Alfa Romeo has announced that its Guilia, Tonale and Stelvio models are now available with a limited-run ‘Tributo Italiano’ trim, which the brand says pays homage to its Italian origins.
These ‘Tributo Italiano’ editions are positioned at the top of their respective model ranges, and offer a few cosmetic alterations over range-topping ‘Veloce’ and ‘Competizione’ trims. Three exclusive exterior body colours are available, which as you might have already guessed, follow the colour scheme of the Italian flag. The roof and wing mirrors are instead finished in black.
Alfa Romeo has made other exterior alterations, but they are more subtle, starting with the black grille surrounds, which are chrome on standard models. Behind the alloy wheels (19-inch on the Giulia, 20-inch on the Tonale and 21-inch on the Stelvio) ‘Tributo Italiano’ models also get red Brembo brake callipers.
There are more cosmetic tweaks unique to the Tonale version, including body-coloured bumper cladding from front to back that is usually black. Chrome-plated twin exhaust tailpipes also feature on the ‘Q4’ plug-in hybrid variant.
Inside, sports seats are trimmed in black perforated leather with red accents, and the headrests are embroidered with the brand’s logo and ‘Tributo Italiano’ lettering. Red stitching also appears on the dashboard, seats and door panels.
Again focusing on the Tonale, Alfa adds that the Tonale ‘Tributo Italiano’ also comes with a new carbon design dashboard fascia, with the Alfa Romeo logo and ambient lighting.
Prices for this limited edition trim now start at over £45k for the Tonale variant, around £48k for the Giulia version, and £54k for the Stelvio ‘Tributo Italiano’.
Yet another addition to Volvo’s expanding global electric range, the Swedish manufacturer has unveiled its EM90 – an upmarket people carrier that aims to provide a “comfortable living room experience” and an impressive battery range.
Following on from Volvo’s unveiling of its compact EX30 and large EX90 SUVs earlier this year, the EM90 is targeted at customers looking for even more interior space, as it is around 20 centimetres longer than its EX90 SUV sibling. That said, this people carrier will offer seating for six at launch, while the EX90 is a seven-seater as standard.
Set to rival the likes of the recently-launched Lexus LM petrol-hybrid and the electric Mercedes-Benz EQV, this Volvo shares its foundations with the 009 MPV from related Chinese brand Zeekr, but with different interior and exterior styling that takes several design cues from Volvo’s other electric models, including the brand’s ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlight design.
The people carrier makes use of a large 116kWh battery, which reportedly provides a range of 458 miles on a single charge. This battery unit can be charged from 10-80% capacity in less than 30 minutes. The car’s power comes from a 265hp electric motor mounted on the rear axle, which takes the EM90 from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds.
By comparison, the older Mercedes-Benz EQV can muster 190 miles on a full battery, though it does use a smaller 90kWh battery. A bigger battery usually means more weight, and the EM90 is no exception, weighing in at over 2,700kg. That’s 200kg more than the EQV and around 1,000kg more than an average hatchback.
Volvo remarks that the people carrier is aimed at those looking for a “spacious, versatile and comfortable premium experience on the move”, and to that end the EM90 is equipped with “top-notch sound isolation and road noise cancellation technology”, air suspension and what Volvo calls ‘silent’ tyres.
In the cabin area, the middle row comprises of two armchair-style lounge seats which can slide forwards and backwards, recline and are heated and ventilated. The third row has two more conventional seats. The middle seats come with folding tray tables and control panels for the climate control and other settings, and a 15-inch screen folds down from the ceiling that can stream media, mirror your smartphone and take online video calls.
Volvo says that the car’s voice assistant, “can turn the interior of the EM90 into a theatre, a meeting room or a bedroom for the rear seats”, with “screens, seats, windows, air-conditioner and lighting all adjusting accordingly” with one voice prompt.
In the front, the people carrier gets a similar minimalist dashboard design to that of the EX30 and EX90, with a 15-inch infotainment screen in the centre and a digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. Volvo has kept physical button controls to a minimum – these installed on the steering column and centre console.
So, is it coming to the UK? As of yet, we don’t know for sure. Volvo admits that its EM90 has been primarily designed for the Chinese market, where the demand for people carrier options is on the rise instead of falling, and says that it will “look into the demand of MPVs around the world before launching in other markets”.
You can see why Portugal is such a popular tourist destination for UK and other European travellers. Sitting proudly in the southern part of Europe, Portugal has a lot to offer: great coastlines, fine weather, exciting cities and excellent cuisine.
If you like city life, capital Lisbon or Porto are exciting destinations while, if the sea is more of a pull, the Faro district and Algarve on the Atlantic Ocean offer much to visitors. There’s a rich history here and architecture, ancient villages and a vibrant culture all help to make Portugal a country well worth experiencing.
It’s a bit of a drive to get there – from the UK you must go through France and Spain by road, but it’s certainly achievable. But even if you fly in and then hire a car, driving around Portugal, with its open roads and friendly people, is a pleasure.
But you’ll need some careful planning if you do intend to drive in the country. The UK has a good relationship with Portugal and the Portuguese, but driving in their country is a completely different experience from doing so in Britain. For a start, they drive on a different side of the road.
Planning a driving holiday there, or flying in to take a hire car, requires forethought and a good understanding of what you can and can’t do while motoring on Portugal’s roads.
Here The Car Expert looks at the most important elements to consider when planning to take a car to Portugal or hiring one there. We’ve included a handy checklist too. As each journey is unique, always check that you have everything covered for your particular visit.
Basic rules for driving in Portugal
You must be 18 years or over and hold a full valid driving licence to drive in Portugal. A regular licence card will be sufficient, as the paper counterpart is no longer a requirement. You won’t need an international driving permit either. Some countries expect you to have this document – basically a translation of your UK licence – but although it’s recognised in Portugal, it’s not a legal requirement.
What you will need to stay on the right side of the law though, is proof that you have insurance cover for your vehicle (although you don’t need a European ‘green card’ any more). And you should carry with you documents that show the identity of the car, such as a V5 registration document or ‘logbook’.
Always carry your personal ID or passport with you everywhere, and if your car is more than three years old and has an MOT certificate, take that too. Ensure that the vehicle is fully taxed in the UK before travelling.
The vehicle’s ‘home country’ must be shown on it and for British cars that’s a ‘UK’ sticker or badge. The old ‘GB’ is no longer accepted in Europe, and neither are country badges incorporating the English, Scottish or Welsh flags.
You can have the ‘UK’ letters incorporated into your front and rear number plates or buy small ‘UK’ stickers to fix to the plates and these are acceptable in Portugal. If you prefer, a single ‘UK’ sticker or magnetic badge on the rear of the car would also be permitted.
Speed limits
As with most countries in Europe, Portugal uses the metric system for speed and distance, so all its road direction signs are shown in kilometres rather than miles, and speed limits are shown in km/h (kilometres per hour) not mph (miles per hour).
Special speed restrictions apply in certain areas for motorhomes and vehicles towing trailers so keep an eye out for these or check before you travel but, in general terms the speed limits are quite straightforward.
In built-up areas the limit is 50km\h (just over 30mph). Out of town this rises to 90-100km/h (55-62mph) and is indicated by local road signs. The 100km\h limit is usually for dual carriageway routes. Portuguese motorways have a flat 120km/h (75mph) limit.
Speeding fines can be expensive if you are caught going seriously over the limit. It also depends on the type of road you are driving on. Penalties start at €60 to €300 for speeding at less than 20km/h above the limit. For 40km/h over it’s up to €600 and if you’re caught at more than 60km/h over the speed limit in a built-up area, the fine could be as high as €2,500.
Portuguese authorities use radar speed cameras and unmarked vehicles – often hidden away or lurking on motorway bridges – to catch offenders. Police speed traps are known locally as ‘Caça a Multa’ which literally means ‘fine hunting’, so the best advice is to make sure you’re not the one being ‘hunted’.
In-car devices that show the location of mobile police speed cameras are not permitted – fines can reach more than 2000 Euro if you’re caught using one. However, you will often see official signs showing that police speed equipment is being used in the area, as a form of warning.
Blood alcohol limits
We don’t condone any kind of drinking before you get behind the wheel, but it’s important to know what the drink-drive limit is. As with most of Europe, in Portugal the maximum level of alcohol in the blood (Blood Alcohol Content) permitted is 0.5 grams per litre (also expressed as 0.05%). For commercial vehicle drivers it’s lower: 0.2g/l (0.02%), and that’s the same for new drivers with less than three years’ experience. By comparison, it’s 0.8 g/l (0.08%) in England and Wales, and 0.5 g/l (0.05%) in Scotland.
Police can randomly ask for a breath test to be carried out if they suspect you are under the influence of alcohol. You will almost certainly be asked to provide a sample if you’re involved in any kind of collision. You can refuse the breath test but you will be taken to a police station for a blood test instead.
Police can confiscate your vehicle for several reasons including failing an alcohol breath test, not having vehicle registration documents, having forged number plates or refusing to pay a fine.
Parking regulations
Be careful where you pull up and park to ensure you don’t break any local rules. You must leave your vehicle facing in the direction of travel, unless signs tell you otherwise. When parking in built-up areas ensure your car is not within five metres of a junction or blind bend, within three metres of a tram stop, on a pedestrian crossing, opposite a building entrance or on a taxi rank.
Elsewhere, avoid parking at night on a carriageway, on a bridge, a level crossing, in a tunnel, or anywhere else where visibility is restricted. And stay at least 20 metres away from junctions and intersections.
Portugal’s main towns and cities such as Faro, Lisbon and Porto operate ticket machines for parking – each one will have its own instructions so check carefully. If the police don’t like your choice of parking space you could be clamped or even towed away. And you won’t see your car again until you pay a fine plus costs involved with the towing and impounding.
What to carry in the car
Portuguese police will expect you to have in your vehicle a reflective jacket for anyone who gets out of the car and stands on the carriageway. A warning triangle for breakdowns is not compulsory for foreign vehicles although it is recommended as a safety precaution.
Headlamps must be set so that they don’t dazzle oncoming traffic. This can be adjusted manually in some cars while, for others, you can fit headlamp beam deflectors. You don’t have to carry spare lightbulbs but it’s still a good idea, as are a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, both of which are well worth considering.
Much of this equipment can be found in useful ‘European driving kits’, sold by specialist suppliers such as motoring organisations for around £25.
Seatbelts
Seatbelt laws are the same as in the UK: if your car has them, front and rear, they must be worn. Make sure everyone is buckled up as there are fines of up to €600 for failing to wear a belt. Children who are under 12 years and less than 150cm in height must be carried in a proper child seat or restraint.
If you are planning on carrying a child in a rear-facing restraint on the front seat, the passenger airbag must be switched off.
Driving
Keep to the right-hand lane as much as possible but if you are overtaking, do so on the left. If you are being overtaken, move over as far as possible to the right and don’t start accelerating.
If you see a tram unloading people, be prepared to stop – you can’t pass one unless there is a boarding island for passengers. If that’s the case, move past slowly and carefully. Don’t enter any junction or crossroads if you don’t think you can get through without obstructing traffic.
There are plenty of narrow streets in Portuguese towns and villages and, if you’re the closest to a ‘pull-in’ place, you will be expected to do so, even if it means reversing. On a hill, the vehicle going up should give way to the one coming down. Always give way to an emergency vehicle, or a military one.
Horns are not especially welcome in Portugal and should be used only if absolutely necessary. Far better to flash your lights instead to warn of your presence. Using a horn is not permitted during the hours of darkness except in an emergency.
Portugal’s traffic lights are red, amber and green like the UK’s, but there is no amber after the red ‘stop’ signal. A flashing red signal will be seen near level crossings to warn of approaching trains.
You cannot use a mobile phone while driving in Portugal, even if it has a hands-free option. It’s illegal to carry cycles on the back of a car.
Cars towing a caravan must not jointly exceed 18.75 metres in length, 4 metres in height and 2.55 metres in width. Make sure your rear-view wing mirrors are wide enough to see clearly behind you. No load should exceed 10 tonnes at any axle.
Toll roads
As with many European countries, you must pay a toll to use the motorways. Most will take cash or a card while on many M-ways there’s the option of the Via Verde system which has an electronic reader attached to the car’s windscreen to automatically register your usage. Approaching special Via Verde lanes, you will see a ‘Portagem Peage’ sign.
There is also a system called ‘EasyToll’ which allows foreign visitors to register their vehicle details and credit card number so that automatic payment can be made. It’s convenient and easy to sign up for: (www.portugaltolls.com).
There is a good range of service areas on Portuguese motorways and from these you can buy unleaded and diesel fuel and make use of electric vehicle (EV) charging points. Some larger towns have automatic fuel pumps.
Emergency assistance in Portugal
Portugal’s motorways have emergency phones sited at 2km intervals. You can also call 112 (the European emergency number) from your own phone and make contact with services such as fire, ambulance or police, 24 hours a day. They will speak English as well as a number of other European languages.
The Kia EV9 is a large upmarket seven-seat SUV, and Kia’s flagship all-electric model, which became available to order in the UK in Autumn 2023.
A similar size to the latest Range Rover, the EV9 is Kia’s largest model and can comfortably accommodate seven adult occupants – a fact that will appeal to many British buyers. That said, the EV9 is also Kia’s most expensive model ever.
Carbuyer‘s Andy Goodwin points out that other large premium SUVs at this price point have a higher quality interior fit and finish, and for those who are expecting the switch to electric power to lead to future savings, Richard Ingram of Auto Express warns that “poor efficiency means this EV9 won’t cost peanuts to run.”
However, other outlets argue that the SUV is truly impressive and justifies its price tag in other ways. The Driving Electric team praises the EV9’s “strong electric range” and “seemingly endless standard equipment list”, while Top Gear‘s Ollie Kew concludes that the SUV “feels tough enough for everyday family life, feature-stuffed enough to be future-proof, and packing enough range and performance to justify a price that would’ve seemed laughable for a Kia – or any Korean car – a decade ago.”
Our own editor at The Car Expert, Stuart Masson, said: “The Kia EV9 is an excellent car. If you’re looking at spending around £60-80K on a large SUV, and you’re comfortable with it being an EV, you’ll struggle to find a better choice than the Kia EV9.”
As of January 2026, the Kia EV9 holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 79%. It scores top marks for its strong media reviews, five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, zero tailpipe emissions and seven-year new car warranty, but its overall score is dragged down slightly by running costs that are only average.
Interior quality doesn’t match similarly-priced rivals
Expensive, base price and up
Slightly firm ride comfort
Fiddly touch-sensitive controls
Key specifications
Body style: Large SUV Engines:electric, battery-powered Price:From £64,995 on-road
Launched: Autumn 2019 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The Kia EV9 is an excellent car. If you’re looking at spending around £60-80K (or maybe more) on a large SUV, and you’re comfortable with it being an EV – which is obviously still a limiting factor for some customers – then you’ll struggle to find a better choice than the Kia EV9.”
Model reviewed: EV9 Air Score: 8.4 / 10 “We liked the Kia EV9 when we tried the top-spec model but for those who don’t need as much power or four-wheel-drive the new entry-level Air model makes a lot of sense – and it’s significantly cheaper…” Author: Andrew Charman Read review
Auto Express
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The seven-seat layout features plenty of room in all three rows, while the fit and finish is befitting of the car’s price, which makes it the most expensive Kia ever sold in the UK. There are a few minor issues with the Kia EV9, but they’re not big enough to stop it being on your shortlist if you’re looking for a premium family SUV.” Author: Alex Ingram, Max Adams Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: GT-Line S Score: 9 / 10 “A credible seven-seater electric SUV, the Kia EV9 is quite literally a big deal as the brand pushes into premium territory.” Author: Dan Trent Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “As you’d expect from Kia, the EV9 does everything to make a stressed parent’s life easier with the sort of functionality and ease of use that doesn’t write headlines but does make surviving screaming children that little bit less stressful. But those wanting excitement will need to look elsewhere.” Author: Keith Adams Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “Kia has taken on premium manufacturers with the EV9 and produced an impressive seven-seat electric SUV that’s a superb family car.” Author: Andy Goodwin, Charlie Harvey Read review
Driving Electric
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 10 / 10 “As posh as it is palatial, the Kia EV9 sets a new standard for large mainstream SUVs while offering a strong and accurate electric range to boot.” Author: Tom Jervis Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Single-motor Air Score: 9 / 10 “We really like the Kia EV9. It’s so hugely practical and spacious, and by the standards of big electric SUVs it’s also great value. Well, to be more precise, it’s in a class of its own. The Air is our favourite of the lot given the cost savings, too; it’s definitely the one to go for provided you’re not worried about icy conditions or red-light races.” Author: Vicky Parrott Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The new EV9 takes Kia into some uncharted territory with a very high price for the top versions. But it has the style, technology, quality and dynamics to take on the best prestige brands.” Author: Ginny Buckley Read review
Evo
Model reviewed: GT-Line S Score: 7 / 10 “The all-electric Kia EV9 is an impressively refined SUV offering, with comfort and technology in abundance.” Author: Sam Jenkins Read review
Green Car Guide
Model reviewed: Single motor Air Score: 10 / 10 “The Kia EV9 ‘Air’ is a rear-wheel drive variant of the electric seven-seat SUV, offering a driving range of up to 349 miles and a very comfortable and refined driving experience.” Author: Paul Clarke Read review
Model reviewed: GT-Line S Score: 10 / 10 “The Kia EV9 is an all-electric six or seven-seater SUV that offers an extremely refined and premium driving experience, as well as having head-turning styling – Kia continues to be on a roll.” Author: Paul Clarke Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The Kia EV9 is the flagship electric car for the South Korean firm. It’s the most expensive Kia on the market, but you do get an awful lot for your money, plus it looks fantastic.” Author: John McCann Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “With space, style and a heap of kit included as standard, the Kia EV9 is a fantastic all-rounder. The flexibility of seven seats will be a boost for busier families, but you’re going to have to pay for all the practicality.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “It’s a great solution for large families. The EV9 does everything to make a stressed parent’s life easier by offering loads of space, acres of storage and enough clever extras to make Skoda blush, such as intelligently placed charging sockets in the front seat backs and hidden sun blinds in the rear door cards.” Author: Keith Adams Read review
Regit
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Kia EV9 is a very tempting buy that offers something different. It is phenomenally practical, has super-quick charging speeds and impressive range and is superbly well-equipped – even at entry level. And that last bit is why we’d likely stick to the base model – the Air trim – unless you need (or really want) the extra power or all-wheel drive.” Author: Tim Barnes-Clay Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: Range overview “I’m going to call it now. The Kia EV9 is going to win many awards from the glossy car mags in the coming months and is a hot contender for 2024 World Car of the Year.” Author: Rob Gill Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: GT-Line S Score: 9 / 10 “The Kia EV9 is a car that I couldn’t even conceive of just over a decade ago and breaks new ground for the car market. One that adds to a tiny but important and growing niche of large, seven-seat SUVs. One that is fun to drive, full of tech and reassuringly safe. And one so polished that it will be keeping CEOs of more luxurious brands up at night.” Author: Will Dron Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: Single-motor Air Score: 8 / 10 “Usually with EVs, the simplest, least complicated version is the one to have. That isn’t the case here – the four-wheel-drive car feels the most special. And the Kia EV9 feels special enough that it just might work in the Home Counties. Lined up in a row of “normal” cars, it looks like it’s just landed from Planet Zog; inside, too, it feels cool and exciting, enough that it might just win over badge-conscious waverers. Look out, Land Rover. Kia is on your turf and is coming to steal your chips. Author: Alex Robbins Read review
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “This large, long-range electric seven-seater is hardly affordable, but it does undercut the limited alternative seven-seat electric SUVs.” Author: Andrew English Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “A £75k Kia? Yes, the world’s arrived here, but the EV9 does plenty to justify a once-fanciful price.”
Author: Ollie Kew Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of January 2026, the Kia EV9 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the EV9 is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it takes place. Check back again soon.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
322 miles
A
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
3.2 m/KWh
E
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
49
E
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£345
D
Year 2
£668
D
Year 3
£1,065
C
Year 4
£1,328
D
Year 5
£1,623
C
Overall
£5,029
C
The Kia EV9 is not a particularly cheap EV to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
Electrical efficiency (the EV equivalent of miles per gallon in a petrol or diesel car) is poor, although that’s not surprising for a huge, seven-seat SUV. Similarly sized diesel SUVs also score very poorly on fuel consumption, so the EV9 will still be cheaper to run than one of those.
Insurance is likely to expensive, but servicing costs are not bad for a car of this price and sophistication – again, it’s more than competitive against similar vehicles from other brands.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of January 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Kia EV9 to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as we have sufficient data on the EV9, we’ll publish the score here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Kia EV9
Overall rating
A
98%
New car warranty duration
7 years
New car warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Kia’s new car warranty is one of the best in the new car market, and better than pretty much any rival brands in a similar price bracket to the EV9.
The duration is seven years, with a limit of 100,000 miles. This is good news for both new and used car buyers, as it helps the residual value of the EV9 for new car buyers when they come to sell the car, and it gives near-new car buyers confidence that they are covered for years to come.
In addition to the overall new car warranty, battery components are covered by a separate eight-year/100,000-mile warranty. This is pretty much standard for all new EVs on sale in the UK, but it’s an extra reassurance that petrol and diesel cars don’t get.
As of January 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the Kia EV9. However, this information is updated very regularly so this may have changed.
If you own a Kia EV9, you can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Kia dealer.
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Volkswagen has announced that it has made several alterations to its ID.4 SUV and ID.5 coupé-SUV models, including an infotainment upgrade, battery improvements and a new optional sound system.
The mid-sized electric SUV market is incredibly competitive at the moment, and with newer models like the Nissan Ariya, Toyota bZ4X and the updated Audi Q4 e-tron now challenging for EV sales, Volkswagen has given its competing ID.4 and ID.5 model lines a few bits of new tech in the hopes of giving them the edge over their rivals.
To start, Volkswagen says it has improved the battery power and range in both cars, using a new drive unit developed for the larger ID.7 saloon which is now available to order here in the UK. The upgrade means that the ID.4 and ID.5 now have an output of 286hp, and you should feel the difference when you put your foot down, as the brand says that this change adds 75% more torque, jumping from 310 to 545Nm.
Volkswagen adds that the new power unit ups the ID.4’s battery range by an additional 11 miles – now a 337-mile maximum on a single charge. The slightly more aerodynamic ID.5 can muster a reported 339 miles on a full battery – 12 miles more than the pre-facelift version. Charging speeds have also been improved, as new models will be able to charge at up to 175kW, instead of the previous 135kW limit.
The most noticeable change, however, can be found inside – a larger 13-inch infotainment screen in the middle of the dashboard, with illuminated slider controls for cabin temperature. To make room for the larger screen, Volkswagen’s engineers have moved the drive selector onto the steering column, like on the ID.7.
Volkswagen has taken some flack for its infotainment voice assistant feature in the past, and says that this model refresh makes the software respond more precisely to natural voice commands and offers new functions, now allowing you to ask about weather information, sports event scores or stock market prices.
Finally, the brand’s optional ‘Digital Sound Package’ has been replaced by a ten-speaker Harman Kardon sound system which is only available as an optional extra for rear-wheel-drive ‘Pro’ and high-power GTX versions here in the UK. There is a new exterior colour option too – a ‘Costa Azul’ metallic blue.
That sums up this fairly minor model line refresh – prices for the ID.4 now begin at just over £46k, while an entry-level ID.5 model now costs just under £51k new.
Trying to pick the best new car of the year causes endless arguments among motoring journalists – every single year. Every automotive title has its own ideas about how such a title should be awarded, based on their own criteria.
Every car reviewer is a human being with their own ideas and their own preferences. Every car review is one person’s (or one group of people’s) opinion of how good or bad a car is. If you’re only relying on one source, you’re not getting the full picture.
Our approach at The Car Expert is simple. Using the power of our exclusive Expert Rating Index, we’ve tracked new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s leading motoring websites over the last 12 months and compiled all of the scores awarded to each new model. All of those scores are fed into our sophisticated algorithm that accounts for the various different scoring system that the different websites and magazines use. And we’ll use that data to produce our awards for the very best new cars you can buy.
There are a couple of changes to this year’s awards worth mentioning. One is that we’ve dropped the Euro NCAP requirement (see below) as not enough cars were tested this year. We’d have preferred not to, but we wouldn’t have had enough cars eligible to make the awards worthwhile.
The second is that we’ve dated the awards to reflect the coming year rather than the year just ending. This caused some internal debate, but ultimately marketing benefits won out over strict technical accuracy…
We’ll be revealing the winners, including our overall Car of the Year 2024 title, at 10am on Monday 4 December.
Best new cars and class champions
The new models certainly grab all of the attention from the motoring media, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re better than what’s already available.
In each of our award categories, we recognise not just the best model launched in the last 12 months but also the top-ranked cars overall. In some cases, a new model has jumped straight to the top of the pile while, in others, an existing car is still top dog.
To help our readers appreciate the relative quality of the best newcomers, we’ve come up with Best New Models and Class Champions for each category. And, recognising the rapid growth of electric cars against the decline of petrol and diesel versions, we have separate class champion recognition for the very best electric and internal combustion cars.
Eligibility
A new model is a car that has arrived in the UK in the last 12 months – which means cars on the road and registered, not just announced or available to order but arriving sometime next year. You should be able to pop down to your local dealer and see any of our award winners in the metal – and buy on one the spot.
In previous years, we have insisted that all winners must have a current, valid Euro NCAP safety rating of at least four stars. Unfortunately, we’ve had to remove that requirement for this year because there simply haven’t been enough new cars rated by Euro NCAP by the time our entries closed.
Last year, the safety organisation tested 66 different new cars. This year, it’s only six (although another six or so will be tested after our deadline has passed). That means that most of the new cars launched this year would be ineligible.
A few cars were ineligible last year because they hadn’t been tested, but have since received a complying Euro NCAP score so they included in this year’s awards. Assuming that there are a suitable number of ratings published next year by Euro NCAP, we anticipate this requirement will return for next year’s awards.
The class of 2023
Here, in alphabetical order, are the cars that are eligible for The Car Expert Awards 2024. An asterisk denotes a car that was launched in 2022 but only received a Euro NCAP score in 2023, so it was ineligible for last year’s awards.
Make and model: Mazda MX-30 R-EV Description: Range-extender version of Mazda’s first electric SUV Price range: £31,250 – £35,550
Mazda says: “The perfect solution for customers who want an electric car for everyday use but the flexibility to undertake longer journeys without reliance on charging infrastructure.”
We say: Looks good and is fun to drive, but removing range anxiety brings other compromises. A car of limited appeal.
Mazda launched its first electric vehicle, the MX-30 SUV, in 2020 and as is typical of this brand went a different route to everyone else, targeting light weight and a better driving experience over outright range.
Generally the car has been well received, holding an Expert Rating of 61% as of November 2023, but the most significant criticism has been its poor battery range. Mazda says 124 miles is more than adequate for most buyers who won’t travel any further on a daily basis.
Potential customers, however, seem to have disagreed and the MX-30 is a rare sight on UK streets. Now, however the brand has provided another answer for critics of its range, by adding a petrol engine to its electric vehicle!
What’s new about this car?
This new variant of the Mazda MX-30 has only one new feature to speak of, but it’s a very significant one. The R-EV is not a purely battery-powered electric vehicle but a form of plug-in hybrid with a petrol engine added to the car. The ‘R’ in the title stands for Range Extender, and we explain what that means in more detail further below.
It’s still an electric vehicle in principle, since only the electric motor is used to drive the wheels. The petrol engine (and it’s no ordinary petrol engine) works as a generator to charge the battery when it runs out of electricity. This boosts the car’s potential driving range to nearly 400 miles.
How does it look?
The MX-30 scores in the visual stakes, with a coupe-like profile that is very far removed from a typical somewhat boxy SUV. All part, so we’re told, of creating a look that reinforces the fun-to-drive aspect. It’s even more aggressively raked than most so-called ‘coupé SUVs’, which is what the car’s designers were aiming for.
The biggest visual feature is the combination of a lack of central pillars and a pair of rear-hinged doors for back-seat passengers. That helps with the sleek looks, but it significantly impacts on the MX-30’s practicality as a family car.
You can’t open the rear doors without opening the fronts first, which will be endlessly irritating for owners who regularly have passengers jumping in and out of the rear seats. The rear-hinging design should mean very easy entry and exit of the car when the doors are open, but it doesn’t quite work out that way in practice.
We like: One of the sleekest looking SUVs around We don’t like: Rear-hinged doors that can’t open before fronts
What are the specs like?
In terms of specification, the RE-V version of the Mazda MX-30 almost entirely replicates that of the all-electric models. So there are three trim levels, but they have been given snappy new names which the pure EV range has also adopted.
Now we have Prime-Line, Exclusive Line and Makoto – there was a limited edition launch model called Edition R but this sold out soon after it was announced. There’s no price penalty between BE-V or R-EV – both start at just over £31K, though unless you choose a white car you’ll be paying between £550 and £1,800 for one of the six exterior paint options.
Mazda has always been known for extensive standard equipment and all models include items formerly regarded as upper-level desirables, such as adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. Front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are fitted to all versions, as are navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability and an extensive selection of active safety aids. These earned the MX-30 a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating when it was tested in 2020, a score which has been extended to the new R-EV version as well.
Exclusive-Line adds £1,900 to the cost and this pays for posher alloys and exterior detailing, heated front seats and power adjustment in multiple directions on the driver’s, and smart keyless entry.
Finally there is the top-level Makoto, costing from £35.5K and gaining a powered tilting and sliding sunroof, 360-degree view monitor, an uprated Bose sound system with 12 speakers, de-icing on the wipers and heating on the steering wheel, and additional active safety aids.
There is one additional and useful feature on the Makoto that the all-electric versions don’t have – ‘Vehicle to Load’. A three-pin plug socket is fitted allowing one to use the car’s battery energy to power a separate electric appliance, such as a lighting system or cooker whilst camping. If the battery becomes depleted while in use for this, the engine will cut in to recharge it just as it does when on the road.
We like: Amount of equipment including strong safety package We don’t like: Very limited body colour choice without paying more
What’s it like inside?
The MX-30 recalls Mazda’s RX-8 sports car made between 2002 and 2012 in the form of its rear-hinged back doors and lack of central pillar. Previous cars built this way have emphasised the way they open up the entire side of the car making it very easy to get in and out.
Sadly this is not the case for rear-seat passengers in the MX-30. Tall people will struggle to get in and, once installed, find themselves with not much room (also much like the RX-8!). It’s not very bright either, thanks to the small coupe-style windows, unless you go for the top-spec Makato model with its standard-fit sunroof.
The front half of the cabin is far more spacious, and the driver will appreciate the sensible layout of the controls and the high-mounted sat-nav screen atop the centre console.
The eco-friendly talking points debuted with the B-EV continue in the new model, including realistic looking artificial leathers and cork trim made out of the waste from bottle-stopper production, recalling Mazda’s earliest days as a cork manufacturer. Mind you, some of the finishes are slightly odd in colour – one appearing a bit like a rust shade – but generally the cabin feels of high quality.
Boot space also takes a hit from the addition of a petrol engine, down to 350 litres (compared to 366 litres in the electric-only MX-30). Other small SUVs offer more.
We like: Quality of fit and finish We don’t like: Cramped rear seat space, reduced boot space
Under the bonnet
First a quick recap – Mazda justified the limited 124-mile range between charges of the full-electric MX-30 by arguing that few people travel a long way on a daily basis. Therefore a more responsive EV with particularly a lighter battery (the MX-30’s battery pack is claimed to be about half the weight of a typical EV’s) will be much more fun to drive and use much lower amounts of rare-earth minerals in its construction.
This view attracted some criticism, which appeared to wash over the designers who responded that the MX-30 is not a car for everyone. But now we have this new plug-in hybrid version, adding a small petrol engine which is only present to generate energy for the battery when needed – said engine has no connection with the wheels.
As you might expect with Mazda, the combustion element is anything but ordinary. Instead it marks the return of the rotary engine technology that the Japanese brand has persisted with for many years – and another connection between the MX-30 and the RX-8 sports car.
Rotary engines are very different beasts to typical petrol units, being naturally small (this one is just 0.8 litres, which is about half the capacity of a conventional engine), light in weight and exceptionally smooth in operation – ideal for this application.
This energy generation is vital as the battery range of the R-EV drops from the 124 miles of the all-electric model to just 53 miles, basically because the battery is much smaller again. This means the MX-30 R-EV is much more like a plug-in hybrid car, even though the mechanics under the bonnet work quite differently.
That range might not sound a lot at all, but again for many owners commuting daily to their place of work and charging overnight it will be perfectly adequate, with the internal combustion backup there if a sudden dash across half the country is required or desired. Mazda’s own research suggests the daily mileage clocked up by users of their cars averages out at around 26 miles a day, while government figures quote average distances travelled of 100 miles a week.
The R-EV also offers a range of driving modes – ‘normal’ sees the car running on electric power until the battery charge drops under a percentage that the driver can set (anything from 20 to 100% charged), at which point the engine will wake up and start recharging.
In ‘Charge’ mode the engine will be alive all the time charging the battery, for such occasions when one needs the car to be electric only, when it can be switched to EV mode. The system is clever too – for example, accelerate hard and the engine will immediately cut in to aid battery power and maintain the swift pace.
One other positive of having a very small battery is that it takes less time to charge. A typical 7kW home charger will provide a full refill in under two hours, while an 11kW charger takes 50 minutes. Unlike many plug-in hybrids, the R-EV also offers DC rapid charging capability, a 36kW charger taking the battery from 20 to 80% in 25 minutes, or in other words a coffee stop…
How does it drive?
When we drove the all-electric MX-30 back in 2021, we were impressed by its driving performance, Mazda’s ‘light weight means better handling’ claim being completely borne out – it felt swift despite a ten-second 0-62mph time, and boasted excellent handling with progress along twisty country roads more akin to a sporty saloon than SUV.
The R-EV does everything its all-electric sister does, just a little bit more rapidly, cutting just over half a second off the 62mph sprint. It retains the cornering prowess, helped by the fact that both versions use the latest version of Mazda’s electronic chassis assistant, which can moves the grip bias from front to rear to better control the G-forces.
Just like the battery variant, the R-EV offers an extensive regenerative braking function, which the driver can adjust using using paddles behind the steering wheel.
There is one major oddity when driving this car, however, the point where the engine wakes up to do its thing. The cut-in is so smooth you don’t feel it, but you do then become aware of a low but mildly irritating constant buzz – because the rotary unit is not connected to the wheels and therefore does not vary in its load, the note never changes…
One more thing – it’s important to plug the R-EV in whenever possible, rather than simply using the engine. Do the latter and, on the evidence of our test drive, you’re looking at fuel economy of less than 40mpg, which is worse than most petrol-powered small SUVs.
We like: Drive modes that make most efficient use of electric power and energy recovery We don’t like: Sound of the range-extender, a not too loud but annoying constant buzz
Verdict
Mazda does not expect the R-EV to take that big a slice of MX-30 sales. The car is a somewhat niche model anyway and the brand insists that, for most owners, the full electric version’s modest range will still be more than sufficient for day-to-day use.
So this is a newcomer for a very specialist audience – those who like the different way that Mazda goes about doing EVs, but who need to travel longer distances on occasion. If this sounds like you, and you don’t need to carry passengers in the back very often, then the MX-30 R-EV could be worth a look.
MX-30 R-EV highlights
Range-extender engine removes any range anxiety
Looks sporty for an SUV
Quality build
Versatile options for charging and using electric power
Model tested: Mazda MX30 RE-V Makoto Price (as tested): £37,700 Powertrain: Single electric motor plus petrol generator Battery: 18 kWh
Power: 170 hp Torque: 260 Nm Top speed: 87 mph Acceleration (0-62mph): 9.1 seconds
Range: 53 miles (battery); 282 miles (petrol back-up) CO2 emissions: 21 g/km Euro NCAP rating:Five stars (November 2020) TCE Expert Rating: Not yet rated (November 2023)
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How long does it take to set up a car manufacturer? Just five years it seems, if you are Aiways, one of the youngest of the ever-expanding list of Chinese brands setting their sights on UK sales.
This is a brand that no UK buyer is likely to have heard of, partly because despite having sold cars in Europe for a couple of years, it’s not planning to put its first product on British roads until late 2023. But it’s also a maker to take note of, particularly the fact that like Chinese rival BYD, Aiways makes its own batteries, and to a patent design.
The company name might raise some eyebrows too, with all the adverse publicity circulating about AI at present, but this is nothing to do with Artificial Intelligence. In Chinese, ‘Ai’ means ‘love’, and the brand’s name is supposed to signify that ‘love is on the way’…
So who or what is Aiways?
Two entrepreneurs, one of them formerly a sales head of Volvo cars in China, founded Aiways in China in 2017. And they did not hang about – this manufacturer has very firm ambitions of joining the global set by “making electric mobility accessible”. In the five years since launch Aiways has built a production plant that can now turn out 300,000 vehicles a year, a research and development centre and a separate factory which produces its own bespoke-design batteries.
Aiways made its European debut in 2019 at the Geneva motor show ahead of expansion into Europe – the company has made one attempt already to launch in the UK, but the Covid pandemic forced it to reset and go again.
When will Aiways launch in the UK?
It’s supposed to happen before the end of 2023, though details of exactly when and how are currently not being released. Given that we’re rapidly running out of days until the end of the year, it’s likely to be 2024 before you see any Aiways cars on UK roads.
Aiways already sells cars in 14 European countries, including France, Germany and Italy, as well as Israel and its home market of China. UK sales won’t be far away – some leasing providers in the British market are already adding the Aiways U5 SUV to their lists.
What models does Aiways have and what else is coming?
The Aiways launch model, and the one leading its expansion into the UK, is a compact crossover simply called the U5 – no quirky model names name-checking disco-loving felines or sea creatures from this brand.
First seen in Europe at the 2019 Geneva motor show, the U5 is powered by a 63kWh battery and offers a range of around 250 miles. Aiways claims that the car is a clean-sheet design, reflecting nothing that has gone before, and the few European testers who have tried it have been impressed by the amount of interior space, particularly legroom. That’s especially for front-seat passengers – Aiways doesn’t feel the need to include a glovebox though a case that clips into the gap in the fascia is on the options list. Generally the U5 has been compared to crossovers produced by fellow Chinese brand MG.
Also coming is a sharper-styled more coupe-like SUV called the – you guessed it, U6. This has a rather more fashion-led interior design and has attracted some initial praise from reviewers.
Aiways U5
Where can I try a Aiways car?
We don’t know yet, because Aiways hasn’t given details of how it intends to sell its cars in the UK market beyond its sales boss suggesting the brand will work “with an established importer”.
If this happens, it will be a somewhat more normal way of doing things compared to Germany where the brand has chosen to have its cars sold by Euronics, the electronics and white goods retailer – fancy going out to buy a washing machine and a new car from the same shop?
What’s particularly significant about this company?
Aiways is one of very few EV manufacturers that makes its own batteries, and this is another brand with its own patent design of battery pack. The packs consist of 24 high-density cells in a sandwich arrangement, separating the wet and dry-cell parts of each battery. This is claimed to be a much safer design, minimising the likelihood of coolant leakage and a resultant fire.
Summary
Predicting how well Aiways will do in an increasingly congested UK market is almost impossible as there are so many questions still to be answered about this precocious youngster of a brand. But it is clear that Aiways is not ‘just another Chinese brand’, its cars displaying novel elements that are also practical, such as the way interior space is freed up (who really keeps anything useful in a glovebox?).
The brand scores on technology too, particularly with its patent in-house battery pack which will also help keep customer delivery times short. Aiways is definitely a manufacturer to watch.
Volvo has expanded its mid-sized XC60 trim line-up with the addition of the ‘Black Edition’ optional package, which changes the SUV’s looks, inside and out.
Rather than being a free-standing trim choice of its own, the ‘Black Edition’ is an optional extra that can be combined with either the mid-range ‘Plus’ or top-spec ‘Ultimate’ trim grades. As you might have guessed, this package finishes the car in black – this optional extra is strictly cosmetic.
In addition to painting the exterior in what the brand calls ‘Onyx Black’, the car’s logo emblems and model lettering are also finished in black, as are the 21-inch alloy wheels. This theme continues inside, with a charcoal-coloured headliner and seating finished in the same shade. Volvo offers two ventilated upholstery options – a partial Nappa leather and textile combo, or full Nappa leather.
Provided you opt for the two top trims, the ‘Black Edition’ trim can be specced with one of three powertrains – a mild-hybrid petrol and two petrol-electric plug-in hybrids.
On sale now, prices for the Volvo XC60 Black Edition start just north of £54k for the ‘Plus’ grade. Volvo adds that there are savings for buyers who order before 27th November, which knocks around £2k off that lead-in price.
The Volvo XC60 currently holds an Expert Rating of 75%, and has been particularly praised for its exterior and interior design, class-leading safety standards and comfort. However, its driving experience is not considered as enjoyable as some rivals.
Mini has revealed its next iteration of its John Cooper Works Countryman ‘hot SUV’, with a more powerful petrol engine, fresh exterior looks based on the new third-generation Countryman range, and an interior overhaul with a larger infotainment screen.
Designed by Mini’s performance-focused John Cooper Works sub-division, this model is the high-power variant of the latest Countryman SUV that was shown off at the Munich motor show in September.
Instead of the 2.0-litre 230hp petrol unit that powers the current JCW Countryman, Mini has decided to opt for a more powerful 2.0-litre engine for this next-generation model, which provides 300hp. This performance boost impacts the 0-62mph sprint time, which decreases from 6.5 seconds to 5.4 seconds.
As you would expect, the JCW has the same broad design strokes and silhouette as the standard Countryman, but with a slightly sportier exterior finish that Mini managing director Stefanie Wurst says exudes “a unique combination of style, power and a sense of adventure.”
In typical JCW style, the model features plenty of red accents, most prominently on the roof, wing mirrors and front bumper air intakes, and the standard model’s dashed grille design is replaced by a chequered pattern finished in matte back to match the bodywork.
Those that eventually take the model for a test drive will also notice that the car is not so ‘mini’ anymore either, as it is six centimetres taller and 13 centimetres longer than its predecessor, which should increase shoulder room and legroom in the cabin. The car sits on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, but 20-inch alloys are also available.
Only available as an all-wheel drive automatic, Mini says it has focused on giving the JCW Countryman the “go-kart feeling” that has become synonymous with the smaller Mini hatch. The tyre width has been increased by 25 centimetres, presumably to improve traction in high-speed corners, and the car boosts the sound of the engine in the cabin to “enhance the emotional driving experience.”
Like the standard countryman, Mini has given the JCW a new minimalist interior design with a large circular OLED display in the centre of a recycled polyester dashboard.
This screen is customisable, with different display modes to choose from including a ‘personal mode’ which allows you to pick any picture to use as the screen’s background, and the optional projector hidden behind the screen will then pick out the dominant colours and display them across the knitted dash and door panels.
The car’s voice assistant can be used to operate numerous functions, such as navigation, telephone, and entertainment. The boot offers 460 litres of luggage space, which increases to 1,450 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Now on to assistance tech – Mini says that this ‘hot SUV’ comes with 12 sensors and four surround-view cameras that support several driver assistance systems, including blind spot monitoring and a cross-traffic alert, as well as a partially automated driving function that is included in the optional ‘driving assistant professional’ package, that allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel on “highway-like routes” at speeds of up to 37mph.
That sums up what we know about the new Mini John Cooper Works Countryman. The manufacturer is yet to announce exactly when the model will become available to order, and further details like UK pricing and full specifications list will be announced in the coming months. Check back soon!
Set to challenge the sales of the BMW i5, Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6, the new Volkswagen ID.7 saloon is now available to order in the UK in ‘Pro Launch Edition’ guise.
This all-electric model will eventually replace the Arteon saloon and Passat estate in Volkswagen’s range, as a ID.7 Tourer estate variant is also planned. For now, the saloon is available to order only in one introductory 286hp ‘Pro Launch Edition’ trim, which is powered by a 77kWh battery and can reportedly muster a 384-mile range.
A more powerful variant is also on the way next year, the ID.7 ‘Pro S’, which is projected to have a range of about 430 miles thanks to its larger 82kWh battery.
Volkswagen says it has maximised interior space by opting for short overhangs and a long wheelbase. LED lights feature in the front and back, and the car sits on 19-inch alloy wheels. The side and rear windows are made of heat-insulating glass, and the heated wing mirrors are electronically adjustable too.
Inside, the ID.7 introduces Volkswagen’s new “Ready 2 Discover” 15-inch infotainment display, complete with freely assignable favourites buttons and – in response to feedback from customers – illuminated sliders to control cabin temperature. It also comes with the brand’s navigation software installed.
Wireless smartphone charging is included, as is a voice assistant for controlling the phone call and navigation system. This voice assistant can also open the panoramic sunroof, which can be switched between opaque and transparent.
The steering wheel is heated and wrapped in leather, while the heated power-adjustable seating is trimmed in a mircofleece fabric. Ambient cabin lighting, keyless start and entry, three-zone climate control and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror also come as standard.
Pricing for the new electric saloon now starts at under £56k. Customers that order an ID.7 by 2nd January 2024 can get a free Ohme wall charger, or £750 in charging credit from We Charge by Elli – a public charging network owned by Volkswagen.
Mercedes-Benz has announced the pricing for hard-top coupé versions of its new CLE, which is now on sale in the UK. Cabriolet versions are set to arrive in the new year.
The ‘CLE’ nameplate is new. Previously, Mercedes-Benz offered its C-Class and E-Class models in saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet body styles. The introduction of the CLE range slims down this wide range of models, as Mercedes-Benz ramps up its investment in its all-electric EQ range of cars.
The spiritual successor to the Mercedes-Benz CLK models that were removed from production back in 2010, the CLE replaces the coupé and cabriolet models in the C-Class and E-Class model lines, which are being retired.
The new range is based on the same foundations as the C-Class, and will no doubt be one of the German brand’s last combustion-powered models to debut in the UK. The 2+2 seater CLE is close to 4.9 metres in length, making it longer than the large E-Class coupé and its closest rival, the BMW 4 Series Coupé.
Four trims are on offer, starting with the entry-level ‘AMG Line’ trim. Mercedes’ trim names are a bit confusing – this trim and the grades above aren’t high-power ‘AMG’ versions, this is simply what the brand decided to name these trim grades. Mercedes’ MBUX software setup comes as standard, pairing a 12-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel with a 12-inch infotainment display on the dashboard.
The lead-in model also comes with ambient lighting and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as several safety tech features such as blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition and a reversing camera for parking scenarios.
The ‘AMG Line Premium’ upgrades the car’s LED headlights with the brand’s ‘adaptive high-beam assistance’ tech, and gives the CLE a surround-view parking camera and a panoramic roof. Now reaching towards the top of the range, the ‘AMG Line Premium Plus’ introduces head-up display software which projects driving information onto the lower windscreen, and comes with a higher-quality Burmester speaker system that uses Dolby Atmos.
Key trim level features
Entry-level ‘AMG Line’ (from £46,605)
12-inch infotainment display
12-inch digital instrument cluster
Voice assistant
Wireless smartphone compatibility
18-inch alloy wheels
Automatic climate control
LED headlights
Nappa leather steering wheel
Ambient lighting
Blind spot assistance
Traffic sign recognition
Reversing parking camera
‘AMG Line Premium’ (from £50,355)
All ‘AMG Line’ features that are not replaced
19-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive LED headlights
Keyless start and entry
360-degree parking camera
Panoramic sliding roof
‘AMG Line Premium Plus’ (from £54,355)
All lower trim features that are not replaced
20-inch alloy wheels
Head-up display
17-speaker Burmester sound system
Top-spec ‘Premier Edition’ (from £56,855)
All lower trim features that are not replaced
20-inch alloy wheels in black
Heated steering wheel
Nappa leather upholstery
Finally, the range-topping ‘Premier Edition’ will include all of the prior features, but with a more plush interior, including a heated steering wheel and Nappa leather upholstery.
Buyers who opt for either of the top two trims will be offered the optional ‘driving assistance package plus’ bundle. This includes more intelligent speed limiter tech, evasive steering assistance, and active lane change assistance.
Four different powertrain options are available, including both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, and all come with 48V of mild-hybrid assistance and a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
The range begins with the petrol-powered CLE 200 which makes use of a 198hp 2.0-litre engine. This is followed by the CLE 200d – a 191hp 2.0-litre diesel powertrain. These two are the only other rear-wheel drive choices.
The more expensive two are four-wheel drive. The CLE 300 4MATIC uses the same 2.0-litre petrol engine as the 200, but the 300’s output is boosted to 252hp. Finally, the range-topping engine belongs to the CLE 450 4MATIC – a 381hp 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds, around three seconds faster than the standard model.
Now available, prices for the CLE range start at under £47k, rising to £73k for the CLE 450 4MATIC in ‘Premier Edition’ guise.
Private new car sales continued to struggle in October, a scant 0.3% up on the same month last year, according to latest data published this morning by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
As cost-of-living pressures and high interest rates continue to squeeze household budgets, consumer new car spending is failing to keep pace with the growth in fleet purchasing. While private new car sales were flat in October, fleet registrations were up by 29%, meaning that the overall new car market was up by 14% on the same month last year.
October is a month that has fluctuated significantly over the last five years, and this year’s overall result is the best since 2017 – well before the Covid-19 pandemic. And that’s despite zero growth in private new car sales, which shows just how strong fleet sales were last month.
New car registrations by buyer type – October
Buyer
October 2023
October 2022
% change
Market share 2023
Market share 2022
Private
62,915
62,738
0.3%
41.0%
46.7%
Fleet
87,479
67,911
28.8%
57.0%
50.6%
Business
3,135
3,695
-15.2%
2.0%
2.8%
Total
153,529
134,344
14.3%
Source: SMMT
Year to date
Buyer
YTD 2023
YTD 2022
% change
Market share 2023
Market share 2022
Private
713,301
701,805
1.6%
44.4%
52.3%
Fleet
854,372
606,952
40.8%
53.2%
45.4%
Business
37,764
33,955
11.2%
2.4%
2.5%
Total
1,605,437
1,342,712
19.6%
Source: SMMT
Consumers still avoiding new EVs
On the surface, it looked like a good month for electric cars, with sales up by 20% over the same month last year. But market share of less than 16% is lower than the year-to-date average, causing headaches for the car industry. Starting in January, they have to sell at least 22% EVs, which means a 40% increase on October’s market share.
The SMMT claims that less than 25% of EV sales this year have been to private buyers. Some quick maths based on the published numbers suggests that this equates to only about 9% of consumers who have bought EVs this year. For fleet buyers, it’s a very different story. Based on fleet customers making up at least 75% of EV sales, that puts EV market share at more than 23% for fleets – already exceeding next year’s targets.
So if car companies want to hit their mandated EV targets for 2024, it’s clear that they need to convince a lot more consumers to switch to electric power.
In the meantime, plug-in hybrid sales continue to creep upwards, a trend that has been developing over the last few months. Whether or not this is from people moving away from diesel (large SUVs are a good example, where there are few EV options but quite a few plug-in hybrids), or from people who are hesitant about going all-in on a switch from petrol to electric power, remains to be seen.
New car registrations by fuel type – October
Fuel
October 2023
October 2022
% change
Market share 2023
Market share 2022
Petrol*
84,451
77,986
8.3%
55.0%
58.0%
Electric
23,943
19,933
20.1%
15.6%
14.8%
Hybrid
19,574
15,712
24.6%
12.7%
11.7%
Plug-in hybrid
14,285
8,900
60.5%
9.3%
6.6%
Diesel*
11,276
11,813
-4.5%
7.3%
8.9%
Total
153,529
134,344
14.3%
*includes mild hybrids Source: SMMT
New car registrations by fuel type – Year to date
Fuel
YTD 2023
YTD 2022
% change
Market share 2023
Market share 2022
Petrol*
905,331
771,271
17.4%
56.4%
57.4%
Electric
262,487
195,547
34.2%
16.3%
14.6%
Hybrid
202,130
158,139
27.8%
12.6%
11.8%
Diesel*
122,211
134,894
-9.4%
7.6%
10.0%
Plug-in hybrid
113,278
82,861
36.7%
7.1%
6.2%
Total
1,605,437
1,342,712
19.6%
*includes mild hybrids Source: SMMT
Good month, bad month
Despite overall market growth of more than 14%, it wasn’t champagne and caviars for car companies in October. Some brands saw significantly less growth than the market average, while others saw sales fall dramatically.
In absolute terms, Tesla had the largest growth. This October, it registered nearly 2,700 new cars. Last October, it registered 11. No, that’s not a typo.
At the other end of the scale, Fiat registered nearly 1,500 fewer cars this October than it did last year – a fall of 57% in a market that was up 14%.
In overall sales, Volkswagen continued to lead the market, just ahead of sister brand Audi. Ford placed third, ahead of BMW and Vauxhall.
Ford Puma locks in sales crown with another month on top
With just two months to run until the end of 2023, the Ford Puma has opened up a commanding lead at the top of the sales charts. Last year’s (and last month’s) best-selling new car, the Nissan Qashqai, had a slow month in October and didn’t even make the top ten.
In fact, the race for second place is very close between the Qashqai and the Vauxhall Corsa, while the Kia Sportage overtook the Tesla Model Y for fourth place. And on a sad final note, the now-discontinued Ford Fiesta has finally slipped off the bottom of the top ten sales charts forever, with the Audi A3 now in tenth place after a strong performance in October.
We’ll have our usual monthly analysis of the top ten tomorrow.
Make and model: BYD Atto 3 Description: Mid-sized hatch – new-to-UK brand’s second offering Price range: £26,195 – £31,695
BYD says: “The BYD Atto 3 combines modern aesthetics with exceptional intelligence and efficiency derived from pioneering electric vehicle technology and smart connectivity.”
We say: Competently styled, with lots of equipment and affordable, the BYD Dolphin is certainly worthy of consideration by the EV family hatch buyer.
You cannot fault the pace of BYD Auto – the Chinese brand launched itself onto the UK market with its Atto 3 SUV in mid 2023, and a second model has arrived only a couple of months on in the form of the Dolphin, a mid-sized electric hatchback.
A larger saloon model, called the Seal, will be in showrooms before the end of 2023 and boasts a sub-four-second 0-62mph time. Meanwhile an aggressive dealer growth programme has already included the opening of a showroom in London’s Berkeley Square amongst the likes of Bentley, Ferrari and Rolls-Royce, and will see the brand’s outlets increase from the current single figures to 100 by the end of 2024 – clearly, BYD is very serious about making its mark in the UK.
What is it?
The Dolphin is part of BYD’s ‘Ocean Series’, and one of some 19 different models the brand offers in its home market of China. As we detailed in our feature on the brand, BYD Auto might not be well known to UK car buyers but the company is big globally, having sold more than five million EVs. It’s even bigger in batteries – half the world’s iPad batteries are made by BYD and it supplies the batteries for one in five smartphones.
The Dolphin is a mid-sized hatchback and as such will be aiming to take customers from the likes of fellow Chinese contender the highly-regarded MG 4, but also other mainstream EVs –it offers the interior space of a Volkswagen ID.3 in a car that is more Peugeot e-208 sized. The newcomer will eventually be available in four trim levels and two battery sizes – once the entry-level versions join the range in 2024 prices will start from a highly affordable £26,195.
How does it look?
The BYD Dolphin strikes a satisfactory pose – basically, it looks a lot like any other mid-sized hatchback, which for many years seemed to be something EVs must not do. We are told that the rounded styling represents “the graceful lines of a leaping dolphin.” We’re not sure about that, but the visuals, notably the strong arrowhead-like creases on the flanks, are very competently done. The rear light signature, an LED running right across the flank, strikes a distinctive note too.
It’s a practical profile too – the car boasts a long wheelbase with short overhangs, a side effect of the car’s platform and its clever battery pack, and an attribute that translates to impressive interior space.
We like: General exterior styling is pleasingly normal We don’t like: ‘Build Your Dreams’ written across the rear – but this is now a ‘no cost option’
What are the specs like?
Launch versions of the Dolphin are on offer in the two top trim levels, Comfort and Design, and from early in 2024 they will be joined by two lower trims dubbed Active and Boost (A, B, C, D, get it?). And as we will detail shortly the range encompasses three motor ratings and two battery sizes.
Prices start from about £26K for the Active, which is a head-turning price, offering true affordability in the EV market – even the most expensive Design variant is cheaper than the entry models of some European rivals. And the low price does not come at the expense of standard equipment – the list includes the kind of extras you don’t usually find in base versions.
The front seats have electric adjustment, for example, while there are also auto headlights, keyless entry and start, the list goes on… Even the huge rotatable touchscreen and ‘Vehicle to Load’ feature that allows the car battery to be used to charge an external electric device are standard across the range.
The safety package is particularly impressive, which has allowed the Dolphin to earn the maximum five-star rating from Euro NCAP with an impressive set of scores across the board. It offers a comprehensive suite of active safety aids, including forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert and rear cross-traffic brake, lane departure prevention and emergency lane-keeping assist.
Other highlights of the comprehensive specification across the range include adaptive cruise control, a panoramic camera and more aids including blind spot monitoring, hill descent control and traffic sign recognition.
The Boost specification adds £1,000 to the price which pays for a more powerful motor, 17-inch wheels and a multi-link rear suspension. Finally, we have the two top levels and the first versions on sale, Comfort and Design which use the most powerful motor and battery.
The Comfort costs a smidge over £30K and gains heated front seats and an 11kW onboard charger compared to the 7kW of the lower trims, while for another £1,500 the range-topper comes with a panoramic roof, privacy glass in the rear seats, wireless smartphone charging and vehicle-to-load.
We like: Breadth of specification, especially safety aids We don’t like: Entry-level versions not available at launch
What’s it like inside?
The positive impressions given off by the Dolphin continue once one steps inside. It’s well put together with the soft-touch surfaces feeling more upmarket than some buyers might expect.
The colour scheme is interesting – BYD arrived in the UK with some quite outlandish colour combinations (ooh, pink…) but has reacted quickly to customer feedback, in a similar vein to putting the brand’s full name across the back of the boot. From November 2023 production the standard interior finish will be the more subtle black that UK buyers tend to prefer.
The interior of the first BYD, the Atto 3, was we were told inspired by gym equipment and the Dolphin has its own theme, its interior apparently boasting aquatic elements, the most notable being the interior door handles which we are told are shaped to represent dolphin fins… it’s a little more conventional though – no door bins masquerading as playable guitar strings for example.
The controls are logically laid out and fairly minimalist – a great many functions are controlled through the laptop-sized infotainment screen which can be rotated from landscape to vertical format. Opinions of this are mixed (our reviewer considers vertical sensible, especially when using sat nav maps, while his colleague on the launch drive event couldn’t see the point), but one issue is the screen’s size – in vertical format, it seriously intrudes into the driver’s field of vision.
By the way, there are a couple of ways of rotating said screen – a button on the screen itself, or asking BYD’s voice assistant. Now we did not have unwarranted success with this, saying “Hey BYD” eliciting a response to this reviewer but the Yorkshire accent of his colleague producing only ignorance…
BYD says that the patented design of its Blade battery pack frees up more space on the insides and this becomes obvious when sitting in the back seat – the room, both ahead of the legs and above the head, is surprisingly generous for a car of the size.
At first glance, the boot appears small by comparison, but it does have a second compartment under the floor, big enough to store the charging cables and other items you might want to hide away. The official figures are 345 litres, rising to 1,310 with the seats folded – that’s adequate for a supermini, though some rivals offer more.
We like: Lots of people room, especially in the back We don’t like: Boot space could be bigger
Under the bonnet
As is typical with EVs, the Dolphin’s powertrain is slim. The electric motor is mounted between the front wheels and the battery pack sits under the cabin floor, adding to the car’s rigidity.
Like the Atto 3 the Dolphin employs BYD’s cobalt-free Blade battery pack. Its design allows much denser packaging of the battery cells and as these are of Lithium Iron-Phosphate (LFP) they are said to be much safer – BYD delights in showing video tests of the pack involving pressing nails into them and running over them with heavy trucks.
There are two battery sizes on offer and three motor options. The upper two trim levels come with the larger of the two batteries, a 60kWh unit promising a WLTP-certified range between charges of 265 miles and powering the 204hp motor. This will send the Dolphin through 62mph from rest in seven seconds – not so many years ago such pace would see GTi or similar badges added to the car. Comfort and Design models can also be charged at rates up to 88 kW, boosting the battery from 30 to 80% in half an hour.
The two lower trim versions joining the range in the first quarter of 2024 have a 45kWh LFP battery, its estimated range likely to be around the 190 to 210-mile mark depending on the motor – the base Active model gets a 95hp unit while the Boost virtually doubles its power to 176hp. We’ve yet to see performance or charging figures for these cars.
One other notable aspect of the Dolphin is its standard-fit heat pump – this clever system makes use of all the residual heat it can find to make the car’s batteries more efficient. What this means in simple terms is that the drop-off in range the average EV owner expects in cold winter conditions is far less of an issue if you are driving a BYD.
How does it drive?
The Dolphin eases away and accelerates with all the virtually silent smoothness that is now expected of an EV. At motorway speeds, there is audible wind noise, which with an EV becomes more noticeable because there’s no engine to drown it out.
The driving experience is easy, if uninvolving. There’s little feel through the steering wheel but, even with its snappy acceleration, the Dolphin is not the kind of car you’d imagine enthusiastically hustling along a challengingly twisty country route.
Ride comfort is good, with only the most damaged of road surfaces unsettling the car, though the multi-link suspension no doubt helps with this – we’re not convinced the entry-level torsion bar will be so forgiving.
Anyone trying out the BYD who has previously driven an EV will find one other major difference – there’s no regenerative braking to speak of. The drivetrain does include some regeneration, but not to a level one can feel behind the wheel. Perhaps it’s something to do with the makeup of the battery pack, but this is definitely not a car one can drive on a single pedal like many other electrics.
We like: Unfussed progress and level of ride comfort We don’t like: Wind noise at speed
Verdict
There’s a lot to like about the BYD Dolphin. It’s potent enough for a mainstream car, it tackles much of the UK’s less-than-perfect road surfaces without issue, it looks okay inside and out and it comes with a long list of equipment.
Yes, it has its quirks, but these idiosyncracies are nothing that significantly affects one’s life with the car. And then you remember just how much you will pay for all of this, at which point the Dolphin becomes a car that really opens up EV motoring to a much wider potential audience.
Model tested: BYD Dolphin Design Price (as tested): £31,695 Motor unit: 150kW, 60kWh battery Gearbox: Automatic Power: 176 hp
Top speed: 99 mph 0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds Battery range: 265 miles (WLTP combined) Euro NCAP safety rating:Five stars (October 2023) TCE Expert Rating: 58% (as of November 2023)
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The new fourth-generation Skoda Superb range has been unveiled, which has been given a minor design update, more interior space and a more efficient set of powertrain options.
This new model’s design isn’t a major departure from the current model’s exterior looks. Instead, Skoda says it has made a “number of small tweaks” to make the car more aerodynamic, which in turn makes the car slightly more fuel efficient. As before, both saloon and ‘Combi’ estate models will be available.
Skoda has also moderately increased the family car’s length and height, which it says provides a bit more headroom and legroom in the cabin, as well as an additional 20 litres of boot space – 645 litres in total (690 litres for the estate).
In the front, the design of the car’s long bonnet has been changed, with a new contour shape and a larger Skoda badge installed flush against the bodywork. A wider grille is flanked by more angular Matrix LED headlights which the brand claims delivers “40% more light than the first generation”.
The grille’s chrome surround finish also features on the lower bumper, which now has a squarer shape, and a new oval-shaped tail light design features in the rear. Scrolling indicators are available with the range-topping trim, and the car sits on 17-inch alloy wheels as standard.
It’s inside the cabin that the big differences can be seen, starting with the new infotainment setup. Skoda has opted to give the Superb a larger 10-inch console that juts out of the dashboard (displayed below is the larger 13-inch screen that comes with top-spec versions), with a hand rest underneath.
Below that sits three smart dials that can control heating and ventilation, media volume, the zoom of the screen’s navigation map and the car’s driving mode. The Superb also comes with a wireless smartphone charging box that also cools the device during the process.
There will be no all-electric models in the Superb generation, Skoda has decided to continue offering petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options. The range begins with the entry-level 1.5-litre mild-hybrid 150hp petrol, followed by two 2.0-litre petrols with either 204hp or 265hp – the latter with four-wheel drive.
Two 1.5-litre diesel options will also be offered, the first with 150hp and the second with 193hp and all-wheel drive. Finally the range is topped by a 2.0-litre 204hp petrol plug-in hybrid, which can reportedly muster 60 miles of electric-only driving. All models come with an automatic gearbox.
That sums up the key points of Skoda’s latest model announcement. The ‘Combi’ estate becomes available to order in January, and the saloon will follow in April. Details like UK pricing will follow in the coming weeks.
Britain’s economy is very flat as we head toward the end of 2023, without a lot of good news on the horizon. The cost of living crisis still looms large, and it is still more important than ever to double-check that you can afford to run the car you are looking to buy.
The Car Expert has tallied up these monthly costs, and they may be more expensive than you think. Using data collected from our technical partner Clear Vehicle Data, insurance comparison site Confused.com and financial analytics company NimbleFins, The Car Expert estimates that motorists spend an average of £245.76 each month simply on running a petrol or diesel car each month – and that doesn’t include purchase costs or finance payments.
Over a year, this means the average car costs about £3,000 to run. While many of us have been keeping an eye on the cost of fuel at the pumps in the last year, NimbleFins reports that UK car owners spend just under £120 on fuel a month on average, which is the same figure they reported last year.
Obviously, fuel is the cost that fluctuates the most each month, as most other costs are either fixed or don’t vary significantly. Prices were very high in Summer 2022, at nearly £2 a litre, then gradually fell for most of the last 12 months to less than £1.40 before starting to rise again in the last couple of months.
Instead, the recent rise in running costs is mostly due to the insurance sector. Analysing its database of offers from its trusted insurance providers, Confused.com says that insurance premiums are 58% higher on average compared to this time last year.
Item
Average monthly spend
Fuel
£119.58
Car insurance
£77.00
Routine maintenance and servicing
£22.75
Vehicle excise duty (road tax)
£13.75
MOT
£4.58
Breakdown cover
£1.50
Parking permits and tickets
£3.67
Fines
£0.35
Cleaning and other costs (like garage rent)
£2.58
Monthly average total (excluding purchase costs)
£245.76
Source: Confused.com and NimbleFins (2023 figures)
NimbleFins adds that some upkeep costs for car owners, like cleaning products and garage rent, have become cheaper over the last six months as inflation has started to fall. Other costs, like annual road tax and MOT charges are unchanged.
Why are insurance costs rising?
Based on its car insurance database of over six million quotes in just the last three months, Confused.com reports that insurance premiums have increased by around £148 on average since the summer.
The company adds that this is the sharpest increase since it started recording insurance prices in 2006, and that all regions in the UK are seeing the highest prices on record.
There are several reasons for this:
New car prices have been steadily increasing, which means that premiums have increased to cover the values of the vehicles insured
Used car values have been at historically high levels, which means that insurers have had to pay out much more in the event of a write-off
Many new cars come with the latest driving assistance technology, which can cost the insurer more to repair or replace
In addition, Confused.com suggests that the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has also had a significant effect. The company concludes that:
EVs are usually more expensive than their petrol or diesel equivalents, which will in turn raise insurance costs
EVs can be more expensive to repair (although this is not universally true)
A shortage of trained EV repairers and body shops means that cars are taking longer to repair, so insurance companies are spending more money on courtesy vehicles for their customers
EVs generally have quicker acceleration and speed than fossil-fuel vehicles, so could appear riskier to insurers
Used electric car values have been even higher than petrol/diesel cars, which in turn keeps insurance premiums high
What you can do to keep costs at a minimum
Managing your insurance renewal
If you have just received an expensive renewal quote, the best first step is to use a price comparison site to ensure you’re not paying more than you need to, and it’s quite likely that you will be able to get a cheaper quote from elsewhere.
While it might take a large chunk out of your finances in the short term, paying an annual lump sum for your car insurance is the cost-effective option, should you be able to afford it. This is because insurance companies often charge interest for spreading the cost of your cover over the year.
To lower your insurance further, you could also increase your voluntary excess, but make sure you can afford to pay that sum if you need to make a claim. You might be tempted to lower your estimated mileage to keep costs down, but the best thing to do is be honest and accurate. You will be charged down the line for going over the estimate you gave, and insurance companies can also see very low mileage estimates as a risk too.
Actions to save at the petrol station
Ever-increasing fuel costs are the largest expenditure you will face from month to month, so any savings you can regularly make at the petrol pump can really go the extra mile.
To keep your car as fuel efficient as you can, you should make sure your car’s engine well maintained, and that your tyres are properly inflated. Drive in the highest gear possible to conserve fuel, avoid accelerating or braking too hard, and also keep your steering as smooth as possible.
Many drivers also travel long distances to find the best petrol pump deals, but make sure you weigh up the cheaper fuel prices with the distance you need to travel to the petrol station. Check out our full set of fuel-saving tips here.
Servicing plans – check the fine print
A service plan can be a good way to spread your car’s maintenance expenses over the year, but you need to look carefully to ensure that the terms and conditions suit your needs. You might spend more overall but in more manageable monthly chunks rather than in one big hit each year.
Some plans are quite affordable, but remember to check for limitations in the fine print, such as a maximum value for the car’s age and/or mileage. Some providers offer a multi-year plan but lock you into that specific dealership for servicing, which is no good if you move house to the other side of the country.
As we’ve said in our Ten golden rules for buying a car: Any car can go wrong at any time with expensive consequences, so you need to make sure your wallet can cope with it.
It doesn’t have to be a breakdown or failure – it could be a puncture or damaged wheel from hitting a pothole. It could be a broken window from a vandal or thief. It could be that you accidentally put the wrong fuel in your tank during a moment’s inattention, or any sort of unexpected drama.
If you’re so financially stretched that you can’t deal with these inevitable demands on your bank account, you are very likely to hit money troubles at some stage of your car ownership. Instead, you might want to look for a cheaper (or cheaper to run) car.
Part of the latest sixth-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class range, a new E-Class Estate model is now available to order in the UK, offering more rear space for passengers, several on-board tech upgrades, a subtle exterior styling refresh and a new engine line-up.
Its range was first unveiled back in April – announced as Mercedes-Benz tries to keep its combustion-powered range up to date with the technology and design ethos rolled out across its newer all-electric EQ range.
The Estate has been given the same cosmetic treatment, including new-look tail lights in the rear, which are longer than before, and display a new three-pointed star light signature. An illuminated grille surround is also an optional extra.
Compared with its predecessor, the Estate has gotten bigger – three centimetres wider and two centimetres longer to be exact. The brand says that this change gives rear passengers a bit more leg and elbow room than the prior model.
Like the saloon, the E-Class Estate engine options list has been overhauled. Customers will be able to choose from four petrol and diesel engines with 48V of mild-hybrid assistance, or a plug-in hybrid with a 21kWh battery and a reported all-electric range of 62 miles. All models will be fitted with a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
Opting for the plug-in hybrid engine will decrease the car’s storage space. The mild-hybrid E-Class Estate comes with 615 litres of boot space (1830 litres with the rear seats down), while the plug-in hybrid model instead comes with 460 litres of room in the boot (1675 litres with the rear seats down).
Over the standard E-Class, the Estate has been given an air suspension upgrade in the rear to improve driving comfort. Besides the hybridised engines, Mercedes-Benz adds that it has also been able to marginally improve the car’s aerodynamics when compared to the current Estate, further improving the car’s fuel efficiency.
In the cabin, the E-Class Estate has been given the same interior makeover as its saloon sibling, which includes the optional E-Class ‘Superscreen’ dashboard which runs the brand’s latest ‘MBUX’ software, as well as several third party apps, including TikTok, Zoom video calls, and even the Angry Birds game. A selfie camera is also located on the top of the dashboard.
The options list also includes ambient cabin lighting with a ‘sound visualisation’ – a lighting system that responds to the media you are playing – and an automatic climate control feature that automatically regulates temperature, air flow and air distribution for the front and back of the cabin separately.
Pricing for the new estate starts at just south of £58k for the lead-in ‘E 200 AMG Line’ model, rising to around £79k for the hybridised ‘E 200 e’ variant in the range-topping ‘AMG Line Premium Plus’ guise.
Ask who is the US-based automotive manufacturer that produces the most potent range of electric vehicles (EVs) on the market and most will likely say Tesla, but in fact that title is held by another more recent start-up, boasting former Tesla top brass amongst its management.
Lucid Motors states proudly that it builds “the longest range, fastest-charging luxury electric car in the world,” and considering its Air saloon hits 62mph in under three seconds, will go more than 500 miles before needing plugging in, and recharge much faster than typical rivals, it has a point.
Lucid is a car maker with big ambitions – an even more potent Air with three motors instead of two, an SUV with similar supercar levels of performance, and annual production of around half a million vehicles. This is a company that could be seriously gunning for Tesla’s EV number-one status.
So who or what is Lucid?
The company that became Lucid was launched in 2007 in America under the name Atieva, by Bernard Tse, who had previously been vice-president of Tesla. Initially, Atieva made batteries for EVs and powertrains for other vehicle manufacturers.
In 2013, the company scored a major coup by signing up Peter Rawlinson. A renowned engineer in the automotive industry, Rawlinson had previously headed the engineering teams at Jaguar and Lotus, before in 2010 becoming another attracted by the Tesla dollar where he oversaw the engineering of the Model S, Tesla’s breakout model that really put Elon Musk’s company on the map (and still in production today). Initially taking on the role of chief technology officer at Lucid, Rawlinson became the company’s CEO in 2019.
Atieva was renamed Lucid Motors in 2016, when the company announced plans to create its own car, a performance luxury EV, in a brand-new factory in Casa Grande, Arizona. Bold plans for the $700 million plant included an initial output of 20,000 cars a year, rising to 130,000 at which point it would be redesigned to boost annual production to 380,000 – that’s a lot of EVs…
Lucid also proved adept at attracting investment, allowing construction of the factory to start in late 2019 – the first examples of the new car, named the Lucid Air, started coming off the Arizona production line in September 2021.
While that 380,000 planned annual production might seem ambitious, Lucid is looking even higher – a second international factory is planned in Saudi Arabia building another 150,000 vehicles a year, possibly influenced by the Saudi Government announcing it will buy at least 50,000 and possibly as many as 100,000 Lucid vehicles over ten years.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Aston Martin has announced a deal with Lucid which will see the US manufacturer supply the electrical hardware and batteries for Aston’s planned future range of EVs.
When will Lucid launch in the UK?
Watch this space… Lucid definitely has plans for UK sales with right-hand-drive vehicles, and its one current model, the Air, has appeared at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Suggestions as to exactly when those sales will start keep being made, and then changed, but we are told that UK buyers attracted to Lucid’s models will be able to start putting their money down in 2024. Other than that, we don’t have any information as to when we’ll see Lucid cars on UK roads.
Lucid Air
What models does Lucid have and what else is coming?
There’s just one Lucid model on the market at present, the Air. This comes in three main varieties, the Pure, Touring and Grand Touring, with prices starting from around $78,000 in the US.
These are no EV slouches. The single-motor Pure’s electrics give it the equivalent of 430hp, which sees it through 62mph from rest in 4.5 seconds with up to 410 miles between charges. And Lucid’s charging technology allows that battery to be replenished at a rate that adds 200 miles in just 15 minutes.
The Touring has two motors, which cut the 62mph sprint to 3.4 seconds and two minutes from the charging time, while also adding 15 miles to the range. And the Grand Touring hits 62mph in 3.0 seconds, thanks to its battery which at 113kWh is the largest in any car giving it a range between charges of, wait for it… 512 miles… And it takes just 12 minutes to replenish 200 miles’ worth of energy.
While that sounds impressive, we’re told that a new and even more potent version of the Air is on the way. Three electric motors will produce a combined 1,600hp, putting the car into hypercar territory with 0-62mph times of under two seconds.
Meanwhile, Rawlinson has revealed plans for a Lucid SUV, the Gravity, due to be unveiled in November 2023 as a rival to the Tesla Model X – we are promised that this too will offer “supercar levels of performance”. And Lucid aims to follow the Gravity with a rival to the Tesla Model 3 saloon, revealing it by 2025.
Where can I try a Lucid car?
Nowhere in the UK, at present. Currently the best way to experience a Lucid is to go to the USA, although the company has opened ‘retail studios’ in Munich, Germany and Norway.
UK sales are not likely to commence until the second half of 2024, and Britain is likely to be in the second phase of an extensive launch across Europe.
What’s different about this company?
Lucid has put its electric vehicle hardware expertise into many areas, not least electric motorsport.
Working with McLaren Applied Technologies, Lucid has been supplying the battery packs for the cars of the FIA ‘s single-seater electric international racing series, Formula E, and the third-generation cars of what is now a world championship now use Lucid electric motors too.
Summary
On first hearing the name Lucid, it sounds like one of those start-up ideas with boldly stated ambitions that will never happen.
But once you learn what the company has already achieved, both in the sheer potency of its product, and the major interest being attracted to sell that product to, it becomes clear that this is a manufacturer that could easily get very big indeed – Tesla watch out, a big rival is coming up fast in your rear-view mirror…
The Hyundai Kona is a small SUV/crossover that sits between the smaller Bayon and larger Tucson in Hyundai’s SUV line-up. This is the second-generation model which is now available as a petrol or petrol-electric hybrid model.
While its predecessor shared its foundations with the petrol-powered Kia Stonic, the new Kona is based on the latest version of the battery-powered Kona Electric, and has been adapted to appeal to customers more interested in traditional petrol and hybrid cars.
Reviewers agree that the crossover is a certain improvement over the previous iteration. Parker‘s Alex Ingram says that the Kona’s “physical growth in size compared with its predecessor means it’s now big enough to comfortably cover typical family-car duties”.
That said, some outlets assert that the hybrid version is rather underpowered, while others take issue with the crossover’s ride quality. The Kona’s styling is unlike anything else in this segment, which has delighted some reviewers while leaving others less impressed. It will certainly be a significant factor in customer buying decisions.
As of April 2025, the Hyundai Kona holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 70%. This is largely based on the Kona’s media reviews, safety rating and running cost data, as the model is too new to have any meaningful reliability data. Check back soon.
Value will depreciate faster than other small SUVs
Hybrid model feels slow
Key specifications
Body style: Small SUV/crossover Engines:petrol, petrol-electric hybrid Price:From £25,725 on-road
Launched: Autumn 2023 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The Hyundai Kona is a fantastic example of how a brand can listen to feedback and act upon it. Hyundai has grown its small SUV sensibly, delivering just enough additional practicality to satisfy those looking for their next family car. To go along with the extra space is a far more polished cabin. It’s smart looking, logically laid out, and features an intuitive infotainment system.”
Model reviewed: Range overview (including Kona Electric)
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol automatic N Line Score: 7 / 10 “Like so many semi-performance editions, the 1.6-litre Hyundai Kona N Line S delivers extra pace but no more enjoyment compared with cheaper versions. Its two biggest problems are the Ford Puma ST, which is a proper small hot baby SUV and cheaper, and the fact that the Kona’s perfectly acceptable 1.0-litre powertrain is also available in this trim level, for a few thousand pounds less. If you’re really sold on the sporty styling pack, we’d advise you to save cash and spec it with the cheaper engine.” Author: John McIlroy Read review
Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol manual Advance Score: 9 / 10 “Well equipped, decent to drive and almost reassuringly simple, the entry-level Hyundai Kona petrol is a very capable all-rounder which retains the qualities that earned its pricier stablemates our top award. It should be at the sharp end of your shortlist if you’re in the market for a small family SUV.” Author: John McIlroy Read review
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid Ultimate Score: 9 / 10 “The Hyundai Kona isn’t quite as accomplished in hybrid form as the EV version, but it’s still a solid contender in the small SUV sector. Its physical growth in size compared with its predecessor means it’s now big enough to comfortably cover typical family-car duties, and it does so with generous equipment levels, plenty of comfort and superb efficiency – especially on short trips around town. This more affordable Kona is a great SUV.” Author: Alex Ingram Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric N Line Score: 7 / 10 “The new Hyundai Kona was developed as an EV first. So, you might ask, have other powertrain options in the range been compromised? In terms of running costs, the hybrid can’t compete with the 2% BIK company car tax rate of the electric variant, but on a cost-per-mile basis it does work out cheaper thanks to its lower P11D. However, despite being more expensive, overall we’d say the Kona Electric is indeed the more convincing choice.” Author: Sean Keywood Read review
Car
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid Score: 6 / 10 “We just couldn’t fully get on with the Hyundai Kona Hybrid. The powertrain is uninspiring, not economical enough, and reluctant to use its electric power to the best effect. The busy ride will also destabilise some families. The good news is that the interior is very usable, and its B-road poise, distinctive looks, capable chassis, and technology on offer mark it out as being nearer the front end of the B-SUV grid.” Author: Keith Adams Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 10 / 10 “We’ve been truly dazzled by the all-electric version of the new Hyundai Kona, thanks to its tempting mix of comfort refinement, practicality and quality. It has to be said the combustion-engined versions of the car don’t have quite the same level of wow-factor, but if you’re looking for a compact family car that’s stylish, practical, easy to live with and packed with tech, we can’t think of many cars that’ll suit you better than the Kona.” Author: Ivan Aistrop, Andy Goodwin Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The new Hyundai Kona is bigger and better than before, while still devent value for money. You get a lot of equipment for your money, while the Hyundai Kona Hybrid is efficient.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid Score: 7.6 / 10 “The Hyundai Kona in 1.6-litre hybrid form is a bit of a mixed bag. The powertrain is uninspiring, it’s not powerful or economical enough, and reluctant to use its electric juice to the best effect. The busy ride will also destabilise some families. The good news is that the interior is very usable, and its B-road poise, distinctive looks, capable chassis, and technology on offer mark it out as being nearer the front end of the B-SUV grid.” (Keith Adams) Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: Range overview (including electric models) Score: 9 / 10 “Perhaps more impressive even than the Kona Electric is the model at the other end of the scale. Having driven the EV, we sampled a petrol model, and it was just as loveable as the one with no tailpipe emissions.” Author: Matt Robinson Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of April 2025, the Hyundai Kona has not been lab tested by Green NCAP.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of April 2025, we don’t have enough reliability data on the latest iteration of the Hyundai Kona to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as we have sufficient data on the second-generation Kona, we’ll publish the score here.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Petrol models
45 mpg
C
42 – 49 mpg
C – D
Hybrid models
59 mpg
A
55 – 60 mpg
A – B
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Petrol models
141 g/km
B
131 – 150 g/km
A – B
Hybrid models
107 g/km
A
106 – 115 g/km
A – A
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
26
B
16 – 28
A – B
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£204
B
Year 2
£544
B
Year 3
£894
B
Year 4
£1,120
B
Year 5
£1,444
B
Overall
£4,206
B
The Hyundai Kona is a pretty affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
Petrol models average fuel consumption of 46mpg (44 to 49mpg) which sits around the market average, while hybrid models are much more fuel efficient, offering 60mpg on average. The car’s servicing and maintenance costs should be fairly affordable over the course of the first five years of ownership, and the Kona has fairly low insurance premiums.
Awards
Trophies, prizes and awards that the Hyundai Kona has received.
2023
Auto Express Awards – Car of the Year
Carbuyer Awards – Best Small Family Car
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Hyundai Kona, you might also be interested in these alternatives.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact battery-powered family SUV that directly rivals the Kia Niro EV and Volkswagen ID.3. This is the second-generation version, which became available to order in the UK in Autumn 2023.
Unlike the former SUV range, this new Kona model has been designed as an electric car first, and then adapted to offer petrol and petrol-electric hybrid options afterwards. We have assessed those combustion-powered versions separately.
Its predecessor was highly regarded by the British motoring media and a tough act to follow, but reviewers agree that the new model is a significant improvement.
The Carbuyer team notes that Hyundai has “clearly listened to customer feedback” by increasing interior space and making the family car feel “more grown-up inside” by installing plush cabin materials and a suite of the brand’s latest infotainment and driving assistance technology.
Like the similar Kia Niro EV, reviewers conclude that the car’s electric powertrain is a key highlight. With a battery range that will exceed 300 miles (according to official lab testing procedures), Driving Electric notes that the Kona Electric can travel further than many of its compact SUV rivals.
Top-spec trims can get quite expensive, and outlets also report that some rivals have faster charging speeds. “It’s a shame it’s not a little more exciting to drive”, adds Car‘s CJ Hubbard, “but we imagine most buyers will be happy to trade this for the additional space. The tech you can get really is quite impressive for this class, too.”
As of July 2025, the Hyundai Kona Electric holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 77%. It scores top marks for having zero tailpipe emissions, low running costs, media review scores and new car warranty coverage. However, its safety score is only average.
Body style: Small SUV/crossover Engines:electric, battery-powered Price:From £34,995 on-road
Launched: Autumn 2023 Last updated: N/A Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The original Hyundai Kona Electric was good, but the second-generation model is even better. It’s larger, which means it’s more practical than many of its rivals, while a combination of plush materials and the latest tech make the interior feel more upmarket than before.”
“The Hyundai Kona Electric is a spacious family car with excellent electric range, but there are some cheap materials inside and it’s not the most fun car in corners.”
Model reviewed: Ultimate 65kWh Score: 8 / 10 “The biggest asset of the Hyundai Kona Electric’s chassis is ride comfort, which is impressive, the suspension doing a very good job of absorbing bumps and potholes. Handling-wise, although things get a bit roly-poly under hard cornering and braking it can still be fun to drive once you’re used to this, and underlying grip levels are good. The steering is unfeelsome but precise enough. Perhaps the biggest snag with the driving experience is that the various assistance systems can be annoyingly intrusive.” Author: Sean Keywood Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “It’s a shame the Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t a little more exciting to drive, but we imagine most buyers will be happy to trade this for the additional space and the sheer good sense exhibited by the interior design.” Author: CJ Hubbard Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The latest Hyundai Kona Electric is more spacious, refined and upmarket than its predecessor, making it a serious contender for the small SUV throne.” Author: Ellis Hyde, Andy Goodwin Read review
Driving Electric
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “As futuristic as it is family-friendly, the second-generation Hyundai Kona Electric moves the game on from its predecessor in almost every respect.” Author: Tome Jervis, John McIlroy Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Score: 9 / 10 “We’ve always been big fans of the Hyundai Kona Electric, thanks to its real-world efficiency and practicality. But rivals caught up, and technology moves fast in the electric car world. So Hyundai has moved the game on again, with a new Kona with upgrades just about everywhere. It feels more spacious and is a real step forward in terms of quality and technology.” Author: Ginny Buckley Read review
Green Car Guide
Score: 8 / 10 “The new Hyundai Kona Electric has grown in size, but the key selling points of the previous model remain: a practical range (up to 319 miles), and competitive pricing.” Author: Paul Clarke Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t the most exciting thing on four wheels, but you detect the effort that’s gone into this small electric SUV very easily. Anyone upgrading from the previous version is going to be pleasantly surprised, we reckon.” Author: CJ Hubbard Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: Range overview (including petrol and hybrid models) Score: 9 / 10 “It whirrs around town in near silence, providing no audible thumps and bangs whatsoever from the suspension, with super-smooth ride quality to match.” Author: Matt Robinson Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The new Hyundai Kona Electric is just as competent as before, but with more of all the good stuff. Well done Hyundai.” Author: Greg Potts Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of July 2025, the Hyundai Kona Electric has not been lab tested by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an electric car) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the Kona Electric is likely to score very highly in Green NCAP testing whenever it ever takes place. Check back again soon.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of July 2025, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Hyundai Kona Electric to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as we have sufficient data on the Kona Electric, we’ll publish the score here.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Battery range
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
280 miles
B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
4.5 m/KWh
B
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
31
C
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£194
B
Year 2
£457
B
Year 3
£766
B
Year 4
£918
A
Year 5
£1,195
A
Overall
£3,530
A
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a very affordable car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
The electrical efficiency (the EV equivalent of fuel economy) is good, while range is perfectly decent for most household use. If you regularly make long journeys then you may prefer an EV with a range of 300-350 miles, and there are a growing number of choices available.
Servicing costs should be good to very good over the first five years, while insurance is about average – nothing special, but better than others.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Hyundai Kona Electric
Overall rating
D
31%
Petrol or diesel models
E
17%
Electric or hybrid models
C
56%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
Hyundai’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Kona Electric.
The duration is five years, with no limit on mileage. In addition to the standard new car warranty, there is a separate eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
If you’re looking to buy a used car that is approaching the end of its warranty period, a used car warranty is usually a worthwhile investment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.
Awards
Trophies, prizes and awards that the Hyundai Kona Electric has received
2023
Auto Express Awards – Car of the Year (full Kona range)
The Car Expert Awards – Best Small SUV
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Hyundai Kona Electric, you might also be interested in these alternatives.
Find your next new or used car with Auto Trader. Find out more
Find your next new or used car with Carwow. Find out more
Lease a Hyundai Kona Electric
If you’re looking to lease a new Hyundai Kona Electric, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal.
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Carwow. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to a Hyundai Kona Electric
Subscriptions are becoming a very popular way for consumers to try an electric car for a few weeks or months to help decide whether it’s a suitable alternative to a petrol car. If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help. (PS: What’s a car subscription?)
From spacious hatchbacks to high-riding SUVs to seven-seat estate cars, there’s a wide array of options for ferrying around the family on the market right now. If you’re in the market to swap your current car for a newer model, there’s something for every budget.
We’ve analysed all the family cars available at key price points in the car market and consulted our industry-leading Expert Rating Index to see which models have the highest review scores from across the UK motoring media.
All the suggested models below can be purchased for the price stated as either new or nearly new (18 months old or younger). With the price tags of new showroom family cars continually rising, the nearly-new used market can potentially save you thousands of pounds.
With comprehensive review data backing our recommendations – based on more than 15,000 new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s top motoring websites – you can be confident that this is the definitive guide to the best new family cars for every budget that are on sale right now.
All of the pricing estimates given in the article below are accurate as of October 2023. To select our near-new family car suggestions, we have scoured the website of our trusted partner motors.co.uk – one of the largest online motoring marketplaces for UK buyers and sellers.
If you don’t want to spend more than £20k on your next family runaround, it’s hard to top the popular Ford Focus. The mid-sized hatchback is an accomplished all-rounder that offers a polished and comfortable driving experience and a spacious cabin, while the estate version offers all of the above plus even more practicality.
It’s a good value-for-money package, too. Besides its decent fuel economy, the Focus estate is currently available near-new on the used market for around £17k to £20k. That said, other estates in this mid-size class offer more boot space, and the Ford’s interior trim is rather cheap in places.
This fourth-generation Focus range was given a mid-life facelift in early 2022, consisting of some exterior tweaks and new interior hardware, which makes near-new models more appealing. It currently holds a very creditable Expert Rating of 75%.
Looking for a family car with a higher driving position? The popular Ford Puma crossover can also be picked up near-new for under £20k, but it’s smaller than the Focus. Another option in this bracket is the Skoda Octavia, which has also been widely praised for its spacious cabin, practicality and value for money. However, the Octavia’s near-new pricing tends to be a tad steeper than the Focus.
The new family car market starts to get very competitive passing the £20k mark, but if your budget maxes out at around £25k, opting for a Skoda Superb is your best bet.
Available as either a liftback or estate, the name ‘Superb’ is no exaggeration. It has won more than 50 UK awards since its launch in 2015. A near-new liftback is currently priced at around £22k to £25k on the used market, while estate models are slightly more expensive.
Praised for its practicality, design and value for money, the Skoda Superb has an outstanding Expert Rating of 82%. Its infotainment system is a bit harder to use on the move, however, while other large cars offer more driver appeal.
The fact that this model has been on the road since 2015 – and is about to be replaced by an all-new version – shouldn’t put you off if you’re looking for the best family car in this price bracket.
If you would prefer to opt for an SUV, the Hyundai Tucson has been one of the UK’s best-selling new cars this year, and for good reason. Available as a nearly-new model for around the same price, the Tucson is another great all-rounder that is roomy and generously equipped, but like the Superb, it’s not very exciting to drive.
Yes, it’s another Skoda… but this time with electric power. The Skoda Enyaq is a class-leading mid-sized SUV that has gained overwhelmingly positive reviews and almost universal praise from the UK motoring media. It has also picked up industry awards every year since its 2021 arrival.
Opting for a brand-new version can get expensive, but there are plenty of nearly-new Enyaq models priced between £27k and £30k on the used market.
Praised for its excellent battery range, interior space and affordable pricing, the Skoda Enyaq holds an Expert Rating of 82%. The SUV is well-equipped as standard too, meaning cheaper entry-level trims still make a great family car choice.
Of course, there are some excellent petrol-powered options in this price range too. Used prices for Volvo’s widely recommended SUV range start at around £26k for a near-new XC40 – a compact family car that offers a smooth driving experience and enough room to comfortably accommodate two adults and three children. That said, the larger Enyaq is the roomier choice.
Sitting slightly higher than a regular petrol-engined car but lower than an SUV, the all-electric Kia EV6 is another serial award-winner and The Car Expert‘s Car of the Year for 2022. Add to the mix that you can currently purchase this car near-new for £33k to £35k, and the EV6 becomes one of the best family-oriented motoring packages on the market.
Currently holding an exceptional Expert Rating of 88%, the EV6 has been widely commended for its excellent battery range, upmarket interior fit and finish, spacious cabin and sporty driving experience. However, some reviewers comment that its suspension is rather firm, which could make long-distance drives a bit taxing.
The EV6’s sister model – the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 – is just as impressive, with a practical interior and user-friendly infotainment being the highlights of its impressive family car credentials. It’s certainly worth checking out if you are interested in the EV6, particularly if you take a liking to its retro-futuristic ‘Ioniq’ exterior looks. That said, the Hyundai runs into the same ride quality issues, and some motoring outlets prefer the Kia’s driving dynamics.
Best family car under £50,000: BMW 5 Series Touring
Known for its impressive build quality, great performance and lavish looks inside and out, the BMW 5 Series has been the benchmark for cars in the premium saloon class since its arrival in 2017. The 5 Series Touring (BMW-speak for estate) is particularly talented at ferrying around the family with poise.
The Touring adds a fair chunk of extra boot space over the standard saloon, while retaining the same driving experience and luxurious interior.
A winner of more than 25 different industry awards, this seventh-generation 5 Series holds an Expert Rating of 87%. With the launch of the all-new eighth-generation 5 Series range this year, this version of the Touring is no longer available to buy new. But it is available near-new on the used market, with prices between £41k and £50k.
The electric Jaguar I-Pace offers similar levels of interior opulence for around the same used price. The spacious SUV is one of the most desirable large family cars on the market at the moment, but reviewers add that its infotainment system isn’t as advanced as the software in some of its newer rivals.
If your family car budget can comfortably stretch beyond the £50k mark, then a Land Rover should certainly be on your shortlist. Our choice is the Land Rover Defender, which was The Car Expert‘s ‘Large SUV Class Champion’ back in 2021, and is available in three different wheelbase configurations to meet your families’ requirements.
The Defender is no longer a utilitarian farmer’s tool like its illustrious forebear, but the upmarket SUV retains the superb off-roading ability of Land Rovers of yesteryear while doubling as a luxury family SUV with a grand interior trim, expensive tech and everyday practicality.
Despite rather consistent doubts about the fuel economy of the Defender, this top-of-the-line SUV has an Expert Rating of 79%, based on 47 reviews from UK media sources.
There are currently several near-new versions of the smallest Defender ’90’ model available on the used market for £54k to £63k, but if you are looking for a larger model, things get quite expensive. There are only a few of the largest ‘130’ models on offer near-new, with prices between £73k and £85k.
For the definitive rankings of the best new family cars for every budget, we’ve used The Car Expert’s industry-leading Expert Rating index. The index analyses new car reviews from 35 of the top UK motoring websites, using an advanced algorithm that we have developed specifically to compare review scores.
It constantly recalculates and updates the Expert Rating score for every single car in real time to make sure you’re getting the most accurate and reliable ratings for every new car.
While it looks pretty similar to the regular hatch at first glance, this ‘N’ package adds black trim accents, a rear spoiler, revisions for the front bumper to give the car a sportier stance and widened wheel arches that accommodate new-look 21-inch alloy wheels with wider tyres.
Hyundai has decided to limit this range to a single high-spec trim. The car’s lights are all LEDs as standard, as is rear privacy glass, folding heated door mirrors, Alcantara leather heated bucket seats, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch infotainment display on the dashboard.
The interior includes several nods to Hyundai’s ‘N’ performance sub-division, including aluminium performance pedals. The package also includes a head-up display that projects driving information onto the windscreen, wireless smartphone charging, a Bose sound system, a 360-degree parking camera and an electronically-powered boot lid.
Finally, the hot hatch comes with an extensive set of safety systems, including lane keeping assistance, speed sign recognition, blind spot monitoring and parking assistance tech. Hyundai’s panoramic ‘vision roof’ is also available, but for an extra fee.
The Ioniq 5 N is now available to order here in the UK, with prices beginning at £65k. This is over £20k more than the standard Ioniq 5 and the Smart #1 Brabus hot hatch. It is also £2k more expensive than the performance-focused Kia EV6 GT, which is built on the same foundations.
Temperatures are falling, the wind is picking up, the clocks have gone back and you’re switching on your headlights every time you get in the car. It can only mean one thing – winter is coming. But are you and your car ready for it?
We all know that keeping a car well maintained is not only good sense from a safety point of view, but it’s financial logic too. At The Car Expert,we’re often telling you how a little care and attention to your car can go a long way towards bringing you many happy years of service from your vehicle.
And good maintenance is never more important than during the winter months. In the run-up to winter and then during the coldest part of the season, your car must be in good condition for the tough job it has ahead of it.
Modern cars are stronger, safer and better designed than ever, but even the newest, most up-to-date models will still suffer during the harsh winter months if they are not cared for.
Bitter cold, driving rain, snow, ice and slush can all take their toll on a car’s components. As temperatures fall, car parts can shrink, crack, perish, seize up or fail. Road recovery experts say that batteries are more likely to go flat, tyres are more likely to deflate or puncture and important fluids are more liable to freeze over when winter comes.
And that means the chances of being marooned at the side of the road can increase – at exactly the time of year when that prospect is the least attractive.
Some planning and checking on your car now, before the clocks go back and the temperature gauge begins heading south, could pay handsomely for you in the long run. Here’s our simple guide to getting your vehicle ready for winter.
Winter checks
Fuel
There’s never a good time to run out of fuel, but coming to a halt on a dark, snowy night is not only highly inconvenient, it’s dangerous too.
During the winter months especially, never let your fuel gauge go below a quarter and you should certainly not wait for the ‘low fuel’ warning light to come on. Make sure you always have plenty of petrol or diesel in your tank.
Oil
Cars don’t like operating without oil but it’s amazing the number of motorists who never check the level in their engine. Manufacturers ensure that the dipstick is easy to find, and it only takes a few minutes to check it.
There’s an upper and lower limit on the dipstick: ensure yours is reading towards the higher end and, if necessary, top up. But don’t overfill – that can also do damage to the engine.
Battery
Batteries have to work hard during the winter with more strain on them to fire up a freezing engine in the morning while other components vie for power to help them work. So it’s no wonder that they stutter and fail at this time of year.
They are only designed to last four to five years anyway so, if yours is getting old, think about investing in a new one, especially if the engine is struggling to turn, your headlights appear dimmer than usual, or the battery warning light comes on.
Antifreeze
Not so important in the summer, antifreeze certainly comes into its own as the colder months arrive. Antifreeze stops the water in your car’s cooling system from freezing up when the engine is not running (or in extreme cases, even when it is running).
If coolant isn’t circulating through the engine, it can cause serious damage. Make sure to top up coolant regularly in any season and, if it’s more than three years old, it should be drained and replaced.
Brakes
Wet or icy roads, dark conditions and poor weather all require brakes that are in excellent condition. Anything less and you could be putting yourself and others in danger.
If your brakes are squeaking, grinding or making other noises, or if the car is pulling to one side or not stopping as well as you would expect, have it checked by an expert. Has your car been left idle for a few days in harsh weather? Drive off slowly at first, in case the braking system or brake discs have seized up.
Tyres
It’s not just foolish to drive around with worn or damaged tyres, it’s illegal too, and the police take a dim view of anyone choosing this option.
In winter, it’s even more important to have good quality rubber with plenty of grip: the legal limit is 1.6mm but safety experts recommend 3mm. When you check your tyres for tread depth, have a look also for cuts or bulges in the sidewall – on the inside where you can’t see easily, as well as the outside.
Lights
You’ll be using your lights a lot more during the winter months, compared with the summer, so it’s vital to have all of them working properly.
Switch everything on and walk around the vehicle checking that it’s all illuminated. Wipe all your lights and indicators over regularly as dirt and grime can stick to them, reducing their effectiveness. While you’re there, give the number plates a quick wipe too – along with their lighting.
Wipers
You have to see out of your car to be able to operate it properly, so don’t rely on damaged or torn wiper blades to keep the windscreen clear.
Damaged blades can make the screen worse to see out of, not better. Replace any that you find damaged and check and wipe them regularly to remove dirt that could scratch your windscreen glass.
Don’t switch your wipers on if the screen looks frozen; check that you can lift them off the screen before you drive off. You could do lasting damage to the blades or even the wiper mechanism if you try to activate the wiper motor while the wiper blades are stuck to the glass.
Safety body Euro NCAP has put BYD’s UK range through its paces, also awarding favourable results to two of Mercedes’ latest models.
Top marks have been given to the all-electric BYD Dolphin hatchback and Seal saloon, both of which arrived on UK roads this year. Euro NCAP’s secretary general Dr Michiel van Ratingen comments that the Chinese brand has “hit the ground running, recognizing that European car-buyers will not compromise on safety.”
The compact Dolphin has been given a full five-star safety rating, with high scores for occupant crash protection and pedestrian and cyclist collision safety. The Seal received identical passenger crash safety scores, but a slightly lower pedestrian and cyclist protection score, presumably due to its larger weight and size.
BYD DolphinBYD Seal
This latest batch of tests also included the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class executive saloon, but Euro NCAP only tested the car’s automated driving tech, not its collision safety. The saloon was given the highest rating, denoted as ‘very good’, and was praised for its intuitive lane keeping assistance, traffic sign recognition and blind spot monitoring, as well as its clear head-up display.
The larger electric Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, which uses the same assistance systems, was given an identical score.
Mercedes-Benz E-ClassMercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Last but not least, Euro NCAP has also now crash tested the P7, an upmarket saloon from another Chinese brand, XPeng. Targeting Tesla Model 3 sales like the BYD Seal, the XPeng P7 has been awarded a full five-star safety rating and is already on sale in some Northern European countries. The saloon is yet to arrive in the UK though, with its arrival date still unconfirmed.
Mazda has announced that its MX-5 sports car is set to receive some small exterior design alterations, a larger infotainment touchscreen, a new ‘track driving mode’ and a few mechanical upgrades.
Starting with the car’s looks, the updated MX-5’s exterior design is largely the same as the current model, but does feature redesigned LED headlights that now incorporate daytime running lights, and Mazda says it has updated the design of the tail lights in the rear too.
The most notable change can be found inside – a larger nine-inch touchscreen display that the manufacturer says offers clearer navigation mapping and, like the current software, wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. Mazda adds that it has also added some additional USB-C ports for charging electronic devices, and installed a frameless rear-view mirror.
Mazda has also introduced a ‘track’ mode that can be activated using a physical button on the lower right-hand side of the steering wheel, which uses dynamic stability control tech to improve track times. This tech automatically controls braking and engine torque in high speed corners to prevent the car’s rear end from slipping at high speed.
The manufacturer also says it has improved response of the accelerator “to deliver a more accurate throttle application” and has tweaked the steering system, again to improve response.
This facelift also introduces a few additional bits of safety tech, including lane-keeping assistance and speed sign recognition which are included as standard.
That sums up what we know about the updated Mazda MX-5 – this facelift is set to arrive in March next year, with UK pricing and trim specifications to be announced in the coming months.
The Mazda MX-5 has received widespread praise for its driving dynamics, light weight and uncompromised sports car experience. The only real criticisms relate to its lack of space and inevitably poor practicality. It currently holds an Expert Rating of 85%.
