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Caterham Seven 420 Cup available to order

Sean Rees
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Caterham Seven 420 Cup available to order

Described by Caterham as “the best track day car it’s ever built”, the Seven 420 Cup is now available to order in the UK, which is a variant of the standard Seven 420 track car with a few modifications to improve performance.

The new Caterham Seven 420 Cup uses the same naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine as the regular Seven 420, which produces a power output of 213hp and a 0-60mph sprint time of 3.6 seconds.

However, the new Cup variant adds a few features to improve track performance inspired by the more powerful Caterham Seven Championship UK racecar, including a six-speed manual gearbox that allows you to shift gears using paddles attached to the steering wheel column, adjustable dampers that allow the drive to select one of ten suspension settings, and optional slick Avon tyres for more traction in the corners.

At a glance, this new Cup edition looks nearly identical to the standard Seven 420 track car. However, the Seven 420 Cup comes with new LED lights in the rear, a carbon trim on the dashboard and alcantara leather accents on the headrests and centre console.

Optional extras include a roll cage package, which adds a metal boot cover and racing wing mirrors. Lighter carbon-fibre race seats are also an optional extra.

While the Seven 420 Cup is available to order now online with prices starting from £54,990, Caterham says that production will begin in 2023. While many cheaper Caterham models are available to purchase as kit cars that the buyer can build at home, the Seven 420 Cup is only available as a factory-built model.

Maserati unveils open-top MC20

Sean Rees
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Maserati unveils open-top MC20

Maserati has released the first details regarding the anticipated drop-top ‘spyder’ version of its mid-engined V6 MC20 supercar, called the MC20 Cielo.

With ‘Cielo’ translating to ‘sky’ in Italian, the MC20 Cielo features a clever smart glass panel as part of its folding roof, which can transform from clear to opaque at the touch of a button on the central screen.

If you would rather the roof down instead of transparent, Maserati says that the Cielo’s roof can open or close in 12 seconds, which is faster than the Ferrari 296 Spider but not quite as quick as the roof mechanism on the McLaren 720S Spider.

Like its coupé sibling, the Cielo is manufactured in Maserati’s hometown of Modena, Italy, and uses the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine to produce 621hp. The coupé’s butterfly doors that open upwards also feature on the Cielo, which is available with a new light turquoise exterior colour scheme, called ‘acquamarina’, keeping with the sky-inspired theme.

The MC20 Cielo’s roof mechanism with peculiar smart glass technology means that it is 65kg heavier than the MC20 coupé, but it should still be able to reach 62mph from rest in around three seconds.

The introduction of the Cielo convertible also brings a number of safety feature additions to the MC20 range, including autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, and a new 360-degree camera which improves on the rear-view only camera installed on previous MC20 models.

More information, including pricing and specifications, will be released closer to the convertible’s UK arrival.

Pricing for the MC20 coupé starts at £187,230, and while rivals are said to have a little more interior flair, the MC20 has received a very warm welcome from the UK media since it went on sale this year, heavily praised for its exterior styling, performance and driving dynamics. It currently holds an Expert Rating of 85%.

Telltale signs you have a slow puncture

Sean Rees
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0
Telltale signs you have a slow puncture

A straightforward tyre puncture is easy to detect, but a slow puncture – not so much. Usually caused by small nails or other sharp debris piercing a small hole in the tyre tread, slow punctures are pretty common, and you could be driving around for days or even weeks without knowing you have one.

Luckily, there are a few telltale signs to look out for and, if you do have one, a slow puncture does not always mean that the tyre needs to be replaced.

What is a slow puncture exactly, and why do I need to repair it right away?

A slow puncture is essentially a tiny hole that slowly deflates the tyre over time. They are usually caused by driving over small sharp objects that have ended up on the road, driveway or country path. You can also get a slow puncture by not slowing down for a particularly rough or deep pothole, or from a damaged or rusted wheel rim, but those are less common.

Because a car tyre is very strong in its construction and is filled with air under much higher pressure than the air outside the tyre, a very small hole in the tyre wall may initially remain closed much of the time. But as the load on the tyre temporarily shifts (maybe under braking, acceleration or steering), it opens up to allow a small amount of air out. Each time this happens, more and more air gradually escapes.

Ignoring a slow puncture can lead to a larger tear or even a sudden tyre blowout. Slow punctures reduce the air pressure of your tyre over time, and under-inflated tyres make your car more prone to breakdowns and road accidents. In addition, a low pressure tyre with a slow puncture also increases your braking distance, and can affect your car’s steering too.

What signs should I look out for?

One of your tyres always needs more air than the others

This is the most obvious way to spot a slow puncture. If you regularly inspect your tyres at the petrol station or at home, you may find that one of your car’s tyres has a lower pressure gauge reading than the others. If this happens, it is worth checking the tyre for any small stowaways embedded in the tread.

Your car is pulling or drifting to one side

While driving at a safe speed on a straight flat road, briefly relax your grip on the steering wheel and see if your car pulls slightly to the left or right with no prompt. If it does, this suggests that there is a problem with your tyres. This could be a slow puncture, though it could be a hint that your wheels aren’t aligned properly too.

Your steering wheel is vibrating

A low-pressure tyre with a slow puncture is rather unstable and prone to overheating under stress. You might be able to feel this instability through the steering wheel when driving at high speeds on the motorway.

Your car is not as responsive as it was

If your car’s steering feels more sluggish than usual, or the suspension is noticeably more rigid, it is wise to check your tyre pressures to see if they are all equal.

When should I check my tyres?

You may be surprised to read that tyre manufacturers recommend checking your tyres on a monthly basis anyway, even if you don’t necessarily harbour a suspicion that anything is wrong.

Even without a puncture, your tyres will gradually lose air over time, so it is a good idea to check your tyre pressure every once in a while – preferably when your tyres are cold so that you don’t get any false pressure readings.

If you do spot any of the telltale signs above, then you really should inspect your tyres before you set off again. Start with a visual inspection, looking for any embedded objects and comparing the tyre to the other three to see if it looks more deflated than usual. Then check your tyre pressure with your own pressure gauge, or you can drive to the nearest petrol station and use the air pump machine.

I have a slow puncture. What now?

Now, we need to find an experienced technician. Visiting your nearest garage or repair centre will put you on the right track.

If the puncture was caused by a small nail or screw, you often won’t need to replace the tyre. Instead, a technician can repair the hole left by the debris by fitting a rubber plug in its place – job done.

However, if the slow puncture has been neglected and damage has spread to the tyre’s sidewall, or if the puncture was caused by a damaged wheel rim, you are likely to need a replacement tyre, and additional new parts if more than the tyre is damaged.

Also, a slow puncture repair is not as straightforward on a high performance tyre. These tyres are designed to withstand higher levels of stress and strain than an ordinary tyre, or the standard rubber plug fix usually won’t be up to the job.

Looking for some new tyres? Here are some recommendations from our partners:

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UK prices announced for Citroën Ami

Sean Rees
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UK prices announced for Citroën Ami

Citroën has priced up its new Ami electric quadricycle for UK release, with prices starting from less than £8K.

With its C1 supermini no longer in production, Citroën will be hoping that customers looking for a cheap urban runaround will be attracted by the Ami’s relatively cheap £7,695 price tag, although obviously it’s not a like-for-like replacement as the Ami is not actually a car in a legal sense.

Being a quadricycle, the Ami does not have to meet the same safety and environmental standards that normal electric cars like the Fiat 500e or Vauxhall Corsa-e have to meet. You also don’t need a full driver’s licence to drive one – a ‘category AM’ licence is all that’s required in the UK, which is the same as for a moped.

The pint-sized two-seater is powered by a small 5.5kWh battery, which the manufacturer says can travel a maximum of 46 miles from full charge. Ideal for short commutes around the city centre, but not much else, the Citroën Ami Electric quadricycle produces a power output of 8hp, and has a maximum speed of 28mph. Using a home charger, Citroën says the Ami takes three hours to fully charge from empty.

The 2022 Citroën Ami is available in three trims – the standard ‘Ami’ trim, the mid-range ‘Ami Pop’ trim, and the range-topping ‘Ami Vibe’ trim. The range also includes a commercial version, the Ami Cargo, which removes the passenger seat for extra storage space.

All models will only be available in left-hand drive and feature an unusual door arrangement. The driver’s door (on the left) is a rear-hinged ‘suicide’ door while the passenger door (on the right) opens normally, as shown in the image above.

Key trim level features

‘Ami’ (from £7,695)

  • Digital speedometer
  • LED headlights
  • LED tail lights
  • Panoramic glass sunroof
  • One USB charging port

‘Ami Pop’ (from £8,495)

  • All lower trim features
  • Orange colour pack with accents finished in black
  • Rear spoiler finished in black

‘Ami Vibe’ (from £8,895)

  • All lower trim features
  • Decorative roof rails finished in black
  • Wheel arches finished in black

All models come with a small digital speedometer which also displays how much battery charge you have left, LED lights in the front and back and a sunroof. Adding a bit of extra exterior colour to the Ami comes at an additional charge of £400, with orange, blue and grey colour packs on offer.

With prices starting from £7,695, Citroën says that the Ami will be coming to the UK later this year, with around 2,000 vehicles being reserved by British customers already. More information will be released in the coming weeks.

Electric car servicing

Russell Hayes
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Electric car servicing

Good news. Electric cars really do cost less to service because, put simply, there is less to service.

Manufacturers will all tell you this because it might persuade you to take the leap. An electric vehicle (EV) does not have an internal combustion engine (ICE) with oil, filters, belts and plugs to change. Nor does it have a gearbox or clutch to wear out. There is a cooling system for the battery, but it rarely needs looking at.

Perhaps it’s an obvious thing to say but EVs still have wheels and tyres, brakes, steering, suspension and windscreen wipers which affect safety and can’t be ignored. You still won’t want to run out of screenwash – so opening the ‘bonnet’ (Tesla famously calls it a frunk) and lifting a lid to pour in some fluid will still be needed sometimes.

How much does an EV service cost?

On a web search, unless you ask for an individual quote you can’t see costs between brands. However, some manufacturers are upfront about costs because it’s positive.

Vauxhall says £90 for an interim EV service, £239 for a main and £265 for a major (with genuine Vauxhall parts). In comparison a plug-in hybrid (which has both battery and a regular ICE engine and gearbox) is £199, £249 and up to £429 on the same basis.

In its fixed price service plans, BMW says that an electric ‘I’ model (of which there are now several in several sizes) will cost £15 a month on a 36-month plan whereas a 1 Series, and X1 or an X2 will be £20 a month.

How often?

Some manufacturers of ICE cars – such as BMW – allow their cars to work out when they need a service according to how they are driven, hence the condition of the oil. Mainly motorway miles extends the oil change interval and is easier on the brakes and clutch.

This doesn’t apply with EVs so it’s back to how often they should be seen. However, even if there will be less to do, service schedules are as varied as the manufacturer. Kia sets the intervals for its electric Soul and Niro models at 10,000 miles or 12 months, the same as the petrol models.

A Peugeot e-208 or e-2008 has a first service at 8,000 miles, then every 16,000 miles or two years, at which point the brake fluid and the pollen filter are changed. The chemical balance of the coolant for the battery doesn’t get its first check until 80,000 miles or four years.

Brake fluid doesn’t perform its job well forever, and a change every two years is a common recommendation. You don’t have to have the air con serviced or the pollen filter replaced, but the car will be nicer and healthier to be in if you do, and longer-term air-conditioning needs to be used to keep the condenser, pump and pipes in good shape. Pollen filters can also block up and collect water which seeps into the car.

As befits its radical ethos, Tesla does not require annual maintenance or regular fluid changes and says that not servicing the car won’t invalidate the warranty. It does, however, recommend its cabin air filters are changed every two or three years depending on the model, and testing brake fluid every two years and replacing as needed. A Tesla Model 3 can wait six years for an air-conditioning service.

Will the way I drive my EV make a difference?

You would be wise, as with any car, to keep an eye on your tyres and check the pressures regularly. When you learnt to drive you might have been told not to rev the engine when cold or perch your foot hallway down on the clutch or you’ll wear it out. But none of that applies to EVs.

“That’s one of the big differences between a traditional car and an EV,” says Matthew Tumbridge, Chief Operating Officer of The Car Expert partner Motoreasy which offers warranties for older cars. “On a traditional car you could change the oil more often, warm the engine up, you can drive it sympathetically but with an EV you can only really avoid potholes and speed bumps which will save you money on wheel and suspension problems because there’s so much weight in these cars they are going to suffer suspension costs but that’s about it.”

You can also be easier on brake pad and disc wear by using the regenerative braking function, which will also extend the range. Given that miss-aligned wheels and under-inflated tyres can affect steering and tyre wear, unusually for a carmaker Tesla specifically recommends rotating the tyres every 6,250 miles or if tread depth difference is 2/32in or greater, whichever comes first.

Apart from hitting it in an accident or bashing it with a wheel jack you can’t mis-treat a battery (although you can mangle a charging cable) but carmakers have tips on how often and how much to charge, and what to do if you need to park an EV up without using it for a long time. Peugeot says to optimise battery lifespan, avoid regularly charging it to 100% or, conversely, allowing the charge to drop below 20% too often.

Older EV servicing

Here it gets a bit muddier. Most manufacturers offer fixed price servicing for ICE cars older than three years old (usually once they are out of warranty) at lower prices to keep the dealerships in continuing work, but because most electric car models are so new (for example the Volkswagen ID models) these plans are not yet appearing for older EVs.

There are few models of EV which have been on sale for many years, but some of the longest are the Tesla Model S, Renault Zoe, Nissan Leaf and BMW i3. Once a comparable ICE car is out of warranty any decent independent garage can provide as good a service as a main dealer and should be able to handle the standard items on EVs which are shared such as brakes, brake fluid and air conditioning/filters.

The difference comes in their ability to diagnose faults and fixes in the control systems and electric motors because the knowledge and training is lagging behind. You can try the Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Repair Alliance, a UK association of ‘EV-friendly’ independent garages where members are vetted for the right qualifications, tools and equipment to service and repair electric and hybrid vehicles.

Road rage: the consequences of confrontation

Tom Johnston
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Road rage: the consequences of confrontation

Could it be the narrow streets, the rush hour tailbacks or the hordes of pedestrians waiting to cross the roads? Whatever the cause, London was recently revealed as the worst place in Britain for road rage.

More than half of all the capital’s drivers questioned in a survey said they get angry with other road users when they make mistakes, while Northern Ireland, the West Midlands and the South East were also singled out as road rage hotspots in the research, published by road safety charity IAM Roadsmart.

And while every motorist is responsible for keeping cool and driving courteously and safely on the roads, the reality is that doesn’t always happen. Road rage is a needless problem that affects our already over-crowded roads. It’s unpleasant, distracting and dangerous – losing control behind the wheel has led to injury and even death in the past, when it could so easily have been avoided.

There is no such offence as ‘road rage’ but there are plenty of actions that you might consider in the heat of a road-related incident which could get you into big trouble.

Serious consequences

Dangerous or careless driving, for example, is looked upon dimly by the police, as are verbal abuse, threats, criminal damage or any sort of physical violence. In the heat of battle, drivers lose their cool and resort to all sorts of anti-social behaviours which can have serious consequences down the line.

“While feeling angry may be a totally natural response to another road user acting recklessly or dangerously, everyone is responsible for maintaining their composure so that the situation isn’t made any worse,” says Neil Greig, of IAM RoadSmart. “So, for the benefit of yourself and others, take a mindfulness moment, keep calm and motor on!”

Avoiding confrontation

So how should you avoid a road rage incident in the first place? What can you do to make sure you’re not drawn into an altercation with another diver and what should you do behind the wheel if you feel yourself getting upset and angry?

Here are our top tips to avoid road rage:

  1. Don’t compete with others. Help them by making space or letting them through. There are no winners or losers on the road so it doesn’t matter if someone has got in ahead of you.
  2. Forget work or home issues. Concentrate on your driving and try to enjoy it. If you feel stressed, take a few minutes to calm down before even starting your engine.
  3. Plan your journey so you know what you’re doing and were you’re going. Allowing plenty of time to reach your destination will help reduce stress.
  4. Put the radio or your favourite music on. Numerous trials have shown that your favourite music can keep you calmer and less stressful while driving.
  5. Don’t think you can teach other drivers or change their attitudes or behaviours. The only person you can change is you.
  6. Don’t turn your commute or journey into a race. Your family vehicle is not an F1 car and other road users don’t want to see you racing another vehicle to be first to a roundabout.
  7. Count from 1 to 10. It’s one of the oldest solutions in the book, but it works.
  8. Don’t retaliate by using your car’s horn, giving hand gestures, raising fingers, flashing your lights or shouting out of the window. If you’re looking for trouble, these are the ways you’re going to find it.
  9. Don’t try to block other drivers from getting in front of you. You’ll probably never see them again so it doesn’t really matter. Don’t tailgate anyone: it’s dangerous at any speed.
  10. Keep your doors locked and don’t leave the car if confronted. Things could only go from bad to worse.
  11. If you think someone is actually following you, keep your doors locked and drive to a police station.
  12. Live and let live. If someone is driving slowly, they might be lost. If they’re driving badly, change lanes and give them space. Don’t get drawn in to their poorly-driven world. It’s not worth it.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012 to 2018)

Sean Rees
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Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012 to 2018)

Summary

First arriving on UK roads in the second half of 2012, the third-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class was a five-door family hatchback pitched as a direct rival to the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. It was replaced by the current generation of the A-Class in 2018.

The range consisted of a selection of four-cylinder petrol or diesel engines, available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearbox.

“Whichever you get, it’s worth paying for the automatic gearbox”, Carwow said. “It’s smooth and changes gears quickly, unlike the manual gearbox, which is not so nice to use.” Other than the transmission, Parkers said that the A-Class had “compromised” ride comfort.

Many motoring titles also comment that the A-Class lacked practical space when compared to its key rivals, and that it was not all that fun to drive – The Telegraph argued that “the A-class isn’t the kind of car that will tempt you into taking the long way home.”

While a bit dated toward the end of its life, the interior build quality and refinement was a highlight, and many journalists were impressed by the exterior design of the A-Class through the years – both after its launch, and its mild facelift in late 2015.

And despite the range of efficient engines available, “The A-Class just isn’t quite as good as it should be”, Carwow concluded. “Yes, it looks amazing, but it’s not as classy or as practical as alternatives.”

No longer on sale, the third-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 61%. It gets good grades for its low running costs and strong reliability record, but its safety rating has long expired and its media review scores were poor.

A-Class highlights

  • Smart looks inside and out
  • Smooth automatic gearbox
  • Decent fuel economy
  • High resale values

A-Class lowlights

  • Rigid ride comfort
  • Cramped rear seating
  • Rather small boot
  • Standard range is not that fun to drive
  • More expensive than key rivals

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door hatchback
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £22,005 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2012
Last updated: Winter 2015/16
Replaced: Summer 2018

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012 - 2018) front view | Expert Rating
Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012 - 2018) rear view | Expert Rating
Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012 - 2018) interior view | Expert Rating

Media reviews

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

Featured reviews

“With decent tech and a broad engine range, the Mercedes A-Class is a strong premium hatchback – but it’s not quite the best of its era.”

Model reviewed:

Score: 7 / 10


Auto Express

“The Mercedes A-Class is a great-looking small car that comes with some economical engines, but it’s uncomfortable to drive and not as practical as similar cars.”

Model reviewed: 2015 facelift range

Score: 6 / 10

Read full review
Carwow

More reviews

Auto Trader

Carbuyer

Eurekar

Evo

Heycar

Honest John

Motoring Research

Parkers

The Sunday Times

The Telegraph

Top Gear

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: 93%
Child protection: 81%
Vulnerable road users: 67%
Safety assist: 86%

Notes on safety rating

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class 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.

However, if you are comparing a used A-Class 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 third-gen Mercedes-Benz A-Class was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its life cycle as it pre-dated Green NCAP.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 259
Average repair cost: £530.70
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 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is better-than-average in its reliability score, according to warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner MotorEasy. This data covers not only this A-Class (2012 to 2018) but also newer (2018 onwards) and previous (pre-2012) models.

The average repair cost of more than £500 is fairly high for a mid-sized car and also more than the cost of a used car warranty, which is worth bearing in mind.

The most commonly reported faults to date have been with the car’s braking system, which is a relatively cheap fix at less than £200. However, there have been a reasonable number of claims for gearbox faults, which has an average repair bill of about £2,000.

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Alfa Romeo Giulietta | Audi A3 | BMW 1 Series | Honda Civic | Hyundai i30 | Mini Countryman | Peugeot 308 | Renault Megane | SEAT Leon | Skoda Octavia | Vauxhall Astra | Volkswagen Golf

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New limited edition BMW M4 CSL available to order

Sean Rees
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0
New limited edition BMW M4 CSL available to order

BMW’s performance-focused ‘M’ division has marked its 50th birthday with the unveiling of a special limited run version of the M4 coupé – called the BMW M4 CSL.

The 2022 BMW M4 CSL distinguishes itself from the standard coupé by sporting a more prominent front splitter design and unique cross-spoke wheels. The enormous kidney grilles remain, but carry fewer internal vanes to give the coupé a meaner look.

This limited edition model also has yellow LED lights and is adorned with the old BMW ‘M’ badge – clear nods to the championship-winning original BMW CSL racing car from the 1970s.

The M4 CSL also comes with a unique cross-spoke alloy wheel design (19-inch alloys in the front, 20-inch in the rear), and a special three-tone colour scheme highlights the indents in the bonnet.

The changes continue beneath the exterior, with weight-saving measures across the car. The rear seats of the standard M4 have been replaced with a small storage cubby, and BMW has installed lightweight ceramic brakes, modified the chassis, removed some sound-proofing components and more to make the M4 CSL 100kg lighter. The ride height has also been fractionally lowered to improve aerodynamics.

The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine found in the regular M4 Competition remains, but the BMW’s engineers have tweaked the engine unit so that it produces 550hp – 40hp more than the standard model.

The result is a coupé that can complete a 0-62mph sprint in 3.7 seconds. The M4 CSL is said to be the fastest BMW road car to lap the winding Nürburgring track in Germany, with a time of 7 minutes and 15 seconds. Anyone that wants to try and beat this track time in the M4 CSL can make use of the car’s launch control feature, which comes as standard.

Besides a long list of safety technology features, the BMW M4 CSL also comes with a traction control system which has settings for different track surfaces and tyre temperatures, the brand’s latest infotainment software, a head-up display behind the steering wheel, and wireless smartphone charging.

The BMW M4 range, which starts with the M4 Competition trim in the UK, has received plenty of praise from UK reviewers since its arrival in 2021. With a current Expert Rating of 86%, it is highlighted for having more power and more poise than former M4 generations, though it has received criticism for its expensive price tag.

The BMW M4 CSL doesn’t solve this issue, with prices starting from £128,820 – over £40,000 more than the basic M4 Competition. BMW says its M4 CSL is available to order online now, with 1,000 models set to be made, 100 of which will be sold in Britain.

Citroën reintroduces ELLE trim to C3 range

Sean Rees
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0
Citroën reintroduces ELLE trim to C3 range

Citroën has partnered with fellow French brand ELLE to design a new trim package for the C3 supermini, featuring unique design touches inside and out.

This is Citroën’s second time teaming up with the fashion magazine ELLE to give the C3 a more premium look. Citroën says that the 2018 version of the C3 ELLE, the fruit of the brand’s first collaboration, sold 9,000 units worldwide.

Looking for the same levels of sales success, the 2022 C3 ELLE comes with a two-tone exterior colour scheme as standard, with five main colour choices available. Like the 2018 version, this ELLE trim comes with distinctive accents that surround the fog lights and feature on the door panels – this time in light blue.

The roof, which can be finished in either black or white to reflect the ELLE brand colours, is also marked with the ELLE logo and the brand’s signature phrase – ‘Since 1945 & forever’.

That slogan can be found on the unique ELLE-branded floor mats in the cabin too. The C3 ELLE trim also features alcantara leather upholstery and chrome accents on the dashboard and Citroën’s ‘Advanced Comfort’ seats, which are designed with more padding and lumbar support for ‘optimal driving comfort’.

The new ELLE trim features a leather steering wheel and a reversing camera as standard. UK buyers now can order this trim online with prices starting at £18,150. Now the second-most expensive trim level in the C3 range, behind the range-topping ‘Shine Plus’ trim, the C3 ELLE will be available to buy from UK Citroën dealerships in August 2022.

On sale since early 2017, the Citroën C3 has been consistently praised for its distinctive styling and wide range of personalisation options, but criticised for its poor driving dynamics and limited practicality, underscoring its current Expert Rating of 60%.

Volkswagen Golf R

Sean Rees
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0
Volkswagen Golf R

Summary

The flagship of the eighth-generation (Mk8) Volkswagen Golf range, the Golf R is a five-door hot hatch and estate model.

Sitting above the standard Golf line-up and the performance Golf GTI model, the all-wheel drive Golf R sits at the top of the range – powered by a 315hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. This is over 70hp more than front-wheel drive alternatives like the Golf GTI and Hyundai i30 N, but this added power and grip comes at a price.

“It is a pricey machine these days”, Auto Express comments, alluding to the Golf R’s price tag that surpasses the £40k mark.

Many reviews also criticise the confusing and rather annoying layout of the Golf R’s touchscreen controls, and often comment that, while there is nothing explicitly wrong with the car’s interior, it does not match the quality of the premium-badged rivals that it is priced against.

Though not as refined inside, the Golf R is slightly roomier than the likes of the Audi S3 and BMW M135i, and comes with a generous list of safety equipment and other on-board tech as standard – including launch control.

A model that divides opinion, the Sunday Times says that the Golf R would be “a deeply frustrating car to live with every day”, while Top Gear describes it as “the supreme hot hatch all-rounder – no sharp edges, and more rewarding than you might expect.”

As of October 2025, the Volkswagen Golf R holds a New Car Expert Rating of B with a score of 66%. This score is a couple of points lower than the Golf GTI, due to a slightly lower media review scores, higher CO2 emissions and being more expensive to own.

Golf R highlights

  • Fastest Golf you can buy
  • Comfortable cabin
  • More practical than some key rivals
  • Plenty of safety kit as standard

Golf R lowlights

  • Interior is nothing special
  • Confusing infotainment
  • Expensive to buy and run
  • Not as entertaining as best hot hatches

Key specifications

Body style: Medium hatchback
Engines: petrol
Price: From £42,190 on-road

Launched: Spring 2021
Last updated: Summer 2021
Replacement due: TBA

Volkswagen Golf R hatchback front view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback rear view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback interior view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback badge view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R estate front view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R estate
Volkswagen Golf R estate rear view | Expert Rating
Volkswagen Golf R estate

Media reviews

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

Featured reviews

“The Volkswagen Golf R sits at the pinnacle of the VW Golf range and lords it over lesser hatchbacks with a level of performance that very few cars can match at this price. The latest edition has upped its game in terms of the all-important driver enjoyment as well, with the level of configuration available in the various driving modes meaning it can be adjusted to suit a range of scenarios on road and track.”

Model reviewed: 2024 facelift range

Score: 9 / 10

Read full review
Auto Express

Steve Walker

“The Volkswagen Golf R is a fantastic hot hatch to drive, but there are some on-board tech frustrations to deal with.”

Model reviewed:

Score: 9 / 10

Read full review
Carwow

Darren Cassey

More reviews

Auto Express

Auto Trader

Car

Carbuyer

Evo

Honest John

Parkers

The Sun

The Sunday Times

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: October 2025
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 80%
Child protection: 86%
Vulnerable road users: 85%
Safety assist: 79%

The Volkswagen Golf R shares its Euro NCAP safety rating with the mainstream Golf range. It was initially awarded a five-star rating back in 2019, then re-tested in October 2025, retaining its rating.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of October 2025, the Volkswagen Golf R has not been lab tested by Green NCAP. It’s unlikely to be a priority for the organisation, but if it is tested then we’ll post the results here.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

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

Fuel consumptionAverageScore
Petrol models36 mpgD
CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models185 g/kmD
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models33D
Service and maintenanceCostScore
Year 1£266C
Year 2£665D
Year 3£1,119D
Year 4£1,488D
Year 5£2,031D
Overall£5,569D

The Volkswagen Golf R is an 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.

A set of straight D grades indicates that the Golf R is worse than average in every category – fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, insurance group and servicing costs.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 1262
Average repair cost: £570.50
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 Volkswagen Golf has a higher-than-average overall reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. However, this applies to all Golf models in MotorEasy’s database, so will be a combination of the current Mk8 and the previous Mk7 (pre-2020).

The average repair cost of £570 is fairly average – but much more than the cost of a used car warranty, which is certainly worth bearing in mind.

The majority of problems with the Golf relate to the engine or suspension, and although engine repairs usually cost around £900, suspension issues fortunately tend not to be too expensive with an average repair cost of about £240. Gearbox problems are expensive, at more than £1,300, but the good news is that these are relatively rare.

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

Warranty rating

New car warranty information for the Volkswagen Golf R

Overall ratingE15%
New car warranty duration3 years
New car warranty mileage60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration0 years
Battery warranty mileage0 miles

Volkswagen’s new car warranty is pretty much the bare minimum offered by car manufacturers in the UK, and worse than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Golf R. The duration is three years, with a limit of 60,000 miles, which is pretty basic. Some rivals offer up to seven years of cover.

Warranty on a used Volkswagen Golf R

  • If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Volkswagen Golf R from an official Volkswagen dealership, you will get a minimum 12-month warranty included.
  • If you are buying a used Volkswagen Golf R from an independent dealership, any warranty offered will vary and will probably be managed by a third-party warranty company.
  • If you are buying a used Volkswagen Golf R from a private seller, there are no warranty protections beyond any remaining portion of the original new car warranty.

If you’re looking to buy any used car that is approaching the end of its warranty period, a used car warranty is usually a worthwhile investment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.estment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Volkswagen Golf R

Date: January 2024
Recall number: R/2024/014
Model types: All
Build dates: 03/2020 to 08/2022
Number of vehicles affected: 26,721
Defect: On certain vehicles with electromechanical brake servo and DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) of a limited production period, there is a possibility that a heat protection mat was incorrectly fitted. In individual cases, the brake fluid reservoir can melt and cause a brake fluid leak into the engine compartment.
Remedy: A check of the installation of the heat protection mat on affected vehicles will be conducted. If necessary, the correct heat shield condition will be restored, and in a damage case, the damaged components will be replaced.

Date: April 2022
Recall number: R/2022/086
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2019 to 02/2022
Number of vehicles affected: 1,868
Defect: The fuse in the high-voltage system of plug-in hybrid vehicles was, in some cases, produced with too little so-called fire sand.
Remedy: An additional protective insulating mat is to be fitted to the switching unit for the high-voltage battery.

Date: March 2022
Recall number: R/2022/074
Model types: All
Build dates: 09/2020 to 02/2022
Number of vehicles affected: 7,579
Defect: Engine compartment covers were fitted that, regardless of use (very sporty driving style or poor road condition) and operating period, could come loose from their attachment.
Remedy: On all affected vehicles, the engine compartment cover has to be removed.

Date: September 2021
Recall number: R/2021/320
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2019 to 05/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 145
Defect: The bolted connection of the pull rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal may come loose, resulting in a loss of all service braking ability.
Remedy: Vehicles are not to be driven, and the bolted connection of the input rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal must be checked and, if necessary, retightened.

Date: February 2021
Recall number: R/2021/320
Model types: All
Build dates: 09/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 124
Defect: Faulty crash sensors for airbag and restraint systems may have been fitted in the front doors.
Remedy: The crash sensors in the front doors are to be checked and, if necessary, replaced.

Date: June 2020
Recall number: R/2020/176
Model types: All
Build dates: 03/2020 to 05/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 4,630
Defect: The e-call service may not function.
Remedy: Update the Online Control Unit software on affected vehicles.

As of September 2024 (our most recent data point), there have been six DVSA vehicle safety recalls on this generation of the Volkswagen Golf range to address different issues.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Volkswagen dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used Golf R, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Volkswagen Golf R has received

2021

  • Carwow Awards – Most Wanted Car

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Volkswagen Golf R, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Audi RS 3 | Audi S3 | BMW M140i | Cupra Leon | Ford Focus ST | Honda Civic Type R | Hyundai i30 N | Mercedes-AMG A 35 | Mini Cooper John Cooper Works | Renault Megane RS | Skoda Octavia vRS | Toyota GR Yaris

Buy a Volkswagen Golf R

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If you’re looking to lease a new Volkswagen Golf R, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal

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Subscribe to a Volkswagen Golf R

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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BMW M5

Sean Rees
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0
BMW M5

Summary

Described by Top Gear as “perhaps the most complete and composed super saloon of them all”, the BMW M5 was a four-door performance saloon – the ‘M’-tuned version of the 2017 to 2023 BMW 5 Series executive car.

This M5 was the sixth generation, launched back in 2018, ending production in 2023 ahead of an all-new model launching in 2024. It was a continuation of a long line of acclaimed BMW super saloons, which have all been hailed as benchmarks for their combination of performance, comfort and relative subtlety.

Here in the UK, we got the M5 Competition model, which was powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine (a bit more powerful than the standard M5 in Europe) to produce 617hp. The range also included the limited edition M5 CS (Competition Sport), which BMW said was the fastest ‘M’ performance model ever produced due to its lighter bodywork and few extra horsepower.

Carwow suggested that the M5 range was just as usable day-to-day as a regular 5 Series saloon, with the first-class interior build quality and finish that we have come to expect from a BMW executive car, while Evo said: “It has all the performance and dynamic ability of a supercar” and “supercars simply don’t come cheap, even when they’re clothed in a saloon body.”

One point to consider is that the 5 Series in general, and the M5 in particular, has had plenty of reliability concerns. In August 2022, the M5 was ranked tenth in a list of the least reliable used cars (up to ten year old) on sale in the UK by Warrantywise. The 5 Series range overall also has a very poor reliability score according to our own data. Full details in the ‘Reliabilty rating’ section below.

As of February 2026, the BMW M5 holds a Used Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of just 41%. Despite the high praise bestowed on the M5 by motoring journalists, the ownership data is somewhat less glowing. The safety score is only average, with a Euro NCAP rating that expired due to age, while reliability is historically poor and running costs are very expensive.

M5 highlights

  • First-class build quality
  • As practical as a standard 5 Series
  • Exceptional performance and driving dynamics
  • Comfortable cabin

M5 lowlights

  • Rival brands offer more practical estates
  • Expensive, entry-level and up
  • Rather subdued engine soundtrack
  • Uprated M5 CS is a strict four-seater

Key specifications

Body style: Four-door saloon
Engines: petrol
Price when new: From £107,520

Launched: Summer 2018
Last updated: Spring 2021
Replacement due: 2024

BMW M5 front view | Expert Rating
BMW M5 Competition
BMW M5 rear view | Expert Rating
BMW M5 Competition
BMW M5 interior view | Expert Rating
BMW M5 CS front view | Expert Rating
BMW M5 CS
BMW M5 CS rear view | Expert Rating
BMW M5 CS

Media reviews

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

Auto Express

Car

Carbuyer

Carwow

Evo

Heycar

Honest John

The Telegraph

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

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

Adult protection: 91%
Child protection: 85%
Vulnerable road users: 81%
Safety assist: 59%

Notes on safety rating

The BMW 5 Series was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. The M5 shared this rating as it is structurally identical to the regular 5 Series models.

However, the 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 M5 (or any 5 Series) 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 BMW M5 was not tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 1160
Average repair cost: £895.95
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

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

The BMW 5 Series range (including the M5) has a poor reliability score of 28% as of April 2025, according to workshop and warranty data provided by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This covers both the current (2017 onwards) model as well as earlier generations of 5 Series.

The most common problems reported for the 5 Series relate to the suspension, which account for nearly a third of all warranty repairs. It’s also worth noting that engine problems make up more than a quarter of all problems, and they’re expensive to fix with an average repair cost of nearly £1,500. Gearbox problems are even more expensive to fix, although they are somewhat less common.

So if you own or are considering buying a used BMW M5, it’s certainly worth considering a used car warranty that covers all of the potential trouble spots shown in the charts above.

Running cost rating

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

Fuel consumptionAverageScore
Petrol models25 mpgE
CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models254 g/kmE
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models50F
Service and maintenanceCostScore
Year 1£669E
Year 2£1,587E
Year 3£3,244E
Year 4£4,090E
Year 5£5,435E
Overall£15,025E

As well as its £100K-plus price tag, the BMW M5 is an expensive car to run, according to data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

It probably won’t come as any great surprise to know that fuel consumption and servicing costs are very poor, while the M5 automatically cops a maximum Group 50 rating for insurance from the UK assessors, Thatcham Research. That earns it the worst-possible insurance score of ‘F’ from us.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the BMW M5 has received

2018

  • iF Design Awards – Automotive Design Award
  • World Car Awards – Performance Car of the Year

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the BMW M5, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio | Audi RS 7 | Bentley Flying Spur | BMW M3 | Jaguar XE Project 8 | Mercedes-AMG E63 | Porsche Panamera Turbo

More news, reviews and information about the BMW M5 at The Car Expert

New BMW M5 Touring debuts

New BMW M5 Touring debuts

Range Rover named the UK’s most unreliable used car

Range Rover named the UK’s most unreliable used car

Most potent BMW M5 on sale in February

Most potent BMW M5 on sale in February

Competition Edition a potent M5 finale

Competition Edition a potent M5 finale

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Toyota RAV4 (2013 to 2019)

Sean Rees
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0
Toyota RAV4 (2013 to 2019)

Summary

Arriving in UK showrooms in early 2013, the fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 was a mid-sized five-door SUV/crossover that was sold until 2019, including a mid-life facelift in 2016. It was replaced by the current RAV4.

The line-up consisted of a selection of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, as well as a range-topping petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

Throughout its lifespan, the fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 received below average to very good reviews from the British motoring media during its production life. The Sunday Times described it as “a solid beast with better on-road handling than most of its rivals and lots of boot space”, while The Telegraph said that it was “cheap and nasty inside, and not very pleasant to drive”.

Though the car’s interior and exterior styling was rather dull for some, reviewers generally agreed that the RAV4 had a spacious cabin which was well-equipped with on-board tech as standard, and that the SUV was comfortable to drive over long distances.

That said, several outlets reported that the range of engines available were quite noisy, particularly on cold days, and that the hybrid version was not as efficient as hybrid variants of the Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-5.

As of March 2026, the fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 holds a Used Car Expert Rating of D with a score of 54%.

RAV4 highlights

  • Plenty of cabin and boot space
  • Well-equipped as standard
  • Reliability record and resale value
  • Comfortable ride and responsive handling

RAV4 lowlights

  • Dull interior design
  • Noisy engines
  • Not as fun to drive as rivals
  • Hybrid model not all that cheap to run

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door SUV/crossover
Engines: petrol, diesel, petrol-electric hybrid
Price when new: From £22,495

Launched: Spring 2013
Last updated: Winter 2015/16
Replaced: Winter 2018/19

Toyota RAV4 (2013 - 2016) front view | Expert Rating
Toyota RAV4 (2013 – 2016)
Toyota RAV4 (2013 - 2016) rear view | Expert Rating
Toyota RAV4 (2013 – 2016)
Toyota RAV4 (2013 - 2016) interior view | Expert Rating
Toyota RAV4 (2016 - 2019) front view | Expert Rating
Toyota RAV4 (2016 – 2019)
Toyota RAV4 (2016 - 2019) rear view | Expert Rating
Toyota RAV4 (2016 – 2019)

Media reviews

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

Auto Express

Auto Trader

Car

Car Keys

Carbuyer

Carwow

Driving Electric

Fleetworld

Green Car Guide

Heycar

Honest John

Motoring Research

Motors

Parkers

The Sunday Times

The Telegraph

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: March 2013
Date expired: January 2020
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 89%
Child protection: 82%
Vulnerable road users: 66%
Safety assist: 66%

No safety rating

The fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 2013 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.

Eco rating

No eco rating

No variants of the previous-gen Toyota RAV4 were lab tested by Green NCAP.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 46
Average repair cost: £805.14
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

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

As of March 2026, the Toyota RAV4 family has a better-than-average reliability score of 74%, according to workshop and extended warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy.

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Toyota RAV4, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Citroën C5 Aircross | Ford Kuga | Honda CR-V | Hyundai Tucson | Jeep Compass | Kia Sportage | Mazda CX-5 | MG HS | Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross | Nissan Qashqai | Peugeot 3008 | Renault Kadjar | SEAT Ateca | Skoda Karoq | SsangYong Korando | Subaru XV | Suzuki S-Cross | Toyota C-HR | Vauxhall Grandland X | Volkswagen Tiguan

Buy a Toyota RAV4

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Car subscriptions – pausing and changing

Russell Hayes
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0
Car subscriptions – pausing and changing

If you want to stop and start a car subscription – perhaps while you’re out of the country – or switch between different types of vehicle, what do you need to know?

What is a car subscription?

A car subscription is halfway between a lease and long-term car rental. You can have a car from 28 days to 36 months, with the ability to get exactly the car you want, change it when you like – subject to conditions – and can have insurance included. Unlike a lease there is no major charge (such as nine months’ advance payment) to start but the monthly charges are higher than a fixed-term lease. There are short-term leases offered – between three and 12 months – but the choice of car may be limited.

Some rental companies offer long-term hires but if you choose a subscription for a specific car, that’s the one you’ll get, not one of the same size which happens to be available on the day. Subscriptions promise freedom of choice, no commitment, and no unexpected bills at less than the overall cost of a PCP payment as there’s usually only a small deposit (one month or less).

What’s the choice?

Currently (spring 2022) if you want a car subscription direct from a manufacturer in the UK there are slim pickings. Volvo’s Care by Volvo usually comes up top in a web search and is heavily promoted. Then comes Jaguar Land Rover’s Pivotal scheme. For more mainstream brands only Hyundai in the UK offers a subscription service, called Mocean (rhymes with ‘ocean’) with a minimum three-month term, but as this is a new venture operates from only six dealerships within London.

The good news is that if you want to jump between brands and types of cars – or vans – then there’s a good choice of car subscription providers in the UK, some of whom are partners with The Car Expert.

Pausing a subscription

Say you don’t spend all year living in the UK so don’t want to pay for a car to sit on your driveway for months while you’re away. How easy is to give notice and return a subscription, and how do you avoid having to set up a new account when you start your next subscription?

Notice periods are generally short, which is one of the selling points of a subscription. After you finish the initial agreed contract period – which depending on the provider can be As short as 28 days – the subscription automatically become a monthly rolling contract until you ask for a change of vehicle or to stop. However, be careful before you think of giving up a subscription before the minimum period had elapsed as there may be a penalty fee.

Looking at the two prestige brands, Care by Volvo requires three months’ notice to cancel or change your car and doesn’t specify if you can pause and leave a gap. Jaguar Land Rover Pivotal allows its users to pause a subscription at any time and reactivate when it’s convenient.

Mycardirect, also one of our partners, says it already has a number of members who have property here and abroad so only use their subscriptions when they are in the UK, and a number of businesses use the service when required.

Electric-only subscription provider Elmo says it is ‘totally flexible’ with no need to pause. The customer can hand the car back whenever they want with 30 days’ notice (after the minimum period) and then book another car whenever they need it. They can use the same account and Elmo will hold all the licence details, etc. for when they next want to book a car.

A car for all seasons or reasons

Aside from pausing you may want to change the type of vehicle according to your needs throughout the year. For example, for work you may need a van for a short period to cover a particular contract, or for pleasure it may be useful to have a people carrier for the summer holidays with your extended family or a four-wheel drive SUV over the winter for skiing holidays. You may just fancy a few months in something really posh, a two-seater sports car or a convertible, or you could have a spell in an electric car.

Depending on your age and insurance record, the monthly price of a different vehicle may differ from the headline price as insurance is tailor made in all subscriptions. And remember, there’s an assessment for any extra damage every time a vehicle goes back.

Mix-and-match should be easy to achieve, but it depends on stock availability. For example, Cazoo offered Mazda MX-5s from £539 month earlier in the year but now (May) there are no Mazdas but you can get a Mini convertible from £429 a month. Despite its sporty reputation, Jaguar doesn’t offer any sports cars on Pivotal.

If you want to jump from car to a small van, Mycardirect will see you into a Vauxhall Combo Cargo for £591 (with VAT) for six months including 1,600 miles. However, if you want a van for less than six months and aren’t fussy about the brand (only the size) a long-term rental from a traditional rental company would be worth exploring or there are a number of firms specialising in short-term van leases. A good yardstick to work from is if they are a member of the British Vehicle and Rental Leasing Association (BVRLA). Search the member directory for ‘flexible rental’. Remember though that there may be different damage charges for vans above what is considered normal wear and tear for a car when you return them.

Expat subscription?

What if you live abroad, are coming to the UK for a fixed period and want a subscription car? This can be difficult as you may not have a UK credit history or a UK driving licence. Equally, you could be in the UK for a fixed-term work contract and be stuck for the same reasons.

Again, there are specialists who can help. Search ‘expat car lease’ but as the name implies, they will be short-term leases, not subscriptions. For example, Expat Cars is a division of Cocoon Vehicles (another partner of The Car Expert), which offers subscriptions and leases, It says its underwriters will require to see a number of proofs, but acceptance rates are high. It uses employee references, credit reference agencies in their home countries and evidence to support the application to get them into a car rental or car lease. Advertised costs are similar to its other monthly rentals and it offers a meet and greet airport service.

Electric car jargon explained

The Car Expert staff
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0
Electric car jargon explained

Thinking of going electric? You’ve seen the cars, heard about the technology, and fancy some of the savings they can offer. You’ve got the buzz and now you’re getting ready to make the switch.

You’re not alone: thousands of car drivers in the UK are moving over to electric vehicles (EVs), and sales figures continue to soar. Indeed, more EVs were sold in 2021 than in the previous five years added together.

But a glance through the numerous websites, chat room forums and advice articles online can be more confusing than helpful. What does it all mean?

Every industry has its own jargon and terminology, and the car industry has more than most. Technology is constantly gathering pace and it’s often difficult to keep up – not only with established areas of the business, but with new developments and technology too.

Drill down even further into the world of electric vehicles and you’ll find an array of terms, expressions and acronyms as manufacturers, dealers and suppliers all try to map out this brave new world we are entering.

It’s all useful stuff, but you can end up feeling a bit left out because you simply don’t know what it all signifies. And who can blame you? There’s terminology in here that you may have never came across before.

Tusker, a company car and salary sacrifice scheme organisation, wants to help put an end to that. Tusker says there has never been a better time to drive an electric car and is campaigning constantly to help customers and businesses understand more about electric vehicles and their increasing advantages.

So to help you through the minefield of electric vehicle jargon, here is a list of some of the terms and phrases you might come across in your search for a new EV.

AFV

Alternative Fuel Vehicle: No fossil fuels here: these are vehicles that run on anything other than traditional petrol or diesel. If you don’t fill up at your local garage you probably have an AFV, which can include electric, solar, hydrogen and ethanol fuel sources.

BEV

Battery Electric Vehicle: There are many types of electric vehicle as we will see, but a BEV is a car or van that runs using power solely from a rechargeable battery. You plug it in, charge it up and go. Simple as that.

In practical terms, all fully electric cars (EVs) that you can buy today are powered by batteries, so the terms EV and BEV are used interchangeably.

HEV

Hybrid Electric Vehicle: Not ready for a full electric car yet? A hybrid or HEV has both a traditional combustion engine (usually petrol-powered but sometimes a diesel) and an electric motor powered by a battery. The battery is charged using energy gained when the car is coasting or braking, or by using the engine as a generator to charge it up, but it can’t be plugged into a socket to take electricity from the grid.

A hybrid can travel a short distance on electric power alone – maybe a few miles. The electric motor will get more use in stop-start city driving as the battery is regularly recharged whenever you coast or brake.

This type of car is sometimes referred to as a ‘self-charging hybrid’, but that is just marketing nonsense. All of the electricity in a hybrid car ultimately comes from petrol or diesel.

MHEV

Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle: One of the HEV family, the mild hybrid uses a small electric motor and battery to support the conventional petrol or diesel engine. This helps to provide fuel-efficient, cleaner motoring.

Calling a mild hybrid a type of ‘electric vehicle’ is something of a misnomer because the electric motor cannot actually drive the car on its own. The fossil-fuel engine always needs to be running to drive the wheels, while the electric motor is used to give it a boost when required.

mpkWh

Miles per Kilowatt Hour: If you drive a petrol or diesel car, you should know what mpg or l/km mean – miles per gallon or litres per kilometre. That’s showing you how far your car goes per unit of fuel. Similarly, mpkWh tells you how far your EV will travel per kWh or unit of electricity. A kilowatt hour is how much energy is used in one hour.

PHEV

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle: Rather like a regular hybrid, these cars have a regular engine and a battery-powered electric motor. Also like a regular hybrid, the car can generate a bit of electricity for the battery every time you slow down or apply the brakes. But the main point is that the batteries in these cars can be plugged in and charged to store much more electricity: usually enough to run the electric motor for between 20 to 50 miles, depending on the vehicle.

That’s perfect for round-town, CO2-free driving where you may never end up relying on the petrol engine at all.

Range anxiety

Range anxiety refers to people’s fears that their EV will run out of electricity before they can find somewhere to charge it.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Lots of drivers have ‘range anxiety’, even those that have owned an electric car for years. But the latest crop of EVs can go much further than older models on a single charge, so the chances of you running our of juice are now thankfully slim as long as you remember to charge up your car every few days.

If you’re taking a long cross-country journey, you’ll still need to plan ahead to factor charging stops into your trip, but most cars now have satnav systems that can take this into account for you.

Regen

Regeneration: As mentioned earlier, hybrid and electric cars feature regenerative braking, which produces an amount of electricity simply by coasting or using your car’s brakes. The smart system converts kinetic energy from a moving car into electricity as the car slows down, which is sent to the car’s battery for storage and later use.

All hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric cars have this ability, and on some cars you can adjust the level of regeneration – more regeneration means less coasting, so the car slows faster and reduces the amount of braking force provided by the regular brakes.

REx

Range extender: No worries about the aforementioned range anxiety here. REx cars use a petrol engine and an electric motor like a hybrid, but the petrol engine is generally only used to charge the battery rather than turn the wheels. The electric motor does the driving. Basically, you can think of it as a petrol-powered electric car.

Some range extenders can run purely on petrol power, but others have no physical connection between the petrol engine and the wheels. As a rule, this makes it more efficient than a conventional plug-in hybrid because the petrol engine is working in its most efficient rev range more of the time.

The new LEVC London cabs are range extenders, while BMW used to offer a REx version of the i3 city car.

RPH

Range per hour: This is a fairly new way to work out how much power your (or any) electric car charger is going to give you. It’s an estimation of how many miles you will have on your battery after a specific period of time recharging. So 100 RPH will give you 100 miles per hour of charging.

ULEV

Ultra Low Emission Vehicle: If you are going down the electric route because you want to do your bit for the environment, a ULEV is the car for you. It has been deemed to emit less than 75g/km of CO2 by an international assessment system called WLTP (World Harmonised Light-Vehicle Test Procedure). Great for the environment and your road tax bill.

Still not sure about what something means?

Ask the specialists – Tusker wants you to change over to EVs for the right reasons, based on goals that you understand and, if you’re still not sure what something means, you can contact its support team for help.

BMW unveils 3 Series refresh for 2022

Sean Rees
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BMW unveils 3 Series refresh for 2022

The BMW 3 Series saloon and Touring estate car have received a mid-life facelift, featuring revised exterior styling and upgraded infotainment.

After three years on sale in the UK, BMW will be hoping that this 2022 refresh, with its updates inside and out, will keep the popular 3 Series range in contention with newer upmarket rivals like the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Deciding to redesign the car’s front end for the 2022 model year, BMW has opted for a slimmer headlight design and new L-shaped air intakes either side of the front bumper. The rear bumper has also been reshaped, now featuring a new sharp-edged diffuser design finished in black.

2022 BMW 3 Series saloon

The 2022 BMW 3 Series has also received an interior overhaul, with the most prominent new fixture being the curved ‘iDrive’ display, which includes a 12-inch digital cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen – first seen on the recently released BMW iX SUV.

This new infotainment system adds a host of new features, including wireless smartphone charging, voice control through the brand’s ‘Personal Assistant’ function, real-time cloud-based navigation software, and other features will be added over time through over-the-air updates.

Gear shift paddles are now standard across the range, and there are new touch-sensitive buttons on the centre console to compliment the redesigned gear shifter.

While the list of engine options remains the same for the 3 Series after its facelift, which consists of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid models, all models now come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard. As before, the range also includes four-wheel drive options.

While prices for the pre-facelift range started at around £33,000, BMW has announced that the 2022 3 Series range will cost £36,670 and up. Although 2022 models are available to order now on the BMW website, the range is scheduled to enter production in July.

2019 BMW 3 Series vs. 2022 BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series has received very high scores from the UK media since its initial arrival at the start of 2019, and is considered to be the benchmark for the compact executive saloon class. With a current Expert Rating of 85%, the 3 Series has been praised for its interior refinement and space, but has picked up some criticism for its divisive front end styling.

Porsche 911 Turbo

Sean Rees
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Porsche 911 Turbo

Summary

The Porsche 911 Turbo is an uprated performance-enhanced version of the standard 911 range, available as a coupé or a cabriolet.

This is the seventh-generation version of the 911 Turbo that arrived in the UK in 2020 (known as the 992 generation). The range consists of two powertrains – the entry-level ‘Turbo’ and the more powerful ‘Turbo S’ – which both use a 3.7-litre petrol engine to produce 580hp and 645hp respectively.

The current-generation 911 Turbo is also wider and longer than its predecessor, and all models come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Most media reviews have agreed that the 992 generation is the best version of the 911 Turbo for many years, feelings which have only heightened with the latest 992.2 update in 2025. Top Gear proclaimed the 911 Turbo as its favourite performance car of 2020.

The majority of reviewers comment that the latest iteration of the 911 Turbo is faster, grippier and more involving than any 911 Turbo model that came before. “Simply put this model is more rounded than ever”, Car explains. “No 911 has ever been as disarmingly multi-talented as this Turbo.”

For the Daily Mirror, however, this powerful performance package is a bit too much to handle. “It’s too fast. Way too fast”, it explains. “In fact, it’s too everything. Wide, heavy, ­complicated, grippy and quite frankly, computer game-like. Oh, and expensive.”

Despite the high level of praise from dedicated motoring titles, most are still in agreement that the substantially cheaper standard 911 range is still the way to go if you’re in the market for 992-spec model – as it has been for most of the 911’s almost 60-year history.

As of November 2025, the Porsche 911 Turbo holds a New Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of 51%. While it has achieved top marks for its outstanding media review scores, it inevitably gets marked down harshly in more mundane, ownership-related categories like running costs, CO2 emissions and new car warranty coverage.

911 Turbo highlights

  • A well-rounded all-season supercar
  • Faster and grippier than its predecessors
  • Very agile cornering and responsive braking

911 Turbo lowlights

  • Very expensive, entry-level and up
  • Questionable ride comfort
  • Loud road noise in the cabin

Key specifications

Body style: Coupé and convertible
Engines: petrol
Price: From £199,100 on-road

Launched: Spring 2020
Last updated: Autumn 2025
Replacement due: TBA

Porsche 911 Turbo S coupé – front
Porsche 911 Turbo S coupé
Porsche 911 Turbo S coupé – rear
Porsche 911 Turbo S coupé
Porsche 911 Turbo cabriolet front view | Expert Rating
Porsche 911 Turbo cabriolet
Porsche 911 Turbo cabriolet rear view | Expert Rating
Porsche 911 Turbo cabriolet

Media reviews

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

Featured reviews

“The 992.1 generation was the most advanced, capable, well-rounded and satisfying driver’s 911 Turbo for many years. It absolutely stood comparison with more exotic rivals with higher price points.”

Model reviewed: 992.1 Turbo S

Score: 9 / 10

Read full review
Evo

Stuart Gallagher, Ethan Jupp

“The new hybrid Porsche 911 Turbo S doesn’t have much to do with electromobility in the traditional sense. Instead, Porsche has used this platform to convince even the most die-hard petrolheads to get on board with EV tech. Although the Turbo S was already the ultimate Porsche, this new model is a whole lot better.”

Model reviewed: 992.2 Turbo S coupé

Score: 8 / 10

Read full review
Auto Express

Thomas Geiger

More reviews

Auto Express

Car

Daily Mirror

Honest John

The Sunday Times

The Telegraph

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

No safety rating

As of November 2025, the Porsche 911 range has not been crash tested by Euro NCAP.

Given that previous generations of 911 have never been tested, we’re not expecting this one to be put through the Euro NCAP programme, either.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of January 2025, the Porsche 911 Turbo has not been lab tested by Green NCAP. Due to its price and exclusivity, it is unlikely to have its emissions tested in the future.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

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

Fuel consumptionAverageScore
Petrol models24 mpgE
CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models278 g/kmE
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models50F
Service and maintenanceCostScore
Year 1£656E
Year 2£1,531E
Year 3£2,377E
Year 4£2,883E
Year 5£3,650E
Overall£11,097E

The Porsche 911 Turbo is, unsurprisingly, a very 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.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 80
Average repair cost: £1902.91
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 overall Porsche 911 family has a very poor reliability rating of 12%, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner MotorEasy. This applies to both the current 911 range, including the Turbo models, and previous generations.

Also worth noting is the very high average repair cost for 911 repairs, at nearly £2,000. In most categories, the average repair bills are significantly higher than normal, but the most notable is engine repairs, which is the most common problem area and also the most expensive. The average repair bill for faults with the famed Porsche flat-six engine was about £3,500.

If you own a Porsche 911 Turbo or are interested in buying a used 911, make sure that any used car warranty covers all these critical areas.

Warranty rating

New car warranty information for the Porsche 911 Turbo

Overall ratingD37%
New car warranty duration3 years
New car warranty mileageUnlimited miles
Battery warranty duration0 years
Battery warranty mileage0 miles

Porsche’s new car warranty is pretty basic, with a duration of three years and no limit on mileage. This is pretty much par for the course with most premium car brands, although some do better.

Warranty on a used Porsche 911 Turbo

  • If you are buying an ‘Approved Pre-Owned’ 911 Turbo from an official Porsche dealership, you will get a minimum two-year warranty included.
  • If you are buying a used Porsche 911 Turbo from an independent dealership, any warranty offered will vary and will probably be managed by a third-party warranty company.
  • If you are buying a used Porsche 911 Turbo from a private seller, there are no warranty protections beyond any remaining portion of the original new car warranty.

If you’re looking to buy any used car that is approaching the end of its warranty period, a used car warranty is usually a worthwhile investment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Porsche 911 Turbo

Date: March 2021
Recall number: R/2021/090
Model types: All 992-generation models
Build dates: 10/2020 to 01/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 166
Defect: Individual threaded connections at the vehicle’s suspension might not be tightened to the specification due to insufficiently cut thread of locknuts.
Remedy: The affected screw joints must be replaced with a new nut and bolt and tightened to the original specification.

As of September 2024 (our most recent data point), there has been one DVSA vehicle safety recall that may affect some 911 Turbo models.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in the above recall by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Porsche dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used 911 Turbo, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Porsche 911 Turbo has received

2025

  • Carwow Awards – Pleasure of Driving Award

2021

  • GQ Car Awards – Best Convertible (911 Turbo Cabriolet)
  • World Car Awards – Performance Car of the Year

2020

  • Top Gear Awards – Performance Car of the Year

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Porsche 911 Turbo, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Current models: Aston Martin Vantage | BMW M8 | Ferrari 296 | Ferrari Amalfi | Ferrari Roma Spider | Lotus Emira | Maserati Granturismo | McLaren Artura | McLaren GTS | Mercedes-AMG GT | Mercedes-AMG SL | MG Cyberster

Discontinued models: Aston Martin Vantage (2018 to 2024) | Audi R8 (2015 to 2024) | Ferrari F8 (2019 to 2023) | Ferrari Roma (2020 to 2025) | Jaguar F-Type (2013 to 2024) | Lexus LC (2017 to 2024) | Mercedes-AMG GT (2014 to 2023) | Nissan GT-R (2017 to 2023)

More news, reviews and information about the Porsche 911 family at The Car Expert

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Mazda updates MX-30 for 2022

Sean Rees
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Mazda updates MX-30 for 2022

The compact Mazda MX-30 SUV has had a minor update for the 2022 model year – the main highlight being enhanced charging performance.

New 2022 models of all-electric MX-30, which has been on sale since early 2021, have an improved charging system that can now accept a 50kW DC charge, a modest improvement on the previous maximum of 40kW. By comparison, the similarly priced Hyundai Kona Electric and the class-leading Kia e-Niro can charge at a faster rate, both accepting a 77kW DC charge.

With this charging upgrade, Mazda says that the MX-30 can charge from 20% to 80% battery in 26 minutes. The powertrain remains the same – a 35kWh battery that works in tandem with an electric motor to produce 145hp and an official battery range of 124 miles.

Mazda has also tweaked the engine soundtrack that the driver hears in the cabin so that they can better recognise how much throttle power they are producing when they press the accelerator pedal.

There are no exterior styling changes to note, but the 2022 Mazda MX-30 is available with a few new interior and exterior colour schemes, depending on the trim level you choose.

Key trim level features

Entry-level ‘Prime-Line’ (£28,550)

  • LED headlights
  • Nine-inch infotainment screen with Mazda’s navigation software and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Parking camera
  • Head-up display behind the steering wheel
  • Five single-tone exterior paint schemes

Mid-range ‘Exclusive-Line’ (£30,450)

  • All features in the ‘Prime-Line’ trim that have not been replaced
  • Leather interior accents
  • Electrically adjustable seats that are heated
  • Keyless entry
  • Three-tone exterior paint schemes

Top-spec ‘Makoto’ (£34,350)

  • All features in the ‘Prime-Line’ and ‘Exclusive-Line’ trims that have not been replaced
  • Upgraded speaker system
  • Heated steering wheel with brake regeneration paddles
  • Front wiper de-icer
  • Electric sunroof

The Mazda MX-30 has received generally average to good review scores so far, highlighted for its smart interior and exterior design. The compact SUV has also received widespread criticism for its electric battery range which is quite modest compared to rivals, although some comment that the MX-30’s smaller battery means lower energy use, and means that the car is fun to drive. It currently holds an Expert Rating of 61%.

The 2022 MX-30 range is now on sale in the UK, with prices starting from £28,550.

2022 Peugeot 308 range goes on sale in the UK

Sean Rees
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0
2022 Peugeot 308 range goes on sale in the UK

The Peugeot 308 hatchback and 308 SW estate car have now arrived on UK roads – including plug-in hybrid variants for the first time.

Although this new range is built on the same platform as the old second-generation 308, the 2022 range features broad design overhauls inside and out, as Peugeot attempts to target the private buyers and fleet customers of more upmarket brands.

Both the 308 hatchback and 308 SW estate can be specced with a 1.2-litre petrol engine or a 1.5-litre diesel engine, and the range also includes two plug-in hybrid powertrain options – which both use a 1.6-litre petrol engine connected to a 12kWh battery. Peugeot says that these plug-in hybrid models can travel a maximum of 37 miles on just electric power.

The brand also says that the cheaper ‘180’ plug-in hybrid model is eligible for a 8% Benefit-in-Kind tax rate, making it ideal for fleet customers.

All of these 308 options come fitted with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Peugeot 308 hatchback
Peugeot 308 SW estate

The new 308 range includes five trim levels. The all models are fitted with Peugeot’s ten-inch ‘i-Cockpit’ infotainment screen, while the Allure trim and up get customisable touchscreen buttons the brand calls ‘i-Toggles’, which allows the owner to set shortcuts for the car’s controls for ease of use.

Buyers that opt for the mid-range ‘Allure Premium’ trim will also get Peugeot’s Drive Assist Pack, which includes semi-autonomous driving technology that can automatically adapt the speed of the car around fast corners.

The hatchback model has 412 litres of boot space, while the boot of the longer estate model is significantly larger – at 608 litres. All models also come with 34 litres of storage space behind the centre console.

Key trim level features

Entry-level ‘Active Premium’ (from £25,270)

  • LED headlights
  • Peugeot’s ‘i-Cockpit’ ten-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Leather steering wheel
  • Two USB sockets
  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Automatic rear windscreen wiper that activates in reverse
  • Centre console armrest
  • Push button start-up
  • Lane keeping assistance
  • Cruise control and speed limiter
  • Traffic sign recognition

‘Allure’ (from £27,120)

  • All lower trim features that are not replaced
  • ‘Leather-effect’ upholstery
  • Chrome detailing on the exhaust
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • A frameless rearview mirror that can block harsh light
  • Peugeot’s navigation software with TomTom updates
  • Customisable ‘i-toggles’ control buttons on the infotainment screen
  • Ambient lighting on the door panels
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • 180-degree reversing camera

‘Allure Premium’ (from £28,020)

  • All lower trim features that are not replaced
  • Keyless entry
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Blind spot detection
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Wireless smartphone charging

‘GT’ (from £29,920)

  • All lower trim features that are not replaced
  • Matrix LED headlights
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Alcantara leather upholstery
  • A heated steering wheel
  • LED lighting in the glovebox
  • Chequered grille design

Range-topping ‘GT Premium’ (£31,520)

  • All lower trim features that are not replaced
  • Electrically-adjustable driver’s seat that is heated and has a massage function
  • Upgraded stereo system
  • Electric tailgate
  • 360-degree parking camera
  • semi-automated parking assistance

The Peugeot 308 has been winning awards even before its UK launch, as it has recently been awarded the accolade of Women’s World Car of the Year. Plenty of reviewers have got their hands on both the hatchback and estate model already too, and the Peugeot 308 currently holds an Expert Rating of 72%.

The 2022 range is available to purchase now from Peugeot’s UK dealerships and on the brand’s website, with prices for the 308 hatchback starting from £25,270, and £26,470 for the 308 SW estate.

New Range Rover Sport revealed

Andrew Charman
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New Range Rover Sport revealed

The third-generation Range Rover Sport has been unveiled, combining a minimalist design with a range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel and two plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.

Following the lead established by the all-new version of the flagship Range Rover, unveiled in October 2021, the new Range Rover Sport is built on the same platform. However, as with the sister model, you won’t be able to buy a fully electric version until 2024.

The plug-in hybrid models combine a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine with electric motors powered by 38kWh battery packs. The most powerful variant will offer 510hp and 700Nm of torque, sending it through 62mph from rest in 5.4 seconds.

Land Rover says that the plug-in Sport will have a real-world driving range of up to 460 miles and be able to travel up to 70 miles on electric power alone. Official CO2 emissions of 18g/km will make the model attractive to buyers subject to benefit-in-kind tax.

The 2022 Range Rover Sport is larger than its predecessor, with its wheelbase increased by 8cm and freeing up major gains in interior room, along with boot space enlarged by 55 litres.

The exterior visuals follow a minimalist theme of smooth panels, with flush-fitting door handles and at the front a narrow grille framed by LED headlamps that are the slimmest yet fitted to any Land Rover product.

Conventional powertrains will also continue with the new model, ranging across one petrol and a pair of diesel six-cylinder engines, all mild-hybrid, plus a 4.4-litre V8 petrol with 530hp.

Major updates to the Sport chassis see the standard-fit air suspension system now including switchable-volume air springs – fitted for the first time on a Land Rover, these vary the pressure of each spring for the best combination of comfort and performance. All-wheel steering is also part of the handling package.

A 14-inch digital display provides driver information while a 13-inch infotainment touchscreen is mounted atop the centre console and separate from it.

Dealers are now taking orders for the Range Rover Sport at prices starting from just over £79,000.

The outgoing Range Rover Sport generation has been on sale since 2013 – with a current Expert Rating of 73%, it has received particular praise for its ability to combine on-road and off-road performance, as well as comfort and luxury. On the other hand, it has been criticised for a high number of reliability problems.

DS 3 (2010 to 2019)

Sean Rees
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DS 3 (2010 to 2019)

Summary

No longer in production, the DS 3 was a compact three-door hatchback and cabriolet model manufactured by DS Automobiles – a spin-off brand owned by Citroën.

Originally launched in 2010 as the Citroën DS3, the supermini-sized hatchback was part of a three-car family that was shifted across to become part of the new DS Automobiles line-up when it became a standalone brand in 2016.

The DS 3 range included a number of petrol and diesel engine options, available with either a manual or automatic gearbox, and the line-up also included an uprated Performance model. Like the Fiat 500, the Citroën DS3 (and then the DS 3) was offered with an optional roll-back fabric roof to form a cabriolet version.

In its early years, the Citroën DS3 received many positive review scores from the UK motoring media, described by many as a fun and interesting alternative to the popular Mini hatch. However, by the time it morphed into the more highly chromed DS 3 in 2016, Auto Express found that it was “starting to feel its age” against newer (and cheaper) contenders in the small car sector.

Carbuyer highlighted its “style, fun-to-drive character and well-built interior”, while Evo noted that the car’s wide range of personalisation options makes it stand out in a very populated small car market.

Towards the end of its production life, the DS 3 fell behind rivals in terms of interior design, infotainment and rather dated safety technology standards – highlighted by its unimpressive three-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Parkers also argued that there were more practical options out there for the same price, as the DS 3 had a “laughably small” glovebox, and Carwow asserted that the hatchback had a boot opening that was too narrow and was is “too fidgety over poor road surfaces”.

Now replaced in the DS Automobiles line-up by the larger DS 3 Crossback, the DS 3 holds a Used Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of 53%. It gets good grades for its low running costs, but reliability has been sub-par and its safety rating has long expired.

DS 3 highlights

  • Distinctive exterior design
  • Early models very competitive against rivals
  • Agile handling
  • Punchy and economical engines
  • Plenty of personalisation options

DS 3 lowlights

  • DS 3 was no great improvement over original Citroën DS3
  • Not as practical as other superminis
  • Bumpy ride on poor roads
  • Dated interior and infotainment
  • Three-star crash test rating

Key specifications

Body style: Three-door hatchback and cabrio
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £13,295 on-road

Launched: Summer 2010
Last updated: Spring 2018
Replaced: Summer 2019

Citroen DS3 (2010 - 2016) front view | Expert Rating
Citroën DS3 (2010 – 2016)
Citroen DS3 (2010 - 2016) rear view | Expert Rating
Citroën DS3 (2010 – 2016)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) Performance front view | Expert Rating
DS 3 Performance (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) Performance rear view | Expert Rating
DS 3 Performance (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) cabrio front view | Expert Rating
DS 3 Cabrio (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) cabrio rear view | Expert Rating
DS 3 Cabrio (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) hatchback front view | Expert Rating
DS 3 hatchback (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) hatchback rear view | Expert Rating
DS 3 hatchback (2016 – 2019)
DS 3 (2016 - 2019) interior view | Expert Rating
DS 3 (2016 – 2019)

Media reviews

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Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 3 stars
Date tested: January 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 69%
Child protection: 37%
Vulnerable road users: 55%
Safety assist: 29%

Notes on safety rating

The DS 3 was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and achieved some below-average scores as part of its overall three-star safety rating. While its adult protection score was decent, its child occupant protection was quite poor, and its safety assistance score of 29% reflects that the car did not come with much technology to help avoid a crash in the first place.

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 DS 3 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 DS 3 was not assessed by Green NCAP. Its production life cycle almost completely pre-dated Green NCAP’s existence.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 154
Average repair cost: £391.72
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

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

With an overall reliability score of 61% based on extended warranty repair costs, MotorEasy warranty data shows that the DS 3 is about average when it comes to reliability. This score only accounts for the later DS 3, rather than the original Citroën DS3 model.

The most expensive bills to date have come from engine repairs, with an average repair cost of more than £900. They’re also one of the most common problems on the DS 3. This is worth keeping in mind if you are looking at a used DS 3, or already own one.

Awards

Significant UK trophies and awards that the DS 3 and Citroën DS3 have received

2017

  • Diesel Car Magazine – Best Small Second-Hand Buy

2016

  • Diesel Car Magazine – Used Car of the Year + Best Small Second-Hand Buy

2011

  • Fleet World Awards – Best Design
  • Top Gear Awards – Small Car of the Year

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the DS 3, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Alfa Romeo Mito | Audi A1 | Citroën C3 | Ford Fiesta | Mazda 2 | Mini hatch | Peugeot 208 | Renault Clio | SEAT Ibiza | Skoda Fabia | Suzuki Swift | Toyota Yaris | Vauxhall Corsa | Volkswagen Polo

More news, reviews and information about the DS 3 at The Car Expert

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The 10 worst new cars on sale in 2024

Facelifted DS 3 discards Crossback branding

Facelifted DS 3 discards Crossback branding

DS 3 E-Tense

DS 3 E-Tense

DS 3

DS 3

Limited Edition DS 3 Black Lézard

Limited Edition DS 3 Black Lézard

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Zero-star Fiat shows the progress of safety standards

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New finance offers across DS model range

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New Connected Chic trim level for DS 3

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DS adds Performance Line for sporty drivers

DS 3 review

DS 3 review

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Peugeot 308

Sean Rees
-
0
Peugeot 308

Summary

Now in its third generation, the Peugeot 308 is a mid-sized family hatchback and estate car. It was unveiled in late 2021 before arriving in the UK in early 2022.

Challenging mainstream rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Toyota Corolla, the Peugeot 308 is structurally identical to the latest iteration of the DS 4 and is available as a petrol or plug-in hybrid model (there was also a diesel, which was discontinued). A battery-powered version, the E-308, is not included here – we have a separate page for that car.

With sharper exterior styling and an upmarket interior trim fitted with Peugeot’s latest on-board tech features and infotainment, the third-generation 308 has received a positive reception from the UK media since its arrival in early 2022 – Business Car describes the new-look 308 as “a vast improvement over its predecessor”, while Auto Express calls it an “accomplished all-rounder with its sights set firmly on the best cars in this class”.

Reviewers often highlight the Peugeot 308 for its wide range of efficient engines and its comfortable and refined cabin. Auto Trader adds that a new 308 is a durable choice as well as a sensible one – thanks to the brand’s “strong reputation for reliability”.

Rivals offer more cabin space and better handling, with cars like the Ford Focus and SEAT Leon offering more driver appeal and more practicality in the rear. Car magazine also warns that Peugeot’s unique dashboard design “looks fab but can be a stressfest to use day-to-day”. Many UK publications are also not too impressed by the 308’s pricing – explaining that top-spec models don’t offer enough value-for-money – particularly the range-topping plug-in hybrid model.

A facelifted 308 range is expected to hit UK roads by the end of 2025 or early 2026, which will offer some light styling changes and tech upgrades.

As of September 2025, the Peugeot 308 holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 67%. It scores top marks for its low running costs and CO2 emissions, but its safety score is only average and the 308’s reliability has historically been no better than average. On top of that, Peugeot’s new car warranty offering is poor.

Peugeot 308 highlights

  • Low running costs
  • Comfortable cabin
  • Agile handling
  • Plenty of on-board tech as standard
  • Intuitive infotainment

Peugeot 308 lowlights

  • Rear seats rather cramped
  • Rivals have more driver appeal
  • i-Cockpit dashboard not universally popular
  • Top-spec models get expensive

Key specifications

Body style: Medium hatchback and estate car
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £28,050 on-road

Launched: Winter 2021/22
Last updated: N/A
Replacement due: TBA

Peugeot 308 (2022 - present) front view | Expert Rating
Peugeot 308 hatchback
Peugeot 308 (2022 - present) rear view | Expert Rating
Peugeot 308 hatchback
Peugeot 308 SW (2022 - present) front view | Expert Rating
Peugeot 308 SW estate
Peugeot 308 SW (2022 - present) rear view | Expert Rating
Peugeot 308 SW estate
Peugeot 308 (2022 - present) interior view | Expert Rating

Media reviews

Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express

Auto Trader

Business Car

Car

Carbuyer

Carwow

Company Car Today

Driving Electric

Electrifying.com

Evo

Heycar

Honest John

Parkers

The Telegraph

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 4 stars
Date tested: May 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 76%
Child protection: 84%
Vulnerable road users: 68%
Safety assist: 65%

The Peugeot 308 has been given a four-star rating from Euro NCAP – the estate variant was the model crash tested but the safety body says that this rating applies to the hatchback variant too.

Shy of a full five-star rating, Euro NCAP comments that the 308 has “plenty of crash avoidance technology, but does not have some of the latest advancements introduced in the market”, and that the car was not “equipped with a centre airbag for far-side crash protection, a countermeasure which is increasingly common on modern cars”.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

Model tested: 308 1.2-litre Petrol

Overall score: 2 stars
Date tested: July 2022
Read the full Green NCAP review

Clean Air Index: 3.8 / 10
Energy Efficiency Index: 4.7 / 10
Greenhouse Gas Index: 3.2 / 10

The 1.2-litre petrol version of the Peugeot 308 hatchback was tested by Green NCAP in Summer 2022, receiving a two star rating – a score that is common for combustion-powered models. This rating thus only applies to the petrol-powered 308, not diesel or plug-in hybrid variants.

“Like other smaller petrol engines, the three-cylinder power unit gets in trouble under constant high load where it emits very high amounts of carbon monoxide”, testers commented.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

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

CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models130 g/kmB
Diesel models128 g/kmB
Plug-in hybrid models29 g/kmA
Battery rangeAverageScoreVariationScore
Plug-in hybrid models35 milesE
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models27C
Service and maintenanceCostScore
Year 1£180B
Year 2£501B
Year 3£774B
Year 4£969B
Year 5£1,288B
Overall£3,712B

The Peugeot 308 has very low running costs, according to data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, Clear Vehicle Data. We don’t have fuel consumption data, but CO2 emissions are very low which suggests that fuel consumption will be similarly competitive.

Insurance costs are only average, but scheduled servicing and maintenance costs are good.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 285
Average repair cost: £429.33
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 Peugeot 308 is only average when it comes to reliability with a score of 60%, according to extended warranty data provided by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This covers both the current (2022 onwards) model and earlier generations.

The average repair cost is also about average at about £430.

The most common problems reported for the Peugeot 308 refer to the car’s engine, and unfortunately they are also the most expensive with an average repair bill of about £650.

Make sure that any used car warranty you are purchasing covers all of these potential problem areas.

Warranty rating

New car warranty information for the Peugeot 308

Overall ratingD31%
Petrol or diesel modelsE17%
Electric or hybrid modelsC56%
New car warranty duration3 years
New car warranty mileage60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration8 years
Battery warranty mileage100,000 miles

Peugeot’s new car warranty is pretty much the bare minimum offered in the UK, with a duration of three years and a limit of 60,000 miles. Other rivals in the price bracket do better (and in some cases, much better).

In addition to the standard new car warranty, hybrid versions of the 308 have an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.

Warranty on a used Peugeot 308

  • If you are purchasing an ‘Approved Used’ 308 from an official Peugeot dealership, you will get a minimum six-month warranty included.
  • If you are buying a used 308 from an independent dealership, any warranty offered will vary and will probably be managed by a third-party warranty company.
  • If you are buying a used 308 from a private seller, there are no warranty protections beyond any remaining portion of the original new car warranty.

If you’re looking to buy a used car that is approaching the end of its warranty period, a used car warranty is usually a worthwhile investment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Peugeot 308

Date: May 2024
Recall number: R/2024/237
Model types: All
Build dates: 06/2022 to 06/2023
Number of vehicles affected: 2
Defect: On affected vehicles equipped with E-call, the device may not function when trying to connect to E-Call (emergency call) and B-Call (breakdown call) due to incorrect BSRF (on-board radio communication transmitter) configuration and, as a result, does not comply with regulatory requirements.
Remedy: Check and replace the radio frequency connectivity box.

As of September 2024 (our most recent data point), there has been one DVSA vehicle recall on the current-generation Peugeot 308 – and that only affected two cars.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Peugeot dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used 308, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Peugeot 308 has received

2023

  • EcoCar Electrified Top 50 – Best Plug-In Hybrid Medium Estate Car

2022

  • Red Dot Awards – Best Design Award
  • Women’s World Car of the Year Awards – Car of the Year + Best Urban Model

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Peugeot 308, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Current models: Audi A3 | BMW 1 Series | Citroën C4 | DS Nº4 | Ford Focus | Honda Civic | Hyundai i30 | Kia Ceed | Mazda 3 | Mercedes-Benz A-Class | SEAT Leon | Skoda Scala | Skoda Octavia | Suzuki Swace | Toyota Corolla | Vauxhall Astra | Volkswagen Golf

Discontinued models: Alfa Romeo Giulietta (2010 to 2021) | Citroën C4 Cactus (2014 to 2021) | DS 4 (2021 to 2025) | Fiat Tipo (2016 to 2024) | Mini Clubman (2015 to 2024) | Renault Megane (2026 to 2022) 

More news, reviews and information about the Peugeot 308 at The Car Expert

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Electric car grant – all the EVs with discounts in 2026

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Everything you need to know about Peugeot

Peugeot E-308

Peugeot E-308

Electric Peugeot e-308 hatchback now on sale

Electric Peugeot e-308 hatchback now on sale

All-electric Peugeot e-308 to arrive in 2023

All-electric Peugeot e-308 to arrive in 2023

Top marks for four brands in latest Euro NCAP tests

Top marks for four brands in latest Euro NCAP tests

2022 Peugeot 308 range goes on sale in the UK

2022 Peugeot 308 range goes on sale in the UK

New Peugeot 308 SW includes PHEV flagship

New Peugeot 308 SW includes PHEV flagship

Updated Peugeot 308 revealed

Updated Peugeot 308 revealed

Britain’s best-selling cars, April 2020

Britain’s best-selling cars, April 2020

Peugeot 308 (2014 to 2021)

Peugeot 308 (2014 to 2021)

Peugeot 308 GTi review

Peugeot 308 GTi review

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Morgan Plus Six

Sean Rees
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0
Morgan Plus Six

Summary

First arriving on UK roads in 2019, the Morgan Plus Six is a luxury roadster, and the first turbocharged model that the Morgan Motor Company has ever produced.

Described by Evo as a “British brute with BMW power”, the Plus Six derives its name from its 335hp six-cylinder engine that is also used by the likes of the BMW Z4 and Toyota GR Supra. This powerful unit, combined with the car’s lightweight frame, means that this flagship Morgan model can complete a 0-62mph sprint time in 4.2 seconds.

“This is a seriously rapid car”, Auto Express explains, adding that the Plus Six has “decent body control, light but accurate power steering, fine brakes and surprisingly excellent traction”.

That said, Evo says that the lack of driver aids means that you probably shouldn’t investigate its top speed of 165mph – “the rears can, and do, spin up easily if your throttle inputs lack subtlety”. It also asserts that the Plus Six has “truly hopeless” seats that are not “shapely enough to hold you in place during the car’s wild cornering antics.”

While a few reviewers point to the fact there are more practical sports car options for the Morgan’s steep price tag, many enthusiast-focused titles give the Plus Six glowing reviews due to its potential as a weekend track toy. As Top Gear concludes, “This is a genuinely modern Morgan; a wild and wonderful sports car that’s more liveable than any of its forebears.”

As of March 2026, the Morgan Plus Six holds a New Car Expert Rating of C with a score of 59%.

Plus Six highlights

  • Seriously quick
  • Very unique styling
  • Sharp handling and body control
  • Exciting engine soundtrack

Plus Six lowlights

  • Very expensive
  • Other upmarket sports cars are more practical
  • Seats are not very supportive
  • Rather rigid ride comfort

Key specifications

Body style: Two-seat roadster
Engines: petrol
Price: From £84,995 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2019
Last updated: Summer 2021
Replacement due: TBA

Morgan Plus Six coupé and roadster | Expert Rating
Morgan Plus Six coupé and roadster
Morgan Plus Six coupé front view | Expert Rating
Morgan Plus Six coupé
Morgan Plus Six coupé rear view | Expert Rating
Morgan Plus Six coupé
Morgan Plus Six roadster front view | Expert Rating
Morgan Plus Six roadster
Morgan Plus Six interior view | Expert Rating

Media reviews

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

Auto Express

Car

Daily Mirror

Evo

Heycar

Honest John

Motoring Research

The Telegraph

Top Gear

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

No safety rating

As of March 2026, the Morgan Plus Six has not been crash tested by Euro NCAP. Due to its price and exclusivity, it is unlikely to be crash tested in the future.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of March 2026, the Morgan Plus Six has not been lab tested by Green NCAP. Due to its price and exclusivity, it is unlikely to have its emissions tested.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

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 Morgan Plus Six 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 Plus Six, we’ll publish the results here.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

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

CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models180 g/kmD
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models50F

The Morgan Plus Six is a pretty rare sight on UK roads, and therefore we have little running cost data to display at the moment. However, we do know that its insurance premiums are predicted to be in the most expensive bracket.

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Morgan Plus Six, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Alpine A110 | Audi TT | BMW Z4 | Caterham Seven 620 | Ford Mustang | Jaguar F-Type | Lotus Elise | Morgan Plus Four | Porsche 718 Cayman | Toyota GR Supra

Although there are luxury sports cars available at around the same price, there is almost nothing that can be directly compared to the Morgan Plus Six, apart from the less-powerful Plus Four, thanks to the car’s unique body composition and unparalleled retro exterior design.

Buy a Morgan Plus Six

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Tyre pressure: what you need to know

Sean Rees
-
0
Tyre pressure: what you need to know

Whether you have just got home from a long day at work or the school run, or you are getting the caravan ready for a long weekend away, checking your car’s tyre pressure is likely to be the last thing on your mind.

However, making sure you have the correct tyre pressure is very important for safety, as well as providing your car with the best combination of performance and fuel economy. Keeping tabs on tyre pressure can also extend the life of your tyres, saving you the potential cost of replacing them.

In this article, we explain when and how to check your tyre pressure, how to find out what the correct tyre pressure reading should be for your car, as well as the drawbacks of driving with under-inflated or over-inflated tyres.

How to check what the correct tyre pressure reading should be for your car

More often than not, the owner’s manual will tell you what your tyre pressure should be – it will give you a figure in pounds per square inch (PSI). Most manufacturers recommend a tyre pressure of 32 to 35 PSI for the average passenger car.

The manual may also give you the recommended pressure reading in a BAR figure. If so, you can use this handy converter from Which? to get a PSI figure from the listed BAR recommendation.

If you can’t find the car’s manual, some passenger cars have tyre pressure information markings in the driver’s door pillar or inside the petrol flap. Still no luck? Not to worry – type your registration number into Kwik-Fit’s free tyre pressure search tool to get accurate tyre pressure recommendations for a number of different tyre sizes.

You can also contact the customer services team of your chosen car manufacturer to find out the correct tyre pressure for your car. For this, you will need the size of the tyres fitted to your car, which is marked on the sidewalls of your tyres, and your car’s registration number.

Please also note that if you are travelling with heavy luggage in the rear, or towing a trailer or caravan, it is wise to slightly increase the pressure in your rear tyres to avoid oversteer.

When and how often should you inspect your tyres

Recommended tyre pressure figures always refer to ‘cold’ tyres that haven’t been on the move for a few hours. Driving around town causes your tyres to heat up, which increases the pressure in your tyres, so checking your tyre pressure just after driving will give you a false reading.

Therefore, if you are driving to a garage or petrol station to inspect your tyres, it is best to choose a location that is only a short drive away.

Tyre manufacturers generally recommend that you check your tyre pressure on a monthly basis, as passenger cars typically lose around one PSI of pressure every month through natural causes, and even more in the winter months.

How to check your tyre pressure

Once you have found your recommended PSI reading, you are ready to check your tyre pressure.

Checking tyre pressure at a petrol station

Most petrol station forecourts have their own pressure gauge and air pump that you can use for a small fee. Some of these tyre pump machines allow you to pay with coins, and others require a token purchased from the petrol station counter.

It usually costs about 50p to use the pump for four minutes, which should give you enough time to check all four tyres. When safely parked in front of the machine:

  1. Find the valve caps on each of your tyres, which jut out between the spokes of the alloys, and remove them (but keep them safe!)
  2. Insert the payment or required token, and then select the tyre pressure in PSI you would like using the +/- buttons on the air pump
  3. Connect the pump’s air hose to the tyre valve where the valve cap used to sit, and the machine should then show you a current pressure reading for the tyre.
  4. The pump will then inflate or deflate the tyre to match your chosen PSI value, and will start beeping when it is done.
  5. Repeat these steps for the other three tyres
  6. Remember to screw the tyre valve caps back on before you set off

In some cases there will be a PSI reading marked on the tyre, but do not mistake this figure as the recommended tyre pressure for your car – this is usually the maximum pressure that the tyre can take before popping.

Checking tyre pressure at home

If you prefer to check your tyres at home, you will need a reliable pressure gauge, a screwdriver and tyre pump or air compressor. You can pick up a pressure gauge for around £10, while a quality tyre pump usually costs between £15 to £30. With your recommend PSI pressure reading in mind:

  1. Remove the valve cap from one tyre
  2. Press the pressure gauge onto the tyre valve until the hissing sound stops and the gauge gives you a reading
  3. If the tyre is over-inflated, press the small metal pin inside the valve with a screwdriver to let air out of the tyre
  4. If the tyre is underinflated, press the tyre pump or air compressor hose onto the valve and fill the tyre with air
  5. Check the tyre once again with the pressure gauge to see if you have the correct tyre pressure
  6. Repeat these steps for the other three tyres
  7. Remember to screw the tyre valve caps back on

Alternatively, you can take your car to a garage to ask a mechanic to check your tyre pressure – some garage chains, like Kwikfit, offer tyre pressure checks free of charge.

As well as the tyres you have fitted, remember to check the pressure of your spare tyre every once in a while – you never know when you might need it.

The benefits of having the correct tyre pressure

It will usually cost you 50p at most if you are checking your tyre pressure monthly at the petrol station, but that will save you £s every month at the petrol pumps – breakdown cover provider RAC asserts that driving with correctly-inflated tyres can improve your mileage per tank by up to 3%.

Getting your tyre pressure right will improve how quickly you can brake and how accurate your car is when steering. Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure can also greatly extend the lifespan of your tyres, and for the eco-conscious among us, it is better for the environment.

As properly-inflated tyres also help to reduce punctures, cuts and tire failures, checking your tyre pressure on a regular basis can make your car safer to drive, as you will read below…

The drawbacks and dangers of under-inflated tyres

It may seem more comfortable to drive with low-pressure tyres, but an under-inflated tyre is too flexible, which makes it uncontrollable. The centre of a low-pressure tyre does not make as much contact with the road as the outside edges, meaning at the edges of your tyre wear out faster, reducing the lifespan of your tyre and making your car more prone to breakdowns and road accidents.

Tyre manufacturer Michelin says that a difference of just seven PSI under or over your car’s recommended tyre pressure figure can reduce the life of your tyres by nearly 5,000 miles, and that tyres 14 PSI under the recommendation have an increased braking distance of 11 metres on wet roads.

Underinflated tyres are also prone to overheating, and make your car vulnerable to aquaplaning and other steering problems, which can cause you to start skidding or even spinning on wet surfaces due to a loss of control.

Driving a car with a heavy load while the tyres are under-inflated can also cause the sidewalls of the tyres to bulge and swell under the weight, leading to increased wear and tear, and making sudden tyre blowouts more likely.

The drawbacks and dangers of over-inflated tyres

If your tyres are over-inflated, the centre of the tyre makes more contact with the road than the edges, meaning that the centre of the tyre wears out faster.

This means that you will have to pay for new tyres to pass your MOT more often, as the lifespan of your tyres will be greatly decreased. Tyres with too much pressure also often cause a loss of traction with the road, increasing your stopping distances and making your car more prone to potential collisions.

And of course, the more inflated your tyre is, the more prone it is to rupture in high stress braking scenarios.

Read more:

Longer Bentley Bentayga to become brand flagship

Andrew Charman
-
0
Longer Bentley Bentayga to become brand flagship

Bentley has announced a stretched version of the Bentayga SUV, which will replace the Mulsanne saloon as the luxury brand’s flagship model.

The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase is almost 20cm longer than the standard version, the extra length placed entirely between the wheels and extending the rear cabin and doors by the same amount. For the first time power-closing can be specified for the rear doors.

According to its designers the extended SUV, which measures up at some 5.3 metres in length with a 3.2-metre wheelbase, is much more than just a stretched model. A “nine-figure investment” has been made to provide the best rear-seat travel experience in a Bentley since the Mulsanne, which ceased production in 2020.

Central to this is the new Airline Seat, claimed to be the most advanced seat ever fitted in a car. As well as 22 different forms of adjustment, the seats also feature ‘auto climate technology’ – this measures the temperature and humidity of an occupant and then applies heat, ventilation or both to keep them at the optimum temperature.

Meanwhile a ‘postural adjustment system’ automatically sets the seat based on the occupant’s pressure on it, making up to 177 individual changes across six pressure zones over a three-hour period. Bentley says this improves comfort and reduces fatigue during journeys.

Other luxury details in the car will include the first application of Bentley Diamond Illumination, which employs 12 LED lights in each front door and 22 in each rear door, shining through 1mm perforations in the leather trim.

Initially the Extended Wheelbase model will be available with a 4,0-litre 550hp V8 engine. Bentley claims it will offer driving dynamics comparable to a standard V8 model, helped by active suspension and a rear-steering system first seen in the Bentley Flying Spur.

First deliveries of the Bentayga Extended Wheelbase are set for the end of 2022 at prices yet to be announced. The stretched variant is expected to take almost half of all Bentayga sales, which is already the brand’s most popular model and accounts for one in three of all Bentleys sold.

Hyundai Ioniq (2016 to 2022)

Sean Rees
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Hyundai Ioniq (2016 to 2022)

Summary

The Hyundai Ioniq was a mid-sized five-door saloon and the Korean brand’s first attempt at building a car from the ground up. This Expert Rating covers the hybrid versions (regular and plug-in) of the Ioniq, while the Hyundai Ioniq Electric is covered on a separate page.

When the Ioniq first arrived in the UK in 2016, it was the manufacturer’s most fuel efficient model. UK reviews generally said that this fuel economy the saloon’s biggest strength. Carbuyer commended the Ioniq for its “super-low running costs”, while Auto Trader highlighted its “long warranty and genuine ease of ownership”.

The Telegraph added that the Ioniq’s “aggressive pricing” undercut its main rivals, including the more widespread Toyota Prius.

However, Carwow commented that the Ioniq did not match the Prius in the practicality department, and said that, while the Ioniq was “just about big enough for small families, it doesn’t look as stylish or feel quite as upmarket inside as alternatives.”

Despite its drawbacks, Which? concluded that the saloon “looks smart without being boring and it excels around town”, and was a good value-for-money proposition for buyers looking to switch from diesel to hybrid power motoring.

The name ‘Ioniq’ is now going to be used as a sub-brand, applied to all of Hyundai’s new range of dedicated electric vehicles (the first of which is the Ioniq 5), which means this particular model will probably not be succeeded by a new generation. Along with its electric counterpart, the Ioniq ended production in Summer 2022.

No longer on sale, the Hyundai Ioniq holds a Used Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 72%. That’s the same score as the Ioniq Electric, but just a couple of points behind.

Ioniq highlights

  • Economical powertrains
  • Comfortable ride
  • Affordably priced
  • Well-equipped as standard

Ioniq lowlights

  • Rather cramped rear seating
  • Alternatives have more boot space
  • Noisy petrol engine
  • Pretty cheap interior design

Key specifications

Body style: Mid-size saloon
Engines: petrol-electric hybrid, plug-in hybrid
Price when new: From £24,405 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2016
Last updated: Summer 2019
Discontinued: Summer 2022

Hyundai Ioniq interior view | Expert Rating
Hyundai Ioniq front view | Expert Rating
Hyundai Ioniq rear view | Expert Rating

Media reviews

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

Featured reviews

“The Ioniq provides the Toyota Prius with a serious rival. It’s cheaper to buy, comes with plenty of equipment, and offers performance and dynamics directly comparable to its Japanese competitor.”

Score: 7 / 10

Read full review
The Car Expert

Andrew Charman

“Incremental improvements make the Hyundai Ioniq a more convincing proposition than before, but whether it does enough to topple the all-conquering Toyota Prius remains to be seen. It’s not as sharp to drive, nor is it as comfortable, but the interior feels better laid out and the infotainment set-up is streaks ahead.”

Model reviewed: 1.6 GDi Hybrid Premium DCT

Score: 7 / 10

Read full review
Auto Express

Richard Ingram

More reviews

Auto Express

Auto Trader

Carbuyer

Carwow

Company Car Today

Evo

Fleetworld

Heycar

The Telegraph

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2016
Date expired: January 2023
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 91%
Child protection: 80%
Vulnerable road users: 70%
Safety assist: 82%

Notes on safety rating

The Hyundai Ioniq was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2016 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2023 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 Ioniq 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 hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Hyundai Ioniq were not lab tested by Green NCAP during their production lives. The Ioniq Electric was tested, but its scores are not representative of the hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions.

Reliability rating

MotorEasy logo 600x167

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 Hyundai Ioniq 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 Ioniq, we’ll publish the results here.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

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

Fuel consumptionAverageScore
Hybrid models62 mpgA
Plug-in hybrid models257 mpgA
CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Hybrid models103 g/kmA
Plug-in hybrid models26 g/kmA
Battery rangeAverageScoreVariationScore
Plug-in hybrid models39 milesE
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models12A

The Hyundai Ioniq 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.

Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are very good, although the official numbers for the plug-in hybrid models are ridiculous because the UK/EU government lab tests are hopelessly inadequate for assessing plug-in hybrid vehicles. The same applies to every other plug-in hybrid car on the market, rather than being specific to the Hyundai Ioniq.

Insurance costs should also be very competitive, although it should be noted that we don’t have data for servicing and maintenance costs.

Finally, the battery range for the plug-in hybrid might show a poor score, but that’s pretty normal for a plug-in hybrid when compared to a fully electric car with a much larger battery.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Hyundai Ioniq has received

2019

  • Carbuyer Awards – Best Hybrid
  • Company Car Today Awards – Best Plug-In Hybrid

2017

  • BusinessCar Awards – Best Green Technology
  • Fleet News Awards – Best Plug-in Hybrid
  • Women’s World Car of the Year Awards – Supreme Award

2016

  • Next Green Car Awards – Car of the Year + Best Road-Tax-Exempt Car
  • Scottish Car of the Year Awards – Best Eco-friendly Car

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Hyundai Ioniq, you might also be interested in these alternatives

BMW 3 Series | Ford Kuga | Kia Niro | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Nissan Leaf | Peugeot 508 | Renault Megane | SEAT Leon | Skoda Octavia | Toyota Prius | Toyota Prius Plug-in | Vauxhall Astra | Volkswagen Golf | Volkswagen Passat | Volvo S60

More news, reviews and information about the Hyundai Ioniq range at The Car Expert

Everything you need to know about Hyundai

Everything you need to know about Hyundai

Hyundai Ioniq Electric (2016 to 2022)

Hyundai Ioniq Electric (2016 to 2022)

Hyundai Ioniq Electric test drive

Hyundai Ioniq Electric test drive

Hyundai Ioniq upgrades extend electric range

Hyundai Ioniq upgrades extend electric range

Toyota dominates list of best-value hybrids

Toyota dominates list of best-value hybrids

Hyundai expands scrappage offering

Hyundai expands scrappage offering

Hyundai Ioniq hybrid review

Hyundai Ioniq hybrid review

Hyundai announces scrappage and emissions offers

Hyundai announces scrappage and emissions offers

Plug-in hybrid completes Ioniq trio

Plug-in hybrid completes Ioniq trio

Crash testers name their best-performing cars of 2016

Crash testers name their best-performing cars of 2016

Hyundai prices Ioniq electric trio from £20K

Hyundai prices Ioniq electric trio from £20K

Buy a Hyundai Ioniq

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

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