The Mini John Cooper Works Aceman is a range-topping performance-enhanced variant of the all-electric Aceman SUV, and part of Mini’s latest tuned-up JCW range, which also includes the JCW Electric hatch.
First arriving on UK roads in Spring 2025, the JCW Aceman has collected a rather mixed bag of review scores, ranging from excellent to below average. Green Car Guide’s Paul Clarke is the Mini’s biggest advocate among the British motoring media, arguing that this high-spec Aceman model is the “optimum size for a Mini and offers a fun driving experience.”
Other outlets haven’t been as kind. “We were not blown away by the regular Mini Aceman” notes Car’s Alan Taylor-Jones, “and we find this one even harder to recommend.” He adds that the SUV creates way too much “torquesteer” – which causes the car to pull to one side or cause the steering wheel to tug during heavy acceleration – and says that the Mini has a “uncompromising ride” quality.
Reviewers are also split on the car’s value-for-money credentials, as it is on the cheaper side when compared to other performance-enhanced SUVs, but it costs £8k more than the standard Aceman.
What reviewers can agree on, is the high-quality interior. “The JCW Aceman’s cabin remains a fantastic place to sit”, comments Alex Ingram of Auto Express. “In terms of finish and sense of occasion, the it’s hard to knock.”
As of January 2026, the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 73%. Beyond this car’s mixed set of review scores, this overall rating is bolstered by solid five-star Euro NCAP safety credentials and affordable running cost estimations.
Body style: Medium SUV/crossover Engines:electric, battery-powered Price:From £37,060
Launched: Spring 2025 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“If you don’t need a jacked up crossover, Alpine’s A290 is currently our favourite electric hatch, even if it’s a warm rather than truly hot one. You can buy the 217bhp A290 GT Performance for a grand less than the Mini Aceman JCW.”
Score: 7 / 10 “Fun isn’t hard to come by in the Mini Aceman John Cooper Works, but neither are the flaws. The rapid powertrain rarely fails to throw up a giggle, but sharp steering only manages to inject a veneer of agility over what is a very heavy and numb car for its size. The ride is too firm, and the interior space isn’t great for those in the back, but those up front are treated to a cabin that feels more special than its rivals.” Author: Alex Ingram Read review
Business Car
Score: 7 / 10 “If your heart is sold on a Mini Cooper JCW Electric, but you need a bit more space and practicality, the Aceman JCW is one of the most capable, and fun-to-drive crossovers on-sale – as long as its shortcomings can be lived with.” Author: Martyn Collins Read review
Car
Score: 4 / 10 “We were not blown away by the regular Mini Aceman, and we find this one even harder to recommend. The extra pace creates way too much torquesteer compared to the already brisk regular Aceman SE, and it’s not like the JCW is loads more fun despite the uncompromising ride.” Author: Alan Taylor-Jones Read review
Green Car Guide
Score: 9 / 10 “As well as sportier looks than the standard model, with more power and a faster 0-62 mph time, there’s more performance in the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman, and there’s also tighter body control. However this results in firmer ride quality, which means that tt doesn’t have the most comfortable ride quality on poor road surfaces. The electric driving range is also reduced, and the maximum charging speed of 95 kW could be better.” Author: Paul Clarke Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the JCW Aceman is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
243 miles
B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
4.3 m/KWh
B
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
29
C
The Mini John Cooper Works Aceman is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
This JCW variant of the Aceman can muster an average of 243 miles on a single charge, which is competitive in the medium electric SUV class, delivering around 30 miles more than the entry-level Aceman on a single charge. That said, there are cheaper alternatives (albeit without as much pace and acceleration) that can go further without recharging.
The SUV’s electrical efficiency (the electric car equivalent of miles per gallon) of 4.3 m/KWh is higher the average electric car. The car’s predicted insurance premiums are a little higher than the average car too, which is on the cheaper side when compared to other performance SUVs.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman 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 JCW Aceman, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman
Overall rating
D
31%
Petrol or diesel models
E
17%
Electric or hybrid models
C
56%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Mini’s new car warranty is the industry average – basically the minimum coverage that manufacturers must offer in the UK by law.
The duration is three years, with a limit of 60,000 miles. In addition to the standard new car warranty, this electric SUV has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used Mini John Cooper Works Aceman
As of January 2026, all Mini Acemans will still be covered by their new car warranty. The first cars hit UK roads in late Spring 2025, meaning that they’ll still be under warranty until late 2027.
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 Mini John Cooper Works Aceman
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Mini John Cooper Works Aceman. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Mini dealer.
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Lease a Mini John Cooper Works Aceman
If you’re looking to lease a new Mini John Cooper Works Aceman, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
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Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to a Mini John Cooper Works Aceman
Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
The Suzuki e Vitara is a small electric crossover, and Suzuki’s first battery-powered model to launch in the UK.
Built on the same foundations as the similar Toyota Urban Cruiser, the five-door e Vitara is now in production at Suzuki’s factory in India, and has been given a lukewarm reception by the British motoring media so far, while review coverage is currently limited at the time of writing.
“The e Vitara is good to drive – it’s neat and tidy out on the road, with great feeling steering”, says Parker’s Jake Groves, adding that the SUV’s all-wheel drive (not standard) off-roading ability is rather unique in a very competitive electric SUV class.
The Carwow team adds that the e Vitara is well-equipped as standard, alongside the car’s competitive price tag, but that “alternatives are more practical and go further on a charge.”
As of February 2026, the Suzuki e Vitara holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 70%. It scores top marks for its low running costs and zero tailpipe emissions, while its safety rating is also good. But Suzuki’s new car warranty offer is only average, while the media review scores are very poor.
Rivals are more practical and have more boot space
Some cheap interior materials
Key specifications
Body style: Small SUV Engines:electric, battery-powered Price:From £29,999 on-road
Launched: Summer 2025 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“With genuine off-road ability in dual-motor trim, the Suzuki e Vitara offers something a little different in the increasingly congested electric crossover market. Unfortunately for Suzuki, it’s a segment with very strong competition and the e Vitara’s range and charging performance let it down in that company, as does its cheap-feeling cabin.”
“The Suzuki e Vitara is an electric SUV that’s well-equipped, though alternatives are more practical and go further on a charge.”
Model reviewed: Range overview
0
Carwow
More reviews
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “Suzuki’s new all-electric compact crossover is stylish, affordable and practical but competing in a crowded sector.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: Ultra 61kWh all-wheel drive Score: 8 / 10 “Suzuki’s first EV offers the off-road ability that you expect from the Vitara name and is good to drive.” Author: Martyn Collins Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “Overall, the e Vitara is a good first effort at an EV and proof that Suzuki still knows how to make a resolutely normal car handle well and offer a bit of charm. It’s comfortable and reasonably practical too. The problem is that there are few outstanding features. Its main USP is the option of four-wheel drive, but at £31k it’s a hard sell. You’d have to really need power to all four wheels to justify choosing this over the hot competition.” Author: Jake Groves, Amrit Kaur Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “The Suzuki e Vitara is an interesting prospect if you’re after a small-ish, useful-ish electric car with some modest off-road chops.” Author: Ginny Buckley Read review
Green Car Guide
Model reviewed: Ultra 61kWh all-wheel drive Score: 8 / 10 “The Suzuki e Vitara is compact, agile, responsive, and with all-wheel drive, very grippy, even in the snow, and even without all-season tyres. The exterior styling is appropriate for an SUV, and the interior benefits from a number of physical controls for key features, unlike many of the latest EVs which have all controls on a touchscreen.” Author: Paul Clarke Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “Better late than never” Author: Ivan Aistrop Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “Among small electric SUV rivals, of which there are a great many, the Suzuki e Vitara is competitive in most areas. It’s also quite a likeable little car. That said, when the competition is so plentiful and so fierce, the Suzuki does struggle to stand out somewhat.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6.2 / 10 “Familiar name that’s a solid drive and great value.” Author: Keith Adams, Jake Groves, Amrit Kaur Read review
The Independent
Model reviewed: Ultra 61kWh all-wheel drive Score: 7 / 10 “The Suzuki e Vitara is an EV that prioritises comfort, simplicity and SUV authenticity over cutting-edge tech, yet it can still go off road. It feels honest, capable and refreshingly straightforward to drive, but its modest range and clunky infotainment show that Suzuki’s first EV still has catching up to do. It’s not the most advanced electric SUV, but it is one of the most likeable.” Author: Steve Fowler Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “It lacks the on-road polish of rivals, and there are some very curious design decisions. And while at face value it’s priced well, the only really recommendable version is the four-wheel drive variant, which itself will likely only appeal to a niche audience of buyers, particularly as it costs a fair whack more.” Author: Peter Rawlins Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Suzuki e Vitara has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the e Vitara is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
246 miles
B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
4 m/KWh
C
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
25
B
The Suzuki e Vitara is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
The car’s official average battery range of 246 miles is competitive in the compact SUV category, although its electrical efficiency average of 4m/KWh (the all-electric equivalent of miles per gallon) is average. In addition, the insurance premiums for this model are predicted to be slightly cheaper than the average car.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of February 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Suzuki e Vitara 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 e Vitara, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Suzuki e Vitara
Overall rating
C
50%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Suzuki’s new car warranty is fairly average, offering around the same coverage as rival brands in a similar price bracket as the e Vitara.
The duration is three years, with a limit of 60,000 miles. In addition to the standard new car warranty, this electric SUV has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
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.
As of February 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Suzuki e Vitara. However, this information is updated very regularly so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Suzuki dealer.
Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more
Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more
Lease a Suzuki e Vitara
If you’re looking to lease a new Suzuki e Vitara, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to a Suzuki e Vitara
Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
The way that cars are tested and rated for safety under the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) scheme is undergoing its biggest shake-up in more than 15 years, with the aim of making cars even safer.
Euro NCAP is an independent European road safety organisation, which conducts tests that go above and beyond the minimum legal requirements for a car to be sold in the UK or EU. It began crash-testing cars as far back as 1997, despite major opposition from the car industry, with the results of early tests highlighting serious inadequacies in some everyday family cars.
The now-familiar five-star rating system quickly became the industry standard for new-car safety, and car makers were equally quick to start promoting their five-star results. Over nearly 30 years, the tests have continuously evolved as technology has improved. Over the last decade, the emphasis has shifted from simply running cars into walls to assessing technologies that help avoid accidents in the first place. Tests also measure the level of harm to other road users, like pedestrians and cyclists.
The test protocols are reviewed every three years, usually resulting in tougher standards being set to achieve each star level. A car’s safety rating expires 6-7 years after it was tested, reflecting the continued drive for higher standards. If a car is still in production after its rating has expired, Euro NCAP may re-test it to see whether it maintains its original score or needs to be downgraded.
Most years, the organisation will test 50-60 new cars, usually the most widely sold models across Europe. Car companies will often provide brand-new cars for testing (which means they pay for the testing to take place), but Euro NCAP will often also buy cars to test off showroom floors – especially if a manufacturer is reluctant to provide cars for testing.
The Car Expert is one of only a few automotive sites that publishes the full Euro NCAP safety ratings – rather than just the headline star rating – as part of our unique Expert Rating report for new cars.
For 2026, Euro NCAP has comprehensively overhauled its testing programme to assess safety from a more holistic perspective. While physical crash testing is still a core part of the process, the organisation is looking at many other factors that can reduce fatalities and injuries on our roads.
The testing categories up until 2025
From 2009 to 2025, Euro NCAP tests have been made up of four categories:
Adult Occupant – frontal impact, side impact and whiplash
Child Occupant – rear seat and child seat safety
Vulnerable Road Users – injury to pedestrians and cyclists
The four category scores combine to form an overall rating. Cars must achieve certain minimum scores in every category to be awarded an overall five-star rating. We have a separate feature that explains how the tests have worked for the last 17 years.
What’s changing for 2026?
Euro NCAP is keeping the system of four testing categories that combine to provide an overall five-star score. But the categories are changing to reflect four sequential stages of a car crash, rather than categorising by test type.
The four new categories under which each car is rated are called the ‘stages of safety’, which cover safe driving, avoiding an accident, protecting occupants and other road users in an accident, and safe extraction of occupants from a crashed car. It’s a new approach, although many of the previous tests will continue to be used. The new headings also bring in additional tests.
The assessment methods are very detailed (all the protocols are published here) so we’re taking a broad, high-level approach.
The new categories
From 2026, cars will be scored according to the new ‘stages of safety’, with the potential to earn up to five stars as before. Cars are judged on how they keep the driver alert, prevent crashes, protect occupants and road users and help the emergency services after a crash. They are:
Safe Driving
Crash Avoidance
Crash protection
Post-Crash
Safe Driving
This considers the vehicle technologies and features that help provide a safer driving experience for drivers and vehicle occupants. These are mostly covered by the term Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), mandatory for cars sold in the EU and usually the same spec when they come to the UK. Assisted driving was first tested in 2020.
Although not mandatory, points have been awarded for Driver State Monitoring (DSM) since 2024, which measures how well a car’s built-in system detects distraction and drowsiness. This now gets further scrutiny for 2026.
Previously, steering wheel sensors were used to detect if a driver was drifting off to sleep or very unwell. Now, DSM systems must track the driver’s head and eyes to monitor for micro-sleep, sleep, and unresponsiveness, and then warn the driver. These systems must default to ‘on’ when the car is started and must require at least two button presses to be disabled.
Another timely new assessment is how distracting it is to adjust settings via a touchscreen rather than a physical button or knob. This looks at touch inputs onto a symbol, which is always present on the home screen, and a menu-based touch input taking a maximum of two steps. Certain commonly used functions must have dedicated physical controls to get a five-star rating (as a result, Tesla reintroduced physical indicator stalks to the Model 3 last year after previously removing them).
The DSM also looks for phone distraction – a specific type of short distraction event where the driver’s gaze is repeatedly drawn towards their mobile phone when it’s placed in a set space.
Speed assist systems have been assessed since 2013, but now verification of the accuracy of speed-limit information (some cars are hopeless at reading road signs) will be conducted during on-road driving tests.
Adaptive (or intelligent) cruise control systems also fall under ‘Safe Driving.’ In 2024, Euro NCAP gave a ‘Not Recommended’ grading to the BYD Atto 3’s intelligent cruise control because it failed to respond correctly when it was approaching other cars or motorcycles, and failed to take proper action when the driver was unresponsive. BYD provided a software update for existing cars, and the 2025 model-year Atto 3 received a ‘Good’ rating for assisted driving.
Vehicles able to detect whether seatbelts are being worn correctly and optimise restraint and airbag systems for different driver and passenger physiques will earn higher scores.
Lastly, in 2026, for the first time, impairment from alcohol or drugs was added, where an alcohol interlock system is fitted.
Crash Avoidance
The Crash Avoidance category examines systems that help prevent or mitigate a crash through warnings or interventions. These include blind-spot detection (including detection of motorbikes and cyclists) and Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK), which activates when a car has crossed the road and is in the path of an oncoming vehicle.
A common moan in new car road tests is lane keeping assistance systems (which NCAP calls Lane Keeping Assist) that are over-sensitive and yank the steering wheel violently when they mistakenly think the driver is drifting out of a lane, or cars which emit an excessive amount of beeps and bongs to warn you about this or exceeding speed limits.
Euro NCAP already puts cars on test tracks and makes them drift over varying types of white lines, but it now says that “smoothness and intuitiveness of operation in everyday driving, in particular for lane support systems, will now contribute to scoring, addressing consumer concerns about intrusive or unpredictable interventions.”
The tests have requirements for ‘Driver Acceptance’ of how the LKA acts, and notes that the sensitivity can be relaxed when the driver is classed as attentive with their eyes on the road.
There are new scenarios for motorbike avoidance and new ‘Low Speed Collision’ tests, which include a test on how well a car gives a warning if a door is opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist. Volvo, Ford and Volkswagen fit systems that can prevent the door being opened at all in such a situation.
Crash Protection
The Crash Protection category is what most people generally associate with safety testing – how well a car performs when it is fired into a wall, pole or barrier.
The tests evaluate the performance of traditional crash protection elements, including vehicle structure, seatbelts, airbags, and head restraints, to mitigate injuries to vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Euro NCAP will continue to crash cars in various types of front and side impacts, but will now look for more detail in what happens to the occupants. From 2026, frontal crash testing will include the impact on a wider range of driver and passenger body types, from children (crash test dummies are already used to represent children six and ten years of age), to shorter and taller adults, plus older occupants, supported by sledge testing and virtual simulations. This will also address a concern that women have been less well represented by traditional crash testing than men.
Post-Crash Safety
This is a new category which addresses the ‘golden hour’ of emergency response after an accident, through post-crash rescue information and assistance systems built into the car. Much research over the years has shown that faster response times and extractions can dramatically improve a patient’s chance of survival after an accident, as well as reduce long-term or life-changing injuries.
Automated emergency call systems have been standard for all new cars sold in Europe since 2018. Dormant until a crash, these systems call emergency services and provide the car’s location, aiming to boost response times. For Euro NCAP, these systems will need to give information on how many people are known to be in the car, even if some are not wearing seatbelts, so authorities can send enough ambulances for all occupants.
There have been some media reports of cars with electric door handles failing to open after a crash, so Euro NCAP’s new post-crash requirements include ensuring that electrically powered exterior door handles remain operable after an impact.
Electric vehicles must allow the battery to be easily isolated by emergency services after a crash, communicate a battery fire risk to the driver after a crash, and issue a timely warning if a battery fire begins during charging or after a crash.
Do these new ratings make the old ones invalid?
No. Euro NCAP ratings are valid for 6-7 years after testing, so all cars tested since 2020 will retain their existing safety ratings until they expire. Cars tested in 2019 had their ratings expire in January this year, and ratings for cars tested in 2018 or earlier had already expired.
Because the testing protocols have changed so dramatically, scores for 2026 onwards are not directly comparable to those from 2025 or earlier. However, the principle of a car being a ‘four-star’ or ‘five-star’ car for safety remains.
If you’re looking at buying a used car, all test results back to 2016 are available on the Euro NCAP website.
Gaming the system?
Every time Euro NCAP updates its testing, it raises the bar for a five-star result higher. As a result, there’s usually a rush for manufacturers to get new cars tested (or existing cars re-tested) ahead of any major changes. With major new changes for 2026, there was a rush of car manufacturers submitting cars for testing last year.
Euro NCAP assessed some 107 cars in 2025 – about double its usual annual total – which included 61 cars just in the last three months of the year. Most of these recent tests were existing models that manufacturers put forward for reassessment, so they could be tested under the 2025 protocols rather than the new 2026 protocols.
With car manufacturers currently extending the production lives of many of their petrol and diesel cars, these models may be on sale for years to come. So the logic goes that it was better to foot the bill for re-testing the cars in 2025, even if they dropped a star, rather than have Euro NCAP decide to test the cars in 2026 or beyond when the score may be much lower.
The Peugeot E-408 is an electric five-door liftback which sits somewhere between a conventional car and a crossover/SUV vehicle.It’s part of the wider 408 range, which also includes petrol and plug-in hybrid versions.
Described as “sleek” and “stylish” by Carwow’s Daren Cassey, and “thoroughly likeable” by Top Gear’s Stephen Dobie, initial reviews of the E-408 have been very positive, Parker’s Amrit Kaur concluding that the electric family car is “spacious enough for family duties and refined enough to make for a relaxing daily driver in town and on long trips on the motorway.”
Comparing the E-408 to its combustion counterparts, Alex Ingram of Auto Express argues that this battery-powered variant is “the smoothest, most refined and most responsive model” in the 408 range, adding that it’s “one of the most convincing EVs that the brand has yet offered.”
That said, the same reviewers point out that similarly priced rivals offer a longer battery range, the infotainment can be a bit slow to respond and alternatives have more boot space.
While we have collected the limited number of initial reviews for this model, as well as running cost data, this isn’t enough to give the Peugeot E-408 an Expert Rating score yet. We will update this page in the coming weeks, as more reviews on the model are published.
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Peugeot 408 has always been an appealing, if slightly left-field choice, with an internal-combustion powertrain, but it’s at its best with a new electric motor. The E-408 is the smoothest, most refined and most responsive model in the range.” Author: Alex Ingram Read review
Honest John
“The Peugeot E-408 offers an impressive driving range from its moderately-sized battery. It has generous standard equipment levels, and is roomier than the 508 it effectively replaces. However, consumers may struggle to understand its place in Peugeot’s hierarchy, while the lack of a larger battery option may restrict appeal. It’s also pricier than comparable alternatives.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8.2 / 10 “The e-408 is a good choice if you prefer to break away from the norm of conventional SUVs and regular family hatchbacks. It’s spacious enough for family duties and refined enough to make for a relaxing daily driver in town and on long trips on the motorway.” Author: Amrit Kaur Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8.2 / 10 “The Peugeot e-408 SUV is a thrilling nod to the past, reimagined for the eco-conscious commuter of today. With its stylish design and electric performance, it’s a retro icon reborn, ready to take on the bustling streets of the UK.” Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The Peugeot E-408 is a thoroughly likeable car, albeit one that stops short of perfect. On paper, a number of its rivals swipe it lazily away, but its unexpectedly successful blend of rebellious design and conformist useability is an arresting one.” Author: Stephen Dobie Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Peugeot E-408 has not been assessed by Euro NCAP. Its ICE-powered twin, the 408, holds a four-star safety rating, but at the time of writing, this rating has not been extended to the electric E-408
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Peugeot E-408 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the e-408 is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
280 miles
B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
4 m/KWh
C
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
34
D
The Peugeot E-408 is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
The car’s average battery range of 280 miles per charge is competitive when compared to EVs of this size and price bracket, as is its 4 m/KWh electric efficiency (the electric car equivalent to fuel efficiency or ‘miles per gallon’).
The car’s predicted insurance premiums sit in a middling bracket, around the market average. Coverage that is not too expensive, but potentially more expensive than you would expect from a Peugeot model.
Please keep in mind that we are yet to receive the full running cost layout for the E-408. We are waiting for servicing and maintenance cost estimations.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Peugeot E-408 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 e-408, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Peugeot E-408
Overall rating
C
50%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Peugeot’s new car warranty is essentially the industry standard – the minimum that automakers have to offer by law in the UK. The duration is three years, with a limit of 60,000 miles.
In addition to the standard new car warranty, the electric E-408 has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used Peugeot e-408
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Peugeot e-408 from an official Peugeot dealership, you will get a minimum six- to 12-month warranty included.
If you are buying a used Peugeot e-408 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 Peugeot e-408 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.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Peugeot E-408. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Peugeot dealer.
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The Haval Jolion Pro is a small hybrid SUV, and the second UK model arrival for Chinese automotive powerhouse Great Wall Motors (GWM).
Now on sale alongside the smaller Ora 03 hatchback at GWM’s UK dealerships, the Haval Jolion Pro is only available as a 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid in Britain, and is a leftfield competitor to the likes of the popular MG ZS, Nissan Juke and Toyota Yaris Cross.
Despite the SUV’s cheap entry-level price and rather punchy powertrain, the car’s reception from the British motoring media has been less than kind. UK-based reviews of this car are few in number, and all of them come to a similar prognosis.
“Why Haval thought it was a good idea to bring it here at all is anyone’s guess”, says Top Gear’s Joe Holding, concluding that the Chinese-built car “is one of the least inspiring cars” he’s ever driven that “falls well short in just about every single area that you’re likely to care about.”
Carwow’s Neil Briscoe adds that the Jolion Pro offers “good rear legroom and plenty of equipment”, but the car’s “poor economy and comically tiny boot” makes it hard to recommend over the likes of the Dacia Duster.
As of January 2026, the Haval Jolion Pro holds a New Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of 53%. This score, which is hindered by media review scores and high running costs, but helped by the car’s generous warranty, puts it firmly towards the bottom of the small SUV category in our Expert Rating index.
Body style: Small SUV/crossover Engines:petrol-electric hybrid Price:From £23,995 on-road
Launched: Spring 2025 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The GWM Haval Jolion Pro has good rear legroom and plenty of equipment – but a rubbish driving experience, poor economy and comically tiny boot mean you should get a Dacia Duster instead.”
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 5 / 10 “Affordable family SUV lacking in attention to detail.” Author: Phill Tromans Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview “Extraordinary value. Punchy hybrid drive system figures. Reassuringly long warranty.” Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric hybrid Ultra Score: 4 / 10 “This wordily named Chinese SUV might offer lots of space for relatively little cash – but there’s precious little else to recommend.” Author: Alex Robbins Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 3 / 10 “The Haval Jolion Pro is one of the least inspiring cars we’ve ever driven. It falls well short in just about every single area that you’re likely to care about, plus a few that you won’t for good measure. What’s worse is that it lacks any sense of imagination or fun – it’s entirely tragic.” Author: Joe Holding Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Haval Jolion Pro has not been assessed by Euro NCAP.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Haval Jolion Pro has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption
Average
Score
Hybrid models
47 mpg
C
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Hybrid models
133 g/km
B
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
28
C
The GWM Haval Jolion Pro is a relatively affordable car to run on a daily basis, according to ownership data provided exclusively by our partner Clear Vehicle Data.
Only available as a petrol-electric hybrid, the Jolion Pro can deliver an average fuel consumption of 47mpg. This isn’t terrible by any means, but hybrid rival the Dacia Duster has an average consumption of 55mpg, while the Toyota Yaris Cross is even more efficient at 59mpg.
The Yaris Cross also has much cheaper predicted insurance costs, while the Jolion Pro sits at about the market average for all models. This is likely because GWM Haval is an unknown brand for British insurers, who judge manufacturers on their reliability track record.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the GWM Haval Jolion Pro 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 Haval Jolion Pro, we’ll publish the results here.
Recalls
Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the GWM Haval Jolion Pro
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Haval Jolion Pro. However, this information is updated very regularly so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local GWM dealer.
New car warranty information for the GWM Haval Jolion Pro
Overall rating
A
95%
New car warranty duration
5 years
New car warranty mileage
Unlimited miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
GWM’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Haval Jolion Pro.
The duration is five years, with no limit on mileage. In addition to the standard new car warranty, the hybridised Jolion Pro has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used GWM Haval Jolion Pro
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ GWM Haval Jolion Pro from an official GWM dealership, you will get the remaining balance of the original five-year warranty included.
If you are buying a used GWM Haval Jolion Pro 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 GWM Haval Jolion Pro 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.
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Haval Jolion Pro, you might also be interested in these alternatives.
The Lamborghini Revuelto is a V12-powered mid-engined plug-in hybrid supercar which effectively replaces the now discontinued V12 Aventador coupé.
The larger brother to the brand’s cheaper Temerario supercar, and taking its name from a 19th century fighting bull which means ‘unsettled’ or ‘unruly’, the Revuelto first arrived on UK roads in Spring 2024.
Powered by a 6.5-litre V12 petrol engine which works in tandem with three electric motors to produce on output of just over 1,000hp, the Revuelto has recieved high praise from the British motoring media, who largely consider the Lamborghini to be one of the most impressive performance packages on the market.
Top Gear’s Ollie Marriage argues that the Revuelto is “possibly the best Lambo since the Miura”, while Jordan Katsianis of Auto Express calls the supercar “simply sensational.”
“If outright speed is what matters, you may as well buy a Tesla”, says Tim Pitt of Motoring Research, who explains that the car offers a lot more than raucous acceleration. “The Revuelto stimulates all of your senses. From its shock-and-awe styling, to its thunderous soundtrack, to its nuanced steering and handling, it transforms even the most mundane journey into an event.”
Carwow‘s Darren Cassey, while praising the flagship Lamborghini for its “glorious” engine, does note some “minor issues”, explaining that the car is “totally impractical” like its Aventador predecessor and the infotainment is “sluggish”. That said, he concludes that “in terms of doing what it was built for – namely going very, very fast indeed – it absolutely excels.”
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Revuelto holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 71%. Beyond the supercar’s overwhelmingly positive set of review scores, this overall rating is hindered by high running cost estimations.
Body style: Mid-engined Coupé Engines:petrol plug-in hybrid Price:From £452,040 on-road
Launched: Spring 2024 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“Chock full of complex, cutting-edge tech, the Revuelto is more refined and capable than its predecessor, and it retains those all-important V12 Lamborghini thrills.”
Score: 9 / 10 “Any fears that hybridisation might soften the V12 Lamborghini can be quashed – the new 1,001bhp Lamborghini Revuelto is simply sensational.” Author: Jordan Katsianis Read review
Car
Score: 10 / 10 “At the end of the day, the Lamborghini Revuelto is – as Lamborghinis should be – a furiously fast, disgracefully loud, bright orange V12 hypercar that allows you to tap into its broad potential far easier than a mere mortal has any right to.” Author: James Dennison Read review
Carwow
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 10 / 10 “There are a few minor issues with the Lamborghini Revuelto, then, but in terms of doing what it was built for – namely going very, very fast indeed – it absolutely excels.” Author: Darren Cassey Read review
Motoring Research
“If outright speed is what matters, you may as well buy a Tesla. Like every mid-engined V12 Lamborghini since the Miura – which arguably invented the modern supercar in 1966 – the Revuelto stimulates all of your senses. From its shock-and-awe styling, to its thunderous soundtrack, to its nuanced steering and handling, it transforms even the most mundane journey into an event.” Author: Tim Pitt Read review
The Sunday Times
“God, it’s exciting. It’s like you’re in charge of a solar system. And get this. There were no warning buzzes and sirens if I strayed over the speed limit or momentarily crossed the white line.” Author: Jeremy Clarkson Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “If only for its attitude, its looks and the cacophony it makes, I rather liked this car.” Author: Andrew English Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “Possibly the best Lambo since the Miura, Lamborghini’s first hybrid combines technology with drama to great effect.”
Author: Ollie Marriage Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Revuelto has not been assessed by Euro NCAP. Given its price and exclusivity, it’s unlikely to ever happen.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Revuelto has not been assessed by Green NCAP. Again, we are not expecting this to happen.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Plug-in hybrid models
68 g/km
A
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
50
F
As you might expect, the Lamborghini Revuelto is 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.
It will come to no one’s surprise that the Revuelto is predicted to sit in the highest insurance premium bracket. Our picture of the Revuelto’s running costs is currently incomplete, as we do not have fuel efficiency or servicing and maintenance cost predictions for this model.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Lamborghini Revuelto 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 Revuelto, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Lamborghini Revuelto
Overall rating
B
76%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
Unlimited miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Lamborghini’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Revuelto.
The duration is three years, with no limit on mileage. In addition to the standard new car warranty, the Revuelto has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the plug-in hybrid battery components.
Warranty on a used Lamborghini Revuelto
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Lamborghini Revuelto from an official Lamborghini dealership, you will get a minimum 12-month (24-month available as an option) warranty included.
If you are buying a used Lamborghini Revuelto 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 Lamborghini Revuelto 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 Lamborghini Revuelto
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Lamborghini Revuelto. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Lamborghini dealer.
In recent years, the once dormant French car brand Alpine has made a resurgence. Relaunched in 2017, for six years it offered only one car to its name in the A110 sports coupe, but now there are three in the line-up, with more to come.
Today, Alpine (pronounced al-PEEN) is effectively the motorsport and performance car division of Renault – a bit like Abarth is to Fiat. Renault’s racing programmes – most notably its Formula One team – have been rebranded as Alpine, alongside a line of sports-pitched road cars.
So who or what is Alpine?
Alpine was founded in France in 1954 by Jean Rédélé, who was a garage owner in Dieppe and successful in racing and rallying. His cars were extensively modified Renaults, and his motorsport efforts even extended to competing in the Le Mans 24 Hours.
Encouraged by his success, Rédélé created the Alpine brand, named after the Coupe des Alpes road rally in which he had achieved multiple wins. He was unaware that, just a year earlier in the UK, Sunbeam had launched a model called the Alpine (although, being English, it was pronounced AL-pine). This caused issues for many years.
The first proper Alpine model launched in 1955 was the A106 coupe, which placed a lightweight body on a Renault chassis. The car proved highly successful in motorsport and later spawned a cabriolet version.
The A108 coupe launched in 1958, and by now Alpine’s official connections to Renault were growing. The A110 coupé of 1962 was also very successful in rallying and, by 1968, Alpine cars were being sold in Renault dealerships. The company also became the de facto Renault competition team, winning the 1973 World Rally Championship outright.
In that year Alpine was badly affected by the international oil crisis and salvation came in the form of a takeover by Renault. The company continued to develop sports road and racing cars, focusing more on track success. Renault also took over specialist tuner Gordini and merged it with Alpine to form Renault Sport, which won the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1978 and competed in F1 from 1977 to 1985.
Renault-Alpine road cars continued to be sold through the 1980s and 1990s, culminating in the A610. But the last car was made in 1995 as Renault dropped the Alpine badge – the market for such cars was getting too difficult.
Incidentally, no Alpine models had ever officially been sold in the UK at this point due to the Sunbeam trademark – instead they were generally known as Renault Gordinis.
Original Alpine A110Alpine-Renault A442 wins Le Mans in 1978
When did Alpine launch in the UK?
The revival of Alpine was a drawn-out process. Renault’s post-millennium future model plans included a desire for several sports cars and in 2007 it was revealed that the first one – a two-seater mid-engined car that was intended to launch in 2010 – could well be badged Alpine. However, the global recession put the plans on hold.
Various concepts followed along with a short-lived partnership with UK small sports car manufacturer Caterham, and not until 2016 was the Alpine Vision concept unveiled, pointing directly to a new Alpine A110 which went on sale in 2017 as the Alpine badge was officially relaunched.
Alpine’s motorsport history remained core to the new brand. In 2021, the Renault sports car and racing divisions were absorbed into a new Alpine division, separate to the main Renault brand. The Renault F1 team, which had come and gone multiple times over the previous 20 years, was also rebranded as Alpine.
What models does Alpine have and what else is coming?
For six years Alpine sales were focused entirely on just one Alpine model, the A110. It’s a small two-seat coupé with a design directly inspired by the original 1960s A110. It went on UK sale in 2018, and was joined by an more powerful A110S a year later, while there have been various different versions and limited editions over the last three years.
The A110 model run comes to an end in 2026, partly as a result of more stringent European safety regulations that require the fitting of active safety cameras and sensors that are too expensive to add to the existing car. However it will eventually be replaced, by an electric version developed by Lotus.
The A110 has proven a big hit with both buyers reviewers, and has has won many awards around the world. As of 2026, it holds an Expert Rating of C, with a score of 64% on The Car Expert‘s industry-leading Expert Rating Index, its high running costs and lack of Euro NCAP safety testing marking it down.
Since 2024 Alpine sales staff have had twice as much to talk about following the launch of the A290, a small electric hatchback and effectively a more potent version of the highly popular Renault 5 hatch.
The A290 offers either 180 or 220hp depending on trim level, which has disappointed some reviewers who feel its power is not boosted enough over the stock Renault 5 E-Tech. Despite this it has earned a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 75%.
Arriving in 2026 is the A390, an electric coupe-crossover and the brand’s first SUV. Of similar size to a Tesla Model Y, the car boasts three motors with the accent on performance – two of the motors are mounted on the back axle to bias the all-wheel-drive to the rear, and in total the car puts out 470hp.
Alongside the next A110, due on sale in 2027, Alpine will launch effectively a bigger version with two extra seats. The 2+2 sports car has been dubbed the A310 (recalling a model with bold styling that Alpine launched in the 1970s) and is designed to take on the likes of the Porsche 911. Both cars will be electric and both will also be offered later as convertibles.
Alpine has also indicated that three more EVs will be revealed by 2030 – these are likely to be large cars, designed to launch the brand onto the potentially lucrative US market.
Where can I try an Alpine car?
The determination to build Alpine into a specific brand, independent from Renault, is clear in the fact that the cars are not sold through all Renault dealerships, but through a network of specialist dealers called Alpine Stores. Mind you, several of these outlets are owned by dealer groups that also have franchises for the parent company and the Alpine centre is located close to the Renault one.
In total there are 19 Alpine centres in the UK, including just one in Wales, in Cardiff, and one in Jersey.
What’s particularly significant about this company?
Alpine has a strong French sporting heritage and, while with the A290 and forthcoming A390 it has expanded beyond dedicated sports cars, it’s clear the brand considers its motorsport image a core value.
It’s also clear from the future cars revealed that Alpine intends to move into new sectors of the market and new markets, particularly America.
Regardless of what size and shape that future cars take, they will always be sports models. Renault’s former RenaultSport (R.S.) performance division has been folded into Alpine, so any future models like previous fan favourites the Clio R.S. and Megane R.S. will (in theory) be branded as Alpines.
It should work similarly to Fiat’s performance brand, Abarth, which sells performance versions of the Fiat 500 as Abarth models.
An Alpine fact to impress your friends
Today the World Rally Championship – the on road and gravel version of Formula One – is a battle between three giant car manufacturers, Toyota, Ford and Hyundai. But the very first year the competition for manufacturers was held, in 1973, it was won by the then independent Alpine.
Alpine-Renaults have also won the gruelling Le Mans 24 Hours, in 1978, but the one prize missing is the Formula One World Championship. The Renault F1 team has been Alpine since 2021 but currently looks unlikely to add this prize to the trophy cabinet, finishing 10th and last manufacturer in 2025.
The Alpine ‘A526’ F1 car at its unveiling ahead of the 2026 season
Summary
In recent years the automotive market has produced a growing number of niche brands, most of them courtesy of larger manufacturers wanting to do something a little different to their normal mainstream offerings, and with varying degrees of success.
Still a young brand in its current form, Alpine has proven more successful than most of these niche badges, establishing itself with a single model offering that is a very good car and then taking this reputation into new areas with the A290 and coming A390.
The new models move Alpine beyond the brand’s initial very niche appeal, that of buying a plaything to run alongside a day-to-day car, and Alpines to come will accelerate that process. It will be interesting to see if Alpine can maintain its niche appeal in the mainstream.
The Lamborghini Temerario is a V8-powered mid-engined plug-in hybrid supercar which effectively replaces the now discontinued V10 Huracán coupé.
The smaller sibling to the brand’s range-topping Revuelto supercar, and taking its name from a 19th century fighting bull which means ‘fierce’ or ‘courageous’, the Temerario is Lamborghini’s first mid-engined V8 model since the 1980s Lamborghini Jalpa.
This twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powertrain is a focal point of the Temerario’s reviewer praise. “The way the hybrid technology has been applied makes it feel absolutely up-to-the-minute and endows it with an impressive breadth of dynamic accessibility and capability”, says Evo’s Richard Meaden. “But the Temerario’s weakness is in being too polite.”
Top Gear’s Tom Ford agrees, arguing that the Temerario doesn’t have the “aural drama” for the Huracán or some competitors, but that could be a positive for some. “It’s not as raw – or as immediately intimidating – as something like a Ferrari 296 GTB or McLaren 750S, but at the same time, that might make it a more usable daily, albeit one that can similarly make you swallow your tongue when the mood takes you.”
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Temerario holds a New Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 57%. Beyond the supercar’s positive set of review scores, this overall rating is hindered by very high running cost estimations.
Body style: Mid-engined Coupé Engines:petrol plug-in hybrid Price:From £259,570 on-road
Launched: Winter 2025/26 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The Lamborghini Temerario is an intriguing but also rather contradictory machine. The way the hybrid technology has been applied makes it feel absolutely up-to-the-minute and endows it with an impressive breadth of dynamic accessibility and capability, not to mention refinement. But the Temerario’s weakness is in being too polite. It’s almost as though it thinks it’s a next-gen Audi R8.”
Score: 8 / 10 “First impressions suggest the Lamborghini Temerario is a highly impressive car, but that its handling isn’t as intuitive as it could be and that the V8 can’t compare with the old V10 in the emotional stakes.” Author: Ben Barry Read review
The Sunday Times
“This is a car that can still reward good drivers while flattering average ones. Technically it’s a masterpiece and subjectively a whole lot of fun, and it would be unfair to suggest it can’t tickle your erogenous zones in ways that only a Lamborghini can.” Author: Will Dron Read review
Top Gear
Score: 8 / 10 “The Temerario is a complex, fascinating and deeply technical super sports car. No, it’s not got the easy win of a dramatic V10, but Lamborghini has a good idea of what it means to be a Lambo, and have tried very hard to inject that naughtiness that everybody expects. It’s not as raw – or as immediately intimidating – as something like a Ferrari 296GTB or McLaren 750S, but it can similarly make you swallow your tongue when the mood takes you.” Author: Tom Ford Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Temerario has not been assessed by Euro NCAP. Given its price and exclusivity, it’s unlikely to ever happen.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Lamborghini Temerario has not been assessed by Green NCAP. Again, we are not expecting this to happen.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption
Average
Score
Hybrid models
25 mpg
E
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Hybrid models
272 g/km
E
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
50
F
As you might expect, the Lamborghini Temerario is 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.
While this V8-powered plug-in hybrid is estimated to deliver 5mpg more than the now-retired Huracán coupé, the Temerario’s average fuel efficiency of 25mpg is poor, and very thristy by plug-in hybrid standards. This isn’t uncommon for partially-electrified supercars – the powertrain has been built for performance, not fuel efficiency. That said, the Lamborghini’s key market rival, the plug-in hybrid Ferrari 296 GTB, returns an estimated 44mpg.
It will come to no one’s surprise that the Temerario is predicted to sit in the highest insurance premium bracket.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Lamborghini Temerario 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 Temerario, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Lamborghini Temerario
Overall rating
B
76%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
Unlimited miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Lamborghini’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Temerario.
The duration is three years, with no limit on mileage. In addition to the standard new car warranty, the Temerario has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the plug-in hybrid battery components.
Warranty on a used Lamborghini Temerario
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Lamborghini Temerario from an official Lamborghini dealership, you will get a minimum 12-month (24-month available as an option) warranty included.
If you are buying a used Lamborghini Temerario 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 Lamborghini Temerario 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 Lamborghini Temerario
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Lamborghini Temerario. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Lamborghini dealer.
Make and model: Ford Puma Gen-E Description: Electric crossover SUV Price range: £26,245 (plus options)
Ford says: “The electric SUV, born to take on the city, with fast charging and advanced technology. Reduce running costs with innovative efficiency.” We say: The Ford Puma Gen-E is an affordable electric crossover with decent range and nippy acceleration, but its rivals look that little bit better.
It didn’t take long for Ford to electrify its Puma. Its petrol counterpart is largely successful, after all.
The Puma Gen-E joins the all-electric crossover sector alongside the Renault 4 E-Tech, Kia EV3, and Jeep Avenger Electric. Like its rivals, it’s only available with one battery and powertrain; however, this is more than enough for a car like this.
What is it?
What have we here then? Well, if you’re familiar with the Puma, which almost everyone should be by now, you may notice some differences with the EV variant.
For example, instead of a front grille, it gets a Ford Mustang Mach-E-like plastic panel – and in a lighter colour like the Electric Yellow model in our pictures, it looks like the Puma has a pencil moustache. At the other end, there’s no exhaust pipe, of course.
These points aside, there’s scant difference between the two, and that’s a good thing, as it means you won’t have any issues familiarising yourself with the Puma Gen-E’s cabin if you decide to dip your toes in electrified waters.
Who is this car aimed at?
Like the standard Puma, the Gen-E has a varied audience, thanks to Ford’s efforts to make it as appealing as possible. Therefore, the electric version will also suit small families, dog owners, and couples. It’s also perfect for those who have had a Puma in the past and want an affordable electric car.
Likewise, if you don’t do weekly interstellar mileage and often nip to town for groceries, then the Gen-E is worth a look.
Who won’t like it?
My mother-in-law. She’s not massively into cars but appreciates rear leg room, and that’s where the Gen-E falls flat; however, I’m yet to see a small-ish EV that gets this right. The issue isn’t that you’ll struggle to get into the rear, but more that the car’s high rear floor may cause discomfort over longer journeys.
This said, my mother-in-law was also slightly spoiled by a Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally that I also had on test at the same time. Still, if you have taller children or use the seats regularly for passengers, then you might be best looking at a Skoda Elroq.
While the Gen-E isn’t a bad-looking car, I couldn’t help but like the Renault 4’s retro physique more, and looks are important, after all.
First impressions
The Puma Gen-E sat on my driveway for a few days after being dropped off until the holiday festivities passed, but I grew to like its looks more each time I passed by. There’s nothing overly glintsy about the Gen-E. It’s just a car, and that’s what makes it great.
It’s also packed with relevant standard tech, like auto high-beam assist and a 12-inch touchscreen with integrated Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The only thing missing was heated seats; these are a £350 option, but you can’t have everything for £26k.
Hopping inside revealed some questionable interior finishes. Sure, it’s a cheap car, but it lacks the visual flair, tactility, and build quality of its Renault 4 and 5 rivals. It just doesn’t feel anywhere near as special.
We like: packed with standard technology We don’t like: Lacks interior fizz when compared to similarly priced rivals
What do you get for your money?
There are two trim levels: ‘Select’ and ‘Premium’, and there’s a £2k difference between them. Entry-level ‘Select’ models come with white paint as standard, with other colours costing £800 extra.
‘Select’ cars also have 17-inch alloy wheels, LED projector headlights, a 13-inch instrument display, built-in sat-nav, a power start button, automatic windscreen wipers, cruise control, a frunk for stashing the charging cable, front and rear parking sensors, and lane-keeping aid with a departure warning.
Stepping up to ‘Premium’ trim increases the alloy wheel size to 18 inches, while adding power-folding door mirrors with puddle lamps, front door scuff plates, a B&O 10-speaker audio system, keyless entry, and a powered tailgate. Again, you’ll need to pay extra for heated seats.
If you want more, you can spec larger 19-inch alloys, Ford’s BlueCruise system, a panoramic roof, and an interior black pack. Expect a fully-specced car to cost around £35,000.
Personally, we feel the ‘Select’ with a few addons, like heated seats, offers enough.
We like: Decent equipment on the entry-level model We don’t like: Still need to pay for heated seats in top-spec model. Can be expensive when fully equipped.
What’s the Ford Puma Gen-E like inside
Unlike many EVs, the Puma Gen-E looks just like its petrol counterpart, meaning those already familiar will feel right at home. Its front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustment, too.
Like its Mustang Mach-E and Capri siblings, Ford has ditched most physical controls in favour of a touchscreen, something that made me sigh after climbing aboard for the first time.
I didn’t mind it as much as the Mach-E. The screen responds quickly to dabs, and there are many quick-access windows, reducing some of the burden of finding settings, but more on that later.
Many EVs lose boot space when compared to their petrol or diesel variants, and this is usually because manufacturers need space to stow batteries or additional electric gubbins. Ford has done the opposite with the Gen-E, meaning it has more space than the regular car, but there’s a catch. You must buy the optional Gigabox.
Speccing this increases boot space to 523 litres. The Gigabox also has a drain plug, making it perfect for storing muddy boots.
We like: Clever Gigabox function. Is visually understated for an EV. Quick touchscreen. We don’t like: No physical controls.
What’s the Ford Puma Gen-E like to drive?
Underneath lies a 168hp electric motor and a 43kWh (usable) battery, putting it in the firing line of the Renault 4 E-Tech. Therefore, the Puma Gen-E had to pull out all the stops to impress.
Here are some stats to set the tone: 0-62mph takes around eight seconds, and the Gen-E will hit 99 mph flat out. Very similar to its rivals, but the Gen-E still manages to feel different.
For example, it has an oddly attractive acceleration note, something that can be adjusted in the settings. This thrummy sound is almost a nod to the three-pot burble of the Ford Puma ST. Performance is also where it should be for a small EV. It doesn’t frantically spin its wheels whenever you go near the throttle.
Sadly, it has a few annoying quirks. To access the drive modes, which previously required a button, you now need to fiddle with the car’s touchscreen. And if you run Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, you’ll need to exit this first.
The same goes for brake regeneration. There aren’t any paddles tucked behind the steering wheel, but there is a one-pedal drive option buried in the vehicle settings. Once you’ve found this setting, it works remarkably well in slower traffic.
After a 90-mile drive, the car returned 3.4mi/kWh at sub-zero temperatures, putting it on par with the Kia EV3, and charging the battery from 30 to 97% took around five hours and 50 minutes via a 7kW home wallbox. When fully charged, the car showed just 180 miles of range, a figure quite far off Ford’s claimed 233 miles. However, it was cold during my testing.
We like: Great mid-range acceleration. Thrummy soundtrack. Good efficiency. We don’t like: Touchscreen faff needed to change basic settings. No brake regen levels.
Verdict
There’s a lot to like about the Ford Puma Gen-E: it’s cheap, has a generous standard tech list, is zippy, is efficient, and has lots of boot space, but should you buy one?
The Renault 4 is quirkier to look at and will blend in less than the Puma will. But this is merely aesthetic, and the Gen-E beat the Renault during my efficiency testing (3.4mi/kWh vs 2.8mi/kWh).
The Renault also beats the Puma in ride comfort. Therefore, as much as I like the Puma Gen-E, the Renault 4 wins overall.
Make and model: Kia EV5 GT-Line Description: Electric family SUV Price range: £42,645 (plus options)
Summary: In an increasingly crowded family electric SUV market, the Kia EV5 is a very strong contender. It focuses on space, comfort and everyday usability, and Kia’s seven-year new car warranty adds welcome reassurance.
For a broader ownership picture, see our Kia EV5 Expert Rating, which combines media reviews, safety data, reliability, running costs and warranty cover.
The Kia EV5 is a mid-size electric SUV that sits between the smaller EV3 and the larger EV9 in Kia’s growing electric line-up. In simple terms, it’s the electric alternative to the Kia Sportage – a five-seat family SUV designed to sit at the heart of the UK market.
It enters one of the most competitive parts of the new car market, where buyers can choose from dozens of petrol, hybrid and electric SUVs. The EV5 is aimed squarely at families who want to switch to electric power without giving up space or practicality.
It won’t suit everyone. Some rivals offer longer driving range or faster public charging speeds, and Kia’s bold design won’t appeal to all tastes. But on paper at least, it ticks many of the right boxes.
Price and equipment
The EV5 is offered in three trims, starting at around £39,000. Even the entry-level ‘Air’ model comes well equipped, with 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and blind-spot assist as standard.
The GT-Line model tested here adds features such as wireless charging, a power tailgate and heated rear seats for an additional £3,300. The range-topping GT-Line S introduces 19-inch wheels, a head-up display and a premium sound system. A heat pump, which can improve cold-weather efficiency, is optional on higher trims.
Against key electric SUV rivals, the EV5 is competitively priced and well equipped, although it’s not the best in this part of the market for driving range or charging speed.
Inside the car
Inside, the EV5 follows the same design direction as other recent Kia electric models. The layout is clean and logical, with a mix of physical buttons and touchscreen controls. Materials feel solid and well put together, although the colour scheme is dominated by dark grey.
The touchscreen system is one of the better examples currently on sale. It responds quickly and the menus are generally easy to follow. While traditional buttons are often easier to use on the move, Kia has struck a good balance between digital and physical controls.
Space is generous in both the front and rear. Rear passengers have ample legroom and headroom, and the rear seats fold flat to create a practical load space. For families moving from a Kia Sportage or similar SUV, the EV5 should feel entirely familiar in terms of day-to-day usability.
On the road
We tested the EV5 on UK roads in wet winter conditions. From the outset, it feels predictable and easy to drive – exactly what most family buyers will want.
The 81kWh battery and single electric motor produce 214hp, which is more than enough for everyday use. Acceleration is smooth and builds in a predictable way, and once up to speed the EV5 feels refined and composed. There’s little drama, but that’s the point.
Ride comfort is a particular strength, with the EV5 absorbing ruts and broken surfaces well. It stays composed in corners and doesn’t lean excessively – it’s not especially engaging, but it feels stable and is easy to trust.
On wet and slippery roads, it occasionally struggled for grip, even with gentle throttle input. A four-wheel-drive version is due in 2026 for those who regularly drive in poor conditions.
We didn’t have the opportunity to assess real-world efficiency on this short drive, so longer-term consumption figures will depend on driving style and conditions.
Verdict
The Kia EV5 feels like a well-judged addition to Kia’s electric family. It prioritises comfort, space and ease of use over outright performance, and for most households that’s exactly the right approach.
It may not be class-leading for charging speed or driving range, but it delivers where it matters for everyday family life. Combined with Kia’s seven-year new car warranty, the EV5 looks like one of the more reassuring choices in this competitive part of the market.
Additional reporting by Matt MacConnell
We like:
Quiet and comfortable ride
Spacious cabin
Strong standard equipment
We don’t like:
Not class-leading for public charging speed
Some rivals offer longer driving range
You can also see how the Kia EV5 performs across safety, reliability, running costs and warranty cover in our full Kia EV5 Expert Rating.
Regular readers may wonder why this series is focusing on Mitsubishi. The Japanese manufacturer was a familiar name on our roads for close to half a century until it exited the UK market in 2020. Well, it seems that Mitsubishi is now coming back…
Even among seasoned industry observers, no one had “Mitsubishi to return to the UK” on their bingo cards for 2025. Yet an official announcement out of the blue in November confirmed that we would see new Mitsubishis on UK roads by the summer of 2026 – a remarkable U-turn in such a short space of time.
Five years ago, Mitsubishi was facing huge losses and enduring the worst European sales performance in its long history – just when significant investment was needed to meet growing environmental demands and the inevitable shift to electric vehicles. So it was not particularly surprising that the company decided it was not worth continuing to sell its cars in Europe.
Although Mitsubishi announced that it was completely exiting Western Europe, it never quite did. In several European countries, you have still been able to buy a handful of different Mitsubishi models – generally lightly rebadged versions of Renault or Nissan models, as Mitsubishi is part of a global three-way alliance with both brands.
Over the last few years, selling cars in the UK has got even more complicated – the environmental pressures haven’t gone away, Brexit has added further complications, EV adoption has become pressured (although the underlying direction of travel has not changed), and now a load of new Chinese brands have arrived in Britain, aggressively seeking their slice of the car-buying pie.
All of which makes it very surprising that Mitsubishi is reversing its earlier decision. So what can we expect? Read on…
So who or what is Mitsubishi?
Mitsubishi Motors is just one part of a giant conglomerate that was once Japan’s largest industrial group, and has a history dating back to the 1850s.
The automotive story began in 1917 when Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co launched the first production automobile in Japan. Inspired by a Fiat, the car was called the Model A and offered seven seats. It was a luxury vehicle, entirely built by hand and as a result was expensive – just 22 were made over four years.
In 1934, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding merged with Mitsubishi Aircraft Co to become Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Japan’s largest private company. Its prime business was aircraft, ships and rail vehicles, but in 1937 it launched a saloon car called the P37. The first Japanese car with all-wheel drive, it was aimed at the military. In the second world Sar, Mitsubishi was a prime supplier of military hardware, with the Mitsubishi Zero fighter plane being the Japanese equivalent of Britain’s Spitfire or Hurricane.
After the war, the occupying Allied powers forced Mitsubishi to be split into three. From 1951, one of the trio, East Japan Heavy Industries, imported a budget American car called the Kaiser Motors Henry J. It was supplied as a kit of parts that was assembled in Japan.
This deal lasted for three years, but a similar one involving Jeeps secured by another of the trio, Central Japan Heavy Industries, lasted rather longer – all the way through until 1998. In 1953 the firm, now known as Shin Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, added its first home-built car.
The Mitsubishi 500 was a saloon designed for large sales and was quickly followed by the Minica – an example of the tiny and low-powered ‘kei cars’ unique to Japan, and then the Colt 1000, the first to use a name that was to become synonymous with Mitsubishi product.
1960 Mitsubishi 5001991 Mitsubishi Minica
In 1964, the three companies were re-merged back into Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and car production rapidly expanded to more than 75,000 vehicles annually, alongside similar growth in its commercial vehicle market. A specific automotive company, Mitsubishi Motors, was founded in 1970.
The new company pursued expansion by doing deals with major global car makers, and from 1971 Chrysler took a 15% stake, selling Galant models in the USA. Soon, the Europeans were also buying Mitsubishis from dealers branded as Colt – in the UK, the Colt Car Company was established in 1974. By 1980, Mitsubishi’s annual production had exceeded one million cars.
The car maker went public in 1988, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries owning 25% and Chrysler increasing its stake to 20%. Sales of SUVs were beginning to take off, particularly in America, and Mitsubishi dusted off its experience in all-wheel-drive powertrains to take full advantage.
The manufacturer was riding so high that in 1993 it was rumoured to be about to make a hostile takeover of Honda, which had underestimated the SUV boom, although nothing came of it. But then things started to go wrong.
Chrysler, itself not in a healthy state, had ended its investment in Mitsubishi in 1993 and the Japanese maker sought other alliances. Then came a major product recall in 1999, during which the company was accused of hiding a wide range of manufacturing defects, which erupted into a national scandal in Japan. In 2005, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries led a rescue of the car maker that cost 540 billion yen – equivalent to around £2.7 billion or £4.8 billion today.
The recovery was swift, Mitsubishi returning to profit by 2007 and securing contracts to make cars for both Nissan and PSA Group, parent of Peugeot and Citroën. This lasted until another scandal – Nissan uncovered discrepancies in the stated fuel consumption of some Mitsubishi cars and what they actually used. The ensuing furore paved the way for Nissan to acquire a 34% controlling stake in Mitsubishi in 2016, and to integrate the maker into the Renault–Nissan Alliance.
Mitsubishi remained reasonably strong in its home market, but in Europe it was a different matter. In 2020, as part of a global cost-cutting initiative by partners Nissan and Renault, it was announced that Mitsubishi would need to cut fixed costs by 20% and “focus investment on core markets”.
European profits at Mitsubishi were said to be at their lowest-ever level as the Covid pandemic halved UK sales from 2019 to 2020, just as expensive investment would be needed to address future challenges. As a result, it was decided to freeze development of new models for Europe and quit UK sales altogether – a move that took Mitsubishi’s UK operation totally by surprise.
The brand’s after-sales business was acquired by IM Group – a company that also manages the UK interests of Subaru, Isuzu, GWM and Xpeng – with more than 100 dealers around the UK to look after existing Mitsubishi customers.
The understanding from inside the industry is that IM Group is the driving force behind Mitsubishi’s UK return, rather than any great pressure from the company’s head office in Japan.
What models does Mitsubishi have and what else is coming?
Mitsubishi has yet to reveal the full details of the future UK model range, though we do know the first two cars heading to Britain.
Core to the relaunch will be the latest version of the Outlander plug-in hybrid SUV. This will be the latest version of a model that had brought Mitsubishi considerable success in the 2010s as one of the first cars to offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain to UK buyers. The current model sold in Europe was jointly developed with the latest Nissan X-Trail.
Also coming back is the newest version of the L200 pick-up, which had previously been a favourite amongst tradespeople and farmers.
Beyond those two models, the company’s plans are currently unclear. Mitsubishi still sells a number of models in Europe, such as the Colt (a rebadged Renault Clio), ASX (a rebadged Renault Captur), Grandis (a rebadged Renault Sumbioz) and electric Eclipse Cross (a rebadged Renault Scenic).
Of these, the Eclipse Cross electric SUV seems a logical choice as the company will need electric models to hit the UK’s zero-emissions vehicle mandate targets, and the Eclipse Cross is based on the highly rated Renault Scenic – winner of The Car Expert’s Best Medium Car 2025 award and also the European Car of the Year 2024 award.
Where can I try a Mitsubishi car?
Again, watch this space. The return to UK sales means Mitsubishi needs to set up a dealer network to sell them, and details on this are currently sparse.
With IM Group managing four other car brands, it’s highly likely that we will see Mitsubishis popping up in some existing Subaru, Isuzu, GWM and Xpeng showrooms.
A Mitsubishi fact to impress your friends
Mitsubishi’s origins pre-date its car manufacturing by almost a century. Mitsubishi founder Iwasaki Yataro created the original version of the company logo from his family crest and the Tosa clan emblem, under which he was employed.
‘Mitsu’ is Japanese for three while the triangles are said to resemble the shape of a water chestnut, pronounced ‘hishi’ in Japanese but ‘bishi’ when used in the second half of a word.
Some 40 different Mitsubishi companies employ the same logo.
Summary
Mitsubishi has had a turbulent history while continuing to produce effective vehicles for a particular sector of the market – while its hatchbacks and saloons have not exactly written many adoring headlines, its 4x4s have long been renowned as tough, durable machines.
We can only speculate on the prospects for the brand’s return, just four years after its departure from the UK market. The brand is not exactly arriving from a position of great strength, and it will be entering a fiercely competitive marketplace with more rivals than ever before.
Will some fond memories of its previous models be enough to lure customers back into showrooms later this year? It seems like a tall order, but we’ll find out very soon.
Cars are complex machines with a huge number of moving parts, transporting us all over the country and abroad, and most of us rely on them every day.
Unlike most other machines and devices, our cars operate in very harsh conditions for long periods at a time. Rain, snow, mud, heat and dust are all par for the course for a car, which you can’t say for your television or washing machine. Even the most reliable car will fail if it is not properly maintained on a regular basis.
Having a regular service keeps your car running in good order. It will prolong its lifespan, head off potential problems that could get worse later, plus help to retain the vehicle’s value by showing that you have looked after it.
But many car owners let their regular servicing lapse, or they wait too long between each visit to the garage. Maybe they’re busy, or they’re not sure where to find a suitable dealer or workshop, or are worried about how much it might cost.
Some owners want to have their vehicle serviced by their main dealer and there are incentives to do this, such as a free valet or continued membership of a breakdown recovery service.
But if you’re not concerned about that, there are a range of excellent organisations that offer car servicing and it can be arranged in minutes from your laptop or smartphone. Everything is explained, including pricing, so it’s a safe and convenient way to organise your servicing.
These organisations take the grief out of servicing and organise it all for you, whether you need a full, interim or other type of service, such as a major which includes additional elements like pollen filter. Some groups even offer to send a mobile mechanic to your home or workplace to do the work, while many will collect and deliver for you.
You have almost certainly heard of the RAC. Once a members’ breakdown organisation, the historic group goes back to the turn of the century. But the RAC’s breakdown recovery services were sold off in 1999 and today it’s owned by several investment firms. It now offers far more than just recovery.
One of those features is servicing. From the site’s landing page, use the drop-down menu across the top to select ‘Service & Repair’ followed by ‘Book a car service’.
Scroll down again, and you’ll have a choice of a mobile mechanic or an approved garage. From either choice, enter your car registration number and either address for the mechanic to visit, or your postcode to find you a list of workshops able to carry out the service.
Membership of the RAC is not required. ‘You can even be a member if the AA and we won’t hold that against you!’ it says. It’s a simple and straightforward site that also offers lots of news, tips and advice on owning and running a car.
It’s probably still the most recognised motoring organisation in Britain, with its familiar yellow rescue vehicles and famous badge that once adorned radiator grilles of cars long gone. The AA goes back to 1905; members had the use of roadside emergency telephone boxes and AA mechanics would salute them.
Book a service through the AA, and you might not get a salute anymore but your car will get the right treatment. Go to ‘Vehicle maintenance’ and drop down to ‘Car servicing’ to be offered an AA-approved garage. To start, enter your registration number and postcode.
Choose the date you want and select an approved garage from the list given. The AA also provides mobile mechanics in some areas, while some garages will collect your car and return it.
Cost-spreading over four payments is available in selected cases, and there’s a one-year guarantee on work. The AA site offers lots of easy-to-understand advice and, in the servicing section, news and tips are specifically about car servicing.
MotorEasy has become one of UK’s leading car management platforms, helping you to find tyres, different types of insurance, servicing, MOTs and more.
Booking a service starts with your car registration and mileage, your postcode and requested booking date. You’ll then need to enter your contact details, and then the site will find suitable workshops and provide you with a quote.
MotorEasy books everything with the garage, and you pay the garage directly on the day. The company claims that it can save you up to 40% off the cost of main dealer servicing.
Want to compare prices when deciding on a garage to service your car? That’s what Book My Garage can help with. The comparison platform assists with decisions on MOTs, servicing and repairs, making finding a garage simple. The company claims it has helped more than 24 million motorists compare prices for car maintenance.
From the landing page, select ‘Service’ and drop down to ‘Book car service’. ‘Top locations’ of big UK cities are listed separately, but by entering your car’s registration number and postcode, you can whittle your search down to the area that suits you.
A list of relevant garages is presented to you almost instantly, including ‘Official dealership’ for your car, if there is one, and ‘Featured garage’, chosen for a unique or special reason. Each garage includes an ‘About’ section with details of the business, plus an ‘Availability’ tab for you to choose a suitable date.
A different way in is via the ‘Find a garage’ tab and select an area near you and then choose the type of maintenance you want – you can also book an MOT at the same time as your yearly service, a good time-saver.
It’s all about price with Click Mechanic, and why not? The site gives you a fixed-price quote before you book a garage or mechanic. Click Mechanic has more than 1,000 vetted specialists across the UK to choose from.
You can select a mobile mechanic to visit you, or you can choose a garage and organise collection from your home or business. The first thing you have to do, of course, is enter your car registration number and postcode.
Using your vehicle identifier, you’re offered a list of services, including repairs, tyres, MOTs, and servicing. Select that choice, and it’s broken down again to full, major and interim options as well as items such as a vehicle health check.
Once you have decided what level you need, the ‘Next step’ tab will take you to a page to enter your personal details, including address and contact information and a calendar from which to choose a date and time. There’s a section too to leave a note for your mechanic. It’s a simple, no-frills site, but easy to use and very useful.
The website address gives away what this organisation used to be called. Formerly known as Who Can Fix My Car, the site invites you join 3.6 million other drivers who have used them for car maintenance help and advice.
It’s about finding the right garage at the right price, and Fix My Car does this by calling upon its list of ‘thousands’ of mechanics to match one to your particular needs. So first enter the usual registration number and postcode to bring up the next page, which asks what you need for your identified car.
Common requests such as servicing, MOT, brakes and clutch replacement are already listed but there’s also a box for you to add more specific details if required. The site confirms the car and the job you requested before taking you to the next page.
This is to enter your contact details before requesting your quote. You can also sign up for a regular email of car tips, news and advice here. You then choose your favourite garage based on price and proximity, and book the work from there.
Halfords is another well-known brand that’s famous for a range of services for your car, as well as cycling, camping, and other motoring services like towbar fitting. They are well placed for car servicing, and this website describes what they do.
Go to ‘Services’, ‘Car servicing’ and ‘Book a service’ and enter your registration number and postcode. Once you enter your car details, a wide range of work is shown and described, including full, major, and interim services, oil and filter changes, and ‘bundles’ such as service and MOT done together.
Handy tabs will provide details on each offering and let you book if you wish. The site has already identified your most local Halfords branch, so your servicing selection is added automatically to this and placed in a ‘basket’.
Clicking on the basket confirms the servicing and shows the local branch as well as other nearby choices and you can amend the workshop at this point. The next step is to ‘Book an appointment’ to select a suitable time and date to take your car in for its work.
Another well-known brand when it comes to car repairs and maintenance, Kwik Fit has more than 600 centres across the UK and has been looking after UK drivers’ cars for over 50 years. Its core offerings are tyre repair and replacement, and MOT testing, but car servicing is also a big part of its range.
Click on ‘Servicing’ from the drop-down menu, and you’ll find ‘Book your service’. From here, you’re asked to supply the car’s registration number, and a recommended centre is shown on the next page. You don’t have to choose this: ‘Other centres nearby’ are also offered.
Select the one you want, and a clear menu of servicing types and pricing is shown, based on your car. Having chosen the type of service you want, clicking on it takes you to a new page which loads up available dates for that local centre.
Again, select your preferred time slot, and you will then be asked to ‘Reserve your appointment’. It’s a quick and easy site to understand and navigate through.
Servicing Stop proudly claims to be the UK’s largest servicing network and says it will find you the best price too. ‘Find a better deal and we’ll match it’ they add. The company featured on TV’s Dragon’s Den, seeking further investment to help it grow.
Now it has a network of qualified garages and mechanics, and the offer is to collect your car, service it and return it to you on the same day. The routine is broadly similar to its rivals: enter your registration and postcode online, select the service you’d like, and choose an available date.
You’ll get your quote before moving on to anything else. The price is clearly shown with all options, and a calendar lets you choose your date and time. If that’s all convenient, add in your name and contact details and click ‘Book my service’. It’s simple and easy to follow.
An approved garage close to you is found from which a driver will collect your car between 8am and 10am. The company’s size means it can secure top prices for approved parts, and it will stamp your service record book when the work is complete.
ATS Euromaster is well known for its tyres and tyre services, but, like similar businesses, it has broadened its offerings. Servicing is among these, and the drop-down tab is found across the top of the landing page.
Click on that, and you will be shown levels of servicing such as full, interim and major, plus a simple oil and filter change. Clicking one of these will take you to a new page where you enter, at this stage, only your registration number.
This will identify your car and offer you the right service for its make and model. Selecting one will put it in the ATS basket. Continuing at this point brings up the ‘Find an appointment’ section, where you enter your postcode to see a list of the nearest ATS centres. Beside each centre is a calendar showing available dates. Select one, confirm your personal details and book the service.
The webpage is packed with advice, descriptions at each level, and explanations of costs. There’s little room for uncertainty in this clear and comprehensive website.
National Tyres & Autocare’s name sums them up – well known for tyre repair and replacement the brand also offers a range of car services including repairs, safety checks, MOTs and servicing. It has 239 fitting centres across the UK and thousands of technicians fitting original equipment parts.
Click on the ‘Servicing’ tab at the top of the landing page and select ‘Book a car service’. Interim, full and major services are offered with clear descriptions of what each entails. There’s a useful ‘Instant price’ tab on which you click to get a choice of quotes for the work you’re looking for using your car’s registration number for reference.
Entering your postcode allows the website to suggest your nearest, and potentially most convenient, brand to visit. Change this if you wish from the drop-down menu, select the level of service you want, add any extras like MOT, and click ‘Book now’.
There’s a useful question-and-answer section that explains many of the queries you are likely to have about how long work takes, which type of service to choose, updating digital service records, and what you should take to the appointment.
*The Car Expert has commercial partnerships with the AA, Book My Garage, Click Mechanic, Fix My Car, Kwik Fit, MotorEasy and RAC. If you click through to their websites and view any of their vehicles, or proceed to purchase a vehicle, we may receive a commission. This does not affect the price you pay.
Omoda has introduced its first regular (non-plugged) hybrid model, the Omoda 5 ‘SHS-H‘, which is scheduled to arrive in the UK in March.
Positioned as a halfway house between the standard petrol Omoda 5 and the all-electric Omoda E5, the new model is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, paired with an automatic transmission, which delivers a power output of up to 200hp and a claimed fuel economy of up to 53mpg.
Acceleration from 0–62 mph takes about eight seconds, with the hybrid system tuned to balance responsive performance and everyday efficiency across urban, suburban and longer-distance driving.
Visually, the Omoda 5 hybrid retains most of the same styling that has defined the model since launch, with some minor cosmetic tweaks to front grille and bumper designs, and a new alloy wheel pattern.
The hybrid model follows the two-tier trim levels of the regular petrol model. ‘Knight’ is the standard specification, with features including 18-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, dual 12-inch digital displays on the dashboard wirelessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, intelligent voice control and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance and safety systems.
The ‘Noble’ trim grade builds on the standard spec by adding features such as a surround-view camera, an eight-speaker Sony audio system, ambient interior lighting, heated and ventilated front seats.
Since launching in the UK in August 2024, Omoda UK has recorded over 23,000 new car registrations in Britain, with the 5 and E5 SUVs establishing themselves as increasingly popular choices for price-conscious buyers.
Prices start from around £26k, with the hybrid available through the joint Omoda & Jaecoo dealership network from March 2026. All models come with Omoda’s 7-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty, alongside an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.
The Omoda 5 currently holds a New Car Expert Rating of D, with a score of 56%. It scores top marks for its five-star safety rating and new car warranty, but CO2 emissions are only average, running costs are high compared to other small SUVs and media review scores are very poor. The new hybrid model is likely to help with the emissions and running costs scores, and we will wait to see how media reviews play out.
The Jaecoo E5 is a compact all-electric SUV and the battery-powered twin of the Jaecoo 5, which arrived on Uk roads in Autumn 2025.
The E5 is Jaecoo’s answer to the Ford Puma Gen-E, Jeep Avenger Electric and Volvo EX30, and like its petrol-powered counterpart, the electric crossover has picked up widespread reviewer praise for its value-for-money.
Electifying.com’s Ginny Buckley argues that where the E5 excells in in the finance department. “It’s so much cheaper than its rivals, even before you factor in the equipment.” Beyond the price, she adds that the Jaecoo is “ultimately, a pretty average car” which is “big enough and practical enough, and it drives just fine, but other have better range and faster charging.”
Parker’s Ryan Gilmore agrees, explaining that the E5 “may not be perfect, but it’s competent – and cleverly tailored to buyers who prioritise value and equipment over outright polish.”
While the small SUV doesn’t stand out for its performance, practicality or interior quality and comfort, it is competent in all those areas, and combined with the car’s attractive price tag, Which EV?’s Tim Barnes-Clay concludes that the E5 is “sure to be popular, like its larger petrol powered Jaecoo 7 sibling.”
As of January 2026, the Jaecoo E5 holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 67%. Beyond the car’s middling review scores, this overall rating is bolstered by positive running cost and warranty evaluations.
Model reviewed: Range overview (including petrol 5) Score: 7 / 10 “With the E5’s extra weight we felt it rode a little more firmly (than the 5), and was more susceptible to roll in corners.” Author: Sean Keywood Read review
Car
Score: 6 / 10 “There are better small electric EVs around than the Jaecoo E5. They offer better refinement, longer ranges and even undercut the car on price, but none can offer the sheer list of premium features for the price. It’s a magpie approach to selling a car, but I can see it working, especially as the rest of the car is competent.” Author: Ryan Gilmore Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 5 / 10 “The Jaecoo E5 is, ultimately, a pretty average car. It’s big enough and practical enough, and it drives just fine, but other have better range and faster charging. Where the E5 excels is in the financial incentives. It’s so much cheaper than its rivals, even before you factor in the equipment.” Author: Ginny Buckley Read review
Fleetworld
Model reviewed: Luxury “Decent battery range, plenty of equipment and a cabin that’s as well built as any in this class means you might suspect the Jaecoo E5 is going to be pricey. It’s not. In Luxury trim as here, it’s notably cheaper than a Škoda Elroq or Kia EV3 to lease, which means you don’t need a new pair of specs to see the appeal of E5 to fleet drivers.” Author: Al Suttie Read review
Honest John
Score: 6 / 10 “Aggressively priced, the Jaecoo E5 is a proper alternative to more established rivals. With a decent interior, good boot size and useable range, it’ll tick a lot of boxes for many buyers.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7.2 / 10 “There are certainly more refined electric SUVs out there than the Jaecoo E5, but don’t let that be a dealbreaker. There are models than can go further on a charge, and models that cost less money, but nothing can do both against the E5. Also, none offer quite so many high-end features for this price.” Author: Ryan Gilmore Read review
Which EV?
Score: 8.3 / 10 “Range Rover-a-like looks and decent sense of quality mean the Jaecoo E5 punches above its price. Although range and performance are nothing to get too excited about, they’re decent enough for the money, making this a great-value small electric SUV. It’s sure to be popular, like its larger petrol powered Jaecoo 7 sibling.” Author: Tim Barnes-Clay Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Jaecoo E5 has not been assessed by Euro NCAP.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Jaecoo E5 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the E5 is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
248 miles
B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
3.7 m/KWh
D
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
34
D
The Jaecoo E5 is a relatively affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
The car’s average battery range of 248 miles is competitive in the small SUV class, though its insurance premiums are predicted to be higher than the category average. We don’t yet have maintenance and servicing cost data for this model.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Jaecoo E5 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 E5, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Jaecoo E5
Overall rating
A
98%
New car warranty duration
7 years
New car warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Jaecoo’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the E5.
The duration is a class-leading seven years, with a limit of 100,000 miles. In addition to the standard new car warranty, this electric crossover has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used Jaecoo E5
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Jaecoo E5 from an official Jaecoo dealership, you will get the remainder of its original seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.
If you are buying a used Jaecoo E5 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 Jaecoo E5 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.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Jaecoo E5. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Jaecoo dealer.
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Lease a Jaecoo E5
If you’re looking to lease a new Jaecoo E5, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
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Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
The BYD Seal 6 is a mid-sized saloon and ‘Touring’ estate range, and the petrol plug-in hybrid counterpart to the all-electric BYD Seal.
Officially named the Seal 6 DM-i – ‘DM-i’ being the moniker BYD gives to its plug-in hybrid models, standing for ‘Dual Mode Intelligent’ – the saloon and estate line-up has divided the British motoring media to date, with criticisms of the plug-in hybrid range generally outweighing the positives.
Journalists Alan Taylor-Jones and Luke Wilkinson have published multiple reviews of the Seal 6 across several titles, the pair’s Car reviews concluding that the BYD’s unrefined handling and “thrashy and unpleasant” powertrain means that the Seal 6 “desperately needs to go back to finishing school”, despite the car’s attractive pricing and practicality.
On the other hand, Steve Fowler of The Independent gave the range a much higher review score, praising the saloon and estate for its “excellent” interior quality and its “refined and relaxing” driving experience.
As of January 2026, we haven’t collected enough data on the BYD Seal 6 to give the family-friendly model range an Expert Rating score. Once we have collected running cost data for the Seal 6, we will update this page with the car’s aggregated scores. Check back soon!
“Unlike many plug-in hybrids, the BYD Seal 6 DM-i’s smooth, electric-biased plug-in hybrid powertrain is designed to be efficient regardless of battery charge, and not simply a Benefit-in-Kind tax box-ticking exercise. But there’s plenty else for company car buyers to like; there’s loads of standard kit, a comfortable drive and plenty of cabin space.”
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i saloon Score: 7 / 10 “The BYD Seal 6 Saloon boasts strong pricing and efficiency, but the unsettled ride and basic Boost trim limit the appeal.” Author: Paul Barker Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Saloon Score: 7 / 10 “The saloon version of BYD’s Seal 6 DM-i has the same impressive hybrid tech as its estate equivalent but loses out in practicality.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 The Seal 6 DM-i shares a name with BYD’s breakthrough Model 3 rival – but little else, given it’s hybrid rather than full electric and based on the Seal U SUV. There are frustrations with the nagging safety systems and infotainment, and it’s hardly exciting to drive. But, as tested in Touring estate trim, the BYD Seal 6 is practical, comfortable, efficient and a refreshing break from the SUV norm.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid Comfort Lite Score: 7 / 10 “Whilst it’s not that much fun to drive, there’s no doubting the BYD Seal 6’s decent EV range, and it is going to be affordable, with prices expected to range from £33,000 to £38,000, and all versions well-equipped and well-made. Although, like other plug-in hybrids, future changes in taxation might make the Seal EV a more attractive fleet option.” Author: Martyn Collins Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i saloon Score: 4 / 10 “While there’s no arguing with the price, especially given the equipment and tech on offer, practicality and all-electric range, it desperately needs to go back to finishing school.” Author: Alan Taylor-Jones, Luke Wilkinson Read review
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i Touring estate Score: 4 / 10 “The Seal 6 DM-i estate is another strong offering from BYD. The only real issue I have with the car is the way it rides. It’s a little too stiff for my liking, which seems at odds with its brief as a long-legged family car. It also isn’t an especially engaging car to drive quickly, but that’s a fault shared between most of its rivals. At this money, Skoda and Volkswagen have good reason to be worried.” Author: Alan Taylor-Jones, Luke Wilkinson Read review
Carwow
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i Touring estate Score: 6 / 10 “The BYD Seal 6 Touring offers an efficient plug-in hybrid system and generous kit for an affordable price, but it’s not very good to drive.” Author: Mario Christou Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “The BYD Seal 6 DM-i is fine in terms of its practicality, equipment and pricing, but it is a shame that BYD haven’t made it more comfortable and enjoyable to drive.” Author: Vicky Parrott Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “There’s a fair bit to like about the BYD Seal 6, but the driving experience is underwhelming, the entry-level engine is rather gutless and the safety systems are overbearing to the point of rage. It feels rather rough around the edges, even accounting for its keen price.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i Touring estate Score: 5.8 / 10 “We can see the appeal of the Seal 6 if your getting out of a baggy old Mondeo estate, but it just isn’t very good to drive compared to its key rivals. It’s shame as it offers good value and impressive space.” Author: Alan Taylor-Jones, Luke Wilkinson Read review
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i saloon Score: 5.4 / 10 “Great value, but you’ll have to put up with unpolished driving dynamics and relatively sluggish performance if you buy one.” Author: Alan Taylor-Jones, Luke Wilkinson Read review
The Independent
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “Every time I drive a new BYD, I come away impressed – and the Seal 6 DM-i is no exception. I drove the Touring, but the same applies to the saloon: quality is excellent, the driving experience is refined and relaxing, and the combination of electric and petrol power works seamlessly.” Author: Steve Fowler Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i Touring estate “This is a car that’s been specifically made for British and German tastes and is the antidote to the never-ending flood of lookalike Chinese electro-SUVs.” Author: Rob Gill Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: Seal 6 DM-i Touring estate Score: 8 / 10 “PHEVs may be losing fleet favour, but this model combines economy, comfort and a practical 62-mile electric range.” Author: Andrew English Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the BYD Seal 6 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
No data yet
As of January 2026, we don’t have independently verified data available for the BYD Seal 6. Check back again soon.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the BYD Seal 6 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 Seal 6, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the BYD Seal 6
BYD’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Seal 6.
The duration is a six years, with a limit of 93,750 miles. In addition to the standard new car warranty, this plug-in hybrid range has an eight-year/155,350-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used BYD Seal 6
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ BYD Seal 6 from an official BYD dealership, you will get the remaining balance of the original six-year new car warranty and the eight-year battery warranty, and if the warranty is up, you get a minimum 12-month warranty included.
If you are buying a used BYD Seal 6 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 BYD Seal 6 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.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the BYD Seal 6. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local BYD dealer.
Hyundai has announced the full UK price list for its upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 6 N performance car, which is now available to order.
This high-performance ‘N’ variant of the Ioniq 6 saloon has been a long time coming – we last reported on it in July last year, and Hyundai stayed silent about the car’s UK launch until it opened its order books for the model this week.
Designed to “deliver an exhilarating and engaging driving experience”, Hyundai says that this sporty saloon is its most advanced ‘N’ model to date, featuring a redesigned suspension system, improvements to the ‘N e-Shift’ steering wheel paddles that simulate gear shifting, ‘better’ sound quality in the cabin and more horsepower than any of its ‘N’-badged siblings.
Power comes from the same 84kWh battery that powers the Ioniq 5 N, but with a small 9hp boost, delivering 650hp in total. With top speed electronically capped at 160mph, the Ioniq N can reportedly complete a 0-62mph sprint in 3.2 seconds – two tenths quicker than the Ioniq 5 N in the same race.
As the model has now launched, we can confirm that the Ioniq 6 N can muster up to 302 miles on a single charge – 36 miles less than the rear-wheel drive 77kWh Ioniq 6 ‘Long Range’.
Like all of Hyundai’s ‘N’-plated range, the saloon will be offered in the brand’s ‘performance blue pearl’ exterior colour scheme (though white, grey, black and gold colour schemes are also available), and ‘N’-branded alloys wrapped in Pirelli tyres that Hyundai says have been exclusively developed for this model.
The car comes with several track-focused tech features, including launch control, a drift optimiser, a ‘Boost’ setting that maximises acceleration for ten seconds and ‘Active Sound +’ which increases the engine soundtrack played in the cabin to provide “greater driver feedback.”
Pricing for the single-spec Hyundai Ioniq 6 N now starts at just under £66k before options.
The MG IM6, along with the closely related IM5, signify MG’s strategic entry into the premium electric executive SUV/crossover segment, directly challenging the likes of the Tesla Model Y. The IM6 has been on sale in China for some time, but made its UK launch in the summer of 2025, with first customer cars arriving in September 2025.
The IM6 carries almost no MG badging at all, using IM badges and branding instead. This makes more sense when you look at it from a Chinese perspective, where these cars are sold under the IM brand rather than the MG brand. Here in the UK, it makes things slightly more confusing to the average person on the street.
The MG IM6 is a sizeable vehicle, pushing close to five metres in length. That makes it longer than the Tesla Model Y, and broadly similar to the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, which is a whole market segment above the MG (and about twice the price). The closely related IM5 is a lower-riding saloon model, much like the Tesla Model 3.
Like many new cars, especially those coming from China, there is a heavy reliance on touchscreens rather than physical buttons or switches to control almost every function of the car. While this might appeal to some customers, it can be quite off-putting to others and can make controlling even simple functions difficult while driving. In fact, there are almost no buttons or physical controls anywhere in the interior.
Acceleration is astonishing for an executive or family saloon. Top-spec ‘Performance’ and ‘Launch Edition’ models put out 750hp of power and 800Nm of torque, enough to get from rest to 60mph in about 3.5 seconds – which is supercar territory. Not only are you highly unlikely to ever need that much power, most average drivers will probably be overwhelmed if they try to actually use it on normal UK roads. We’d recommend sticking to the entry-spec ‘Long Range’, which puts out a still-considerable 400hp and also offers 380 miles of range on the official government lab tests.
Standard equipment levels are very good on all models, including an excellent 20-speaker stereo system that puts many fancy (and expensive) optional stereos in German cars to shame.
As of February 2026, the MG IM6 holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 76%. While the car’s collection of review scores are fairly average overall, this overall score is bolstered by high safety and warranty ratings.
Body style: Large SUV/crossover Engines:electric motor, single or twin Price:From £47,995 on-road
Launched: Summer 2025 Last updated: N/A
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“Launching the IM6 could possibly be a leap too far for MG. There’s no arguing with the performance on offer, but the chassis struggles to cope with the power, so it’s not enjoyable to make the most of it. Comfort is a strong point, though, as is the ultra-rapid charging capability, but the large touchscreen infotainment displays have their quirks and take some getting used to, while the IM6’s heavy weight hampers its overall efficiency.”
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “MG takes its bang for buck ethos to extremes with the IM6 SUV version of its fast and furious IM5 saloon.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: 100kWh Long Range Score: 8 / 10 “The price might seem punchy for an MG – and there’s no shortage of other electric rivals offering stern competition – but the IM6 has the credibility in spec and design to live up to it.” Author: Sean Keywood Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The IM6 is a strong step up for MG and pulls the brand into an entirely new sector. It’s an impressive first entry into the market: the styling is inoffensive but the interior is impressive, as is the strong level of refinement and good ride at speed. Compared to the Tesla Model Y it’s arguably more polished but certainly rides better, and makes its power in a more engaging way. And when compared to the Audi Q4 e-tron, it’s got far more character.” Author: Curtis Moldrich Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The MG IM6 is a technical extravaganza, and for the range and features that it’s offering it’s also good value. I found it rather uninspiring to drive despite the outrageous performance, and some could find the interior styling a bit challenging. But with this much equipment, charging and range, it’s not hard to see why it could still be a big hit.” Author: Ginny Buckley Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview “Established rivals will be troubled by the MG IM6’s value for money, decent driving range and commodious interior for people and luggage. But will buyers be put off by its lack of MG octagon familiarity? Or the lamentable lack of physical dashboard? Also, the IM5 hatchback goes further and faster for less money.” Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “In the MG IM6 versus Tesla Model Y battle, the MG has much in its favour. It looks good, has more space inside than the Tesla, better build quality and is strong on tech, too. The MG is ever-so-slightly cheaper and goes ever-so-slightly further than the Tesla, too. The sticking point is that the IM6 is neither as good to drive or as comfortable to be in as the Tesla – the ride in particular is just too jittery.” Author: Steve Fowler Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 5 / 10 “Ignore the MG badge, this is another Chinese electric SUV that doesn’t rock the boat and isn’t a bargain.” Author: Joe Holding Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of February 2026, the MG IM6 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the IM6 is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
338 miles
A
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
2.9 m/KWh
E
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
49
E
The MG IM6 is a relatively expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
The car’s average battery range of 338 miles is competitive when compared to the EV market at large, but there are several premium rivals of this size that offer a longer battery range with a similar battery size. This is highlighted by the IM6’s poor electrical efficiency of 2.9m/KWh.
The SUV also has high predicted insurance premiums. We currently do not have maintenance and servicing cost estimations for this model.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
The MG IM6 is a brand-new model, so we won’t have any reliability data for some time.
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 IM6, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the MG IM6
Overall rating
A
96%
New car warranty duration
7 years
New car warranty mileage
80,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
MG’s new car warranty is one of the best in the new car market, and better than pretty much any rival brands in a similar price bracket to the MG IM6.
The duration is seven years, with a limit of 80,000 miles. In addition, battery components benefit from an additional eight-year/100,000-mile warranty. This is pretty much standard for all new EVs on sale in the UK, but is an extra reassurance that petrol and diesel cars don’t get.
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.
As of February 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the MG IM6. However, this information is updated very regularly so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local MG dealer.
Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more
Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more
Lease an MG IM6
If you’re looking to lease a new MG IM6, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to an MG IM6
Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
The Alpine A390 is a performance-focused mid-size coupé-SUV, and Alpine’s second all-electric model offering after the smaller A290 hatchback.
Built on the same foundations as the Renault Scenic E-Tech and Nissan Leaf, the Alpine describes the A390 as a ‘sports fastback’ due to its sloping rear roofline. British reviewers, who have given the ‘hot SUV’ a solid set of positive initial review scores, generally agree that the Alpine sits between mainstream medium SUVs and the premium options at the top of the market.
Parker’s Piers Ward argues that the A390 is more “refined” on the road than the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and more fun to drive than the Audi Q4 e-tron, but that the Alpine “stops short of the outright sporting intent of pricier cars like the Porsche Macan Electric.”
Summing up the general reviewer consensus, Jordan Katsianis of Auto Express concludes that, although the electric SUV is “a treat from behind the wheel, it’s far from perfect”, explaining that its “ambitious” price tag puts it in contention with talented premium rivals that offer more interior practicality and longer battery ranges.
Nevertheless, Autotrader’s Dan Trent says that the A390 is “genuinely exciting out on the road”, and its added interior space over the A290 makes it “an Alpine you can share with friends and family alike.”
As of January 2026, the Alpine A390 isn’t on sale just yet, with the car arriving on UK roads this Spring. When the British motoring media release UK-based reviews on this car, and we have collected running cost data for this model, we will give the SUV an Expert Rating score.
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The A390 attempts the illusion of feeling as light and agile as Alpine’s signature sports cars through a nifty triple-motor set-up that’s not as easy to understand as the big power and crazy acceleration times boasted by some rivals. But proves genuinely exciting out on the road, the crossover practicality meanwhile making this an Alpine you can share with friends and family alike.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “Alpine’s electric A110 with five seats impresses – if you can live with its limitations.” Author: Martyn Collins Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “For those prepared to look outside the usual marques, the A390 is a very credible, very different take on the electric fastback formula. It’s not a sector-definer, but it enriches what’s come before it with wholesome Alpine character.” Author: Piers Ward Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “It is, ultimately, quite a different car to anything else out there, and while others have more comfortable rear passenger accommodation and cushier ride comfort, none of them are like the Alpine in terms of sheer driver reward.” Author: Vicky Parrott Read review
Evo
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The A390 compels in ways and concerns in others. The engineering and dynamic detail you hope of an Alpine is there, even if there’s still a slight ‘for an EV’ caveat.” Author: Ethan Jupp Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “Although it scores well in terms of value, has good performance stats and looks great, the reality of the A390’s driving experience is underwhelming. It’s also not especially roomy for an SUV, and feels cheap in places.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8.8 / 10 “There’s genuine sports car DNA lurking in the Alpine A390, despite it being a chunky electric SUV. It’s well worth your attention, though, especially if you like driving.” Author: Piers Ward Read review
The Independent
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “Alpine says the A390 is ‘a racing car in a suit’, but is there poise and flair to match this EV’s considerable performance?”
Author: Andrew English Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “What you get with the Alpine A390 is a five-door, five-seater that’s as French as brioche and baked camembert with F1 and World Endurance Championship design and engineering knowhow, and a powerful electric four-wheel-drive system that delivers handling as close to a lightweight A110 sports car as a two-tonne EV can get.” Author: Will Dron Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “There’s nothing quite like it, and it’s good. But there are roomier and lairier rivals.”
Author: Paul Horrell Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Alpine A390 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the A390 is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
No data yet
As of January 2026, we don’t have independently verified data available for the Alpine A390. Check back again soon.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Alpine A390 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 A390, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Alpine A390
Overall rating
C
50%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Alpine’s new car warranty sits at about the market average – the duration is three years and limit of 60,000 miles being the basic new car warranty package in the UK.
In addition to the standard new car warranty, the A390 has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for its battery components.
Warranty on a used Alpine A390
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Alpine A390 from an official Alpine dealership, you will get a minimum 12-month warranty included.
If you are buying a used Alpine A390 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 Alpine A390 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.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Alpine A390. However, recall information is updated very regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Alpine dealer.
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Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
The Skoda Epiq is a small all-electric SUV/crossover that will be arriving in the UK sometime in 2026, posing a sales challenge to the likes of the Citroën ë-C3 and Fiat Grande Panda Electric.
The compact EV is yet to enter production, so not much known about it at the time of writing, but it is likely to become the entry-level electric model in Skoda’s range when it does eventually arrive in UK showrooms, sitting below the Skoda Elroq SUV that arrived on British roads in 2025.
While fellow Volkswagen Group brands have decided to target this budget EV category with hatchback models, such as the Volkswagen ID.2 and Cupra Raval, Skoda has instead decided to give the Epiq more ground clearance and thick SUV-style bumper cladding, and refers to this new model as a ‘city SUV’. The crossover is about as long as the brand’s Fabia supermini.
We will update this page with a full Expert Rating breakdown once the car has a sufficient set of UK review scores, and when we have safety, running costs and warranty data to report. Check back soon!
Body style: Small SUV/crossover Engines:electric, battery-powered Price:TBA
Launching: 2026 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
As of January 2026, the compact Skoda Epiq SUV is yet to enter production, and UK reviewers are get to get their hands on the new EV at the time of writing.
This page will be updated with highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media, once said reviews are published.
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of January 2026, the Skoda Epiq has not been assessed by Euro NCAP.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Skoda Epiq has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the [Model] is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
No data yet
As of January 2026, we don’t have independently verified data available for the Skoda Epiq. Check back again soon.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Skoda Epiq 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 Epiq, we’ll publish the results here.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Skoda Epiq. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.
You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Skoda dealer.
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Subscribe to a Skoda Epiq
Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
Volvo has revealed its new EX60 – an all-electric mid-size SUV that the manufacturer says ‘represents a new beginning’ for the brand, with improved battery range, charging speed, and performance.
The EX60 marks Volvo’s first entry in the mid-size electric SUV category – the most popular electric car category globally. As a mid-sized SUV, this new entry will sit above the smaller EX30 and EX40 models and below the larger EX90 in Volvo’s battery powered line-up, and is set to pose a sales challenge to the likes of the Renault Scenic E-Tech, Ford Explorer and Tesla Model Y.
Volvo claims that the SUV offers a class-leading battery range of 503 miles on a single charge (in an all-wheel drive configuration). For comparison, that is over 100 miles more than the top-spec Ford Explorer ‘Style RWD’ Tesla Model Y ‘Long Range’ models.
The Swedish manufacturer adds that the EX60 can add up to 211 miles of range in ten minutes when using a 400kW DC rapid charging station.
The EX60 is available with three different powertrain variants. The 680hp ‘P12 AWD Electric’ variant offers that class-leading 503-mile range, while the 510hp ‘P10 AWD Electric’ clocks in at a range of up to 410 miles.
A rear-wheel powered 376hp ‘P6 Electric’ variant delivers up to 385 miles of range. All in all, the EX60 is available in seven different variants, all offered with ten years of battery warranty.
Beyond improvements to battery tech, Volvo has also focused on the car’s aerodynamics to boost the battery range. As a result, the EX60 has a low drag coefficient of 0.26 – on par with smaller models like the Kia EV3.
Inside, the flat floor boosts legroom in the rear, and the cabin features various smart storage spaces, as well as a large boot. On the infotainment front, the EX60 will be the first Volvo with Apple Music pre-installed with Dolby Atmos.
As ever, safety is an important focus for Volvo. The EX60 comes with the brand’s ‘multi-adaptive’ safety belt, and a safety cage strengthened with boron steel.
Production starts this spring at Volvo Cars’ car factory in Sweden. Customer deliveries of the ‘P6’ and ‘P10’ variants will start this summer, with the ‘P12’ following soon after that.
The EX60 will be priced from £56k for the entry-level ‘P6’ rear-wheel-drive model, while the dual-motor ‘P10’ starts from just south of £60k. The range-topping ‘P12’ version is priced from £65k.
Volvo EX60 Cross Country
Volvo has also given a first look at the EX60 in another flavour as it introduced the newest entry in its popular line-up of ‘Cross Country’ models.
The EX60 Cross Country comes with special alloy wheel designs that are exclusive to Cross Country models, as well Cross Country branding in the front and rear bumpers as well as on the rear-pillar. Skid plates finished in stainless steel also feature, as well as beefier wheel arches.
The EX60 Cross Country also sits another two centimetres higher off the ground, and with the help of the air suspension, drivers can add another two centimetres of riding height if needed. The air suspension can also lower the car, which is especially helpful for drivers that travel on the highway and want to maximise the range of the battery.
Customers can choose between two all-wheel-drive powertrain options – a ‘P10 AWD Electric’ with up to 397 miles of range which is the first variant to become available, followed shortly after by a ‘P12 AWD Electric’ with longer range.
The Cross County variant will cost from around £57k.
If you jump in a petrol or diesel car on a cold morning, the engine warms up quickly by the process of combustion. The heat generated is fed into the coolant which surrounds the engine and part of this can be diverted into the car’s heating system.
Until this happens, switching on the air-conditioning puts a load on the battery and the air-conditioning pump, impacting fuel consumption. If the engine is allowed to cool this happens over again.
In order for an electric car battery to function properly, a constant temperature must be maintained. The ideal operating temperature of an EV battery is around 20-40 degrees Celsius, depending on the car model.
When the temperature drops, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down. EV batteries are either surrounded by a liquid, which can be used both to cool the battery and to warm it up, or are air-cooled.
What sort of drop in range are we talking about?
Glance at many of the car magazines’ reports on daily life with EVs they’re living with and it’s usual to see that the official range is often not met, and drastically reduces further when it’s cold.
In Winter 2023, the driver of a Ford Mustang Mach-E found the peak range of 226 miles (officially 273) dropped to 180 miles in February, partly due to having to often keep warm waiting to collect his kids. In the same period the driver of a Skoda Enyaq experienced a power consumption equivalent to 100 miles of range during a cold snap making lots of short journeys (it was averaging 220 miles to a claimed 323 miles).
Carmakers are upfront about this loss in range – you can’t get away from it. For example, the Renault website section on the Megane E-Tech has a range simulator where you can change parameters. At 30mph with an outside temperature of 20°C and no heating or air conditioning on and in ‘eco mode’, it has a range of 290 miles. At 30mph at 10°C, predicted range drops to 200 miles.
Short trips that allow the cabin to cool in between are the least efficient because you’ll want to use the heater and the battery management system needs to maintain the battery itself at optimal temperature.
If you do a series of short trips with parked periods of sufficient length for the car to cool to an ambient temperature, you’ll see a relatively significant reduction in your miles per kWh, up to 30%. The good news is that these short journeys fit well with quick top-up charges such as supermarket runs.
What kind of heaters do EVs have?
Internal combustion-engined cars generate heat as soon as they are running, and the water in the coolant system absorbs some of that heat. After a few miles you can get some heat into the cabin and using the air conditioning (which will heat and de-mist as well as cool) will boost this. EVs have high-voltage electric heaters and an electrical air conditioner
In case you were wondering, EVs still have a traditional lead-acid 12-volt battery to run the accessories and lower-voltage control systems.
Cold weather EV tips
If you have one, parking in the garage overnight is always a good start – you’ll avoid the need to defrost and keep the ambient air temperature up.
Plug in at home as soon as you arrive. If an EV is plugged in and charging the car it is also pre-conditioning, or pre-heating the battery. On some cars you can also program the interior heating system from your smartphone or hands-free card before starting your journey. By the time you open the car door, the cabin will already be at a comfortable temperature and you won’t be decreasing your vehicle’s range. If pre-conditioning is initiated while the car is connected to a power supply, the energy necessary to heat the interior will come directly from the grid. It’s the cheapest way to charge and you have normal range to start off with.
If you have them, activate the heated seats and steering wheel (some EVs have heated seats front and rear) before the heater. They use a lot less power than an electrical heater and you can turn the overall system down a few degrees. If you havetwo-zone or three-zone climate control and you are alone in the car, only heat the driver area if possible.
Opt for the ‘Eco’ driving mode, which automatically optimizes your energy consumption by regulating heating, acceleration, cruising speed, and braking. This feature will allow you to gain up to 10% more range. It’s especially useful on longer trips.
If there is snow ice (or more likely) heavy rain about, it’s a good idea to adopt a gentler style of driving in any car and slow down. Regenerative braking is useful at all times of year; it allowing electricity generated by letting the car slow itself to be fed back into the battery. When you take your foot off the throttle, the car regenerates power – it uses the electric motor in the rear to brake, converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is then stored in the battery.
As with a petrol or diesel car, shedding any unnecessary weight or drag will make it go further. So, take off the roof rack after the holiday and clear out the boot (except for the charging cable of course).
Likewise, keep your tyres inflated to the correct pressures. If you have fitted winter tyres switch back to summer tyres as soon as possible to increase range.
In addition, the speed at which the battery can take a charge slows down if it’s cold. Charging company Mer suggests that if you’re not able to preheat your EV’s batteries in advance of a trip, you wait as long as your vehicle will allow before a charge. This way, the battery at least has time to get lukewarm – making charging both better for the battery and faster.
Do I need a heat pump?
A heat pump boosts the electric heater in an EV and can help preserve range. It uses the heat generated by the cars electrical components to vaporize refrigerant from liquid to gas form. High-pressure gas is discharged from the compressor and forced into a condenser to be converted back into a liquid. This process generates additional heat energy that is recovered by the heat pump and used to warm the cabin. Some EVs recycle additional waste heat from the power electrics (PE) modules (such as drive motors, on-board chargers, and inverters), and also from the battery pack and slow charger.
It takes a bit of digging to find out, but some EVs have heat pumps fitted as standard, such as all Vauxhall Corsa Electric models and sister car the Peugeot e-208, as well larger models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Some Chinese brands are including heat pumps as standard, for example BYD, which sells its cheapest all-electric Dolphin model with a heat pump included in the lead-in price tag.
Some more expensive cars – which have larger batteries – leave it on the options list on for the top trim levels. For example heat pump for a Volkswagen ID.3 £1,000 to £1,150 extra. However, a quick look at internet discussions from UK EV owners shows some wouldn’t spend the extra again on a heat pump, even though they were effective.
There are various tricks employed by dodgy car dealers to try and get around the various laws that apply when selling cars. This is almost always done to try and avoid their legal obligations, which can be an expensive part of their business.
As a customer, you need to be on your guard for anything which doesn’t sound quite right when buying a used car – especially if you are only looking to spend less than a couple of thousand pounds. Although you do have some powerful consumer rights to fall back on, it’s far better to avoid getting into that situation in the first place.
You may see a car advertised with “spares or repairs” or “no warranty given or implied” somewhere near the end of the vehicle description. Used car traders have also often been known to add these phrases to the bottom of a sales contract. But what exactly do they mean and how do they affect your consumer rights?
Using phrases like “spares or repairs only”, “trade only” or “no warranty given or implied”, or something similar, is often an attempt by dodgy traders to avoid their obligations under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Customers who sign contracts with this wording may be denying themselves valuable rights, or face a long and difficult battle with the dealer if you have problems later on.
Some dealers will also pose as private individuals selling their own cars, rather than as traders, again to try and deny you your legal rights.
As a buyer, you are also covered by Section 75 of the Road Traffic Act, under which it is an offence to sell or supply an unroadworthy vehicle. This means you have the right to expect that any car you purchase from a trader or car dealer is roadworthy and can be safely driven home without endangering you or anyone else.
This is a very basic standard, and certainly doesn’t mean the car has to be perfect. But things like steering, brakes, tyres, exhaust system, seat belts, suspension and structural bodywork must be in good order.
If a sales contract has the words “spares or repair” written on it, the dealer is saying that the car is unroadworthy and is not to be driven on a public road. It literally means that the car is only suitable for being broken up for spare parts, or requires repair to be roadworthy.
Do not sign any contract which has this written on it – unless you have no intention of driving the car home and are planning to load it onto a truck or trailer for repairs/restoration/dismantling.
If a trader tries to convince you that “spares or repair only” means something different or is related to warranty, they are lying and you should walk away immediately (feel free to call Trading Standards on the way out).
We have had many questions over the years from readers who have bought cars marked “spares or repair” and did not realise what it meant (or didn’t notice until afterwards). If this has happened to you, you do have some recourse against the trader but it will probably require some professional legal assistance.
According to Section 75 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, a used car dealer is required to prove that “there was reasonable cause to believe that the vehicle would not be used on the road or would not be used until it had been put into roadworthy condition”.
If taken to court, the trader would have to show that they took all reasonable action to ensure that you knew the car was unroadworthy and that you were not going to drive the car. The car would have to be clearly advertised that the car was unroadworthy (and a small comment that says “spares or repairs only” in the fine print is not adequate), a test drive request would have to be declined and the dealer would have to make sure that you did not attempt to drive the car away after purchase.
If the trader fails to take these actions, you can reasonably argue that you were not made clearly aware that the car was unroadworthy.
Trade sale only
Like “spares or repair”, this is a term that sometimes appears in the fine print of an ad or contract. If a trader is selling a car to another trader, normal consumer protection laws like the Consumer Rights Act 2015 do not apply.
If a dealer has written “trade sale” or something similar on the contract, it is an attempt to deny you your consumer rights. if you knowingly sign a contract marked “trade sale”, you are effectively stating that you are a car dealer.
You are within your rights to strike out phrases like “trade sale” or “spares or repair” from a contract and still buy the car (assuming the dealer signs it without those phrases included, of course), but generally these are signs of a dodgy trader and you should take your money elsewhere. If the car dealer is being shady on the paperwork, there’s every chance that they’re equally dodgy when it comes to the condition of the car.
If you have any problems, you can almost guarantee that you will have a fight on your hands to protect your legal rights.
No warranty given or implied
We have discussed this in detail previously, but in summary there is no legal requirement for a trader to provide a warranty on a used car. And if you’re buying a car for a few hundred pounds, it’s common enough for a dealer to refuse to put a warranty on it. This should be explained up front, rather than slipped onto a sales contract when you’ve already agreed to buy the car.
However, just because you don’t have a warranty doesn’t mean you don’t have any rights if you have a problem.
Any used car bought by a private buyer from a trader, whether it costs £500 or £500,000, is covered by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Within certain constraints, this allows you to reject the vehicle if it is faulty.
If a car is being advertised on a dealer’s website, or on their premises, it is a dealer sale and you can expect the full protection of the Consumer Rights Act and the Road Traffic Act.
If you buy a car from a private individual, on the other hand, you do not have any of the consumer protections described above; you’re basically on your own. Inevitably, this has led to small-time dealers posing as private individuals in an attempt to circumvent their legal obligations.
If a dealer tries to spin you a story that this particular car might be advertised on their website but it’s actually his wife’s/mother’s/daughter’s private car and he’s just using the site to advertise it on their behalf, he’s lying. Leave immediately.
If a dealer tells you that he’s a car dealer but he keeps some of the nice part-exchange cars for himself to sell as a ‘hobby’ or some other such story, he’s lying. Leave immediately.
If you pull up to a private seller’s house and they have several cars parked up on the property, be very suspicious. If you sell more than four cars in the space of a year, you are considered a used car dealer. Trading from home and pretending that the car is their own personal vehicle is a common trick for dodgy dealers.
If you are buying a car from a trader, make sure they have a proper sales contract form that shows the correct company name and details. If the name on the contract is a different company than the one advertising the car, ask to see the paperwork which shows the connection between the two (eg – one company may be owned by the other company, which is fine).
Selling on consignment
When it comes to rare or expensive luxury cars, dealers will often sell a car on consignment for a customer. That’s not a problem, as long as the dealer acknowledges that they are still selling the car and therefore will be liable in the event of any consumer rights claims. It’s no different to the dealer selling a car they own themselves.
If the dealer tells you that normal conditions of sale don’t apply because they are selling the car on consignment, either walk away or insist that you deal directly with the actual owner as a private sale.
Summary
The main message to take away from all this is that – despite all the tricks available to them – a trader can only take advantage of you if you let them. This is so important that it’s one of The Car Expert’s Ten Golden Rules of buying a car.
There are plenty of dodgy car dealers out there (as well as plenty of honest ones, obviously), but as a buyer it’s up to you to make sure you take responsibility for your own money – because you’re the only one who really cares about your money.
If you have any reason at all to doubt what you see or hear, it’s up to you to ask questions and decide whether you’re happy with the answer.
“Look, balloons! This must be a reputable dealership…”
This article was originally published in April 2017, and was last updated in January 2026.
Kia has added an estate car to its petrol-powered K4 range of models with the introduction of the K4 ‘Sportswagon’.
The K4 hatchback – which can now be configured on the Kia UK website – is successor to the Ceed family car. The K4 Sportswagon meanwhile has a longer rear end and a bigger boot, and will join the Kia range as the brand’s only estate car choice.
The powertrain offering starts with a 115hp 1.0-litre petrol engine with a six-speed manual transmission. This engine is also available with mild-hybrid technology. Customers who opt for the mild-hybrid engine can pair it with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission instead.
The 150hp or 180hp 1.6-litre petrol engine comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Later in 2026, the powertrain line-up will be expanded to include a full hybrid option.
Inside, the K4 Sportswagon carries over the ‘tech-forward’ cabin concept of the K4 line-up. A 12-inch instrument cluster, five-inch climate screen and 12-inch infotainment touchscreen are combined in a large display that juts out of the dasboard, wirelessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless phone charger is also included with higher trims.
The brand’s ‘Digital Key 2.0’ allows compatible smartphones to function as virtual keys. At the same time, Kia Connect services offer a range of digital tools, such as over-the-air (OTA) updates, music streaming, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. An AI-powered voice assistant allows drivers to control various features or get information, including help with the owner’s manual or local recommendations.
Opening the boot lid reveals 604 litres of luggage space – 166 litres more than the hatchback – which positions the model alongside upper-segment competitors in the wagon market. On top of this, a wagon-exclusive feature is the power tailgate opening. This allows hands-free convenience, making loading and unloading easier.
Kia is yet to announce UK pricing for the model. It’s likely to exceed the £26k entry-level asking price of the K4 hatch. Pricing, as well as the full trim specification list, is sure to arrive in the coming weeks. Check back soon for more details!
BYD has revealed its ninth model to arrive in the UK – the compact plug-in hybrid Sealion 5 DM-i – which is now available to order.
Set to rival the sales of mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson and Volvo XC60, the Sealion 5 DM-i – ‘DM-i’ being the moniker BYD gives to its plug-in hybrid models, standing for ‘Dual Mode Intelligent’ – will be arriving in UK showrooms in early February as one of the brand’s cheaper model options.
The SUV will be offered with two different trim grade choices – the lead-in ‘Comfort’ and top-spec ‘Design – with different powertrain setups. Both make use of a 1.5-litre petrol engine, which is paired with a 13kWh battery should you opt for the ‘Comfort’. This 212hp pairing can muster up to 38 miles of electric only driving, and can complete a 0-62mph sprint in 7.7 seconds.
The ‘Design’ meanwhile comes with a bigger 18kWh battery which boosts the car’s electric-only range to 53 miles, the trade-off being a slightly slower 0-62mph sprint time of 8.1 seconds.
The ‘Comfort’ equipment list includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, plus electrically adjustable, electrically folding and heated door mirrors. Inside, the brand’s 13-inch touchscreen sits front and centre, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and plus 4G connectivity – all of which can be controlled via the “Hi BYD” intelligent voice control. Ahead of the driver sits an nine-inch digital instrument cluster.
The standard car’s seats and steering wheel are also trimmed in vegan leather, and the driver’s seat has six-way electrical seat adjustment, with four-way adjustment on the passenger seat.
The ‘Design’ version adds welcome lights, an electric tailgate and front parking sensors on top of the standard spec, as well as a surround-view camera system, wireless smartphone charging and heated front seats. Opening the boot lid reveals 463-litres of luggage space in the rear.
Pricing for the new range begins at just under £30k, rising to just north of £32k for the ‘Design’. With the SUV arriving so soon, you can be sure that we have an Expert Rating overview for this new BYD in the works. Check back with us at The Car Expert soon for more details!
Britain’s new car market exploded with new badges in 2025, as a host of new car brands set up shop in the UK.
Most of these new badges came from China and targeted British buyers with a clear plan – sign up lots of dealers and fill their showrooms with a wide choice of new cars. This will accelerate into 2026, with the result that UK car buyers will face an unprecedented choice of new metal to choose from over the year.
The majority of the new cars launching over the next 12 months will be electric vehicles (EVs). Despite concerns about the pace of switching from fossil fuels to electricity around the world, the overall direction of travel remains unchanged. However, plug-in hybrids will continue their resurgence this year, and may even overtake basic (non-plug) hybrids at some point.
So read on for BMW’s electrification of a company car must-have, yet more BYDs, revived badges from America and new ones from China, and a whole lot more…
Not a lot to report from Fiat’s performance sub-brand, which has been struggling with its UK sales since it went electric-only in 2024. Having shifted fewer than 300 cars last year, there are reports that an Abarth version of the new Fiat 500 petrol model is under consideration, but we’re unlikely to see it in 2026.
Alfa Romeo has been planning a new range of electric models for a while, but has more recently decided that the next Giulia and Stelvio SUVs will also be available with petrol engines. Until then, we’ll see the current models soldiering on for a while yet, probably with various limited-edition specials popping up from time to time.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale compact crossover has received a mid-life facelift and the updated models are rolling into showrooms now. It’s the first suite of (mainly cosmetic) changes for the Tonale since launching in 2022, and is available in both petrol and plug-in hybrid forms.
This year Renault’s performance spin-off brand will wave goodbye to the car that relaunched it, the Alpine A110 sports car. It should disappear by the summer to pave the way for an all-new electric A110 model – although that’s likely not to appear until at least 2027.
New this year, however, will be the Alpine A390. This is a five-seat electric crossover, based on a Renault Scenic platform but beefed up with more performance – including three electric motors – and sportier driving characteristics.
After the arrival of several new models over the last 12 months, you might think Audi would be slowing the launch pace – not a bit of it, with the newcomers including a smallest and largest car.
The smallest is a spiritual successor to the odd but appealing Audi A2 hatchback of the 1980s. The new car will be pitched as an entry-level EV, but not much more is known yet. It will probably be called either the A2 e-tron or A3 e-tron.
The venerable Audi Q7 seven-seat SUV is finally set to be replaced around the middle of the year after a decade on sale, with an all-new model that will follow the slightly more rounded styling of the latest Q3 and Q5 models. As with the current model, the new Q7 will offer a range of petrol, plug-in hybrid and diesel powertrains.
Also expected by the end of the year is an even bigger model called the Q9, a rival for the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS mega-SUVs. Audi is also working on a luxury version, named the Horch after the man who founded Audi. If this comes to the UK it won’t be until 2027.
Also potentially arriving in 2026 is a new Audi RS 6, which will be available in both saloon and estate forms. It will be petrol-engined, probably with a hybrid powertrain.
Bentley is gearing up to launch its first full electric vehicle, an SUV almost as big as the Bentayga – but we won’t see that until 2027. The coming year appears to be very much a case of as you were.
The age-old company-car battle between BMW and Mercedes-Benz gets a power boost in 2026 with both brands launching new electric versions of their big-volume models.
The new BMW i3 saloon, likely on sale at the very end of the year, is the first fully electric version of the perennially popular BMW 3 Series and the first saloon with the brand’s latest ‘Neue Klasse’ styling treatment. It uses the same underpinnings as the new iX3 electric SUV, which will arrive in showrooms early in the year. BMW claims that the i3 will both offer a battery range of more than 500 miles and all the driving pleasure that has long been one of the brand’s biggest selling points.
The company plans to roll out Neue Klasse updates to every model in its range, with the larger BMW 5 Series family next in line. The current model only launched in 2023, but is expected to be given a major refresh this year.
BMW’s high-performance M division is also working on its next generation of models, and has recently been showing off a prototype version of its new electric iM3 saloon – a four-motor rocketship version of the forthcoming i3 saloon. We also expect to see M versions of the new iX3 and rumoured iX4 models.
The rise of Chinese brand BYD on the UK market has been nothing short of astonishing, with lots of new models and a mushrooming dealer network to sell them. Having arrived as what initially appeared to be a typical electric Chinese brand, BYD’s 2026 plans appear to be focused on hybrids.
The Seal 6 DM-I, a large saloon and estate revealed at the end of 2025 with the brand’s ‘Super Hybrid’ technology (effectively a range-extender), is arriving in showrooms as these words are written.
BYD’s first new car out of the blocks in 2026, and ninth overall, will be the Sealion 5 DM-i. This plug-in hybrid compact SUV sits just above the Atto 3 – the first model BYD launched what seems a long time ago now but which was in fact only in September 2023. Later in the year, we could also get a plug-in hybrid Atto 3 – you are never short of choice with BYD…
The electric Atto 2, which arrived in the Autumn of 2025 as a small family car to rival the likes of the Kia EV3, will also go plug-in hybrid, with two battery sizes offering a maximum electric-only range of 56 miles.
The BYD Shark, a pick-up already on sale in Europe and Asia, is also likely to reach UK showrooms to rival the likes of the Ford Ranger. Although it has not been officially confirmed, the brand has dropped veiled hints.
Cadillac? Really? Yes, the so-very-American General Motors flagship brand is making yet another attempt to crack Europe with a line-up of electric SUVs. The Cadillac revival has been on the cards for a while, but 2026 is likely to be the year it finally happens in the UK.
The two models expected to spearhead the relaunch are the mid-sized Lyriq SUV (as seen above) and smaller Optiq. We’ll have all the details as soon as they’re available.
Changan
Changan Deepal S07
Changan officially launched UK sales in the Autumn of 2025, but China’s oldest car maker has had an R&D centre in Britain for more than 15 years.
The company’s first UK model, the Deepal S07 mid-sized electric SUV, will be joined by a smaller Deepal S05 soon. Changan has also stated that both will eventually be offered with range-extender powertrains using small petrol engines to recharge the batteries.
Changan could also launch an entirely new brand called Avatr into the UK in 2026 – described as a ‘sports luxury brand’.
One of the big Chinese names to reach the UK is the parent to both Omoda and Jaecoo, Chery will follow up its initial Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 7 large and medium SUVs launched last year with at least two more range-bookending models in 2026.
The Tiggo 9 seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV was unveiled right at the end of 2025 as the Chery flagship, and in the Spring it is set to be joined by the Tiggo 4. This entry-level compact SUV, targeting the likes of the new Volkswagen T-Roc, will only be available with a petrol engine.
Chery also plans to launch its Lepas badge in the UK as a budget brand rivalling the likes of Dacia – this could happen in the coming year.
The big news of 2026 at Citroën is the arrival of the second-generation C5 Aircross, which goes on sale in the Spring as a mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid or the ë-C5 Aircross EV. A big SUV, the new version is said to be stronger and more stylish than its predecessor with more technology.
Elsewhere, there’s not much Citroën-related to report. The quirky little Ami electric quadricycle – which has less than 10hp, can only do less than 50 miles between charges and in some versions has side ‘doors’ that look like the gates in your local Tesco superstore – is getting a facelift for 2026, but the changes are basically cosmetic.
The SEAT spin-off brand that effectively ate its parent, Cupra is set for a busy year in 2026.
The major new model will be the Raval, an electric supermini and the first car across the entire Volkswagen Group to use a new and clever chassis. Expected at the end of summer, it will offer around 225hp in standard form.
The Cupra Born is going to get a restyle to match the look of the Raval, while there are expected to be special and very limited performance versions of the Formentor and the Leon.
The 2026 plans for the Renault-owned Romanian budget brand focus mainly on updates to its core models, the Jogger and Sandero. The recently launched Spring electric SUV is already getting an update too, with new batteries giving more power in a bid to escape the title of the UK’s slowest-accelerating new car on sale.
Around the middle of the year, we should see one all-new Dacia – a large, high-riding family estate based on the recently-launched Bigster SUV. So far, the new model is known as the C-Neo, but that might not be its name by the time it goes on sale.
After the rush of new names that arrived in 2025, here’s one for 2026; Denza is being pitched as an upmarket sister brand to BYD – think Audi to Volkswagen, or Lexus to Toyota. Following this theme, the brand will have its own dealers rather than making use of the rapidly growing BYD network.
We’re told Denza will launch some three models before the end of its first year, all of which are already sold in China. The first on sale, arriving shortly, will likely be the Z9 GT, a vaguely estate-style EV in a similar vein to the Porsche Taycan, with close to 1,000hp (nope, not a typo)…
Then in the summer we will get the D9, which aims to rekindle the currently dormant interest among UK buyers in people carriers, its hybrid drivetrain being pitched to upmarket travel operators, to the extent of including a fridge in its equipment. And then, before the end of the year, the B5 will arrive, a 700hp 4×4 with the Land Rover Defender in its sights.
There is also a strong possibility that Denza could launch a very different car this year, the Denza Z being an electric sports coupe.
DS Automobiles
Stellantis’ ‘avant-garde’ premium brand has been rather quiet in recent times but hopes to make some noise towards the end of 2026 with the second-generation version of its DS 7 large SUV (which will presumably be renamed Nº7 in line with the updated Nº4 models that appeared last year).
The freshened-up Nº7 will apparently only be offered with electric power, along with with sharper styling to try and increase the DS profile amongst buyers.
Ferrari’s first-ever full-electric vehicle has been much trailed, with the powertrain for the new model previewed in late 2025. The car itself is set to finally be revealed later this year.
Called the Elettrica, the newcomer is predicted to be another departure for Ferrari, with a vaguely crossover body style, and have the equivalent of 1,000hp on tap.
Fiat’s 2026 plans include a series of updates. Dealers have been patiently awaiting the Grande Panda, which is predicted to be a big seller for the brand but has suffered big delays.
Fiat’s most famous model name, the 500, is also returning with a petrol engine. It’s misleadingly called the 500 Hybrid, but in reality it’s just a petrol engine with mild hybrid assistance (and the same applies to the Grande Panda Hybrid).
Something brand new will be a Giant Panda… Fiat is readying a new SUV, dubbed the Giga-Panda and not likely to be revealed until close to the end of the year. But before that, we will likely see another new model, designed to fill the gap left by the end of Tipo hatchback sales, closely related to the Peugeot 308 and Vauxhall Astra but sporting a fastback body style.
Finally the much-delayed Fiat version of the quirky Citroën Ami quadricycle should finally arrive in 2026, taking one of the brand’s most historic model names, Topolino. In most other respects, it will be no different to the Citroën.
In the past month, Ford has announced that it is going to make a new, smaller electric car directly based on the new Renault 5 – likely to follow the trend established with its Capri and call the new baby a Fiesta. The only problem is we likely won’t see it on the roads until around 2028.
So what’s coming in 2026? Apparently not a lot, though in all its publicity over its electric models it’s good to see Ford has not forgotten its ‘proper’ Mustang. The muscle car is about to get an even more potent version with head-turning looks, and called the Mustang Shelby GT500 in tribute to the legendary race engineer Carroll Shelby.
Meanwhile, the Puma Gen-E is going to get some minor updates, increasing its range, but apart from that, those awaiting new things from Ford will need to be patient.
Geely-badged cars went on UK sale in the autumn of 2025; the Chinese company that owns the likes of Volvo, Polestar and Lotus debuting with a mid-sized electric SUV rival to the Tesla Model Y, the Geely EX5.
Geely looks to be following the lead of its Chinese rivals by flooding the UK market with new cars, claiming it will expand to ten different models within three years. Several will be plug-in hybrids and the first, a mid-sized SUV called the Starray EM-I, will go on sale in February.
Geely is also expected to launch yet another badge in the UK in 2026, Zeekr, a further upmarket brand rivalling Tesla et al.
Genesis
Genesis GV60 Magma
Hyundai’s flagship brand is going world championship endurance racing in 2026, including at Le Mans, and reflecting this involvement with a new range of more potent Genesis road cars dubbed Magma. The first on sale this year should be the GV60 Magma, with its twin-motor electric drivetrain putting out more than 650hp.
Genesis is also launching a big new flagship electric SUV in 2026. The GV90 will offer up to seven seats and is closely related to the Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Having long claimed electric small cars don’t make economic sense, manufacturers are now finding ways to make them, and in Honda’s case, the trick is to base a new model on one of the many small ‘kei cars’ that are a familiar sight in Japan.
Described by its makers as a “funky, cute” car, the Honda Super-N is expected in the summer, many comparing it to the short-lived Honda e. Efforts to build its image will include providing the EV with a fake manual gearbox and equally fake exhaust sound.
The Spring will also see the arrival of the latest Honda Prelude, reviving a model name not sold in the UK for 25 years. The sports coupe will come only in petrol-engined, manual gearbox form and is not likely to sell in huge numbers.
Hyundai’s most significant launch of 2026 will come towards the end of the year, the Ioniq 3. Closely related to the Kia EV3 from its Korean sister brand, it’s a five-door electric hatch with slippery styling and is predicted to become Hyundai’s biggest seller.
Another major seller will get a new and somewhat reinvented version this year, the perennially popular Tucson compact SUV. We’re told the curves of previous-generation Tucsons will be replaced by a new more angular design inspired by the larger Santa Fe, and the car is expected on sale in the second half of the year.
Other Hyundai updates during 2026 will include a refresh for the i30 hatch to keep it competitive against the likes of the Volkswagen Golf.
There’s unlikely to be anything particularly new from Ineos this year, with the most pertinent move being an updated version of the slow-selling Grenadier, particularly addressing its steering, which has attracted the biggest criticism.
The planned Fusilier electric and range-extender 4×4 is apparently still on hold, with Ineos blaming the delay on what it claims is the indecision of politicians over the speed of the switch from fossil-fuel to electric power.
Chery-owned brand Jaecoo has been a roaring success since launching in the UK at the start of the year, and is chasing after BYD for the accolade of fastest-growing Chinese brand on our roads. The brand added the new petrol Jaecoo 5 and electric Jaecoo E5 to its line-up at the end of 2025, and will hope to boost sales further in 2026 with its largest car so far, the Jaecoo 8.
On sale in the Spring, the Jaecoo 8 will aim to take sales from the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tayron. It will be offered with either petrol or plug-in hybrid drivetrains.
This is the year in which we will see the fruits of Jaguar’s complete reset, that has resulted in the brand stopping making cars altogether for more than a year while it transforms into an electric brand.
After showing concept cars that attracted very mixed reviews, the first electric Jaguar, the Type 00, will finally be revealed in 2026, likely at the very end of the year.
Prototypes of the Type 00 have been seen out testing, but so far they have all been heavily camouflaged. It’s predicted that the car will follow Polestar’s lead in replacing the rear window with cameras.
Two new models for the traditionally American SUV producer in 2026. The third-generation Compass, a strong seller for Jeep since first launching in 2006, is already in showrooms with petrol, plug-in hybrid and fully electric options.
Set to join it later in the year is an all-new version of a signature Jeep model, the Cherokee. Completely changed over its predecessor, the next Cherokee will be larger and with a new styling treatment, potentially also gaining an electric powertrain option.
Right at the end of the year we could see Jeep going back to its roots with the Recon – a version of the Wrangler described as the brand’s first electric vehicle built specifically for off-roading.
The 4×4 maker is expected to add an electric drivetrain to one of its longest-lived models, the Musso pick-up. It’s expected to offer close to 250 miles of range and all of the off-road capability of the combustion-engined Musso.
Meanwhile, the Actyon and Torres SUVs are both getting new ‘Dual Tech’ hybrid powertrains, promising to make them feel much more like EVs to drive but with no compromise on range.
The Kia EV range expands further this year and gains its smallest model yet, the EV2. The car will arrive in the summer, pitched as an affordable electric vehicle rivalling the likes of the Renault 4. Sharing a platform with the Hyundai Inster, it will join Kia’s formidable electric line-up (Niro, EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6, EV9 and PV5 people carrier).
There is plenty of combustion-engined news too. The K4, replacing the Ceed, is already heading to showrooms and is set to be joined by an estate version later in the year. A new Niro-sized SUV will launch towards the end of the year – called the Seltos, it will be available with petrol or hybrid propulsion.
Among Kia’s other plans for 2026 is an additional variant of the mid-sized EV4, with the semi-estate body style known as a fastback, and potent GT variants of the EV3, EV4 and EV5.
New electric offerings are on the cards from Land Rover in 2026, particularly in the upmarket Range Rover line. We finally expect to see the second-generation Velar, which will only be available with electric power.
Joining it in showrooms should be at last an all-electric variant of the Range Rover itself – the model is seen as crucial to Land Rover’s future prospects and has suffered a few delays. An electric Range Rover Sport is also in the pipeline, possibly launching this year.
As for Land Rover, we know that a smaller version of the Defender, the Defender Sport, is on the way with an electric powertrain and potentially replacing the Discovery Sport, but we likely won’t see it until 2027.
The new Stellantis electric brand was yet another to arrive on the UK market in 2025, with initially two electric models, the T03 small car and C10 mid-sized SUV, which quickly gained an additional range-extender version.
The brand starts 2026 by adding another smaller sister to the C10, the B10 coming in full-electric form only and sized to rival the likes of the Ford Puma Gen-E.
Also on the way in 2026 is the B05, a mid-sized electric hatchback, and the B03X, of similar size to the B10 but with a much more boxy, SUV look about it. And at the end of the year we could see the A05, another ‘affordable’ electric supermini.
Not the most exciting of years in prospect for Toyota’s upmarket brand, with the biggest news likely to be the latest incarnation of the long-lived mid-sized executive car, the ES.
The eighth-generation ES, which visually looks rather more dramatic than predecessors, was unveiled in May last year and will be on sale in the Spring, although UK buyers will only be offered electric versions.
It’s a big year for Mazda in 2026 with the arrival of its second electric car and one without the range limitations that restricted the appeal of the MX-30 crossover when it launched in 2024.
The Mazda 6e also revives the model name of Mazda’s mid-sized saloon, which, despite being in a declining sector, sold well for many years.
A new electric SUV sister to the 6e is also on the way, unsurprisingly in Mazda parlance called the CX-6e. This could also arrive before the end of 2026.
Away from electricity, Mazda will launch an all-new version this year of its best-selling car, the CX-5 mid-sized SUV. The third-generation model, due in the summer, is said to offer more space and higher levels of safety and technology.
Mercedes-Benz is set for an equally busy year as its closest competitor BMW, headed by the launch of an all-electric version of the rival to the BMW 3 Series, the C-Class. The company-car favourite is expected on sale sometime in 2026 as the C-Class EQ and set to offer a range between charges of more than 400 miles.
A host of new or updated SUVs are also in the mix, including a third-generation GLA offering both petrol and electric drivetrains, as will the new Mk2 GLB seven-seater,. There will also be major refreshes for the GLE and GLS.
Potentially earning most headlines, however, will be the GLC EQ, an electric version of the best-selling Mercedes SUV, while also on the calendar is a significantly updated version of the long-lived S-Class executive saloon.
In the Mercedes performance department of AMG, work on adding potency to the recently launched GLC SUV is almost complete and the car should appear this year. With three electric motors, it’s set to be the most powerful AMG model yet, with more than 900hp on tap, almost double that of a stock GLC.
The Chinese car maker that was in the UK long before any of the other Chinese brands, MG will have three new models to attract customers with in 2026.
In Spring, we’ll see an update for the successful MG 4 electric hatchback, along with a smaller MG 4 Urban model. Later, we’ll get the MG S9, the brand’s first seven-seat SUV and boasting a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
There are still suggestions that a coupé version of the Cyberster electric roadster could be revealed this year. A concept was shown at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, with plenty of positive response.
Mini has totally reinvented its model range over the past couple of years, so it’s perhaps no surprise that there’s nothing significantly new planned for 2026.
Nissan’s big electric arrival in 2025 is the latest third-generation of its pioneering EV, the Leaf. Now reinvented with a crossover body style, production in Sunderland has already begun and it will be in showrooms in February. Also hitting showrooms in the first months of the year will be the new Micra, based on the Renault 5 and unveiled late last year.
Later in the year, we should see the all-new Nissan Juke, once again being built here in the UK at Nissan’s Sunderland factory alongside the Leaf and Qashqai models.
Finally, the Ariya electric SUV will get a mid-life update, primarily to match its styling to that of the Leaf.
The first of Chery’s brands to launch in the UK, Omoda has been rather overshadowed by sister brand Jaecoo but still shifted close to 20,000 cars in 2025. The fourth new model, on sale soon, is the Omoda 7, a plug-in hybrid SUV and closely related to the Jaecoo 7.
Next in line, in the Autumn, will be the Omoda 4, a Renault Captur-sized SUV with futuristic styling, apparently inspired by lightning bolts and science fiction. Details are currently scarce but it will likely be available with both petrol and electric power.
The Peugeot 208, historically one of the French brand’s most popular cars, is set for a radical reinvention, potentially appearing right at the end of 2026. The first car to use a new platform designed for all the small cars offered by the Stellantis group, the 208 will be electric-only and brimming with technology. There will also be a hot hatch model, the first Peugeot in many years to use its once legendary GTi badge.
The much-delayed all-electric version of Peugeot’s strikingly styled family car, the e-408, only went on sale in 2025, but at the Brussels motor show this month, Peugeot unveiled a facelift for the 408 range. Though mainly cosmetic, it could include a bigger battery, and therefore longer range, for the e-408.
Much of the news from Volvo’s performance spin-off brand has been long-trailed – we should see more Polestar 4s, instantly recognisable from their lack of rear windows, on the road this year, and the Polestar 5 will arrive in showrooms in the Spring as the range’s new flagship model.
A large ‘grand tourer’ with the Porsche Taycan in its sights, the Polestar 5 will have close to 900hp in its most potent form. And it also replaces the rear window with cameras.
Back in more sensible territory, 2026 versions of the Polestar 2 are getting an update that will add more range and more technology.
Porsche was supposed to reveal the next generation of the Cayman and Boxster models as electric vehicles in 2025, but various delays put their debuts back. They should finally arrive in showrooms this year, but in another example of the industry slowing its rush to electrification, the new versions will also be sold in petrol-engined form.
This year is also seeing the long-awaited arrival of the Cayenne Electric SUV, which was also affected by delays as Porsche assessed the slowdown in EV take-up. As such the newcomer is an addition to, rather than a replacement for, the combustion-engined Cayenne range.
The Twingo is coming back – the fourth incarnation of Renault’s small car is expected towards the end of the year as the cheapest of the brand’s EVs, with potentially a price of less than £18,000. Based on the Renault 5, it will have a range of around 160 miles.
Renault’s electric vehicles have attracted a lot of praise but the Megane E-Tech has been somewhat overshadowed by its siblings, in decline for a while with sales slipping back. A bid to give it a boost should see a major update this year including a new performance version called the RS, an electric hot hatch.
Also this year the Renault 4 EV is set to gain a higher-riding crossover-styled version dubbed the Savane.
There’s been little news of note from Volkswagen Group’s Spanish brand for several years now, and 2026 will be little different, with only subtle updates to the Arona crossover and Ibiza supermini on the cards.
There’s a new electric compact SUV coming from Skoda in 2026 – the Epiq is a sister to the forthcoming Volkswagen ID. Polo and already-revealed concept versions should morph into production reality during the year.
Meanwhile, with the likes of Kia and Hyundai launching big new seven-seat electric SUVs in 2026, Skoda does not intend to be left out. Its offering will be based on the Vision 7S concept first revealed in 2022 and while it is set to become Skoda’s flagship, we currently know little else about this new model.
Other happenings in Skoda-world include a new and most potent Fabia yet. Already heading for showrooms, it has around 175hp on offer.
Skywell launched its first UK model, the BE11 electric SUV, at the start of 2025, and its frustrating tech, poor driving characteristics, and dated safety specification marked it out as what buyers might have initially expected of a Chinese brand but generally didn’t get.
The reviews were suitably damning and less than 30 BE11s were sold all year. As these words were written, Skywell announced a 2026 model year BE11 with “significant technical upgrades” including a UK-developed suite of ADAS driver aids – safety being one of the car’s biggest criticisms among reviewers. The new BE11 is also £5,000 cheaper.
Before the end of 2025 we were supposed to see the Q, an electric hatchback described as Skywell’s first model specifically designed for Europe. There’s still no sign of it while the brand’s website still describes it as a ‘future product’ that is expected to be launched “in quarter 3 2025”…
Smart’s newest model, the flagship #5 SUV, is only just arriving in showrooms and so 2026 is likely to see only significant updates to the #1 and #3 models.
Right at the end of the year one of the number gaps will be filled by the Smart #2, a two-seater that will be closest in looks to the original Smart. The brand is also reputedly considering a direct successor to its Forfour model last sold in 2021, but if it happens we won’t see it for a few years.
Two new electric models are on the way from Subaru in 2026, though one of them is an updated version of the Solterra, originally launched in 2022 and a rebadged Toyota bZ4X. It’s still rebadged, but has a more Subaru look about it, along with significant power and range increases.
Before that the second new model will arrive with the odd name of Uncharted. This one is a rebadged Toyota C-HR+ and, as its name suggests, is aimed at those who want to go off-road.
We also expect to get the Subaru E-Outback in 2026. Replacing the Outback off-road estate, it’s an electric vehicle designed entirely by Subaru, rather than jointly developed with (or borrowed from) Toyota.
Suzuki’s first proper EV arrives in showrooms at the start of 2026 – the e Vitara is the latest collaboration with Toyota, which will launch its own version called the Urban Cruiser.
The e Vitara has the basic style of its combustion-engined compact SUV sister and will be one of the few such EVs available with two motors and all-wheel-drive.
Part of Tesla’s 2026 plans appear to involve trying to shift some more cars by cutting prices. A new ‘Standard’ version of the Model Y is going on sale with £3,000 slashed from its cost, by slimming down the equipment list. A similar move may be applied to the Model 3.
Tesla’s much-delayed Roadster hypercar is also now said to be launching in 2026 – first announced as long ago as 2017, the car is now, according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, endowed with a 0-60mph time of under one second…
Toyota’s first big launch of 2026 is already heading to showrooms, the Aygo X city car being reinvented with a hybrid powertrain replacing the previous petrol-only engine. The resultant fuel economy and emissions figure have the Aygo X being pitched as a realistically more economic alternative to buying a small EV.
Coming quickly behind will be the second all-electric Toyota, the C-HR+. It’s not particularly closely related to the similarly named C-HR small SUV, and runs an electric powertrain instead of the petrol/electric hybrid unit in the regular C-HR.
Deliveries of the third EV will also start in the Spring – the Urban Cruiser is the latest evidence of Toyota’s deal with Suzuki, as buyers will be able to get the same car as the Suzuki e Vitara.
Other Toyota newcomers set to arrive this year include an estate version of the electric bZ4X SUV called the Touring, with a third greater loadspace than the regular model, and the all-new RAV4 – the sixth generation of Toyota’s long-running family SUV.
One potent new model from Toyota could be a GR (Gazoo Racing) version of the Corolla. While made for some time, production this year will switch to Toyota’s UK plant which could make UK sales a more attractive prospect.
Much of the 2026 focus for Vauxhall will be on updates, especially to the Astra. It will get a new look matching other recent Vauxhall releases, more equipment and an extended range for the electric version.
The Mokka SUV is also expected to get an update this year but the next big thing from Vauxhall won’t arrive until at least 2027, the next-generation Corsa supermini.
A major new arrival from Volkswagen in 2026 is the second-generation T-Roc, the stylish mid-sized SUV being VW’s third best-seller behind the Golf and Tiguan. It goes on sale with petrol engines, but Volkswagen looks set to add hybrid variants to both the T-Roc and the Golf before the end of the year.
A newcomer to the electric range will be what was going to be the ID.2 but is now set to take a rather more revered name, being dubbed the ID Polo. The supermini will arrive towards the end of the year and the plans also include giving it the crossover treatment. The ID Cross X will have a higher ride, and an option for those who favour the likes of the VW T-Cross but want to go electric.
There will also be a potent version of the ID Polo, possibly on sale by the end of 2026 and bearing those famed three letters, GTI. It should have around 225hp.
The ID.4, meanwhile, will undergo a major refresh, to the extent of pitching it as an electric alternative to Volkswagen’s mid-sized combustion-engined SUV by giving it the new name of ID Tiguan.
A small car pitched as an ‘affordable’ EV is also coming from Volkswagen, but the ID 1 won’t arrive until at least 2027.
Volvo’s biggest-selling model for some years has been the XC60 mid-sized SUV. In 2026 it is set to get an electric sister in the EX60, the Swedish brand’s first model to use a very advanced and clever new chassis setup. Volvo is pinning a lot of hopes on the EX60 being a hit.
This time last year we were describing the ES90, Volvo’s first electric saloon to rival the likes of the BMW i5. After delays caused by the software in its complex tech, the car should also finally arrive in the first half of this year.
Xpeng arrived on the UK market in 2025 with somewhat less fanfare than several of its rivals, but with a launch model, the G6 coupe-SUV, which earned several positive reviews.
In a bid to place even more pressure on Tesla’s biggest selling car, the Model Y, the G6 is already getting an upgrade – the highlights are a longer range, faster charging and a more powerful all-wheel-drive version.
Xpeng will follow the example of rival Denza and launch a people-carrier on the UK market early in 2026, though its makers describe the X9 as not an MPV but “a seven-seat Starship” thanks to its head-turning styling. It will be potent too, with around 500hp on tap.
Also due towards the end of the year is the Xpeng G9, a mid-sized electric SUV.
Another Chinese newcomer, Zeekr will announce its official arrival in the UK with the launch of its electric 7GT family car which is said to be coming towards the end of 2026. Aiming to compete in the premium category against brands like Tesla, BMW, and Audi, the 7GT will pose a left-field challenge to the Tesla Model Y.
Zeekr, a Geely-owned brand like Volvo, Polestar and Smart, hasn’t yet revealed its UK plans beyond the launch of the 7GT, but it already sells three other models in mainland Europe. The line-up includes the electric X and 7X SUVs and the electric 001 executive hatchback, all of which could be coming to the UK from 2027 onwards.
