior and diesel engine with mild hybrid technology mark out the facelifted XF in the executive class.”
Read review

Fleetworld

“Despite clever kit the efficiency gains are relatively small, but the improved i30 remains a spacious, comfortable, tidy-driving and well-equipped hatch.”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Fastback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 Fastback is £500 more than the equivalent hatchback when it was new. It doesn’t really have any direct rivals and, if you buy into the styling, we think that’s a small price to pay for a distinctive hatch in the crowded small car segment.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Hyundai i30 is the automotive equivalent to a white good. If you buy your car like you buy a washing machine – looking for something that ticks all the boxes, represents good value for money and has a decent warranty, the i30 could be the family hatchback for you.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: (fastback range)
“If you buy into the styling, we think it’s a small price to pay for a distinctive hatch in the crowded small car segment. That said, we can’t help think the standard, cheaper, more refined and better-riding Hyundai 30 hatch will remain a better proposition for most.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (hatchback range)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Vauxhall Astra, Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf are all excellent family cars and while the Hyundai i30 is better than ever, it still only as good as those key rivals – not better. But for a pragmatic car buyer it’s great, especially when you remember that it comes with a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.”
Read review

Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“The i30 is Hyundai’s mid-size hatchback. It majors on ease-of-driving, comfort and value for money, backed up by a long warranty.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Fastback range
Score: 7.8 / 10
“Eye-catching Fastback is good to drive and appealingly different”
Read review

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8.4 / 10
“Grown-up family hatch is packed with equipment”
Read review

Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 8.4 / 10
“A safe, solid alternative to the class leaders”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: (fastback range)
Score: 6 / 10
“As with any i30, this new Fastback is a great option if your priorities are value, comfort, equipment and a hassle-free ownership experience. It’s just a shame Hyundai couldn’t have injected a bit more interest into the driving experience.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (estate range)
Score: 6 / 10
“That it is practical and represents good value is to be commended, but the Hyundai i30 Tourer is sadly also about as exciting as the white goods its boot has been designed to carry.”
Read review

Model reviewed: (hatchback range)
Score: 7 / 10
“While not an exciting car to drive, the Hyundai i30 is strong enough in other areas to be worth considering. In particular, it is quiet and comfortable on a long journey, packed with equipment and has an excellent warranty. If you can secure a good discount it’s well worth a look.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: (range review)
Score: 7 / 10
“Want a hatchback that’s simple to drive, cheap to run and with the peace of mind of a nice chunky warranty? The Hyundai i30 should fall right into your crosshairs. It’s a sensible and rational rival to the class establishment, but then it’s priced right against them, too.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: July 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 88%
Child protection: 84%
Vulnerable road users: 64%
Safety assist: 68%

Notes on safety rating

The Hyundai i30 was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2024 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used i30 to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of March 2026, the Hyundai i30 has not been lab tested by Green NCAP.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 68
Average repair cost: £248.97
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Hyundai i30 has a very good reliability rating, according to workshop and warranty data provided by our partner MotorEasy. This data includes repair costs for this current model and older (pre-2017) models.

Repair costs for the i30 are pretty low across the board in the even of a fault. Supension issues are most common, but only cost around £120 to fix.

If you own a Hyundai i30 or you’re interested in buying a used i30, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of the potential problem areas listed above.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	48 mpg	C
Diesel models	60 mpg	B

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	136 g/km	C
Diesel models	127 g/km	B

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	13	A

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£175	B
Year 2	£458	B
Year 3	£738	B
Year 4	£940	B
Year 5	£1,220	A
Overall	£3,531	A

The Hyundai i30 is a very affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

In pretty much every category, the i30 scores an A. Even the petrol models should be very economical in day-to-day driving, although the diesels are more efficient for long motorway journeys.

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Lexus LC Convertible heading for showrooms

New model

Andrew Charman

-

8 July 2019

0

Lexus LC Convertible heading for showrooms

The Lexus LC Convertible, so far seen only as a concept, is to become a production model.

The Japanese brand unveiled a convertible concept version of its well-received LC Coupe at the Detroit motor show in January, immediately sparking predictions that the car would reach showrooms.

Now having demonstrated the concept model at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Lexus has confirmed that production will begin ‘in the near future’.

Despite the camouflaged livery worn by the car at Goodwood, it is clear that the convertible’s styling will be almost identical to the coupe in all areas except the roof and rear deck.

Koji Sato, Lexus International executive vice president, described the Goodwood Festival of Speed as the perfect venue for the car as the event “celebrates the history and culture of the automobile and serves as a gathering place for some of history’s most notable cars and drivers.

“Lexus is honoured to join this festival, and I could not be happier to unveil this prototype model of the LC convertible at the same venue where the LC coupe made its debut in 2016,” he added.

No further details were offered concerning the forthcoming production model, but it is almost certain to replicate the engine range of the Coupe – a 5.0-litre petrol V8 and a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid.

More Lexus news, reviews, features and offers

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