The Car Expert

Audi A1 S line Competition test drive

Darren Cassey

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6 January 2020

The A1 has been quite the hit for Audi, providing the least expensive entry point to the premium brand’s range as well as an option for city dwellers who want something small without sacrificing badge appeal.

For the most part, it’s available with small and economical engines designed to keep running costs low. However, nestled in the line-up is the S line Competition trim, which boasts a large-for-the-segment 2.0-litre engine with a power output that matches the current hot supermini of choice, the Ford Fiesta ST.

However, unlike the Ford, the Audi doesn’t have much in the way of performance upgrades to tame that grunt – will this make it a fun diamond in the rough, or an unruly mess? We had to find out…

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What’s new about the Audi A1 S line Competition?

This being the updated A1, the Competition gets the same general improvements seen across the range, including that much more aggressive and sporty-looking styling, which is amplified slightly in this trim. It’s also slightly longer than the original A1, which has helped increase cabin space, while the boot capacity has increased 65 litres to 335.

Audi has gone some way to acknowledge that this is a go-faster model, fitting sport suspension with adjustable dampers and drive modes, twin tailpipes… and painting the brake calipers red, the sure sign of a go-faster model.

How does it look?

The A1 might be the baby Audi but it makes up for it with brawny looks. While the previous-generation car had a softer appearance, the new one looks like it’s trying to dress up like the firm’s RS models – even in lower trims. This is largely achieved through the three bonnet slits that pay homage to the Audi Sport Quattro rally icon of the Eighties, a design feature that’s also on the R8 supercar.

The S line Competition gets some unique styling points to give it a sporty edge, such as the grey door mirrors and vanes in the front bumper to further mimic the styling cues of RS models, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers and S badging inside.

Our car was wearing Turbo Blue paint, which is a bright and eye-catching shade that works brilliantly with the extrovert styling of the A1.

What’s the spec like?

Considering it’s £25k for a supermini, the A1 S line Competition is well-specified with impressive levels of standard equipment. Assistance systems include Audi’s front collision warning system, cruise control, lane departure warning and rear parking sensors.

You also get the digital cockpit included, as well as Audi’s smartphone interface, DAB digital radio, and air conditioning.

Those looking to splash the cash to get even more creature comforts can opt for the £1,695 Technology Pack, which adds satellite navigation, an upgraded digital cockpit and wireless phone charging; a £1,150 Comfort and Sound Pack, which brings a Bang & Olufsen sound system, upgraded parking aids and heated front seats; and a £695 Plus Pack, with dual-zone climate control, tinted windows and a front centre armrest.

All these packs feature sought-after equipment, but ticking these three boxes brings you perilously close to a £30,000 Audi A1…

What’s the Audi A1 S line Competition like inside?

As we’ve come to expect from Audi, the A1’s interior is one of the best in its class. Most of the materials are good quality, and there’s plenty of technology on board – just because this is the smallest Audi doesn’t mean it misses out in that department. With the responsive central screen controlling most functions and the excellent digital instrument binnacle, the A1 feels fully up to date.

Taller drivers might find the driving position somewhat cramped, but generally speaking the A1 doesn’t feel too claustrophobic inside.

What’s under the bonnet?

The engine’s a familiar one for VW Group cars. It’s from the ubiquitous EA888 family of engines, here in 2.0-litre, 200hp form, making the Audi A1 S line Competition something of a Volkswagen Polo GTI twin.

For a supermini to have that much power is enticing, and the 6.3-second 0-60mph time and 146mph top speed prove there’s certainly brisk performance on offer. Here it’s exclusively mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which is keen to indulge your full throttle mischief making.

What’s the Audi A1 S line Competition like to drive?

The best way to describe the driving experience is: a handful. With 200hp going through the front wheels and only software that uses the brakes to tame wheelspin – the Fiesta ST has an optional limited-slip differential, which works wonders – the front end does like to tug and pull.

However, once you’re used to its fairly yobbish characteristics when pushing on, the A1’s small dimensions, light weight and punchy engine combine to make for a genuinely quick cross-country steer.

It’s distinctly lacking in character, with the considerably less expensive ST providing much more driver involvement. The trade-off, though, is that the Audi settles into everyday driving duties much more smoothly.

Verdict

The Audi A1 S line Competition offers a compelling option in the hot supermini segment. Unlike the cheaper Volkswagen Polo GTI and Ford Fiesta ST, it’s not ostensibly a performance model – and it shows in the lack of driver involvement.

It’s quick, though, and would be the best of the three to live with, offering excellent refinement, decent equipment levels and plenty of badge appeal. Spending circa £25k on a supermini is borderline obscene – ticking options which push it closer to £30k even more so – but if that’s not off-putting, this high-spec Audi A1 S line Competition is an appealing prospect.

More Audi news, reviews, features and offers

Similar cars

Ford Fiesta ST | Mini Cooper S | Volkswagen Polo GTI

Key specifications

Model as tested: Audi A1 S line Competition 40 TFSI
Price (on-road): £25,010
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Gearbox: Six-speed automatic
Power: 200 hp
Torque: 320 Nm
Top speed: 146 mph
0-60mph: 6.3 seconds
Fuel economy (combined): 47.1 mpg
CO₂ emissions: 137 – 136 g/km

New Peugeot 2008 specs and prices revealed

New model

Jack Evans

-

23 December 2019

0

New Peugeot 2008 specs and prices revealed

Peugeot has announced pricing and specifications for its new 2008 and e-2008 SUVs.

Priced from £20,150 and £28,150 respectively, both are on sale and available to order now.

Introduced to rivals the likes of the Nissan Juke and Hyundai Kona, the 2008 will be available in one of four trims – Active, Allure, GT Line and GT. Even base-spec cars get 16-inch alloy wheels and a seven-inch infotainment setup housing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Prices for the mid-range Allure car start from £22,350 for the combustion-powered variant, rising to £30,300 for the all-electric version. These cars get upgraded 17-inch alloy wheels and a range of gloss black exterior touches among other features.

Higher-up GT Line models start from £26,100, and get 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, LED headlights and a full sports bodykit. Opting for this trim on the e-2008 bumps the price up to £32,000.

Things are rounded off with the range-topping GT, priced from £31,575 on the normal 2008 and £34,275 on the e-2008. It boasts a higher range of assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and active blind-spot monitoring.

2020 Peugeot 2008 - rear view | The Car Expert

Five conventional powertrains are available from launch, kicking off with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine developing 100hp. The same unit can be optioned with 130hp, albeit for a £2,200 premium. Both come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or an eight-speed automatic for an additional £1,550.

Up next is a more potent 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol with 155hp – though this can only be specified with the eight-speed automatic. It offers emissions of 113g/km of CO₂ and can return up to 45.6mpg.

Then there’s the 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel with 100hp and 250Nm of torque. Peugeot claims it can return up to 54.4mpg while emitting between 96 and 102g/km of CO₂.

The all-electric e-2008 uses a 135bhp electric motor linked to a 50kWh battery. Peugeot claims it’ll travel up to 193 miles on a full charge, and can be taken from empty to full in just seven and a half hours via a domestic 7.4kW wall box charger.

First deliveries of the new Peugeot 2008 and e-2008 are expected in late April 2020.

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Land Rover Discovery Sport review

Andrew Charman

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18 December 2019

0

60-second summary

What is it?
A mid-life refresh for Land’s Rover’s mid-sized offering, but with rather more than a typical refresh

Key features
New platform, new electrified engines, new interior, lots of new tech.

Our view
This is much more than a refresh of the Land Rover Discovery Sport. It is a comprehensive update all of which is positive for the model, which combines excellent refinement on the road with supreme ability off it.

The payback? Adding hybrid technology to the engines improves the efficiency but there are rivals that score much higher in this area. But leave the beaten track, and long after they are defeated by the terrain, the Disco Sport will still be going.

More Land Rover news, reviews, features and offers

Full review

Introduction

It’s only four years ago that we first got to try the replacement for Land Rover’s most road-friendly and thus highly popular and long-lasting model, the Freelander.

The Discovery Sport moved the game on substantially, using the underpinnings of the then equally new Evoque from its upmarket sister brand Range Rover, resulting in quality on the road but still plenty of capability off it.

Not surprisingly the Discovery Sport has enjoyed the same level of success as the previous Freelander – Land Rover sells 120,000 across the globe each year, matching the Evoque and with UK buyers taking 20% of them.

Now we find ourselves in the Lake District, testing what is supposed to be a mid-life refresh for the Disco Sport – except it seems somewhat churlish to call this a refresh when the recipe includes all-new and electrified engines on a new platform, with an equally new interior and lots of latest tech to excite.

There’s a good reason of course. There’s an all-new Evoque on the block, built on Jaguar Land Rover’s equally new ‘Premium Transverse Architecture’. And following the example of its predecessor by making use of the sister model’s underpinnings opens up lots of possibilities for the Discovery Sport.

The question is should you buy this when you can get most of the hardware, and the perceived extra cachet of the Range Rover badge, on the actually slightly cheaper Evoque? Admittedly the latter is slightly smaller than the Disco Sport and offered only in five-seat format, not five plus two.

The car’s chassis is both lighter and stiffer than its predecessor’s, which means greater efficiency and better refinement on the road. The major advantage, however, is that this chassis has been designed to accept electric additions to JLR’s latest Ingenium engines.

All car manufacturers are rushing to electrify their ranges, but especially those who make SUVs and who if they don’t get their average emissions down will soon be staring at big fines from the European Union. The Disco Sport launches with a range of mild-hybrid diesel and petrol powerplants (plus one non-hybrid diesel) while plug-in versions will join the line-up in 2020.

The new architecture also gives Land Rover the chance to let its designers loose in the interior, then pouring in lots of new tech released in the four years since the Disco Sport went on sale – some of which debuted a few months ago on, you guessed it, the Evoque.

What went unsaid in the Land Rover launch material, however, is that there was another urgent imperative to substantially upgrade the Discovery Sport. The original model suffered from horrendous reliability issues, many (but not all) relating to diesel particulate filter problems on Ingenium engines. These meant the particulate filter clogged up rapidly and resulted the car breaking down repeatedly, leaving thousands of customers stranded and irate…

Land Rover has always publicly denied there was a problem, but internal technical directives published in our forum and on other websites prove otherwise. The large owners’ forum website also has hundreds of complaints from disgruntled owners.

The Discovery Sport has regularly appeared at or near the bottom of new car reliability lists from the likes of Which? magazine and others over the last few years, so hopefully this comprehensive update has managed to address a long list of quality and reliability issues.

Buying and owning a Land Rover Discovery Sport

The latest Discovery Sport launches with six powertrain options, of which the 150hp diesel is both the only non-hybrid unit and the only power option available in front-wheel-drive.

All-wheel-drive variants (surely the only way to buy a Land Rover?) come in 150, 180 and 240hp diesels and 200 and 250hp petrols. The front-wheel-drive 150 diesel is sold with a six-speed manual gearbox, while all the others are only available with a nine-speed automatic.

There are four trim levels dependent on engine, plus ‘R-Dynamic’ versions of all four with bespoke styling. The car ticks the box on safety, earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating back in 2014 – the standard safety specification includes autonomous emergency braking, a lane keeping aid, driver fatigue monitor and reversing camera, while on the options list are such useful extras as adaptive cruise control with a steering function keeping the car in the centre of its lane.

You will pay £31,575 for the non-hybrid front-wheel-drive diesel, the first hybrid all-wheel-drive model being the D150 at £36,425. Petrol versions start at £36,775 with the P200, and range-topper is the petrol P250 R-Dynamic HSE at £48,575.

It’s an old adage that the vast majority of buyers of capable SUVs will never truly put their vehicle’s full off-road abilities to the test, but at least with a Land Rover you do get to discover what it can do. Every sale includes a half day at one of Land Rover’s Experience centres, of which there are nine in the UK.

At these, new owners are taken on an off-road course (in one of the centre’s vehicles, not their own), ascending and descending ridiculous gradients, ploughing through deep mud tracks and wading through rivers. Always useful to know what one’s vehicle is capable of…

Inside the Land Rover Discovery Sport

Land Rover sells the Disco Sport as a ‘five plus two’ model but the third row of seats are optional, folding out of the floor, and very cramped – you wouldn’t want to travel far in them unless you are a very small child.

Far better to treat this as a five-seater – a highly spacious and versatile five-seater, especially in the rear. Clear evidence that Land Rover is muscling in on Range Rover territory is the attention given to passengers not sitting up front – there’s loads of adjustability in the rear seats which both slide and tilt, while the seat back is split 40/20/40, offering some 24 combinations.

Second and third-row passengers get their own individual heating controls, USB and 12-volt sockets, there is passenger wireless phone charging, a 4G wi-fi hotspot and even cupholders in the third row.

Boot space is impressive too – a gargantuan 829 litres, or more than 980 if you slide the second-row seats as far forward as they’ll go.

Anyone familiar with the outgoing Disco Sport and frustrated by its dash will find a revelation in the new one. Inspired again by the Evoque, the driver’s controls have been completely redesigned.

The centre console in particular is well thought-out, with the high-mounted infotainment system now based around a much larger ten-inch touchscreen with ‘swipe and pinch’ movements, in the process cutting down on the far too extensive number of buttons that were on the old car. And if you don’t like JLR’s own not-always-great navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility is included.

Under the screen the climate control and controls for such as the Terrain Response system are all neatly grouped together on a lower panel. In upper-spec models the driver also gets their own 12-inch digital info display behind the steering wheel, with a head-up display among the options available.

Generally the interior construction is of high quality, with lots of soft-touch surfaces, though some of the plastics, especially in the centre console, look a little shiny and cheap.

Driving the Land Rover Discovery Sport

The new Disco Sport is built around the latest PTA platform, producing a basic body 10% stiffer than its predecessor which aids refinement. It’s also specifically engineered to accommodate electric elements to the engines, either mild hybrids or the plug-in versions coming later. And the battery is carefully packaged to avoid eating up interior space.

As mentioned, the hybrid variants will be on sale later in 2020, using a three-cylinder JLR Ingenium engine. For now the choice is between 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel or petrol units, all except one combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

The mild hybrid format harnesses energy from deceleration, putting it back into the system like a traditional alternator but notably using it to aid performance – the energy is employed as ‘torque fill’, overcoming the lag that is typical of a turbo engine under initial acceleration. As with other mild hybrid vehicles, it can’t travel on electric power alone.

When braking at speeds under 17mph the system also stops the engine, which aids fuel economy – Land Rover quotes an 11% saving plus a 10g/km improvement in CO₂ emissions. The range between fill-ups also increases by an impressive 123 miles.

While on the road, the AWD models make use of Land Rover’s ‘Driveline Disconnect’ system – effectively a smart transmission turning them into 2WD models for motorway progress and saving just a little in the economy and emissions stakes.

All of this adds up to an extremely refined performance on the road, so long as you don’t press on too enthusiastically. Do that and the car feels just a little like it’s aware of its weight (all that off-road architecture does come with some penalties) while the auto transmission, while smooth, is a little slow to decide on its next cog.

Mind you, this is no sports car and doesn’t pretend to be – its biggest talents lie in the scenery. Cruising on a motorway in our D180 test car proved a very relaxing experience, and meandering through a series of bends was an easy process – the car doesn’t need hustling…

Despite the hybrids and various eco and emissions-saving tricks, the Disco Sport doesn’t score too highly in these areas. Official figures of 40mpg and 183g/km for our 180 diesel is nothing to get excited about – again a drawback of carrying around all that weight.

No-one needs telling that Land Rovers are completely at home off-road and our time with the Disco Sport at Land Rover Experience Yorkshire duly proved this. If anything, the new model is even better, with its latest Terrain Response software, impressive ground clearance, approach and departure angles, and even a wading ability increased by some 10cm to 60cm – that’s two feet in old money and useful in a world where flooding seems a more regular issue to tackle.

There’s more new tech to play with too, again nicked from the Evoque and generally useful stuff, though mostly on the options list and so an extra expense.

The camera-based Clearsight rear view mirror, with its 50-degree high definition image, vastly improves the view of what’s behind, whether keeping an eye on following traffic or unruly youngsters in the rear seats.

The Clearsight around view, which as its name suggests gives a complete view around the vehicle including underneath (effectively looking downwards as if the engine and floor aren’t there) is as useful for negotiating car park bollards as rocks on a quarry track.

There is even an aid to make reversing a trailer a piece of cake – using a rotary control on the dash you steer the trailer and the vehicle automatically counter steers accordingly. Very clever…

Verdict

This is a wide-ranging revamp of the Discovery Sport and the car is a lot better for it. All of the additions are improvements and result in a highly refined SUV that is a pleasure to drive along a motorway while confidence-inducing to tackle a highly-challenging off-road route in.

While the addition of hybrid technology improves the economy and emissions, the Disco Sport cannot match some rivals in this area. But none of them can come close to it in terms of sheer off-road ability.

Some will be tempted by that Range Rover badge and the slightly cheaper price of the Evoque, but the Land Rover Discovery Sport is worth the extra for its space and the fact that it is a truly versatile upmarket SUV.

A key question that remains unanswered at this time is whether Land Rover has finally fixed the many reliability problems that plagued the original model. Only time will tell on that front, but many current Discovery Sport owners will be hesitant to splash out on another one or recommend the model to their friends and family.

More Land Rover news, reviews, features and offers

Good points

New, more efficient engines
Top-level off-road ability
Better on-road refinement

Bad points

Still not great for economy
No telling whether past reliability issues have been addressed
Third row seats very tight

Key specifications

Model as tested: Land Rover Discovery Sport D180 SE
Price (on-road): £43,175
Engine: four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesel
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Power: 180 hp
Torque: 430 Nm
0-62mph: 9.7 sec
Top speed: 125 mph
Fuel economy (combined): 40.4mpg (WLTP)
CO₂ emissions: 183 g/km (WLTP)
Insurance group: 32
Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars (2014)

Calls made for zero tolerance on drink-driving

Driving

Stuart Masson

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16 December 2019

0

Calls are being made for a zero-tolerance policy towards drink-driving as a recent study confirmed that alcohol-related deaths are on the rise in the UK.

A new study has found that the UK, with the exception of Scotland, has the highest drink-driving limit in the entire EU and one of the highest limits in the world.

The European Transport Safety Council reported that the only other country with an alcohol limit as high as the UK’s was Malta – until it brought in stricter policies last year.

The number of drink-related fatalities in the UK had increased, according to the study, up 4% from the 240 in 2010 to an estimated 250 during 2017.

The UK’s dubious drink-driving honour

Joshua Harris, director of campaigns for road safety charity Brake, said: “This report lays bare the UK’s failure to tackle the menace of drink-driving compared to our EU counterparts. With England and Wales having the dubious honour of the highest drink-drive limit in Europe and more people dying on our roads due to drink-driving, the time for action is now.

“Our current drink-driving limit gives a false impression that it is acceptable to mix alcohol and driving – which couldn’t be further from the truth. Decisive action is needed to end this blight on our roads and prevent the needless loss of life.

“A zero-tolerance drink drive limit is a proven effective solution, as this report shows, and we call on the Government to implement this urgently, making clear to drivers that not a drop of alcohol is safe.”

Scotland sets the example

The current alcohol to blood limit in England, Wales and Northern Ireland stands at 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood – a level that has stayed the same for more than 50 years.

Scotland lowered its limit to 50mg five years ago, which is the same as most countries across the EU and the rest of the world.

A study of 1,000 people in Scotland by breathalyser manufacturer AlcoSense found that 53% of motorists have now reduced the amount of alcohol they drink, when they know they are driving either later the same day or the following morning.

The research also revealed that two thirds of Scottish motorists would not now drive even after one alcoholic drink – whereas prior to the law change they would have driven after one or two drinks.

The UK was one of just six countries to record a rise in drink-driving-related deaths, alongside Austria, Estonia, Hungary, Sweden and Slovakia.

The small rise in the deaths in the UK in 2017 does go against a steady decline in numbers over the previous four decades.

2020 Volkswagen Golf test drive

The Car Expert staff

-

15 December 2019

0

Just like mince pies at Christmas and hot cross buns at Easter, the Volkswagen Golf seems to be eternal. It’s remained unfazed by the whole Dieselgate debacle and has cleverly evolved to become electrified and connected – ensuring VW doesn’t shun its changing customers.

It’s by far Volkswagen’s most popular car and is arguably one of the most important new cars on sale – given it’s rarely seen outside of the top five best-selling cars list. In fact, after seven years on sale, the Golf looks set to end 2019 as the second-most popular car in the UK.

It’s equally popular with the critics. Despite being around since 2012, the seventh-generation Golf still commands acclaim from road testers. It holds a class-leading score of 82% on The Car Expert’s unique Expert Rating system, which aggregates car reviews from 18 of the country’s top motoring websites.

After more than 45 years on sale, Volkswagen has managed to produce a remarkable 35 million examples, and come February 2020 you’ll be able to buy this all-new eighth-generation example. But can this new version continue to lead the path like the last example did?

More Volkswagen news, reviews, features and offers

What’s new about the Volkswagen Golf?

In typical Golf style, this latest model looks like it could just be a facelift, but it’s underneath and inside where Volkswagen has been waving its magic wand.

Starting with the interior, Volkswagen has completely digitalised the cabin, getting rid of the majority of physical buttons and fitting the car with a ten-inch touchscreen and digital cockpit as standard, the latter being unique to this class – for the time being at least. Further tech introduced includes Car2X – essentially where the Golf can ‘communicate’ with other cars and infrastructure.

And in terms of electrification, Volkswagen is introducing mild-hybrid technology to the Golf – at first with a petrol engine paired to an automatic transmission.

How does it look?

In true VW fashion, the Golf’s design has evolved rather than revolved – though why would you change such a popular and winning formula?

Viewed side-on, you’d be hard-pressed to notice the difference, aside from the all-new line-up of alloy wheels – particularly as it retains near-matching dimensions to the outgoing car.

But it’s the front where you’ll notice most of the changes with its new LED headlights, while a full-length front apron gives the Golf a more aggressive look than before.

Jumping to the rear, you’ll notice Volkswagen’s prominent new logo (it’s slimmer than before, if you couldn’t tell) along with more prominent ‘GOLF’ lettering beneath the badge. The full suite of LED lights are also prominent at the rear.

So, while this might not be a revolutionary design, it’s a classy update and one that will undoubtedly appeal to the Golf’s loyal buyers.

What’s the spec like?

If you’re familiar with VW’s trim level structure, you’ll know all about Volkswagen’s trademark S, SE and SE L grades that have lasted the test of time.

But for a change of scenery, Volkswagen is now adopting new nomenclatures – meaning Life, Style and R-Line are the options from launch, the last grade being the only aspect of continuity.

Standard kit is excellent and includes LED headlights and keyless start plus a ten-inch infotainment screen that offers a host of connected services as well as the digital cockpit. Plenty of safety kit is also offered – namely lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking.

Volkswagen hasn’t yet announced prices for the new Golf, although given this jump in out-of-the-box equipment, we’d expect a noticeable rise on top of the outgoing Golf’s £21,120 starting price.

As yet, the new Volkswagen Golf has not been crash tested by Euro NCAP. The previous model scored a five-star rating, but we’ll have to see if the new one can match that.

What’s the new Volkswgen Golf like inside?

The new interior is headed up by a huge ten-inch touchscreen that seems to control, well, everything. All physical buttons seem to have been eradicated to create this entirely digitalised interior – helped by the new ‘Hello Volkswagen’ voice control service and touch buttons dotted throughout, even for the sunroof.

2020 Volkswagen Golf review – interior and dashboard | The Car Expert

While it certainly looks the part – transforming the Golf for the ’20s – we can’t help but feel this needless button-removing has gone too far. Merely changing the temperature means you have to use this slightly awkward slider positioned below the touchscreen when a traditional rotary knob would do a much better job with less hassle.

Aside from that, it’s all business as usual inside, with the Golf offering a generous amount of rear space for its size. While the 380-litre boot isn’t class-leading, it’s more than generous enough for a family hatchback. Visibility is also faultless.

What’s under the bonnet?

Powering our test car is the 130hp variant of the turbocharged 1.5-litre, which comes mated to a six-speed manual transmission – expected to be the best-selling configuration.

It’s a good mix for the Golf – offering excellent refinement as you can barely hear it at low revs, while cylinder deactivation tech is just one of the touches that go into making the engine more efficient than before, although VW can’t give us the figures just yet.

While performance isn’t this engine’s strong point, it’s a good all-rounder, feeling plentiful at motorway speeds while also having a bit of buzz for the more twisty roads. Admittedly, it can feel sluggish at times when overtaking, although the 150hp variant of the same engine provides the remedy for this.

What’s it like to drive?

The story of the Volkswagen Golf for years has been that it’s a comfortable and refined option, and that undoubtedly remains the same with this new model.

Even at motorway speeds the Golf is impressively refined – only a bit of wind noise from the door mirrors making its way into the cabin – giving a comfortable and supple ride that isn’t even hampered by our test car’s 18-inch alloy wheels.

For now, we can only imagine how silky smooth it feels on the entry-level 16s. It’s certainly no surprise that the Golf has become such a fleet favourite – there are few better cars at this price point that would be more comfortable to trundle up and down the motorway in.

But while being a great cruiser, it’s not a byword for driving enjoyment. Sure, body roll is well controlled and the steering is smooth and linear, but it’s all very safe and predictable. That’ll be ideal for the vast majority of buyers, but if you want a dash of sparkle behind the wheel, the Ford Focus or Mazda 3 are better choices.

Verdict

Volkswagen already had a near-class-leading model with the outgoing Golf, and it didn’t need to do a great deal to this new eighth-generation model to bring it right to the forefront of the competitive family hatchback class.

With this 1.5-litre petrol configuration, it leaves you wanting for very little, and the Golf would be a terrific choice if you spend lots of time cruising on the motorway. Although the fiddly new touchscreen might be a gripe at first, we’re in no doubt that it would be quickly adjusted to once you’re living with it on a daily basis.

With efficiency figures and pricing yet to be revealed, it’s a bit soon to say if the new Golf is the new ‘car to beat’ in this class, although the pathway seems to have been laid.

More Volkswagen news, reviews, features and offers

Similar cars

Key specifications

Model as tested: Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 130 Style
Price (on-road): TBA
Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol
Gearbox: Six-speed manual
Power: 130 bhp
Torque: 200 Nm
Top speed: 133mph
0-60mph: 9.0 seconds
Fuel economy (combined): TBA
CO₂ emissions: TBA
Euro NCAP safety rating: Not yet tested

Mercedes-Benz unveils second-generation GLA

New model

Jack Evans

-

13 December 2019

0

Mercedes-Benz unveils second-generation GLA

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its latest GLA — the second generation of the crossover model.

Taking on the likes of the BMW X2 and Audi Q2, it’s ten centimetres higher than the car it replaces yet its overall length comes in just under two centimetres shorter. Despite these changes, it’s said to offer more front headroom and rear legroom than the car it replaces could.

The interior will be familiar to anyone who has sat in the current-generation A-Class, with a twin-screen setup measuring ten inches in high-spec models dominating the centre of the cabin. Lower specification cars will get two seven-inch displays instead.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA 02 | The Car Expert

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA 03 | The Car Expert

Mercedes says that the driving position is higher than it was in the previous GLA, while the 421-litre boot represents a 14-litre increase over its predecessor.

The engine line-up for the GLA is set to mirror that found on the A-Class, but from launch just two powertrains are available; a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol with 163hp and 250Nm in the GLA 200, and a 306hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol in the GLA 35. The latter version is capable of hitting 60mph from a dead stop in under five seconds.

Though that AMG-tweaked version gets four-wheel-drive as standard, it’ll be available on non-AMG versions too.

Prices for the new Mercedes-Benz GLA have yet to be announced, but they’re likely to be revealed closer to the car going on sale in spring 2020.

More Mercedes-Benz news, reviews, features and offers

Election nerves keep customers away from showrooms in November

Car industry news

Stuart Masson

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9 December 2019

0

Election nerves keep customers away from showrooms in November

Private new car sales were down by 6% in November compared to the same month last year, with the general election predictably causing havoc for retailers.

On the other hand, fleet registrations were up by almost 3% in November, according to the latest data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which meant that the overall new car market was down by just over 1% compared to the same month last year.

New car registrations, November 2019 — Source: SMMT

Any election period tends to cause potential buyers to keep their wallets firmly in their pockets, and all signs suggest that we can expect a muted end to a disappointing year for new car sales.

Good news for plug-in cars, not so much for diesels

Diesel sales continue to fall as fleets follow private buyers in turning away from the fuel in favour of petrol and, increasingly, electric or hybrid models.

New car registrations by fuel type, November 2019 — Source: SMMT

It was a good month for electric cars, with registrations up massively year-on-year thanks to an increasing number of electric models now available in showrooms. Plug-in hybrids also improved, up 35% from the admittedly low levels of 12 months ago. Regular hybrids are still growing in number as well, so it all added up to a market share for alternatively-fuelled vehicles of more than 10% for the first time.

Corsa returns to the top of the charts

The soon-to-be-replaced Vauxhall Corsa has yo-yoed its way through the 2019 sales charts. It hit the top spot in September, fell out of the Top Ten altogether in October, and bounced back to the #1 slot again in November. Can it hold on to the top spot in December before it bows out in January in favour of the all-new model?

The Vauxhall Corsa is the nation’s best-selling car for the second time in three months

The real surprise was that the Ford Fiesta wasn’t hot on its heels. Second spot went to another model that’s in full runout mode, the Ford Kuga. The Fiesta did cling onto third place, but only just ahead of the Volkswagen Golf.

After that, there were no great surprises in the Top Ten in November, and the year-to-date results suggest that the whole-year rankings are pretty much set. The Corsa’s strong performance saw it jump the Ford Focus for third place in year-to-date registrations, so it will be interesting to see if December’s results change this at all.

As usual, we’ll look at the ten best-selling cars in more details in the next day or two.

Good month, bad month

The overall market may have been relatively stable in November, but some brands had great months while others were not looking so healthy.

It was good news for Alpine, Audi, DS Automobiles, Ford, Jeep, Lexus, MG and Porsche, who all recorded growth of at least 10% compared to the same month last year.

Meanwhile, things were not as pleasant for Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Dacia, Fiat, Jaguar, Kia, Lotus, Maserati, Mini, Mitsubishi, Renault, Smart, SsangYong, Suzuki and Vauxhall, who all saw registrations fall by double-digit percentages compared to last November.

More industry news and analysis at The Car Expert

Vauxhall Insignia updated for 2020

Model update

Jack Evans

-

9 December 2019

0

Vauxhall has revealed the first look at its facelifted Insignia, which is now only available in a liftback body style.

With a refreshed look and a host of added technologies, Vauxhall hopes that its revised flagship saloon can regain some popularity in a dwindling market.

While 1.2 million Insignias have been sold in the UK since the nameplate was first introduced ten years ago to replace the unloved Vauxhall Vectra, numbers have been tumbling in recent years as buyer flock towards SUVs rather than traditional saloons and estates. In fact, Vauxhall has quietly dropped the estate versions (Sports Tourer and Country Tourer) as part of the model’s facelift.

The current generation Vauxhall Insignia was launched in 2017, and currently holds a score of 72% according to The Car Expert’s unique Expert Rating system, which has aggregated more than 40 UK media reviews. That score is identical to its traditional rival, the Ford Mondeo, but significantly behind the class-leading Volkswagen Passat.

Vauxhall Insignia MY2020 – rear | The Car Expert

Exterior changes to the Insignia are subtle. A redesigned front bumper and some extra chrome detailing on the grille make up the revisions to the front, along with reshaped headlights incorporating new LED Matrix technology. At the rear, there are silver exhaust trims at the lower side of the bumper.

Those new headlights use 84 individual LED bulbs within each unit, and, when combined with a forward-facing camera, can adjust their beams to avoid dazzling oncoming road users. The LED daytime running lights have been placed in a new location, too.

Vauxhall has updated the amount of driver assistance technology on the Insignia. It now gets a rear-view camera to improve rearward visibility, while rear cross-traffic alert elevates safety when reversing out of spaces. The Insignia was awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP when it was launched in 2017.

Inside, the Insignia will be available with either a seven- or eight-inch touchscreen system housing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration systems.

Details surrounding engine and gearbox choices for the new Vauxhall Insignia have yet to be revealed and are likely to be announced in full in January when it is set to make its debut at the Brussels Motor Show.

More Vauxhall news, reviews, features and offers

What can we expect from the Fiat-Peugeot merger?

Expert Opinion

The Car Expert staff

-

4 December 2019

2

What can we expect from the Fiat-Peugeot merger?

In what will create the fourth-largest car group in the world, the proposed merger between FCA and PSA will see a new powerhouse as the next age of the automobile looms.

Peugeot and Fiat, founded in 1896 and 1899 respectively, are the lead entities of the PSA and FCA consortiums. Between them, these two groups own the brands Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Axiam, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, RAM and Vauxhall.

FCA’s parent company, Exor, also still holds a stake in Ferrari and its chairman, John Elkann, is set to become chairman of the new PSA-FCA operation.

Latest in a long line of collaborations

Mergers and acquisitions are nothing new in the automotive industry. Almost all of your favourite car brands are part of a major group or allied with other brands in some way. The Volkswagen Group (VW, Audi, Porsche, SEAT, Skoda, Bentley, Lamborghini and Bugatti) and the Renault-Nissan Alliance (which also incorporates Alpine, Dacia, Datsun, Infiniti and Mitsubishi, as well as the obvious Nissan and Renault) are just two examples of long-standing, large corporations who have joined forces to survive and prosper in an ever more difficult market.

This “super-merger” of two large consortiums in PSA and FCA shows how the industry is having to work together more than ever to face the next challenges facing the industry. In particular, zero-emissions technology like battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell systems are something both companies have been lagging behind on over this last decade.

Now, with emissions laws and the threat of colossal fines, the combined might of two 120+ year old companies is needed to catch up.

Playing to each other’s strengths

One major advantage of PSA and FCA, in particular, joining forces rather than collaborating with potential partners, is a god fit between the geographical and technological strengths of the two groups.

PSA does not currently sell any cars in North America (the world’s second largest car market), where FCA is well established through its Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM brands. A strong US infrastructure has helped FCA with the reintroduction of Fiat and Alfa Romeo to America after many years away, and can potentially do the same for Peugeot and Citroën.

Meanwhile, Fiat has been gradually falling behind the industry standard with most of its cars in Europe while PSA’s latest models have been steadily improving and are much closer to the top of the class. FCA will be able to update its line-up at not only Fiat, but also Alfa Romeo and possibly even Lancia and areas of Maserati through shared platforms with PSA models, and improved buying power for bulk materials and supplies.

Fiat also currently collaborates with the Renault-Nissan Alliance on most of its van range, which could be easily replaced with equivalent PSA models in very short order. Vauxhall is already going through this process with its van models, which were also previously shared with Renault.

PSA has the smarts to manage the merger

What gives me confidence in this merger is the people in charge of PSA at the moment. Carlos Tavares, current chairman of PSA and the CEO of the new group, has turned Peugeot around in an outstanding fashion over the past five years.

From near bankruptcy earlier this decade, PSA has managed to turn that a financial black hole into a business so profitable that it could afford to buy Opel and Vauxhall from GM in 2017. It is creating good cars in the process, and has managed a corporate turnaround with relatively few job losses.

This success has given me confidence that the financial future of the new partnership could bring Fiat and Peugeot back to the forefront of the automotive discussion.

What new cars could be in the pipeline?

Cars that are already in planning and making preparations for production, such as the next Fiat 500 and the Maserati Alfieri coupé, may not initially benefit from this partnership as most of the components, designs and infrastructure will already be in place. However, there may still be benefits from infrastructure upgrades and production improvement methodology, along with a firmer financial safety blanket if any problems occur.

When it comes to upgrading either those cars, or expanding the model line-up for any of the brands that fall under the PSA-FCA umbrella, the real benefits of this merger are likely to be seen.

How would you like to see a fast Lancia supermini? That would be more financially achievable if it was based on a Peugeot 208 GTi, whose platform will also expected to be used for the next Vauxhall Corsa and Citroën C3, plus potentially a new Fiat Punto replacement and even a new Alfa Romeo to replace the recently-deceased Mito.

The same platform and component sharing principle can be applied across the board, just as it does now for the Volkswagen Group. You want a fast, electric Peugeot 508? Oh, Maserati has a powerful new electric powertrain that could be used, saving millions in development. By spreading the cost and taking in all the rewards, you make a better business.

What about motorsport programmes?

Peugeot 908 at Le Mans in 2011 | The Car Expert — Peugeot will return to Le Mans in 2022 after more than a decade away

There is one question mark, however. What will this merger mean for motorsport? Well, I’ve considered this for quite some time, and I think it will be very beneficial for PSA and FCA take a divide-and-conquer approach, akin to the Volkswagen Group has operated over the years – especially at Le Mans with Audi, Bentley and Porsche.

Just after the news of the merger, Peugeot announced it was joining the WEC’s new Hypercar class in 2022. My worry, after initially being very happy that Peugeot would be back in endurance racing, was that it would stop Ferrari and/or Maserati also joining the field in the future.

But, then I asked, why not both? The general public won’t care. Maserati, Ferrari and Peugeot fans will continue to support their favourite brands as they have done for the last 100 years.

If PSA/FCA does what Audi and Porsche do in having separate operations (but still quietly learning from each other), everyone wins. The fans get more cars from more brands to watch and support. For the overall organisation, if one outfit has a bad race then the other can take the plaudits for the entire company!

In Formula One, a spending cap is coming and Ferrari and Alfa Romeo are already there, so hopefully those programmes will be secure. In the WEC, Peugeot is coming in 2022 and Ferrari is aid to be exploring the new rules, so maybe Maserati could leverage involvement from these two brands? Formula E is already part of the overall programme with DS Automobiles.

DTM could be an excellent fit for Maserati, especially with Aston Martin now involced. NASCAR seems a perfect fit for Dodge, while Chrsler could become an engine supplier in IndyCar. The WRC would pretty much beg for Lancia to return, especially with Citroën now gone. In WTCR, Opel and Vauxhall could re-live their glory years of the 1990s, perhaps with Fiat and Alfa Romeo involved as well.

How likely is any of the above?

The question mark will always be there as to whether or not the boardroom management will allow the company to take this aggressive approach, especially since one of the key reasons for this merger is to cut costs.

We could actually see a huge reduction of PSA and FCA’s budgets outside of their core road car sector until the two companies are sufficiently integrated, which could take up most of the next decade.

There has been considerable nervousness at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant here in the UK, which could suffer from any rationalisation of the new company’s manufacturing facilities. Ellesmere Port has been almost constantly battling rumours of closure for more than a decade under both GM and PSA ownership, so employees will not welcome yet more conjecture over their fate in coming months.

But overall, if this new company wants to show itself to be up with the best of the big players then it could certainly have the brands, technology and firepower to do so – both in motorsport and on the road.

I’m very excited for the prospects of this merger. Time will tell if I’m right.

Updated Jaguar F-Type arrives with dramatic new look

Model update

Jack Evans

-

3 December 2019

0

Updated Jaguar F-Type arrives with dramatic new look

Jaguar has revealed its new-look Jaguar F-Type coupe and convertible, bringing a striking new look to its sports car after six years on sale.

The new car ditches the V6 engine available with its predecessor and is instead offered with just V8 and 2.0-litre, four-cylinder powertrain options.

Available from just over £54,000, the refreshed F-Type is still available in coupe and convertible forms, with all incorporating a lightly revised interior with more tech and driver-focused features than before.

The exterior changes are most noticeable at the front of the F-Type, with sleeker headlights giving the nose of the car a more aggressive appearance. The rear of the car gets a subtler update, though the ‘roundel’ lights which were such a signature of the F-Type have been ditched in favour of a single ‘blade’ style unit.

Inside, the cabin of the F-Type is dominated by a new 12-inch digital dashboard setup ahead of the driver, which is combined with a central infotainment screen incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The entire system also comes with over-the-air updates for the first time.

The entry-level engine is now the 300hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol, with the V6 unit having been ditched. A less powerful version of the firm’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 sits in the middle of the line-up with 450hp and the choice of rear- or all-wheel-drive, while the tip-top unit remains the full-fat V8 engine in the F-Type R which now produces 575hp and 700Nm of torque – up 25hp and 20Nm on the older model. All cars get an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The range-topping SVR has been cut too, though a lot of that car’s mechanical upgrades – such as adaptive dampers and stiffer rear knuckles and ball joints – have been carried over to the R.

The new Jaguar F-Type is available to order now.

More Jaguar news, reviews, features and offers

Audi unveils all-electric e-tron Sportback

New model

Stuart Masson

-

26 November 2019

0

Audi unveils all-electric e-tron Sportback

Audi has revealed its latest all-electric vehicle – the e-tron Sportback – at the Los Angeles motor show.

Described as the firm’s second bespoke electric vehicle, it’s probably more accurately considered to be a variation on the original e-tron model. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the Audi e-tron has received very favourable reviews from the UK motoring media and currently holds an impressive score of 83% according to our unique Expert Rating aggregator.

Like virtually every German SUV model released in the last few years, the e-tron is now available in a more expensive yet less practical version. It’s the same weight, length and height as the standard model, with the main visual difference of the e-tron Sportback being a more raked roofline.

As well as flattening out the overall look of the car, the sleeker roofline also helps with aerodynamic efficiency – the e-tron Sportback has a slightly lower drag coefficient compared with the regular e-tron. It’s not a big difference, but Audi claims that it equates to an extra six miles of range.

Under that slightly more aerodynamic body, there are some mechanical differences. The e-tron Sportback can decouple the front and rear axles so it can become rear-wheel-drive (the regular e-tron is all-wheel-drive-only), which helps to add a further six miles of range.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Stuart Masson

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26 November 2019

0

Summary

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a large SUV model that sits between the smaller GLC and larger GLS in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family. This the current model, which arrived in the UK in 2019.

Although it’s the second generation to wear the GLE badge, it’s actually the fourth generation of the model (which was originally called the ML from 1997 to 2015).

The GLE range consists of a regular SUV model and a GLE Coupe body style, which is not actually a coupé but rather an almost identical SUV shape with a more raked cargo area. There is also a higher-performance model called the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53, and an even faster GLE 63 version arrived in 2020.

The GLE has received particular praise for its interior design and quality, as well as its comfortable ride. However, it has been criticised for tight third-row seating and unimpressive handling.

As of July 2025, the Mercedes-Benz GLE holds an Expert Rating of C, with a score of 60%. Its reliability score is good, and the plug-in hybrid models help contribute to very good CO₂ emissions, but its media review score are only average and its running costs are extremely high.

More Mercedes-Benz Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Key specifications

Body style: Large SUV and Coupé SUV
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £77,985 on-road

Launched: Spring 2019
Last updated: Spring 2023
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

“What it does take from its saloon siblings is largely good stuff, although we’d like a more refined ride. At this price point the diesel doesn’t feel special enough, either. The pick of the range looks like a pricier petrol with the fancier adjustable suspension.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 7 / 10

Read full review

Auto Express

Alastair Crooks

“It’s all very calm, very relaxed and totally unobtrusive. It makes it all feel very late-1990s, when lap times and acceleration figures weren’t the be-all and end-all as they are today. Further proof that less can be more and all the better for it.”

Model reviewed: Range overview

Score: 7 / 10

Read full review

Evo

Stuart Gallagher

More reviews

Auto Trader

Score: 8 / 10
“The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé is very comfortable, looks the part, has a fantastic cabin and a rare diesel option… but it’s no sports car.”
Author: Mark Nichol
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6 / 10
“Relaxing rather than exciting, the CLE will find favour with exactly the same sort of buyers who purchased the old C- and E-Class coupes. Which is just what it’s meant to do.”
Author: Keith Adams
Read review

Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7.8 / 10
“The Mercedes CLE looks good, offers a decent amount of room inside and drives well, replacing two models in one go.”
Author: Charlie Harvey, Andy Goodwin
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overview
“The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is one of those increasingly rare sights – a sleek two-door coupe. It has a good-sized boot, but it could be a bit cramped for rear seat passengers.”
Read review

Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Replacing both the C-Class coupe and E-Class coupe in Mercedes-Benz’s rationalised range, the CLE manages to be a more convincing proposition than either car, with smart styling, relaxed road manners and a roomy interior.”
Author: John Redfern
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“No surprises with the Mercedes-Benz CLE – it’s a comfortable, premium and good-looking coupe. We felt there was more C-Class than E-Class about the way it drove, but it shouldn’t put buyers off from either side. But either way, we like it.”
Author: Keith Adams
Read review

Regit

Model reviewed: CLE 300 4Matic AMG Line Premium Plus
Score: 8 / 10
“If you were ever in any doubt that two could become one, the Mercedes-Benz CLE has proved it is possible. Yes, there will be people out there who will say it’s not like the outgoing C-Class or E-Class Coupe models, but we think they have found the perfect balance between the two.”
Author: Maxine Ashford
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic CLE 450 AMG Line Premium Plus Coupe
Score: 8 / 10
The Mercedes-Benz CLE is a modern take on the archetypal Mercedes coupe, and all the better for it. In much the same way as those two-door Mercs of old, the CLE feels as though it would be most at home with its nose pointed south, whisking you to a table by the Med for dinner in understated style.”
Author: Alex Robbins
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 7 / 10
“Relaxing to drive but infuriating to operate, the CLE is an old-school coupe spoiled by poorly integrated tech.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: July 2019
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 91%
Child protection: 90%
Vulnerable road users: 78%
Safety assist: 78%

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of July 2025, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has not been assessed by Green NCAP.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 79
Average repair cost: £518.35
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE has a better-than-average reliability score of 71%, according to workshop and extended warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, MotorEasy.

The average repair cost of just over £500 is quite competitive for such a large and expensive vehicle. Gearbox repairs have been the most expensive problems, with an average repair bill of about £2,300. Thankfully, these have been quite rare to date.

Running cost rating

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

Fuel consumption	Average	Score
Petrol models	28 mpg	E
Diesel models	37 mpg	D
Plug-in hybrid models	343 mpg	A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	230 g/km	D
Diesel models	199 g/km	D
Plug-in hybrid models	20 g/km	A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	36 miles	E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	50	F

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£452	D
Year 2	£1,118	D
Year 3	£1,846	D
Year 4	£2,289	D
Year 5	£2,980	D
Overall	£8,685	D

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is an expensive car to run, according to numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Fuel consumption is unsurprisingly poor for petrol models, and only average for diesels. The plug-in hybrid stats look good on paper, but this is largely a function of misleading EU/UK government lab tests that make every plug-in hybrid look amazing. There are no real-world situations where you’re going to get 270 miles out of a single gallon (4.5 litres) of fuel and a bit of electricity.

Insurance and scheduled servicing costs for the GLC are likely to be high, especially compared to similarly sized cars from other brands.

Warranty rating

New car warranty information for the Mercedes-Benz GLE

Overall ratingB68%
Petrol or diesel modelsC41%
Hybrid or plug-in hybrid modelsA82%
New car warranty duration3 years
New car warranty mileageUnlimited miles
Battery warranty duration8 years
Battery warranty mileage100,000 miles

Mercedes-Benz’s new car warranty is only average, and not as attractive as some other cars in a similar price bracket as the GLE.

The duration is three years, with no limit on mileage – although, in reality, the mileage numbers are likely to be fairly irrelevant as most cars only cover about 10,000 miles each year.

In addition to the standard new car warranty, the GLE plug-in hybrid models have an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components. The overall rating above is a mix of the different models.

Awards

Significant UK trophies and awards that the Mercedes-Benz GLE has received

2021

Auto Trader New Car Awards – Best seven-seater

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Polestar 1 test drive

The Car Expert staff

-

26 November 2019

0

While the automotive industry is struggling to keep up with the rise of EVs – many scrambling to bring models to market to avoid being stung by huge environmental fines – this situation surprisingly provides a gateway for firms willing to innovate.

One of these companies is Polestar. It’s a manufacturer that started out as being Volvo’s performance arm, but it’s now separated to become its own carmaker, which will merely focus on electrified models. It’s worth noting that it’s still heavily linked with Volvo under big owner Geely’s ownership.

And here is Polestar’s first model – the ‘1’. Bizarrely for a firm that will, from this point onwards, just launch pure EVs, this new GT car is a plug-in hybrid — but a rather clever one at that.

More Polestar ratings, reviews, news and features

Polestar 1 review

What’s new?

It’s hardly a surprise to see just how Volvo-like the Polestar 1 is, given its inspiration is the Volvo Concept Coupe. That show car was the first model to sit on Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) that underpins models like the Volvo S90, but on the ‘1’ it’s been strengthened through a carbon-fibre cross member. That material is key elsewhere, too, as the body of the model is made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic.

The other big news is the new plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the 1’s setup being completely different to other Volvos – producing 610hp, while also offering the longest claimed electric range of any plug-in hybrid on sale today.

But among all this brilliance is one snarling concern – the Polestar 1 is only available in left-hand-drive, meaning it will be a niche, at best, choice in the UK.

How does it look?

In a word, the Polestar 1’s styling is sensational. The proportions are just about perfect with an extended bonnet, long doors and gorgeous 21-inch alloy wheels.

As we mentioned earlier, its whole inspiration is the Volvo Concept Coupe – hence why it’s recognisable first as a Volvo and second as a Polestar. There’s nothing wrong with that, as Volvos are some of the best-looking cars around.

But it’s remarkable how close the Swedish firm has managed to get this production model to the 2013 concept – the carbon-fibre body said to allow for further scope to exactly replicate a car’s design. It really is one of the best-looking cars around, and it’s undoubtedly that design that will be the selling point for most buyers.

What’s the spec like?

Given the Polestar 1 costs an eye-watering £139,000, it’s pleasing just how much kit it comes with. A few equipment highlights are Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving – something that’s about unique in this class – along with Nappa leather sports seats and active bending LED headlights.

The line-up is simple, too, and aside from splashing out an additional £5,000 to have your car with matte paint, or the choice of three wheel finishes and two interior combinations, that’s where the option boxes end.

That high price might seem a lot – especially when you consider that you could buy a Bentley Continental GT for not a lot more money – but this technology remains expensive, particularly with such an advanced powertrain like this.

What’s it like inside?

If you’ve spent much time in a Volvo interior, you’ll see just how similar the Polestar 1 is inside to its parent brand’s cars. While Polestar has added bits of expensive carbon fibre, a truly terrific Bowers & Wilkins sound system and a few more pleasing luxurious touches, the design and layout is just about identical.

It’s not exactly a bad thing, as Volvo interiors are some of the best around, but there could be an element of disappointed from an owner when they realise that their Polestar has a very similar-looking cabin to a £30,000 Volvo XC40.

The four-seat Polestar 1’s batteries also significantly eat into the boot space, leaving just 143 litres, which will allow for a couple of small suitcases at best. Though, of course, practicality isn’t a priority. A cool touch in the boot, though, is that Volvo has left the batteries on show. “Why hide them?”, was the firm’s reasoning.

Polestar 1 review - interior and dashboard

What’s under the bonnet?

Open the hood and there lies a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, which itself produces more than 300hp. But joining that are two electric motors, along with two batteries that offer a capacity of 34kWh – larger than some EVs.

The combination of engine and electric itself produces in excess of 500hp, but there is also an integrated starter motor adding further performance, which allows for a maximum of 610hp and 1,000Nm of torque. We’re talking supercar figures here then, and it certainly feels like that – even when carting around 2,350kg of weight. Foot to the floor in ‘Power’ mode and 0-60mph would be met in four seconds, and Polestar says it will reach a top speed of 155mph.

With both electric motors at the rear, it can be run as a rear-wheel-drive car, or all-wheel-drive once the engine kicks in. The gearbox of choice is an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 34kWh battery also enables the Polestar to have an impressive claimed 78 miles. And as it can also be charged with a 50kWh rapid charger (unlike many PHEVs), the battery can be topped up in less than an hour. That long electric range allows for some astonishingly low running costs – CO₂ emissions of just 15g/km, and a claimed fuel economy figure of 403.5mpg.

What’s it like to drive?

One of the key benefits of electric cars is the seamless performance, and this is undoubtedly the key asset to the Polestar. It picks up speed at an alarming rate, and the changeover to when the petrol engine kicks is one of the smoothest of any petrol-electric model.

The stiffer chassis is also noticed – there’s next to no body roll, and direct steering makes it very easy to place through the corners, with torque vectoring instantly sending power to the wheels that need it most to ensure it always feels controlled.

Quite unusually for such an advanced car, it doesn’t come with electronic dampers like most cars in this class do – rather it makes use of high-quality Ohlins ones that have to be manually adjusted. In the standard factory setting, they’re perhaps a bit too firm, though never uncomfortable. They can be adjusted without the need of a specialist, though we reckon it’s a bit of a faff, and we imagine most owners will leave them how they came. The Akebono brakes also provide superb stopping power.

Verdict

In terms of styling, technology and performance the Polestar 1 is an absolute masterclass, and undoubtedly a superb showcase at to what Polestar will hopefully offer from future all-electric models.

But it’s sadly compromised by not being offered as an RHD model (due to such low volumes and the expense of a conversion) – something that makes it deeply impractical in the UK, and also, its expensive list price.

Yet the Polestar 1 will be a fantastic indulgent purchase for those lucky enough to be able to afford it and won’t be bought by those who care about it being impractical or costly. You’re likely to never see one on British roads, but if and when you do, it will be just as special to lay your eyes on as it will be for the person behind the wheel.

More Polestar ratings, reviews, news and features

Similar cars

Aston Martin DB11 | Bentley Continental GT | Porsche Taycan

Key specifications

Model: Polestar 1
Price: £139,900
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid
Power: 610 hp
Torque: 1,000 Nm

Top speed: 155 mph
0-60mph: 4.0 seconds
Fuel economy (combined): 403.5 mpg
CO₂ emissions: 15 g/km

Vauxhall Insignia (2017 to 2022)

Stuart Masson

-

26 November 2019

0

Summary

The Vauxhall Insignia was a large family/executive car, available in both liftback (Insignia Grand Sport) and estate (Insignia Sports Tourer) body styles.

The latest generation was introduced in 2017, with a higher-riding Country Tourer estate version added a few months later and the GSi performance model a few months after that. The Insignia is or has been sold in other countries as the Opel Insignia, Buick Regal and Holden Commodore.

A facelifted model arrived in UK showrooms in early 2020. As part of this upgrade, the slow-selling estate (Sports Tourer) and Country Tourer models were dropped from the range, leaving only the liftback models on sale.

The Insignia has received particular praise for its comfort, interior space and value for money. However, it has been criticised for not matching the levels of quality or fuel economy on offer from several rivals.

As of March 2026, the Insignia holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 61%.

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

Key specifications

Body style: Large liftback and estate
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £20,045

Launched: Summer 2017
Last updated: Spring 2020
Discontinued: Spring 2022

Image gallery

Media reviews

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

Model reviewed: GSi
Score: 7.2 / 10
“Equipment levels are better than rivals from Ford and Volkswagen but economy is poorer, while it’s difficult to see many choosing it over a BMW or an Audi unless funding is critical.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback
Score: 7.2 / 10
“The Insignia’s on-road performance will deliver all that the vast majority of its target market will ever need, and it comes in at a very competitive price.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 7.6 / 10
“The car looks better than its predecessor, offers an interior of higher quality and comes with as much latest technology as its rivals. Couple all this with the price and the Insignia is a serious contender in its market.”
Read review

Auto Express

Model reviewed: 1.5 diesel 2021
Score: 6 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia remains a decent all rounder in what is becoming a shrinking market. It’s striking, loaded with standard kit and offers great value for money.”
Read review

Model reviewed: GSi
Score: 6 / 10
“The Insignia remains a very pleasant, relaxing machine in which to cover miles. However, if you can live without four-wheel drive, the cheaper petrol is almost as quick and at least £5,500 cheaper. “
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer is a comfortable and competent load-lugger that gives pricier premium rivals a run for their money.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 8 / 10
“Practical, stylish large family hatch offers plenty of kit for a tempting price”
Read review

Auto Trader

Model reviewed: 2020 update
Score: 8 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia is a fleet favourite, and has been improved with more efficient new diesel and petrol engines.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia is a large family car that goes toe-to-toe with traditional family favourites like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. It sets itself apart with sleek styling, a high-quality interior, lots of space, lots of kit and an affordable price tag.”
Read review

Business Car

Model reviewed: Insignia SRi VX-Line Nav 2.0 Petrol Auto
Score: 6 / 10
“The Insignia as tested here feels like a car that’s being held back by its spec. For keen drivers who might tolerate a higher tax bill in return for a thrilling drive, it will feel like an unconvincing halfway house They’d be better off considering more full-blooded performance car alternatives.”
Read review

Car

Model reviewed: 2021
Score: 8 / 10
“Despite its many qualities, there are also reasons not to buy the new Insignia GSi. It’s too thirsty, too dour and too expensive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic Sports Tourer estate GSi
Score: 6 / 10
“There is plenty to appreciate about the Vauxhall Insignia GSi. It’s comfortable, roomy, decently refined, well equipped with safety and infotainment, suitably clean and economical, and capable of maintaining brisk cross-country average speeds. It’s just not very much fun to drive or exciting to live with.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Country Tourer estate
Score: 8 / 10
“Is the Vnsignia Country Tourer worth its £1355 premium over the standard Sports Tourer? Absolutely.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer range
Score: 6 / 10
“If you’re after a well-priced family wagon with an abundance of space, kit and comfort levels step this way. The Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer improves on its predecessor and some.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 8 / 10
“While the new Insignia Grand Sport doesn’t entirely bend the needle on the desirability meter, it’s certainly a much more likeable thing than the model it replaces – and more practical too.”
Read review

Carbuyer

Score: 8.6 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport is sharper to look at and drive, while offering lots of equipment for the money.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Country Tourer estate
Score: 7 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer is a practical, capable and good-looking SUV alternative.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports tourer estate
Score: 8 / 10
“The latest Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer is a far more accomplished all-rounder than its predecessor.”
Read review

Carwow

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer comes with an impressive amount of equipment as standard and makes a great long-distance cruiser but some alternatives are better to drive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Country Tourer estate
Score: 6 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer is a comfortable motorway cruiser that has optional four-wheel drive but isn’t as affordable as the very similar Insignia Sports Tourer.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport has a low price, lots of standard equipment and a decent interior but alternatives are more stylish and have flashier interiors.”
Read review

Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre diesel manual SE Nav
“The efficiency figures for the revised Insignia are excellent, although the 1.5 diesel takes a bit of stirring to get going. But the flagship Vauxhall model still looks good, and is well specced.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol Elite Nav
“If a powerful petrol engine is on the list then the Insignia’s is a good bet, although the 165hp version makes much more sense in terms of running costs.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Country Tourer estate
“Neat addition to excellent new Insignia line-up will be of limited appeal due to higher emissions.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel Sports Tourer estate Tech Line
“The Vauxhall Insignia Sport Tourer seems like a competitive car, emissions apart, until you get to the list price. Then it seems devastatingly good value.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 8.1 / 10
“The low list price and high equipment levels grab the attention, backed up by the styling change. Not perfect, but it pushes Vauxhall forward in the sector.”
Read review

Daily Mail

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol manual Grand Sport VX-Line Nav
Score: 8 / 10
“This is a big shiny beast of a motor that is considerably less expensive than it looks, fairly economical to run and is looking better than ever before with its new sexy side scoops, open exhaust and an all-new, go-faster, iron-fresh crimp in the centre of the bonnet.” (Chris Evans)
Read review

Daily Mirror

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol automatic Grand Sport SRi liftback
Score: 8 / 10
“Old favourite keeps on delivering, big time.”
Read review

Eurekar

Model reviewed: SRi VX-Line Nav 2.0-litre petrol automatic
“The latest Vauxhall Insignia is head and shoulders above its predecessors, crammed with technology; yet still retains an almost classic styling which has been here since 2017.”
Read review

Evo

Model reviewed: GSi
Score: 6 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia GSi moves across the road with surprising fluency and naturalness. The steering is well weighted and accurate, if not brimming with feedback, and while the 20-inch wheels do have a tendency to crash into sharper road intrusions, overall body control and damping is good.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback GSi BiTurbo
Score: 5 / 10
“Flagship Insignia has all the right kit, but it doesn’t offer enough excitement over better-balanced and cheaper versions.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 6 / 10
“A more spacious and stylish Vauxhall Insignia is still lacking the performance gene”
Read review

Heycar

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 6 / 10
“The Insignia Sports Tourer fails to perform particularly well in one area. That said, it’s good value if you go for the base specification and comes with a decent range of engines.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Liftback range
Score: 7 / 10
“If the Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport is lacking in one area it’s badge appeal. Chuck in competition from the SUV market and it’s no wonder it’s selling in rapidly declining numbers. But, for the wise buyer, it’s an undeniably good car available at a very affordable price with an extensive amount of standard kit. It’s massive, too, which makes it a very versatile family car.”
Read review

Honest John

Model reviewed: Grand Sport
Score: 6 / 10
“New more efficient engines and the lightest of restyles aren’t enough to stop the Vauxhall Insignia feeling like a dinosaur on the edge of extinction, but at least you can make huge savings on brand new cars.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“If you’re looking for load space, the Vauxhall Insignia is easily one of the best family estate cars around. Plus it’s relaxed and comfortable to drive with enough space for adults in the back.”
Read review

Model reviewed: GSi
“The Vauxhall Insignia GSi certainly has its strong points. If you’re looking for a straightforward, capable car that’s quick and well equipped, it should be on your shortlist.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.6-litre diesel manual Grand Sport SRi Nav
“A Skoda Superb feels more upmarket and a Ford Mondeo is a little sharper to drive, but the new Insignia is a big step forward and a much smarter buy than its predecessor.”
Read review

Parkers

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 7.8 / 10
“Grown-up looks and more interior space than ever.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 8.2 / 10
“Vauxhall’s family barge is more practical than ever.”
Read review

The Sun

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel Grand Sport liftback GSi
“The Insignia GSi feels more accomplished than a lot of fast Vauxhalls from the past, despite not really being that fast.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel Sports Tourer estate VX-Line
“It’s now a tasty proposition for families and businessmen who want a decent drive, value plenty of kit, but can’t afford German prices.”
Read review

The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: 2021
Score: 7 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia is surprisingly satisfying to drive, comfortable, spacious and has enough new technology to keep it relevant in a fast-changing segment. It’s also not unattractive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport
Score: 6 / 10
“The bells, whistles, chic design and bargain price still won’t convince you”
Read review

The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic Sports Tourer estate GSi
Score: 8 / 10
“The Vauxhall Insignia GSi is one of the best fast diesel estates you can buy. Sure-footed and lively, it’s one of a very small number of family cars that you might want to take on a week-long Alpine adventure.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Country Tourer estate
Score: 8 / 10
“There’s a case to be made for the Insignia Country Tourer being the best car that Vauxhall builds. It’s comfortable, roomy and considerably better to drive than the company’s SUVs. However, while keenly price to buy outright, on finance rivals get much closer, as well as being more economical.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sports Tourer estate range
Score: 7 / 10
“Despite Vauxhall’s claims about premium interior quality, the Insignia Sports Tourer is not about to tear buyers away from their Audis and BMWs. However, it does represent a serious rival to estate versions of the VW Passat, Ford Mondeo and Skoda Superb, particularly when you factor in its aggressive pricing.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual Grand Sport
Score: 6 / 10
“On this evidence Vauxhall’s new Insignia comes up slightly short, although the 1.6-litre turbodiesel is a fine machine.”
Read review

Top Gear

Model reviewed: Insignia
Score: 6 / 10
“Tthe Vauxhall Insignia ticks every cost-effective box, and is quite refined.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Grand Sport liftback range
Score: 7 / 10
“New Vauxhall Insignia ticks every cost-effective box, and is much more refined than before. Still tricky to be enthusiastic about, though.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

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

Adult protection: 93%
Child protection: 85%
Vulnerable road users: 78%
Safety assist: 69%

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Vauxhall Insignia was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 688
Average repair cost: £535.93
Last updated: April 2025

Reliability score

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

The Vauxhall Insignia has a below-average reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both this Insignia model range and the original (pre-2017) version.

Over a quarter of all reported problems with the Insignia relate to its engine, with an average repair bill of nearly £800. The other areas to look out for are the suspension and electrical system, which both account for just over a fifth of repair claims respectively. Gearbox problems are the most expensive, but fortunately they appear to be relatively rare.

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

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Vauxhall Insignia has received

2022

Carbuyer Awards – Best Used Family Car
Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Upper Medium Car

2021

Carbuyer Awards – Best Used Family Car
Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Upper Medium Car
Business Car Awards – Best Upper-Medium Car

2020

Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Upper Medium Car

2019

Professional Driver Awards – Best Private Hire Car
J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Awards – Most Dependable Midsize Car
Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Upper Medium Car

2018

Scottish Car of the Year Awards – Best 4×4 (Insignia Country Tourer)
Auto Express Awards – Best Family Car
Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Upper Medium Car
Carbuyer Best Car Awards – Best Large Family Car
4×4 Magazine Awards – Best Crossover Estate

2017

Carbuyer Best Car Awards – Best Large Family Car

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Tesla unveils ‘futuristic’ Cybertruck electric pick-up truck

New model

Stuart Masson

-

24 November 2019

0

Tesla unveils ‘futuristic’ Cybertruck electric pick-up truck

Tesla has unveiled its first electric pickup truck – known as Cybertruck – at an event in Los Angeles.

However, it’s created headlines worldwide not for the bizarre styling of the vehicle but for a failed demonstration of the vehicle’s supposedly shatterproof armoured windows.

The futuristic-looking vehicle will apparently be released at the end of 2021, and with a range of up to 500 miles, although as with any Tesla launch it’s probably best to pencil it into your diary rather than using permanent ink.

Tesla says the vehicle has “more utility than a truck, with more performance than a sports car”, while company boss Elon Musk attempted to show its ruggedness during a live demonstration at the launch event in Los Angeles.

Not as tough as it looks?

The launch will be best remembered for a bizarre series of demos that have immediately been mocked on social media around the world. Mr Musk first directed Tesla head of design, Franz von Holzhausen, to hit the door of the truck repeatedly with a sledgehammer, before suggesting it was nearly bulletproof.

However, when attempting to show off the Cybertruck’s supposedly shatterproof armoured glass by having Mr von Holzhausen throw a metal ball at it, the glass broke – in two attempts on separate windows.

This led a clearly sheepish Mr Musk to say “at least it didn’t go through” and that there was “room for improvement”.

Tesla also said the top of the range, triple electric motor version of the Cybertruck would be capable of going from zero to 60 miles an hour in 2.9 seconds – comparable with many sports cars.

The truck will start at 39,900 dollars (£31,000) for the single motor version and can be pre-ordered in America now, Mr Musk said.

He had teased the idea of creating a truck for some time, first tweeting about building a truck in 2012, before including the idea in his so-called “master plan” for the company, published in 2016.

Mr Musk also referenced the unusual design of the Cybertruck last year, saying in an interview with Recode that the vehicle had taken on a “futuristic-like cyberpunk, ‘Blade Runner’” design.

As part of the announcement, Mr Musk also unveiled a quad bike built by the company, which can fit into the back of the Cybertruck and also be charged once there.

The Cybertruck is the fourth production model that Tesla has unveiled that is not actually available to buy, and the previous three are not likely to be hitting UK roads anytime soon. Earlier this year, the company revealed the Model Y crossover, while the next-generation Tesla Roadster and the Tesla Semi truck were revealed two years ago and have still yet to start production.

More Tesla news, reviews, and features

Lexus UX 300e EV revealed

New model

Ryan Hirons

-

24 November 2019

0

Lexus has pulled the covers back on the UX 300e — the firm’s first electric car.

Designed with the Chinese market in mind and based on the existing UX crossover, the Lexus UX 300e features a 150kW electric motor that’s linked to a 54.3kWh battery pack.

As a result, Lexus says it’s capable of covering ‘around’ 250 miles on single charge, with charging speeds of up to 50kW supported. No word yet on how long a charge will take, however.

The existing UX range has a fairly middling score on The Car Expert’s unique Expert Rating aggregator system, which combines reviews from 18 of the top UK motoring websites to give new car buyers the best possible buying information. As of November 2019, the Lexus UX has a score of 67%, which is well behind the class-leading Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque.

Though its powertrain may be a step away from the UX’s regular hybrid powertrain, the styling of the Lexus UX 300e has remained largely identical. The large front grille remains despite the absence of an internal combustion engine, though a new wheel design and an underbody cover have been introduced in a bid to cut drag.

Changes have been made to the platform as well to accommodate the new powertrain. Additional bracing and shock absorber tweaks have been made to aid refinement, which is taken further with new insulation around the battery that aims to cut external road noises feeding into the cabin.

Though it remains to be seen if any new equipment will be added to the car, the Japanese firm has confirmed its ‘LexusLink’ smartphone application will allow owners to preheat the car, as well as check its battery level remotely. An artificial sound is also created by the car — dubbed Active Sound Control — and is delivered into the interior.

Lexus will first introduce the UX300e in China in 2020, with a view to it arriving on the UK market by 2021. Pricing and specifications for the Lexus UX 300e are likely to be confirmed closer to its launch, though expect a bump over the current UX’s £29,905 starting price.

More Lexus news, reviews, features and offers

Mini John Cooper Works GP revealed as two-seat ultra-hot hatch

New model

Ryan Hirons

-

21 November 2019

0

Mini John Cooper Works GP revealed as two-seat ultra-hot hatch

Mini has revealed its most hardcore road car yet – the Mini John Cooper Works GP.

Having been confirmed for production last year and teased in a series of images since, the hotly-anticipated Mini has finally broken cover in road-ready guise.

Though easily recognisable as a product of the British firm, it doesn’t take much to realise this is no regular Mini Cooper. Hugely flared wheel arches made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic are present on all four corners of the car, while its front bumper takes on an extremely aggressive look.

A twin-exhaust exhaust setup sits centrally in a new diffuser, while an eye-catching rear wing sits at the top of the car. Distinctive 18-inch, four-spoke alloys hark back to previous GP models and the look is completed with a grey and red livery.

Under the race car-esque bodywork sits a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 306hp and 450Nm of torque — equalling the latest Mini Clubman John Cooper Works for the title of most powerful Mini ever. Power is sent to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, resulting in a 0-60mph time of five seconds flat while a 165mph top speed is said to be possible.

There’s more at play than just looks and a big engine, though. A number of chassis-stiffening enhancements have been made, while a model-specific suspension setup sees the car sit a centimetre lower than the regular John Cooper Works. A new high-performance brake setup helps slow the car back down, too, while a ‘GP’ mode has been introduced to the stability control system which unleashes the car’s full potential.

The most notable change inside the car is the removal of the rear seats, making the GP strictly a two-seater. In place of the back row is a large strut brace for improved chassis stiffness, with weight savings also achieved as a result.

Sports seats feature and are finished in a Dinamica/leather upholstery combination, while the steering wheel is trimmed in Nappa leather with a 12 o’clock marking and sits in front of 3D-printed metal paddle shifters.

Just 3,000 examples of the Mini John Cooper Works GP are slated for production, with UK pricing kicking off at £34,995. Order books for the car are now open, with the first examples set to be built in March.

More Mini news, reviews, features and offers

Honda Civic upgraded for 2020 model year

Model update

Ryan Hirons

-

20 November 2019

0

Honda Civic upgraded for 2020 model year

Honda has rolled out a host of upgrades to its Civic hatchback ahead of 2020.

Currently built in the UK (but not for much longer), this generation of the Honda Civic was first introduced in 2015 — with this update marking the model’s first major upgrade. The Civic range currently has a very decent score of 79% on The Car Expert’s unique new Expert Rating aggregator system, which collates reviews from 18 of the UK’s top motoring websites. This score puts it a few points behind the class leaders but well ahead of many other rivals.

A sportier look for the facelifted model is said to be achieved with the introduction of an ‘elegant’ lower front grille, with smoother surfaces and new styling blades. Tweaked LED daytime running lights follow these new blades, while full LED headlights are now a standard feature across the range.

New 16-inch alloy wheels are included on entry-level cars, while a fresh 17-inch option is now available on higher-spec models. An ‘Obsidian Blue’ paint finish has been introduced as well.

Inside the car, new interior panels are said to ‘reinforce’ a premium approach and an eight-way electrically-adjustable driver’s seat is now included for high-spec cars. A revised infotainment system has been introduced too, which sees the introduction of physical buttons for various features — along with its climate control. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both supported as standard.

No changes have been made to the powertrain line-up, which still consists of 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol units, as well as a 1.6-litre diesel option.

Pricing and specifications for the revised Honda Civic have yet to be revealed, though it’s said to be hitting showrooms in January 2020. It remains to be seen if the high-performance Type R hot hatch will benefit from these upgrades, too.

More Honda news, reviews, features and offers

Aston Martin DBX SUV is finally revealed

New model

Stuart Masson

-

20 November 2019

0

Aston Martin DBX SUV is finally revealed

After a lengthy teaser campaign, Aston Martin has unveiled its first sports utility vehicle (SUV) in its 106-year history.

The British luxury car maker hopes the £158,000 Aston Martin DBX will boost its flagging sales in the same way that rival sports car manufacturer Porsche revived its financial fortunes with the first Cayenne SUV more than 15 years ago.

The DBX will be built at Aston Martin’s newly built factory in St Athan, South Wales.

The firm described its first full-size five-seat vehicle as being “extremely adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyle needs and owners”. It offers “equal space and comfort” for passengers in the front and rear, with “class-leading” headroom and legroom.

The DBX has a claimed top speed of 191mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds.

Aston Martin Lagonda president and group chief executive Dr Andy Palmer said: “I can’t emphasise enough how incredibly exciting and significant DBX is for Aston Martin.

“Through its development alone, this beautiful SUV has already taken the company into new territories and in inspiring directions.”

He went on: “This is a real landmark for this great British brand and I promise that DBX will reward all who experience it in their everyday lives.”

Despite completely overhauling its sports car line-up in the last few years with the all-new DB11, Vantage and DBS Superleggera models, Aston Martin reported a pre-tax loss of more than £92 million for the first three quarters of this year as sales volumes slid on “tough trading conditions” in the UK and Europe.

The company blamed falling sales in the UK and Europe as well as weak demand for its entry-level Vantage sports car. This is unlikley to be helped by Ferrari launching its new Roma coupe that directly targets rivals like the Vantage.

The new Aston Martin DBX is available to order from your nearest Aston Martin dealership now, with the first deliveries scheduled for spring 2020.

More Aston Martin news, reviews and features

Caterham 420R test drive

Car reviews

Jack Evans

-

19 November 2019

0

Caterham’s line-up has expanded in recent years, with variations of its iconic Seven appearing thick and fast. There are supercharged cars, turbocharged cars and cars which follow a familiar formula, like this – the 420R.

Utilising a Ford-sourced engine and featuring a track-focused equipment package, it has been created for those who like to inject a bit of motorsport pedigree into their road car.

But does it still succeed out on the public roads, or is it too sharp and too much of a handful? We’ve been out in the 420R to find out.

More Caterham news, reviews and features

Caterham 420R review

What’s new?

Believe it or not, despite its classic styling there’s quite a lot of new features on the 420R. It’s now got LED headlights – a big bonus for Caterhams – as well as new backlit dials and even a heated windscreen. It may not be cutting-edge tech by modern car standards, but for the Seven it’s big news indeed.

But, of course, the main point of a Caterham is to be driven. It’s why, in this R-spec car, you get a limited-slip differential, uprated suspension and a lightweight flywheel. You even get composite race seats and a four-point harness. It’s a serious bit of kit, this, so you can forgive it for not having the latest in comfort-related technology.

How does it look?

The Caterham Seven still looks like nothing else on the road today. Park it near a modern supercar, and it’s likely that people will naturally be drawn towards the dinky two-seater instead. The LED headlights have helped to sharpen things up a bit, and they’re not only better to look at but a lot more effective at night – the standard halogens found on the Seven simply don’t do enough to light up the night in front of you.

The 420R’s styling is more aggressive than other Caterham models, that’s for sure, but it’s still recognisable.

What’s the spec like?

It’ll come as no surprise that the 420R isn’t bristling with technology nor laden with screens and displays. It’s a great antidote to how complex modern cars are, mind you, and the bare-bones experience that you get with a Caterham is one that few other manufacturers can match.

There is the option to fit heated seats – our test car didn’t come with them, however – so this is an extra which could help to slightly lift the comfort levels inside the Seven during a spirited winter’s drive.

What’s it like inside?

It’s worth mentioning that our test 420R came in large body specification, which means that there’s a good amount more room in the cabin than you’d find in a standard Caterham Seven. It opens up the car to those taller drivers for whom a Seven may have been too uncomfortable to drive, as well as those people who find the regular cabin too constrictive.

The sport seats are impressively comfortable and there’s a great sense of snugness when you’re sat in the cabin. The heaters are surprisingly effective too and though the roof is rudimentary in its construction, it does a good job at keeping the worst of the weather out – though we’d always argue that the Seven is best driven with the roof off unless absolutely necessary.

What’s under the bonnet?

The 420 is the entry point into 2.0-litre engine-powered Sevens, with those underneath utilising a 1.6-litre instead. Here, you get 210hp from a Ford-sourced four-cylinder engine, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox. Weight comes in at just 585kg, and Caterham quotes 375hp-per-tonne.

It means that the 420R will go from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds before hitting a top speed of 136mph. It’s performance that will scare off most sports cars, and even give some supercars a run for their money. You also get coil spring suspension with Bilstein sport dampers up front and a semi-independent suspension setup at the rear. In addition, sticky Avon ZZS tyres help give the Caterham even more grip.

What’s it like to drive?

Driving the 420R is a mixture of the rudimentary and the sublime. Get out of a modern car – even a run-of-the-mill hatchback and into the 420R and it’s like jumping time periods. The steering is heavy and unassisted, the clutch is snappy when cold and the gearbox has the strong, mechanical feel that you just don’t get today. Around town it’s a challenge to drive, that’s for sure.

But increase the speed and things clear pretty quickly. The Ford-sourced engine just loves to be revved out – you get the best of it towards the top of the rev range – while the perfectly spaced pedals make heel and toe gearchanges a breeze. Then there’s the grip, which in the dry is available in spades. It’s in the wet where the Caterham becomes a bit more of a handful, where the Avon tyres and plentiful power mean that the rear wheels can quickly be overcome with the slightest amount of throttle.

Verdict

The Caterham 420R is arguably one of the sweetest points of the entire lineup. It features a sharp edge that only Sevens fitted with the 2.0-litre engine get, without bringing the lunacy associated with the supercharged 620R range-topper.

Yes, it may not be to everyone’s tastes, but for those who want to get out and experience just how a car should handle, then the 420R is hard to beat. Throw in those optional heated seats and you could have a car which will put a smile on your face in all weathers.

More Caterham news, reviews and features

Similar cars

Key specifications

Model as tested: Caterham 420R
Price: from £35,490
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol
Gearbox: Five-speed manual

Power: 213 hp
Torque: 203 Nm
Top speed: 136 mph
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds

Fuel economy (combined): TBA
CO₂ emissions: TBA
Euro NCAP safety rating: Not rated
TCE Expert Rating: Not rated

How to avoid car sickness

Stuart Masson

-

18 November 2019

0

Car sickness is a common problem for many of us. If you’re prone to feeling unwell in a car, even the thought of a long car journey can make your stomach turn.

According to the RAC, one in five people experience symptoms of car sickness, and it’s even more common in children. So it’s something most people have either experienced themselves or had to clean up at one time or another.

Once car sickness sets in, it can be really difficult to recover properly. As with most things, prevention is better than cure – so follow these tips from the start of your journey rather than after you already start to feel ill, as by then it may be too late to prevent your breakfast coming back up again.

One of the key factors in any form of motion sickness – whether it’s in a car, boat or even playing a video game – is a difference between what your eyes and ears are each telling your brain. Most of these tips are ways to try and get your eyes and ears in sync again, which will help to calm the signals being sent from your brain to your stomach.

If you’re one of those who are susceptible to car sickness, or have kids who seem to suffer it a lot, fret no longer. There are some things you can do to help, although it affects everyone differently and therefore the solutions that work best for you may be different too.

We’ve put together this list of tips for keeping a queasy stomach under control on a road trip. Follow them right from the start and you’ll have a much better chance of a happy journey.

Pick the right seat

Passenger in the front seat to avoid car sickness — Most people find sitting in the front is better than the back for avoiding car sickness (PA)

One way to avoid car sickness before even setting off can simply come down to picking the right seat. Minimising perceived motion can be very effective in countering symptoms, and there’s no better place to do that than in the front.

Sitting in the back of a car and staring at a stationary seat in front can trick your brain to think you’re not moving, but the sound and balance signals from your ears will cause confusion in your brain — resulting in the feeling of sickness. Sitting in the middle seat if you must be in the back can help counter this, too.

If you have a car full of people on a long trip, try to rotate everyone’s seating position during the journey so each passenger gets some time up front.

Eyes ahead on a fixed point

Passengers should keep their eyes on the horizon or the road ahead to minimise car sickness (PA)

This is aimed more at passengers than drivers but looking outside the car on a fixed point is another easy way to help counter the effects of motion sickness.

Looking at passing objects or cars travelling the other way will enhance the effects — so instead, look to fix your eyes on one constant thing, like the road ahead as it stretches out to the horizon.

If you’re helping children, direct their attention to major scenery points ahead in the distance rather than those right by the roadside that will flash past rapidly. In other words, count windmills from wind farms up ahead rather than cows in the paddock alongside.

Fresh air and good ventilation

Open a car window to prevent car sickness — Fresh air can be a big help to prevent both car sickness and drowsiness (PA)

Just like any kind of sickness, breathing fresh air will do wonders to help. Open a window to let it circulate around the car, and have the air conditioning on to keep the cabin well-ventilated and well-cooled. If you have a sunroof, popping that open can help to circulate air as well.

If you’re opening a rear window, you’ll probably need to open at least one front window as well to prevent the annoying buffeting that is likely to result.

Close your eyes and take deep breaths

Sometimes, it’s easier to just pretend you’re not travelling. Closing your eyes can shut off the visual cues of motion that can freak your brain out while focusing on your breathing will distract your mind from everything else.

This tip tends to get mixed results and may not be that useful once you’re already starting to feel nauseous. It’s definitely best to try in the early stages, when you’re not feeling quite right but your stomach is still relatively calm.

Obviously, this tip is only aimed at passengers. We don’t generally recommend that drivers closer their eyes while behind the wheel…

Distract yourself

Music can help prevent car sickness — Music can be helpful, too (PA)

Similar to our previous tip of closing your eyes, distracting yourself by other means can help with reducing the symptoms of car sickness. Chatting to other people in the car or listening to some talk radio (or an audiobook) can help.

Some people find listening to music through earphones can be a particular benefit, rather than through the car stereo as you normally would. As well as the distraction element of having songs to concentrate your mind on, earphones can help to block out some of the external signals to the ears that contribute to motion sickness. It’s definitely worth a try.

For kids, a game like “I Spy” can also help distract their attention away from their discomfort.

Think about your food choices

If you’re prone to car sickness, eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol before getting into the passenger’s seat, or even while there, could heighten your discomfort.

Eat and drink well in advance of your journey, and pack light snacks for the trip if you’re in need of something to eat.

Put the book or phone down

Stop reading to help manage car sickness symptoms (PA)

While distracting yourself can help with motion sickness, some ‘distractions’ will only serve to make it worse. As mentioned before, fixing on a static object in the car can mess with your senses — and as a result, reading a book or playing on your phone or tablet while on the move can only worsen things.

Take a break

A lot of these tips will help delay the onset of car sickness, but once it takes hold it can be very difficult to recover. In this situation, the best cure is usually to be stationary and out of the car altogether.

On longer journeys, taking frequent breaks can minimise the chances of symptoms worsening — and also gives you a chance to take in some fresh air.

Use this chance to grab a drink or a light bite to eat, too. Stretch your legs with a quick walk and let the kids run around for 10-15 minutes to get the circulation going again.

Seek medical advice for your car sickness

No matter how hard some try, car sickness just won’t go away. In this case, it’s worth speaking to your doctor or pharmacist, who may prescribe you with appropriate medication to ease the symptoms.

This can affect you more as you get older, and you may find that your tolerance for car journeys decreases over time. As with many other balance-related issues, the ears are key to avoiding or suffering from car sickness, and this is something that becomes more of an issue as we age.

Summary

As we said at the top of this article, prevention is always better than cure. Actively managing your behaviour (or your kids’ behaviour) on a car trip can help to prevent the onset of car sickness, or at least help control your queasiness.

Once your stomach starts trying to turn itself upside-down, there’s no easy way out and you’re pretty much consigned to a miserable spell by the roadside. So plan ahead and everyone will enjoy the journey a whole lot more.

More driving tips and advice from The Car Expert

This article was first published in November 2018. Most recently updated November 2019.

Ford unveils all-electric Mustang Mach-E

New model

Jack Evans

-

18 November 2019

1

Ford unveils all-electric Mustang Mach-E

Ford has revealed its all-electric rival to the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace – The Ford Mustang Mach-E.

An all-new, purpose-built vehicle, the Mustang Mach-E is one of 14 electrified Ford vehicles due to come to Europe by the end of 2020.

The launch model will pack 337hp, while a more powerful 465hp GT version is due to arrive at a later date.

It will be launched initially with two battery pack sizes and three power outputs. At the entry point of the range sits a single motor-driven version with either a 75kWh battery and a 245hp motor or a 99kWh battery and a 290hp motor. Both should hit 60mph in under eight seconds, while ranges of 280 miles and 370 miles should be possible from each respective powertrains.

Further up in the range sits a twin-motor all-wheel-drive version with the choice of either a 75kWh battery and 245bhp, or a 99kWh battery and 337hp. Both versions should go from 0-60mph in under seven seconds while returning claimed ranges of 260 and 335 miles.

How exactly is an electric SUV a Mustang?

Stuart Masson

The biggest discussion point of Fords new electric model has been the use of the Mustang name for a vehicle that quite clearly bears no relation to the familiar two-door Mustang coupé.

The Mach-E is Ford’s first step to expanding the Mustang name into a sub-brand, in much the same way that the Transit name now covers every van in the Ford rage, or the way that Land Rover now uses the name Range Rover on four different models.

The company hasn’t said what model will be the next to carry the Mustang brand, but we probably won’t have to wait too long to find out.

Bill Ford, Ford Motor Company executive chairman, said: “At the first-ever Detroit auto show, Henry Ford said he was working on something that would strike like forked lightning.

“That was the Model T. Today, the Ford Motor Company is proud to unveil a car that strikes like forked lightning all over again. The all-new, all-electric, Mustang Mach-E. It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s freedom. For a new generation of Mustang owners.”

Inside, the Mach-E benefits from a 15-inch infotainment screen with touch, swipe and pinch controls which, Ford state that ‘every smartphone owner will be comfortable using’.

First deliveries are expected to commence in October next year, with prices likely to start around £40,000.

More Ford news, reviews, features and offers

All-new Ferrari Roma coupe revealed

New model

Stuart Masson

-

16 November 2019

0

Ferrari has revealed another new model – its fifth this year – with the front-engined, V8-powered Roma coupé.

Named after the Italian capital city, this grand tourer boasts 620hp and 760Nm of torque from its 3.9-litre turbocharged V8 engine. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. As a result, 0-60mph is covered in 3.2 seconds with the car’s top speed said to be in excess of 199mph.

Based on the same platform as the Portofino convertible, the Roma’s engine sits at the front of an elongated coupé body. The Roma takes on a classically-inspired look that is quite different to anything else in the current Ferrari line-up. Using hallmarks of the 250 GT Lusso of the 1960s, it features sleek bodywork with minimal disruptions in its design and a short rear overhang.

In order to keep grip at a high level without affecting the clean aesthetic, the Ferrari Roma utilises a rear spoiler that deploys at higher speeds — then retracting to return the smooth silhouette of the car.

Ferrari describes the front of the cabin as containing two ‘cells’. In effect, this sees the driver’s and passenger’s side of the car split by a centre console that swoops down from the dashboard. This looks to create an almost single seater-like effect at either side, and is again very different from any of Ferrari’s other models.

A 16-inch digital instrument cluster sits in front of the driver in place of traditional dials and gauges, while a vertically-mounted eight-inch infotainment is housed within the centre console.

There’s also a rear bench seat to give the car the ability to carry four occupants at any one time, though based on similar efforts from other manufacturers, we imagine this ‘+2’ layout will serve better for children or as extra luggage room.

There is no word yet on pricing and availability for the Ferrari Roma as yet, but expect a mid-late 2020 arrival.

More Ferrari news, reviews and features

All-new Skoda Octavia revealed

New model

Ryan Hirons

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12 November 2019

0

Skoda has revealed its all-new Octavia, with hybrid technology and a new look for the model debuting.

Available in either hatchback or estate forms, the Czech machine takes on the firm’s latest corporate design. The result is thin LED headlights flanking a wide chrome-trimmed grille, with simple body lines and an elegant approach at the rear end.

There’s also more boot space than ever thanks to increased vehicle dimensions, with 600 litres in its hatch body style — rising to 640 for the estate variant.

Powering the car is a selection of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines. Though full UK availability has yet to be confirmed, we can expect to see the iV model, which pairs a 1.4-litre petrol engine to an electric motor. European markets will also benefit from the inclusion of a CNG-powered option, though that’s extremely unlikely to be brought to the UK.

It’s also the first Skoda to use shift-by-wire for its DSG automatic transmission. This sees mechanical gear selection replaced with electronic controls, in turn translating to a smaller shift selector.

Inside the car, the driver is met with a new two-spoke steering wheel design, featuring a new layout of buttons and scroll wheels to control various functions. Sitting behind that is the firm’s Active Info Display technology, which replaces traditional dials and gauges with a screen to show key information.

A centrally-mounted infotainment system ranges from eight to ten inches in screen size, which will also incorporate the firm’s new Laura digital assistant — which exists in the same vein as Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant. USB-C ports are also dotted around the cabin, which allows for faster smartphone charging where supported.

Skoda has also brought in new ‘Simply Clever’ features to the car, including smartphone storage pockets on the back of the front seats for the benefit of passengers in the rear, along with a funnel built into the car’s windscreen washer fluid reservoir.

Pricing and specifications for the new Skoda Octavia have yet to be confirmed but expect the car to arrive on the market early in 2020.

More Skoda news, reviews, features and offers

Mazda 3 saloon SkyActiv-X review

Andrew Charman

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12 November 2019

0

60-second summary

What is it?
The four-door version of Mazda’s Focus and Astra rival also debuts new engine technology.

Key features
Four doors and therefore more space in the back, more environmentally-friendly engine.

Our view
The Mazda 3 saloon is an attractive new option for buyers of the brand’s Focus and Astra rival and in some ways more practical, offering more rear-seat and boot space than its hatch sister.

The SkyActiv-X engine, meanwhile, is a major advance, with its diesel-like efficiency wrapped up in a petrol package. Whether one goes for the hatch or saloon version of the Mazda 3, the SkyActiv-X should be the default engine choice.

More Mazda news, reviews, features and offers

Full review

Introduction

The current Mazda 3 is not new to these pages as we reviewed the new fourth-generation hatchback in June 2019. We liked it then, and that sentiment has been broadly shared by most of the UK motoring media. According to The Car Expert’s unique Expert Rating aggregator, it currently holds a very good Expert Rating of 80%, which is fractionally shy of the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus but better than pretty much everything else in this class (see list above).

This latest version, however, is a body shape that is usually not at all popular in the UK, the four-door saloon format favoured only by buyers of premium brands such as Audi or BMW.

Much more important is the engine debuting with this model but also set to be a major part of sales across the Mazda 3 range. The 2.0-litre unit is the first petrol engine to employ Mazda’s SkyActiv-X format, an evolution of the brand’s against-the-grain environmental advances that eschew downsizing for more efficiency within the engine.

Skyactiv-X uses a new technology called Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) and Mazda claims, with some justification, that it offers diesel-like economy and emissions, but within a petrol engine.

Visually the saloon model certainly brings something new to the Mazda 3 range. Mazda tells us that the four-door shares only its bonnet and windscreen with the hatchback, but it adheres to the same ‘Kodo – soul in motion’ design language as its sister, and is attractive to the eye.

The saloon also shares its wheelbase with the hatch, but overall is 20cm longer, which should translate to improvements in rear seat and boot space – something we marked down in our hatch review.

Buying and owning a Mazda 3

Saloon variants of the Mazda 3 are only offered at present with the Skyactiv-X engine, and in four trim levels, dubbed Sport, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech. With all trim levels the powertrain can be specified with six-speed manual or auto transmissions and the Skyactiv-X is also now available for the hatchback, following the same trim format.

Cheapest saloon is the Sport at £23,555 in manual form (£25,095 as an auto) while the range-topping GT Sport Tech costs £27,575 for a manual and £29,095 for the auto.

As in the previously reviewed hatch the equipment level across all versions is impressive, especially in terms of technology. All cars, for example, get a head-up display projecting vehicle speed, navigation instructions and traffic signs onto the windscreen.

Navigation is standard through a nine-inch screen, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. Adaptive cruise control comes supplied too, but you do have to go up a level to the £24,875 Sport Lux to upgrade the parking sensors to a reversing camera and gain keyless entry and start.

The Mazda five-door hatch clocked up a five-star safety rating with crash testers Euro NCAP, earning lots of ‘full points’ comments, and the safety specification is repeated with the saloon. Autonomous emergency braking is part of the radar cruise control on all models while blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come as standard too.

Spend out on a top-spec cars and you get some useful extra safety tech, including Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) – a variation of adaptive cruise control that accelerates and decelerates the car in traffic jams while also keeping it in the middle of the lane via small steering movements.

Top-spec GT Sport Tech variants also add a braking function to the rear cross-traffic alert, while the standard-fit driver attention alert is upgraded to a monitoring system that uses an interior camera to watch the driver’s face, particularly their eye movements, and gauges whether they might be about to fall asleep at the wheel, alerting them accordingly.

Inside the Mazda 3 saloon

When we slipped inside the Mazda 3 hatch we liked the quality of construction, with its upmarket-feeling surfaces, and we liked the minimalist driver’s cockpit, which of course is replicated in the saloon.

The driver’s essential information is transmitted by three large, traditional dials (though in digital format) mounted in a large pod behind the steering wheel, which is very user-friendly. The infotainment screen is right atop the centre console and so close to the driver’s eye line, but it’s not a touchscreen, operated by a single rotary control which Mazda claims is less distracting than prodding one’s finger on the glass.

What we liked less in the hatch was the interior space, which particularly in the back was somewhat cosy, especially for taller occupants, and with a boot of just 351 litres in capacity. The saloon boot is extended to 444 litres, and the rear seats are generally easier to access, thanks to larger doors. A slightly higher roof line helps free up more space in the rear cabin, and generally it’s more comfortable to travel in the back of the saloon than in the hatch.

Driving the Mazda 3

So that engine then – Skyactiv-X is set to have a big input into the entire Mazda powertrain line-up (predicted to take 60% of sales) due to its Spark Controlled Compression Ignition. It is also matched to the same mild-hybrid system used by the more conventional Skyactiv-G petrol engine, adding to the efficiency.

Without getting too technical, SCCI allows use of a highly lean and emissions-efficient air to fuel mix, and the engine can switch seamlessly between conventional spark compression and combustion ignition, by using the spark plug to trigger both types of compression in different ways.

Using a precisely injected richer zone of atomised fuel to combust the earlier added lean mixture of fuel and air results in more efficient ignition and as a result significant gains in economy and emissions – the best figures (depending on transmission, wheel sizes and such) are 52.3mpg and just 96g/km of CO₂, which are very much in diesel territory.

The engine does not feel like a diesel on the road – in fact at most times it feels no different to a conventional petrol unit. There’s no diesel-like rattle, but neither is there the low-down torque one gets in a diesel. Proper pulling power doesn’t come in until around 3000rpm, although that is better than the 4000rpm of the Skyactiv-G petrol unit.

Acceleration is smooth if not particularly urgent, while cruising along in normal motoring the powertrain is very well behaved. And if you do tackle that challenging B road the Skyactiv-X will return some of the enrthusiasm that the Skyactiv-G distinctly lacks – though it’s not that exciting…

In terms of handling the saloon behaves no differently to the hatch. In other words it’s highly competent and with a pleasing ride quality that is slightly stiff but not too much. Overall it’s an impressive package.

Summary

The saloon is an attractive addition to the Mazda 3 choices but it remains to be seen whether it will score with buyers in a way four-door models previously haven’t.

The Skyactiv-X petrol engine, however, will very likely become the most popular powertrain option across the Mazda 3 range as it ticks all the boxes, offering the kind of economy and emissions one expects from a diesel but with none of the stigma now associated with diesel.

More Mazda news, reviews, features and offers

Good points

More efficient engine
Bigger read and boot space
Attractive exterior shape

Bad points

Not particularly powerful
Innocuous handling

Key specifications

Model as tested: Mazda 3 saloon Sport Lux
Price (on-road): £24,875
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
Power: 180 hp
Torque: 224 Nm
0-62mph: 8.2 sec
Top speed: 134 mph
Fuel economy (combined): 50.4 mpg (WLTP)
CO₂ emissions: 102 g/km
Insurance group: F/22E
Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars (2019)

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