Even a car that is regularly serviced, checked and looked after by its owner, cherished and even given a name by its family, will have a problem at some time – it’s almost inevitable.
And that’s exactly what used cars warranties are designed for.
They are there to give you peace of mind in the event of something going wrong. Especially if that journey to the repair shop turns out to be an expensive one. That’s when a warranty really comes into its own.
You paid good money for your cover and now you expect a decent service and satisfaction from your provider. So how do you claim on that policy that you thought about, considered carefully and decided was best to have in your armoury?
Here at The Car Expert, we have some fantastic warranty offers for our readers provided by our commercial partners. If you’re interested in a used car warranty, you should check these out:
ALA Insurance provides used car warranties in conjunction with the RAC
Warrantywise is a long-established and multi-award-winning warranty provider
MotorEasy offers warranties and many other types of cover for car owners
Time to make a claim
Actually, it’s quite straightforward – as long as you understand a few key points.
Firstly, don’t assume that every working part in your car is going to be covered by the warranty. Plan providers list in advance what they are prepared to consider covering and what is strictly off limits.
You will usually be covered for major working parts that a reasonable person would agree make up the important components of any vehicle. These will be items such as:
Engine
Gearbox
Drivetrain
Steering
Brakes
Suspension
Fuel pump
Ignition system
Electrics
Air conditioning
You won’t be covered for parts that wear out such as battery, clutch, tyres, brake pads or the exhaust pipe. Components that are damaged as a result of poor workmanship or maintenance are also excluded.
When you know you are going to have to make a claim, do it as soon as possible – don’t continue driving with a faulty part as this could harm other components, and your policy might not cover this ‘consequential damage’.
Some policies will ask you to take the car back to the dealer who originally sold it to you, for confirmation that a claim is legitimate and for an estimated cost for repair. If this is not possible, call your insurer’s claims hotline to report the issue, and then choose from their list of authorised repairers.
Stick to the rules
Don’t have any work done before you have reported the fault and don’t go to an unauthorised repairer. You could invalidate your policy in both cases.
Make sure you have kept your car’s servicing schedule up to date – most insurers will insist on this – and that the vehicle has a valid MOT certificate. The repairer will work out which components are covered by your insurer and report back to them.
Many providers will offer roadside assistance as part of their package while others will allow emergency repairs – such as to a broken down car at the roadside –if they’re required. You will need to obtain a receipt for the work, details of repairs carried out, and you must take away any replaced parts in case the insurer wants to see them.
Getting the payment made
It depends on your insurer, but payment for the repairs will be made direct to the garage or repair shop, or reimbursed to you when you have paid. You will have your excess amount deducted from the final figure (the more initially you agree to, the lower your premium), and you should pay this direct to the repairer if your provider settles up directly with them too.
Remember there are other reasons why you might not get the full cost of the part or repair that you were expecting. These will be set out in your policy and are worth knowing:
Claim limit: There will be set thresholds on how much you can expect back for each repair
Labour cost limit: insurers have a maximum hourly rate and if your repairer is above this, you might not get the full amount
Mileage allowance: you must be within a set mileage range to keep your warranty valid
If you’re not happy…
If you and your insurer can’t agree on what should be covered, or if they refuse to pay for your claim, there are several courses of action for you:
Check your policy’s terms and conditions: if the broken component is listed in the ‘What’s Covered’ section, you have a good case
Look at the FAQs: most providers will have a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section which might help you
Contact direct: you can contact them via their phone helpline or by email;
Complain: if you are still unhappy, take your case higher, especially if your policy is covered by an insurer. Buying a fully insured warranty means you have the assurance that the company you’re dealing with is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Additionally, a regulated warranty provider will be in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which can pay compensation if they go out of business and can’t pay your claim. Buying an insured warranty means that if you are unhappy about the service you’ve received, you can go to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) for a binding decision that your insurer is obliged to follow.
If your warranty is from the dealer where you bought the car, check if the company is covered by any industry body.
Warranty providers are diverse, but all will provide your cover information in their policy document. Read it carefully before taking out your policy and you won’t have any nasty surprises if the time comes to make that claim.
Here at The Car Expert, we have some fantastic warranty offers for our readers provided by our commercial partners. If you’re interested in a used car warranty, you should check these out:
ALA Insurance provides used car warranties in conjunction with the RAC
MotorEasy offers warranties and many other types of cover for car owners
Warrantywise is a long-established and multi-award-winning warranty provider
There are nearly 10 million cars bought each year in the UK – roughly 2 million of those are brand new, while the other 8 million are used cars of some sort.
Those used cars might be anything from a near-new dealer demonstrator, only a couple of month sold, to a cheap used runabout that costs no more than a few hundred quid.
There are several big name companies pushing hard in the nearly-new market, for cars up to about three years old and with low mileage. But the biggest-selling used cars tend to be older, higher-mileage and cheaper.
An older car will be a lot cheaper than a nearly-new motor, if it has been cared for and properly serviced, it could still give you years of trouble-free motoring. So we have gathered together the best websites that can help you with buying a cheap used car.
For this exercise, we’re entering into the search boxes ‘any make and model’, with a maximum price of £10,000. We’re also only concentrating on sites with national coverage as, at this price level, most buyers are not likely to travel more than 50 miles of their home address to find a car. Of course, widening your search will bring more results but if you’re travelling halfway across the country to save £100 on a used car, you’re not likely to end up saving any money in the end.
Here at The Car Expert, we’re building and updating guides to the top sites to buy used vehicles of all categories. So here are our pick for the best ones for buying a cheap used car (it’s a round-up, rather than a ranking, so we think all of these sites are worth a look).
The best websites for buying a cheap used car in 2025
We like: Easy to use site We don’t like: Non-relevant adverts
Formerly a printed magazine it was the place to go to secure yourself a bargain. Today it is a website, but still a very popular destination for buyers.
It’s a good, straightforward website for finding a cheap used car. Using the search parameters described above we called up 26,000 cars. You can further sort out the results by ‘lowest price’, ‘highest price’, mileage, age or distance.
You get an initial photo and good basic information such as mileage, engine size, power, gearbox type and whether the price is close to market average. Some cars for sale offer lots of pictures, some offer very few. We even found some that had no pictures at all. You might also find video there too.
Both private and trade (dealer) sellers are listed together and these are clearly highlighted so you can see who you’re dealing with. Interspersed with the car listings are adverts trying to sell you vehicles that are way above your budget, but you can skip past these easily enough.
A recent addition to the Auto Trader site (and app, if you prefer) is that it clearly shows whether a dealer is adding admin charges onto the selling price. It’s something The Car Expert raised with the site a few years ago, so it’s great to see it finally appearing.
Auto Trader also publishes its own car reviews, and is one of the sites included in our new Expert Rating Index, which aggregates new car reviews from UK websites to create a definitive rating for every new car.
URL: motors.co.uk They say:“Search Less. Live More”
We like: Busy, interesting website We don’t like: Some pictures are low quality
Here is another huge business with a lot of used car deals on its books. Using our quite specific search parameter the website found more than 81,000 cars. Motors.co.uk doesn’t own them all; it acts as an agent for dealers across the UK, although there are some private sellers in there too.
It’s an easy site to navigate around and allows you to search by make and model, by area if you are only looking for cars closer to home, or cut down to popular body styles. There’s a section highlighting all the cars that have been reduced in price – you’ll find thousands here but some have only been cut by a few hundred pounds.
There’s news and feature articles plus car evaluations and also a section showing video reviews. The helpful advice section includes tips on electric vehicles, a driving theory test, an ‘ask the experts’ section and more. There’s also a fuel calculator, car finance guide and a ‘smart search’ to find the best car match for you.
There’s a car price guide showing what individual model types are selling for, enabling you to make a decision on whether you are getting value for money on the car you’re considering, which is useful when you’re budgeting. Car details are full enough but some of the pictures are a bit unpolished.
We like: Fun and easy to use site We don’t like: Some cars show only a few pictures
From the landing page there are some nice touches straight away for buyers of cheap cars. There’s the usual Used Car search engine but additionally, a drop down section offers pointers such as ‘Cheap cars for sale’ ‘Desperate deals’, ‘Cars under £5,000’ and ‘’First cars’. It’s all very easy to use and intuitive.
The ‘Desperate Deals’ area is especially useful in this context as it contains cars that have been reduced in price by at least £2000. So if you are prepared to travel outside of your region you could find a very good bargain. On the other hand, there’s a drop-down tab which shows you the number of used cars available for sale in your county – great if you don’t want to go far to find one.
Choose a car to examine and the description comes in a big block of information. Some only have one picture available (some have none), but the details are quite comprehensive.
There’s a section called ‘Car photos’ which helps if you know the name of a car but can’t quite picture it. Listed are hundreds of shots of well-known brands and models. You’ll also find car reviews, news and interesting articles and a service that gives you a free car valuation if you’re thinking of selling – which Desperate Seller can help with, thanks to a link up with the car selling website Motorway.
This is a fun, easy to navigate site which is a must for potential customers of cheaper cars.
We like: Backed by the might of Facebook We don’t like: It’s a no frills experience
Backed by the power of the world’s most/least favourite social media company, Facebook Marketplace puts local people together to buy and sell their cars. A simple search engine allows you to state how far you are prepared to travel, the minimum and maximum prices you will pay and whether you want new, used or ‘all’ cars – in this case it’s used.
It takes a while to enter your search requirements as each section (price, location, manual/auto gearbox etc.) loads up, but a good list of private sellers’ car, motorbikes and trailers appears in the order you specified, such as low to high price.
The pictures are a little hit and miss – front shot, rear shot, interior, rear seats – but, click on a chosen car and it opens up with a little more description and the option to send a message to the seller.
It’s quite a basic way to buy a used car, but there’s a wide choice offered for your local area if you are prepared to go through them.
Gumtree
URL: gumtree.com They say:“The UK’s local motors marketplace”
We like: Simple and straightforward site We don’t like: Not the most attractive design
Gumtree is one of the UK’s largest online classified adverts sites, designed for local communities across the country. Its mission is to help people find what they need most, affordably and locally. What started as a place to find cheap furniture and equipment now includes cars.
There’s a drop down section just for ‘cars and vehicles’ on the landing page. Simply add in your postcode, minimum and maximum price (and optional keywords such as left-hand drive or 4×4), and hit the search button for thousands of adverts.
You can refine the search to most recently listed, the nearest sellers, highest price first or lowest. The listings contain a mix of private sellers and dealerships. Each show a decent section of pictures, a brief description and a fairly comprehensive list of details including performance, running costs, safety, security and interior and exterior features.
You have to be registered first but after that, there’s the facility to send the seller an email with a pre-written message or you can go in to reveal the seller’s phone number.
It’s an advertising site so there’s not much in the way of news, features or handy tips, but it’s there to do a job – help people buy and sell cars – and it does that well.
Autoweb
URL:autoweb.co.uk They say:“The home of used cars online”
We like: Lots of helpful advice We don’t like: Basic initial car details
There’s lots going on in the Autoweb sales pages. In addition to the easy-to-understand car photo and description, down the right-hand side are plenty of things to keep you occupied for a while: Cool stuff featuring ‘Top 5’ listings, Ladies Choice, Head-to-Head and other fun features.
Scroll down and you’ll find more advice, tips and fun videos and news. The site also offers a free car advert and free valuations. A good place to start is the Car Clinic section, where you’ll find useful advice to help guide you in the right direction.
Back to the car listings (it doesn’t say how many the search parameters have brought up) and they’re fairly basic to begin with. There’s only body, colour, mileage, fuel type, gearbox and engine size. It tells you whether the seller is a dealer or if it’s a ‘Public Sale’’.
Click on the car of your choice and you’ll find more pictures, and sections on vehicle specification, technical information and the seller’s contact details. Autoweb only works with trusted car dealers and promises only the highest quality stock.
CarGurus
URL:cargurus.co.uk They say: “Find a great deal… and so much more”
We like: Lots of helpful advice We don’t like: Basic initial car details
Put in your search requirements and the easy to use, clear website defaults to ‘Best deals first’. Incredibly you can choose to look for ‘’Worst deals first’ showing over-priced cars – although we’re not sure who would want to do that. More sensibly there are useful choices by price, mileage, distance to seller, and age.
Private sellers and dealers are featured and CarGurus promises to show every car’s deal rating, from ‘great’ to ‘overpriced’, along with free hard-to-find information like number of owners and accident history.
Pictures are quite good, though some are missing. There are only basic details at first but, click on a chosen car, and the page opens to reveal more detailed specifications such as colour, number of doors, fuel economy, engine size, fuel type and registration date.
If you haven’t made you’re mind up you can ask for CarGurus to email you when there are price drops of new listings, tailored to your search parameters and results.
Also on the landing page is a free are valuation tool, latest car reviews and a tips and advice section, not just on buying and selling cars but also driving test, MOT, car maintenance and general motoring interest topics.
Carshop
URL: carshop.co.uk They say: “It’s about good cars and good carma”
We like: Attractively designed site We don’t like: You can’t search for cars close to you
With 15 stores nationwide, and thousands of cars in stock, Carshop hopes to find you the motor you want. You can then collect it from your nearest store (they’ll transport the car) or even have it delivered to your home. Having the stores means you can go and see your chosen vehicle before you buy it, once you’ve paid a refundable £99 deposit.
Using the search engine brings up a good choice of cars, well pictured and with initial basic details. Click through and you’re taken to a much more detailed page giving useful information about your chosen car, including key facts such as CO2, annual tax amount, and fuel economy, plus all the usual details such as body style, colour, fuel type , transmission and MOT expiry.
The site is set up to show you monthly HP payments first and foremost, with an emphasis on finance. However you can just opt for the total amount to pay if you please. Indeed there’s a whole section on finance which gives you a free finance check and a budget calculator.
Carshop also offers MOT, service and repairs and they’ll discuss a service plan with you too, in keeping with the importance they give to finance.
Carsite
URL: carsite.co.uk They say: “Biggest collection of approved used cars in the UK”
We like: Simply designed site We don’t like: Car description presented in one big block
CarSite claims to be the UK’s largest independent website for buyers looking for new or used cars, and has a large directory of used car dealers across the UK. Using their search engine, you can find chosen models near you and then click onward to contact the listed dealer.
As you browse by car body style or, using the search parameters, it will bring up an initial list of relevant cars. You can only view the listing by value of car or distance to seller.
Clicking through to the car of your choice gives you one picture, some basic details and then a long, difficult-to-follow block of copy explaining the car’s details. It’s not as attractively put together as some of the sites.
There is, however a contact section which gives you the dealer’s phone number or allows you to email them with ready-made questions such as ‘can you email more photos’ and ‘is the price negotiable’. You can have the latest adverts, as Carsite calls them, sent direct to your inbox with email alerts.
Carsite also offers a car parts search and locate service and the kit can be delivered to your door. There’s also a neat news section showing the latest automotive gossip.
We like: Easy search set-up We don’t like: Not as much detail offered as some
Owned by Heycar, one of the major players in the used car marketplace, AutoVillage offers a number of automotive related services: sourcing used cars, new cars, lease deals, and discounted car parts. They also provide a comparison service for MOT centres across the UK showing how much each charges for the annual test.
But it’s used cars, and bargain ones too, that we’re concentrating on here. AutoVillage does business by partnering with car dealerships to obtain good quotes, big discounts and savings on used vehicles in the UK.
Go on to the Used Cars section and you can narrow your search down immediately by clicking on ‘Popular Makes’, ‘Popular Models, ‘Popular Locations or by Body Style. It’s a good place to visit for a budget car – the site lists cars with a starting price of £500. Entering our parameters of £2,000 to £10,000 produced pages and pages of relevant cars (it doesn’t tell you how many) starting with the most expensive first. There was no way to change that to cheapest first (or closest seller to you).
It starts with the basic details in a clear manner along with a good quality picture. Click on your chosen model and the page loads with more pictures of the car, some further ‘at a glance’ features, and a block of text listing the vehicle’s attributes.
The selling dealership is listed and there’s a mechanism to send an email direct to them.
This article was originally published in November 2021 and is updated regularly. Last updated January 2024.
*The Car Expert has commercial partnerships with Auto Trader and Motors. If you click through to their websites and view any of their vehicles, we may receive a small commission.
The smallest electric SUV/crossover in the Mercedes-Benz family, the Mercedes-Benz EQA is essentially an all-electric version of the GLA SUV, which is the taller and beefier brother of the A-Class.
The EQA has three different powertrain options to choose from. The entry-level EQA 250 has a 67kWh battery powering a single motor to produce 188hp, while the more expensive four-wheel drive EQA 300 and 350 variants are equipped with twin motors, producing 225hp and 288hp respectively.
Officially, the Mercedes-Benz EQA has a battery range of 265 miles, which is slightly better than the figures for the BMW iX1 and Volvo EX40 (formerly called the XC40 Recharge).
While reviewers from UK media sources have found this range impressive, they also argue that the EQA’s big battery does have some drawbacks. The size of the battery means that Mercedes-Benz has had to raise the seating position, Top Gear commenting that “while headroom is fine for adults in the back, your knees are around your ears if you’re leggy. It’s like sitting on a Squatty Potty.”
The EQA’s performance has often been described as unremarkable, and the ride comfort of the EQA has not been a very praiseworthy topic with reviewers, either.
The Mercedes-Benz EQA essentially has the same cabin trim and tech as a wholesale GLA, which has also received significant praise for its interior refinement and sophisticated on-board tech.
As a result of being based on a petrol model, Carbuyer suggests that the EQA is “destined to struggle against purpose-built rivals.” But, for serial Mercedes owners who are looking to make an all-electric switch, the Daily Mirror argues that “the EQA will slip into your life easily.”
As of July 2025, the Mercedes-Benz EQA holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, with a score of 70%. It scores top marks for its safety rating and for having zero tailpipe emissions, although its running costs are only average. However, its media review scores have been poor and we don’t yet have any long-term reliability data.
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz EQA represents quite compelling value for money. It’s an impressive package, with loads of kit, sensible and safe driving dynamics and a decent real-world range.” Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Score: 6 / 10 “It’s smooth, comfortable and prestigious but – word to the wise – unlike most electric cars Mercedes EQ models seemingly lack the facility to programme your charging times, so unless you have a timer function on your domestic wallbox you will not be able to take advantage of overnight off-peak energy tariffs.” Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The boot is more disappointing, and while the EQA does many things right, we think many fleets and drivers might be happier with the Audi Q4 E-Tron.” Read review
Car
Model reviewed: EQA 250 Sport Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz EQA in 250 guise puts forward a sensible case to join the world of EQ and EV. It lacks the flair and focus of its electric rivals, but it undercuts them.” Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Score: 7.8 / 10 “The Mercedes EQA is the brand’s baby electric SUV and one that’s destined to struggle against purpose-built rivals.” Read review
Daily Mail
Model reviewed: EQA 250 AMG Line “Although the new Mercedes-Benz EQA is described as a compact crossover, it actually feels surprisingly big and spacious and more of a sports utility vehicle, both inside and out, with a high-riding driving position and good visibility.” Read review
Daily Mirror
Score: 6 / 10 “If you’re a serial Merc owner wanting to go electric, the EQA will slip into your life easily.” Read review
Driving Electric
Model reviewed: EQA 250 Sport Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes EQA is a quiet and predictable car to drive, but it’s not much fun; rivals are more engaging.”
Read review
Green Car Guide
Model reviewed: EQA 250 AMG Line Premium Plus Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 is a good car overall, and is much, much better than the Mercedes-Benz GLA plug-in hybrid because it has a smooth electric powertrain, as opposed to the very jerky petrol-electric powertrain of the GLA Plug-in Hybrid. However, the EQA, particularly in AMG Line Premium Plus trim, is expensive and has a shorter driving range than many rivals.” (Paul Clarke) Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “It’s the first electric crossover from a premium brand, beating the Tesla Model Y to market and competing against mainstream rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia e-Niro.” Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: “The EQA has an impressive 263-mile battery range.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz EQA is smoothly predictable.” Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: EQA 250 Sport Score: 4 / 10 “While the drivetrain is refined and provides smooth and progressive performance plus a decent on-paper range, the EQA’s premium-ness falls off quickly as you move back in the cabin and it’s far from the best-looking family SUV/crossover in the market – or even in the Mercedes range.” Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: EQA 250 AMG line Score: 7 / 10 “It’s far from the most ambitious EV you can buy. Be in no doubt. But look at how the German premium giants have made their EV plays. BMW went for boldness and the i3 hasn’t sold in bulk. Audi’s e-trons and Merc’s EQs are much less radical. These are gently-does it gateway cars on the road to the electric tipping point.” Read review
Model reviewed: EQA 250 Sport Score: 6 / 10 “The EQA isn’t exactly engaging to drive or quick. Its big draw is the hugely refined and reassuring feelgood ambience.” Read review
Which EV?
Model reviewed: EQA 250 Score: 7.1 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz EQA is not the most exciting EV release. That’s not a bad thing. The EQA 250 here isn’t that fast, and there are competitors with more range for less money. However, they don’t offer the Mercedes brand and plush interior. The Mercedes EQA is not a particularly special EV, and the driving experience is mediocre, but it is a comfortable and luxurious form of electric transport.” (James Morris) Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
The Mercedes-Benz EQA is closely related to the A-Class and B-Class models, so its safety rating score is based on the B-Class score from when it was tested in 2019. Some additional tests were carried out by Euro NCAP where there were significant differences between the models.
The EQA scores well in all tests, but its adult and child impact scores are excellent – some of the best results ever seen in Euro NCAP testing.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of July 2025, the Mercedes-Benz EQA has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
The Green NCAP programme measures exhaust pollution (which is zero for an EV) and energy efficiency. Electric cars are much more energy-efficient than combustion cars, so the EQA would likely score highly in Green NCAP testing if and when it ever takes place.
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 Mercedes-Benz EQA to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using workshop and extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy, sourced from both official dealerships and independent workshops.
As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the EQA, 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
302 miles
A
255 – 346 miles
A – B
Electrical efficiency
Average
Score
Variation
Score
EV models
4.4 m/KWh
B
3.7 – 4.9 m/KWh
A – D
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
45
D
44 – 50
D – F
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£250
B
Year 2
£514
B
Year 3
£857
B
Year 4
£993
A
Year 5
£1,329
A
Overall
£3,943
A
The Mercedes-Benz EQA has affordable running costs, according to data exclusively provided by our commercial partner Clear Vehicle Data.
Electrical efficiency (the EV equivalent of miles per gallon for a petrol or diesel car) is only average, but the battery is still large enough to offer a better-than-average driving range.
Insurance premiums are high for a car of this size, but servicing and maintenance costs over the first five years should be very good.
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Mercedes-Benz EQA, you might also be interested in these alternatives
The small EV SUV segment is growing rapidly, with more new cars being added on almost a monthly basis. The EQA is quite similar to the Lexus UX or DS 3 in being based on an existing petrol model, rather than a dedicated electric model like the Kia EV3 or Volvo EX30.
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 Mercedes-Benz EQA
If you’re looking to lease a new Mercedes-Benz EQA, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal
Personal contract hire deals from Carparison Leasing. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
Subscribe to a Mercedes-Benz EQA
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?)
Volkswagen has started taking orders for the Taigo, which is the brand’s first so-called ‘coupe-SUV’ for European markets.
Already on sale in South America and a close sibling to the Volkswagen Polo supermini and T-Cross SUV, the Taigo is expected in showrooms early in 2022, set to target the likes of the Nissan Juke.
The car boasts a sharply sloping rear body though is said to offer plenty of rear-seat headroom along with comparable boot capacity to the T-Cross at 438 litres.
Volkswagen has given the Taigo an extensive list of standard equipment, with all versions getting LED lights, a digital cockpit driver’s display, wireless phone charging and park assistance with front and rear sensors.
Enhanced safety is also being highlighted on the Taigo – all versions get a range of active safety features including lane changing assistance and adaptive cruise control, as well as a fatigue monitor and central airbag.
Extra equipment on upper-specification models includes matrix LED headlamps – introduced on the Touareg in 2018 and since rolled out across the Volkswagen range, these use individually-controlled modules more precisely placing the beam to suit different driving situations. Style models also get a full-width LED bar across the front grille.
The Taigo will go on sale with a petrol-only engine line-up. The cheapest version will be the Taigo Life models – the only trim level available with a 1.0-litre 95hp three-cylinder petrol engine, costing from £21,960 with a five-speed manual transmission.
Life models with a 110hp version of the 1.0-litre engine and a six-speed manual gearbox will start at £22,770, or £24,360 with a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Style models are intended to major on luxury and start from £25,300 with the 110hp engine. A 1.5-litre 150hp unit, supplied as standard with the automatic transmission costs from £28,290.
Most expensive trim level will be the sportily-pitched R-Line, priced from £26,150 with the 110hp manual to a £29,140 automatic with the a 1.5-litre engine.
Toyota has unveiled the Aygo X, reinventing its long-standing Aygo small car as a mini SUV.
On sale in 2022, the Aygo X will reflect the major changes in consumer buying tastes, abandoning the small car that was launched as a joint project with PSA (Peugeot 108 and Citroën C1) in 2005 and which has proven highly successful over the past 16 years.
The Aygo X is a standalone Toyota design, based closely on the Prologue concept that was unveiled in March but with less radical styling. It is pitched as a small SUV with a raised ride height and 5cm higher seating position, but retaining the original Aygo ethos of affordability.
Despite the mini-SUV styling, the Aygo X is very much an on-road vehicle. Toyota saying it is designed “to meet the demands of urban and suburban life,” with a heavy emphasis on lifestyle. Targeting the likes of the Mini, the Aygo X will be offered in a ‘spice’ styling theme, four two-tone styling treatments dubbed ‘Cardamom’, ‘Chilli’, ‘Ginger’ and ‘Juniper’.
It will be front-wheel-drive only, powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with either manual or CVT automatic transmission. Economy figures are yet to be confirmed but Toyota is targeting 60mpg and 109g/km of CO2 emissions on manual versions.
The car is larger than its predecessor – 12cm and 24cm longer with a 9cm longer wheelbase, which frees up more interior room and adds more than 60 litres to the boot space. Despite the expansion, Toyota exists the car is “designed for the narrowest city streets”, pointing out the 9.4-metre turning circle which it claims to be one of the tightest in the class.
The cabin will see a major update over the previous Aygo, dominated by a large infotainment touchscreen in a logenge-shaped centre console panel.
There are styling nods to the original Aygo – while 5cm higher, the body dimensions follow the basic shape of the original car, while the back retains the vertical light clusters and a one-piece glass tailgate. A roll-back canvas roof will also be available for the Aygo X.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an all-new version of its SL roadster, designed and developed by its AMG performance subsidiary.
Development of the new SL was assigned to AMG as the parent company concentrates its resources on developing a new range of electric vehicles to ultimately replace its core passenger car line.
This also created the opportunity for Mercedes to reinvent the SL with a more sporting focus and the adoption of all-wheel-drive for the first time. The company claims that the car is going back to its roots, recalling the famous first-generation 300SL of the 1950s.
Best remembered for the gullwing coupé version, the 300SL was hugely successful on the world’s race circuits, and in roadster form was also a desirable road car. Subsequent generations quickly traded performance for comfort, and by the 1970s the SL had become a heavyweight cruiser.
In line with its sportier new focus, the latest SL is built on a new and lightweight aluminium platform, while the body shell is a composite mix of aluminium, steel, magnesium and carbon fibre. Mercedes says the new shell is 18% more torsionally rigid than the previous model.
The new car has also ditched the complex and weighty folding hard-top roof of the last two generations, returning to a traditional fabric soft top. This saves 21kg over previous hard tops and lowers the car’s centre of gravity, as well as being faster to open and close.
However, despite all of the performance-based changes, it will still be perfectly comfortable and relatively practical for everyday use, as Mercedes isn’t going to completely abandon its traditional SL customer base of the last 40 years.
As with most models since the 1970s, the new SL is offered as a 2+2 roadster, with two very small rear seats. As usual for this sort of vehicle, they are likely to be best used for extra storage space rather than actual passengers.
Mercedes-AMG models lead the rollout
Dubbed the Mercedes-AMG SL, there are two versions of the car at launch – the SL 55 and SL 63. It’s not clear whether regular ‘Mercedes-Benz’ models will follow in coming months.
Both launch versions of the car use a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine with a choice of power outputs, either 476hp in the SL 55 model or 585hp in the SL 63. Both are matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission and, for the first time in an SL model, both are all-wheel drive rather than rear-wheel drive.
Mercedes says that a hybrid powertrain is under development for the SL and will offer the performance credentials of the existing engines.
The SL becomes the first Mercedes-AMG model to be fitted with a multi-link front axle, in similar format to the rear axle, while the more powerful SL 63 debuts a new computer-control active suspension system.
Also new to the car is rear-wheel steering – fitted as standard, the rear wheels angle slightly in the same direction as the fronts or in the opposite direction, depending on the speed of the car, to sharpen the handling response.
The new SL will go on UK sale early in 2022 – prices are yet to be announced but industry observers suggest they will be similar to the Mercedes-AMG GT roadster, which costs from just under £120,000.
Last hurrah for the Mercedes convertible?
The all-new SL arrives at a time when Mercedes-Benz is rationalising its convertible range, with most models facing an uncertain future as the company steers all its efforts into electric cars and yet more SUVs.
The smaller SLC (originally called the SLK) ended production last year after three generations and will not be replaced. This model traced its history back to the late 1990s and was the original folding hard-top convertible.
The S-Class and C-Class cabriolet models also completed their production cycles this year as part of the outgoing S-Class and C-Class families. There are not likely to be new coupé and cabriolet versions of the latest S-Class, while the future of the C-Class versions is not yet clear.
The Mercedes-AMG GT is still offered in a soft top, although this model is now in its twilight years and it is currently unknown whether the company intends to replace it. Any future version will almost certainly share its platform with this new SL.
Mercedes still offers the E-Class cabriolet, which is midway through its production cycle and expected to stick around for another three years or so. Beyond that, who knows?
Electric cars have continued to defy the production chaos that continues to plague the car industry, according to October’s new car registration figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Private new car sales were down a very modest 3% on October, compared to the same month last year. But fleet registrations were down by more than 40%, meaning that the overall market was down by about 25% year-on-year.
As has been the case, car manufacturers have been struggling to supply new cars due to ongoing shortage of semiconductor chips that help power almost every aspect of a modern car. It’s a problem that has affected the industry for most of this year, and will certainly last well into next year.
The combination of a relatively stable private segment, a very poor fleet segment and severe supply issues also means that the top ten and overall manufacturer results are quite mixed up once again.
An electric atmosphere
Nearly half of all new cars registered in October (48%) had some form of electrification. Just over 16% of that was from mild hybrids, where a small electric motor boost a petrol or diesel engine but can’t run the car on its own. Fully-electric cars had another stellar month, making up more than 15% of all new car registrations for the second month in a row, while plug-in hybrids and regular hybrids (that can’t be plugged in but can run for short distances on electrical power alone) both took about 8% of the market each.
Unsurpisingly, diesel had another terrible month – although, for the first time in a while, it wasn’t yet another “worst month ever”. Pretty close, though…
Good month, bad month
It was yet another disastrous month (by its normal lofty standards) for Ford. Traditionally the UK’s biggest new car brand, the Blue Oval was only sixth in overall sales behind Volkswagen, BMW, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.
Last month’s biggest-selling brand, Toyota, fell back to a more normal ninth place. Overall, it was yet another topsy-turvy month, with each manufacturer’s performance largely dependent on how many cars it had available to sell. Against an overall market that was down 25%, there was a lot of variation.
The Volkswagen Polo topped the sales charts in October, just edging out the Mini hatch, while the new Nissan Qashqai completed the top three. From there, it was a bit of a jumble once again.
The Ford Focus appeared for the first time in months, and was the only Ford in the top ten. It was another miserable month for the Ford Fiesta, which appears to have claimed only 539 registrations in October – by comparison, Volkswagen registered six times as many Polos.
This all means that the Vauxhall Corsa is now a nailed-on certainty to finish 2021 as the UK’s best-selling car, even if Vauxhall closed all its showrooms right now. The Fiesta, which has ruled the roost for the last 12 years, has slumped to fifth and looks to be at risk of being overtaken by its SUV sibling, the Ford Puma, and could fall even further if the Nissan Qashqai continues to sell up a storm.
As usual, we’ll have our full analysis of the top ten in the next few days.
The Hyundai Bayon is the smallest SUV/crossover in the Hyundai range, which is essentially a taller and boxier version of the Hyundai i20hatchback.
While the Bayon’s bigger brother, the Kona, has a wide variety of powertrain options to choose from – including the Kona Electric and Kona N performance model – the Bayon has only two 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines to choose from, either 99hp or 120hp; both being fitted with mild-hybrid assistance. The Hyundai Bayon is available with either a six-speed manual or a seven speed automatic.
The Bayon has received a mixed bag of reviews from the UK media, ranging from very good to fairly average ratings. Auto Express concludes that the Bayon is “bang on target” for what a compact SUV should be, explaining that “It nails its brief of being practical, it’s well equipped, packed with features, comfortable and easy to drive.”
Top Gear add that it would fit into everyday life with ease, but sum up their review by commenting that the Hyundai Bayon “manages to be pretty good at everything without being exceptional at anything.”
Carbuyer come to a similar conclusion, explaining that the Bayon does not have any defining features that help it stand out it what is already a very competitive compact SUV/crossover market, and therefore it faces “an uphill struggle against rivals like the Ford Puma and Renault Captur.”
As of March 2026, the Hyundai Bayon holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 65%. It scores highly for its low running costs and CO2 emissions, while its safety rating is also good – especially for a small car. The score is dragged down somewhat by poor media reviews, and we don’t yet ave reliability data, but the Bayon should be a very affordable car to own.
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The new Hyundai Bayon feels like a small SUV that’s bang on target. It nails its brief of being practical, it’s well equipped, packed with features, comfortable and easy to drive – it even arrives with value on its side. All this while making a splash with those looks.” Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The Hyundai Bayon is a stylish compact crossover with a generous specification but faces an uphill struggle against rivals like the Ford Puma and Renault Captur.” Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “Looking at the Bayon from a purely rational viewpoint, it makes a lot of sense. The 48v enhanced engines are refined and pull well from low revs, while the ride is comfortable. It’s also more spacious inside than many rivals and benefits from Hyundai’s five-year warranty. Sensible stuff.” Read review
Car Keys
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Bayon is an honest car. It’s practical and affordable, as well as loaded with kit and surprisingly spacious. Though it might not be the most involving car to drive, it never makes any pretences about needing to offer this.” Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Hyundai Bayon is a stylish and feature-laden addition to the small SUV market.” Read review
Company Car Today
Model reviewed: Range overview “Sensible and mainstream addition to Hyundai’s line-up that doesn’t do anything new but fills a gap in an important segment of the market.” Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The Hyundai Bayon is a no-nonsense small SUV. It’s not the flashiest, sportiest or even the most spacious crossover on the market, but it does represent impressive value for money. It’ll be cheap to run, too, thanks to its frugal engine.” Author: Al Suttie Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview “A cheaper alternative to the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Ford Puma. Expected to start in the region of £20,000.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “Hyundai’s latest SUV is packed with tech and is a comfortable steer.” Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: Range overview “Hyundai Bayon Ultimate is OK to drive but the interior lets it down.” Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol manual Ultimate Score: 8 / 10 “Simple, capacious and reasonably economical, the Hyundai Bayon is a B-segment crossover with the accommodation of a C-segment car. Considering the equipment levels, the price is pretty good and for simple value for money with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, the Bayon gets the job done.” Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “Manages to be pretty good at everything without being exceptional at anything, but it’ll be a doddle to live with.” Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
Clean Air Index: 3.4 / 10 Energy Efficiency Index: 5.4 / 10 Greenhouse Gas Index: 4.1 / 10
Green NCAP tested the emissions of the Hyundai Bayon in Summer 2022, awarding the car a two-and-a-half star rating. These scores apply only to the mild-hybrid versions of the Bayon, not the petrol-only variants.
Addressing this mild-hybrid system, Green NCAP commented that it “is not enough to balance out the problems of the three-cylinder (petrol) engine”, and that “in all tests it produced particles that are close to exceeding the limits at which positive points are scored.”
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of March 2026, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Hyundai Bayon to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using workshop and extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy, sourced from both official dealerships and independent workshops.
As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the Bayon, 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
Petrol models
51 mpg
C
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Petrol models
125 g/km
B
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
16
A
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£172
B
Year 2
£468
B
Year 3
£755
B
Year 4
£947
B
Year 5
£1,240
A
Overall
£3,582
B
The Hyundai Bayon 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.
Servicing and insurance bills should be very competitive, while fuel consumption is also very good for day-to-day driving.
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Hyundai Bayon, you might also be interested in these alternatives
Volkswagen has revealed the ID.5 as the third member of the brand’s latest generation electric family, alongside the ID.3 hatchback and ID.4 crossover.
To all intents and purposes, the ID.5 is a liftback version of the ID.4 and is expected to go on sale early in 2022. It will be available in both a standard single-motor version with power outputs of 175 or 205hp, and a performance-pitched GTX model with motors on both axles totalling 300hp.
All versions employ a 77kWh battery, which unsurprisingly provides almost identical driving range to the equivalent ID.4 models. Volkswagen quotes a potential 323 miles between charges on entry-level models, dropping to 304 miles in the GTX.
Volkswagen is also introducing a new ‘Vehicle Dynamics Manager’ which technical head Thomas Ulbrich describes as a “groundbreaking development.” It works with all the main control electronics, networking together the all-wheel-drive, traction control and safety systems.
Volkswagen ID.5
Volkswagen ID.4
To all intents and purposes, the ID.5 is a slightly sleeker version of the ID.4.
Inside, the ID.5 cabin will be virtually identical to that of the ID.4, though an updated infotainment system includes new generation 3.0 software – this is said to improve charging performance, offer a better voice control feature and access to online updates over the air.
Connected services are also included to provide the driver with real-time traffic updates, map updates and other information. Options available include a head-up display.
The safety performance has also been updated through the addition of a communication system dubbed Car2X. It gathers data from compatible Volkswagen cars and infrastructure in a range of 800 metres, to alert the driver to such problems as stationary traffic, accidents and other dangers.
Volkswagen is yet to reveal prices for the ID.5 though it is thought it will start from around £47,000, pitching it against such rivals as the recently-launched Kia EV6 and the Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback.
Audi has carried out a minor facelift to its A8 large saloon, with subtle styling changes and more technology.
The visual changes are very much detailing, the shape of the grille made wider with more chrome added and the air intakes and headlamps modified to make the car’s front end look more purposeful.
Audi is also offering new exterior styling options for the car – the S line exterior package, offered for the first time on the car, adds extra blades to the air intakes in similar fashion to the S8 performance model. New exterior colours available include a shade dubbed Metallic District Green.
The major upgrade to the A8 sees new Digital Matrix LED headlights available. The system uses around 1.3 million micro mirrors in each lamp, which split the light into individual pixels and allow highly precise adjustment of the beams.
The new headlamps are described as emitting a ‘carpet of light’, especially in the driver’s lane where the beam is said to be comparable to a video projector.
Digital OLED (organic light-emitting diode) lights are now standard on the back of the car and include a proximity sensor, illuminating automatically if another vehicle comes within two metres of a stationary A8.
Additions to the interior, adding to the car’s executive travel credentials, see a pair of ten-inch infotainment screens mounted in front of the rear seats – a touchscreen remote in the centre armrest controls them.
Audi has also tidied up the safety options into three packages dubbed ‘Park’, ‘City’ and ‘Tour’ and encompassing 40 different driver-assist systems.
The A8 is available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, with 3.0-litre V6 petrol or diesel engines offering 340 and 286hp respectively, a 3.0-litre plug-in hybrid with 462hp or with a 4.0-litre bi-turbo petrol V8 in the S8 performance model, producing 571hp and a 3.8-second 0-62mph time.
UK sales of the revised A8 commence in December, with prices starting from £73,375.
Grocery giant Tesco is showing the way in installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points at its supermarkets, according to new data released this week.
The study by EV mapping service Zap-Map and the RAC shows that almost 1,000 new EV charging points have been installed in supermarket car parks since January 2020, boosting the total available at these outlets from 1,112 to 2,059.
Of all the UK’s 26,000 publicly accessible EV charging points, 8% are now sited at supermarkets – 1,300 locations in total, compared to 607 at the start of last year.
Tesco appears to be leading the charge to electric – it has installed 641 chargers over the last 23 months, boosting the total available at its stores to 922 – some 678 more than its nearest rival Asda, which has a total of 246 charging points.
However, while 514 Tesco outlets now offer EV charging – 372 more than in January 2020 – this is still only 13% of the brand’s 4,008 stores throughout the UK.
Leading the way in percentage terms is Morrisons – having added chargers to another 112 of its 497 stores since January 2020, it can now offer such facilities at 40% of its network. Rival Lidl has installed EV chargers at 141 locations, taking its total to 203, a quarter of its store network.
Morrisons also leads the way with rapid chargers – it now has 197, compared to 150 at Lidl stores and just 64 at Tesco outlets. Plugged into a rapid charger most EV batteries will be replenished to around 80% capacity in less than 45 minutes, around the time many people take to complete their weekly supermarket shop.
According to the data Tesco, Morrisons and Lidl are the only supermarket retailers who have so far made significant investment in chargers – other brands including Waitrose, Aldi and even Sainsbury’s, the second-biggest retailer on the UK market with more than 1,400 stores, are showing little interest in attracting EV drivers.
Reacting to the findings, RAC director of EVs Sarah Winward-Kotecha emphasised the importance of charging facilities being available at supermarkets which most consumers use at least weekly.
“While the majority of drivers going electric will be fortunate enough to be able to charge easily on their driveways at home, for the remainder it won’t be so easy so having access to free, or affordable, charging facilities at supermarkets is very important, and could even help accelerate EV take-up in the first place,” Winward-Kotecha said.
First quarterly report from our pioneering new Expert Rating Index
Rapid growth in the number of new electric cars to choose from
Electric cars achieving higher Expert Rating scores from reviewers
London, 3 November 2021:Today, The Car Expert has published the first quarterly report from its pioneering new Expert Rating Index, which tracks all of the most popular new cars on sale and ranks them according to media reviews from across the UK.
This first report comes at a critical point for a revolution in the global car industry. Adoption of electric cars in the UK is accelerating, and we are now at an inflection point of electric vehicles (EVs) making the jump from niche to mainstream. Like it or not, the electric revolution is gathering pace and there’s no turning back now.
This is no kneejerk reaction to recent fuel shortages and increasing pump prices – although these factors, plus the enormous media attention of the COP26 climate conference currently taking place in Glasgow, have certainly heightened awareness of electric cars as a viable option for most households.
Consumer demand has been steadily building over the last 18 months, matched by a rapidly increasing number of new EVs being offered by car manufacturers. With many more new models set to arrive in 2022, the pace of the UK’s motoring electrification will continue to accelerate.
But it’s not just sales where EVs are taking off. The latest generation of electric cars is a big step forward over earlier models, and our Expert Ratings show that new EVs are consistently getting better review scores than their petrol and diesel equivalents from the motoring media.
There are still challenges to overcome to make electric vehicles a genuinely preferred option for all customers, but we’re now past the point of questioning whether electric cars are really the future. In September (one of the two big months of the year for new car sales), EVs took more than 15% of the market and outsold diesel cars, and the rate of growth is only accelerating.
The UK has set a deadline of 2030 to end sales of new petrol and diesel cars, but the reality is that the majority of new cars will be electric long before then. Several car manufacturers have already announced dates for becoming EV-only well before 2030, so we will even see sweeping changes to the new car marketplace by 2025.
We will be tracking the growth of electric cars, as well as every aspect of the new car market, in our quarterly reports. As always, our goal is to bring you the best information and advice on what’s really happening in the car industry so you can make the best decisions for your motoring needs.
Click here or on the image below to open the Expert Rating Index report. Full data tables are available on request.
A new industry report produced by our teamat The Car Expert finds that, on average, electric cars are receiving better reviews from the UK media that their petrol and diesel equivalents.
The Car Expert’s unique Expert Rating Index compiles and aggregates new car reviews from 25 of the top UK motoring sites to give each car a percentage rating, with nearly 9,000 reviews analysed to date across 315 cars.
Our Autumn 2021 Expert Rating Index report finds that the average rating across all cars in the index is 67%, while the average rating across all the electric vehicles indexed to date is 71%.
It may come as a surprise for many people to know that there are more than 40 different electric cars currently on sale in the UK, with a lot more arriving over the next 12 months. But it may be equally surprising to find that electric vehicles tend to achieve better review scores than conventional petrol or diesel cars.
A number of critically acclaimed EVs have arrived on UK roads in recent months, such as the Skoda Enyaq, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Audi Q4 e-tron, and this could go some way to explaining why electric vehicles are generally faring better in our Expert Rating Index.
These latest-generation models are dedicated EVs, rather than existing petrol or diesel cars that have been modified to take an electric motor (like the Mini Electric, BMW iX3 or Smart EQ Fortwo). That means there are fewer compromises when it comes to incorporating a large battery pack and electric motor that are completely different in size and shape to an internal combustion motor, fuel tanks and exhaust system.
With an impressive Expert Rating of 85%, the Skoda Enyaq iV is currently joint-top of the indexed cars in the Medium SUV class
More affordable EV options
The report also highlights that an increasing number of smaller and lower-priced electric cars are entering the marketplace to meet the UK’s increasing demand for electrified motoring.
When it comes to large vehicles, plug-in hybrids are taking the lead over pure EVs when it comes to electrification. The majority of large SUVs are now available with a plug-in hybrid option, although there are still very few dedicated EVs available.
“As we approach winter, the EV revolution is really starting to snowball,” explains The Car Expert editorial director Stuart Masson.
“With every new electric model that arrives, the quality is getting better. Most of the new EVs being launched have a battery range that exceeds the crucial 200-mile benchmark making them entirely viable for the vast majority of UK households.”
A whole host of new EVs will be added to the Expert Rating Index by the end of the year, such as the BMW iX, Kia EV6, Mercedes-Benz EQS, and Tesla Model Y, and the impact of these will be displayed in our next quarterly report, due to be published in January.
Tracking the decline of diesel
The report also highlights the disappearance of new diesel cars from UK car showrooms. This is most clearly seen in small cars, while diesel is still a common choice for buyers of large cars and large SUVs. These categories are currently the slowest adopters of EVs, but this will start to accelerate over the next year as well.
The Kia EV6 is a very recent arrival to UK roads, and will join its EV rivals in the Expert Ratings Index in the coming weeks
Are you getting ready for an EV? Thousands of motorists have either gone electric already or are considering converting thanks to the benefits available. For everything to run smoothly, however, you’re going to need an app or two…
As we’ve said before at The Car Expert, there’s no stopping the charge of the electric vehicle (EV). A combination of government policy on fossil-fuel vehicles in the future, huge leaps in EV technology from car makers and an increasing desire for a cleaner environment have all combined to accelerate the march of the plug-in car.
There are more than 600,000 electrified cars on the UK’s roads, half of them pure electric, battery-powered vehicles and the others hybrids, sharing the power duties between a petrol (or diesel) engine and an electric motor.
And manufacturers and specialist vehicle providers say the swing towards electric vehicles shows no sign of stopping. Salary sacrifice experts Tusker say that in 2019, just 13% of its salary sacrifice vehicles were EVs, while two years later that figure has climbed to 73%.
And as each month and year goes by, those figures will soar as we head towards the planned ban on the production of fossil-fuel vehicles by 2030.
Many motorists have actively embraced the technology and are already (not) smoking around in a plug-in vehicle, while most people who are currently driving a fossil-fuelled vehicle are likely to me making the jump with their next new car.
With that demand for EVs comes another need – the one for mobile apps that help owners with the running, maintaining and charging of their car. Most EV owners will have at least the use of the car manufacturer’s app that allows them to communicate with their new car, plus one from an energy supplier. So what is available and how do they work?
1. Manufacturer app
Many new cars – electric, hybrid or fossil-fuel – now come with an app to download on to your smartphone and then use to control aspects and features of the vehicle.
They allow you to do things such as lock and unlock the doors or boot remotely, switch on the climate control or heated seats before you enter the car, and check for service information, fuel levels or charging range, and software updates.
You can even use the app to locate your car if you can’t remember exactly where you parked it!
2. Charging provider app
In addition to what the car can provide you with its app, the owner of an EV will also need a charging provider app, or two (well, several, actually).
Many of these are supplied by traditional names from the oil-based fuel industry, such as BP (called BP Pulse), and Shell (Recharge) along with car maker joint ventures such as Ionity (VW, BMW, Ford, Hyundai and Mercedes), plus the solo effort from the best-known EV manufacturer, Tesla.
These apps will show you when your car is charging, how much electricity is going in, what it’s costing and how long before the car is sufficiently charged for your onward journey. You can also turn the charger on and off using the app and it will help you to track your energy spending.
Many of the charging provider apps will show when the charge points are in use, how much their members can save by signing up with them, or the status of the points if they happen to be out of use. While downloading several apps might seem a little annoying, there are benefits to having the information at your finger tips.
3. Charge point search app
Even if you have a home charging point, there is only so far that you can go before you need to recharge your electric car, and there are several mobile apps that can help you do this.
The best know is probably Zap-Map, which claims to have 95% of the UK’s public charging points listed on its mapping, as well as others like Pod Point and Ecotricity. They will all help you plan your journey and organise payment along the way.
Traditional street map and navigation apps such as Google Maps and TomTom can also help you to find charging stations while on your travels. Tesla’s navigation system will plot into the route charging points from its own network of stations, and add those stops into the total journey time.
Home from home
If you’re serious about owning an EV, it’s worth considering installing a home charging point, and many suppliers will offer incentives to help you install one, in return for you signing up to their network and downloading their app. BP Pulse, for example, does this in return for a subsidy on the cost of the home charging equipment.
The electricity supplied for your car is still coming from your home electricity supplier when you’re charging there, but the benefit for a provider like BP Pulse is, of course, that it points you towards the supplier’s own charging stations when you’re out and about.
The charging provider apps give you the ability to programme your charger, so you can set it to charge your car overnight when your electricity might be cheapest, thereby saving you money on charging during peak hours.
Some car manufacturers are linking up with electric charging point suppliers in a similar manner and more of these tie-ins are expected in the coming years.
It won’t suit everyone – such as people without off-road parking – but, if there is the facility to install and use a home charger, for most people this will make running an electric car completely viable.
Even if you can’t power up at home there are many ways to get charged locally. More staff are finding their workplaces fitted with charge points while increasing numbers of supermarkets are getting fitted out for EVs, along with hotels, restaurants, gyms, cinemas and shopping centres. Many of these free to use, as an incentive for EV customers to frequent these businesses.
According to Tusker, there are more than 16,000 charging locations across the UK with a total number of 26,000 charging devices available.
Range anxiety banished
Tusker said earlier this year that the vast majority of households only do about 100 miles a week in their car and will do a journey of above 100 miles just once a month. As most EVs can now easily achieve this range on one charge – and most do considerably more – there should not be any concerns about vehicle range on a week-to-week basis.
Motorists who don’t charge at home can sign up for a supplier subscription, which gives discounts on electricity usage, but you can always choose to charge ad hoc if it suits you. Some EV owners who only drive short distances locally, and whose car is capable of 100-150 miles on a single charge, can find this is a suitable way to run their car.
It’s usually a more expensive way to charge an EV and be aware that not all charging points work successfully with contactless cards if you decide to ‘Pay As You Go’ so it may be necessary to charge via the app on your phone.
So, whatever brand and model of EV you are planning to run, with the right app in place from a wide choice available, you’ll get the most from your car.
‘Coupe-style’ SUVs are popular among upmarket brands, but the Renault Arkana was one of only a few of these sleeker crossovers made by mainstream manufacturers.
Launched in 2019 and sold in the UK until the summer of 2025, the Arkana wasbased on the French brand’s Captur SUV, but with a lower and more raked roofline, with additional length also offering more legroom for rear passengers.
The Arkana was available with two electrified petrol engines. You could choose from either a petrol/electric hybrid unit, combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors to give 145hp, or a petrol engine (with mild hybrid assistance) that provided a boost to a 140hp petrol engine but couldn’t drive under electrical power alone.
The Renault Arkana received a rather mixed set of reviews from the UK media, reviewers generally coming to the conclusion that the Arkana may have been a capable machine but that there were better alternatives, even within the Renault SUV range.
Auto Express explained, “The Arkana misses the mark when you consider that a smaller SUV like the Captur is better value, while the larger Renault Kadjar is more comfortable.”
Carbuyer found issues with both the ride comfort and engine performance, concluding that, “With a firm ride and slightly dull powertrains, the Arkana isn’t as appealing for drivers as it first looks”, although the reviewer admitted that the Arkana’s “fuel efficiency and practicality are more impressive.”
The Renault Arkana did receive praise for its decent value for money, its smart infotainment system, and its spacious interior and large boot, but it was clear to see that the coupe-SUV failed to win over the majority of UK media outlets, Top Gear wrapping up their review by declaring “there’s absolutely nothing here that pegs it as a must-buy.”
As of December 2025, the Renault Arkana holds a Used Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 65%. It gets good grades for its low CO2 emissions, running costs and safety rating. Motoring journalists clearly don’t like it, with very poor average review scores, and Renault’s new car warranty offering is poor compared to many rivals.
Body style: Small SUV/crossover Engines: petrol hybrid, petrol mild-hybrid Price when new: From £26,795 on-road
Launched: Summer 2021 Last updated: N/A Discontinued: Spring 2025
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 Renault Arkana succeeds in offering the trendy coupe-SUV look without a premium price tag or compromising on practicality too much. The Arkana misses the mark in several key areas, however, with both the interior design and driving experience failing to impress us.”
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid Esprit Alpine (facelift) Score: 6 / 10 “For those looking to make a statement without breaking the bank, the Renault Arkana offers the trendy coupe-SUV look with a lower list price than some of its similarly stylish rivals. However, the interior is underwhelming by comparison, and it fails to impress on the road – helped in no part by the underpowered and frustratingly easily flummoxed hybrid powertrain.” Author: Ellis Hyde Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7 / 10 “The Renault Arkana is a stylish, coupe-inspired twist on the crossover norm with style aplenty and a choice of hybrid engines.” Read review
Business Car
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid RS Line Score: 7 / 10 “The Arkana is a pleasant enough place to while away the miles, although given the E-Tech powertrain’s foibles, the lower-powered and cheaper 140TCe version may turn out to be the sweeter driving model.” Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 6 / 10 “For the here and now, this is a smart, practical, enjoyable and decent-value new car.” Read review
Driving Electric
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid RS Line Score: 7 / 10 “Renault’s full-hybrid coupe-SUV may not have the performance to match its sporty styling, but it’s well equipped and has fuel economy to rival the best diesels.” Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 5 / 10 “The Renault Arkana isn’t entirely style over substance. The hybrid model is rather efficient, while it’s more spacious inside than alternatives like the Toyota C-HR. It’s just a shame it feels out of its depth on the motorway, while list prices are surprisingly expensive.” Author: Andrew Brady Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Range overview “A stylish alternative to Renault Kadjar. Very efficient with a long warranty. However, it has a firm ride, and the hybrid engine is a bit slow.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 7.6 / 10 “A well-priced and good-to-drive coupe-SUV crossover.” Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: Range overview “The Arkana steers fairly keenly, brakes progressively and has a decently supple ride too. So it’s a pleasant enough drive in town or country.” Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid RS Line Score: 6 / 10 “The Arkana isn’t Renault’s finest design work in the sector, but it drives reasonably and the hybrid system, while different from anything else, is quite fun and economical. You’re not going to love it, but in its way this car is quite likeable.” Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: 1.3-litre petrol mild hybrid Score: 6 / 10 “There’s absolutely nothing here that pegs it as a must-buy – this hybrid set-up makes for a good stop-gap solution, and if the styling really tickles your pickle make sure and take one out for a test drive before you sign on the dotted line.” Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
The Renault Arkana is structurally very similar to its sibling, the Captur SUV which was tested by Euro NCAP on its launch in 2019, and so both cars share the same five-star rating. The testers praised the car in all areas, including the standard-fit autonomous emergency braking which includes pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of December 2025, the Renault Arkana has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption
Average
Score
Petrol models
48 mpg
C
Hybrid models
59 mpg
B
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Petrol models
131 g/km
B
Hybrid models
107 g/km
A
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
16
A
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£211
B
Year 2
£628
C
Year 3
£975
C
Year 4
£1,172
C
Year 5
£1,534
C
Overall
£4,520
C
The running costs for the Renault Arkana are generally very good, according to data exclusively provided by our commercial partner Clear Vehicle Data.
The fuel economy of the now-discontinued petrol mild-hybrid model is rather average when compared to the rest of the market, while the hybrid is markedly more efficient. Insurance costs are low, as are service and maintenance costs over five years of ownership.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
No reliability rating
As of December 2025, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Renault Arkana to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using workshop and extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy, sourced from both official dealerships and independent workshops.
As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the Arkana, we’ll publish the results here.
Warranty rating
New car warranty information for the Renault Arkana
Overall rating
D
28%
Petrol or diesel models
E
15%
Electric or hybrid models
C
50%
New car warranty duration
3 years
New car warranty mileage
60,000 miles
Battery warranty duration
8 years
Battery warranty mileage
100,000 miles
The Renault Arkana was discontinued in Spring 2025, so only used cars will now be available – although some will obviously still be near-new.
Renault’s new car warranty is pretty much the bare minimum, and falls short of many rivals. The duration is three years with a limit of 60,000 miles, while some other brands offer up to seven years.
In addition to the standard new car warranty, the Arkana hybrid models have an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.
Warranty on a used Renault Arkana
If you are buying an ‘Approved Used’ Renault Arkana from an official Renault dealership, you will get a minimum 12-month warranty included.
If you are buying a used Renault Arkana from an independent dealership, any warranty offered will vary and will probably be managed by a third-party warranty company.
If you are buying a used Renault Arkana from a private seller, there are no warranty protections beyond any remaining portion of the original new car warranty.
If you’re looking to buy any used car that is approaching the end of its warranty period, a used car warranty is usually a worthwhile investment. Check out The Car Expert’s guide to the best used car warranty providers, which will probably be cheaper than a warranty sold by a dealer.
Date: February 2022 Recall number: R/2022/045 Model types: All Build dates: 10/2019 to 11/2021 Number of vehicles affected: 1,562 Defect: Overheating of an internal component in the electric power steering. Remedy: Recalibration of the electronic power steering calculator, limiting the overheating at the end lock.
As of September 2024 (our most recent data point), there has been one DVSA vehicle safety recall on the Renault Arkana. However, recall information is updated very regularly, so this may have changed.
Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Renault dealer.
If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used Captur, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.
A fixed price service plan to pay for future maintenance is becoming one of the most popular extras pushed enthusiastically towards car buyers, much like service plans for new boilers.
The concept is simple. Starting before the first service and running for two or three years, you either pay a lump sum or monthly interest-free instalments. Car makers promote convenience, peace of mind, a discount on paying at the time and protection against rises in oil and labour costs during the time of the plan.
Depending on the plan or the provider, you may be tied into a particular garage for servicing, or you may be able to use any franchised service centre from that manufacturer.
If you’re running a new or near-new car for the usual three years of a standard warranty period (or a PCP agrement), most people prefer to go back to the dealership they bought it from – or one of the same brand elsewhere – once every year for a service and check. The pros and cons if having the same car serviced by an independent garage are covered here.
People really do seem to like service plans. Cheshire-based firm EMaC administers new and used car service plans for 16 manufacturers including Vauxhall, BMW and JaguarLand Rover, plus most large UK dealer groups and some non-dealer service suppliers such as Halfords. It’s currently running 2.2 million live contracts and a further half a million are sold each year. It provides and runs the software tailored for each client, deals with the customer paperwork and provides call centre support from around 100 staff.
For the dealer/manufacturer, the appeal of service plans is fixed future service revenue and retaining customers who may have shopped around for the next service. They are guaranteed to see you once a year and, with any luck, tempt you with another car at some point. Customers use the plans as a budgeting tool in the way that they pay monthly by direct debit for many other things and won’t get hit with a large bill.
“It’s important for customers to ask whether the plan requires them to go back to the dealer they bought the car from – which may not be local – or whether it’s a national plan.” Says Liam Finney, director of commercial partnerships at EMaC.
A like-for-like comparison of new car service plan prices isn’t useful because the parts and labour rates differ by manufacturer and the model of car. It’s also difficult for internet shoppers as while some carmakers publish an upfront price on their main websites, others ask you to supply details of your specific car and mileage for an individual quote. However, you can divide them into two types: freestanding and attached to finance.
What sort of money are we talking?
Let’s take a few examples. Until 31 December 2021 a Ford Protect two year/20,000-mile service plan is available from £15.42 per month with a new Ford Focus (Excluding the performance Focus ST). Promoted as being at 0% APR, 24 monthly payments of £15.42 come to £365. The same service package is available for Focus & Kuga (excluding ST models) for a lump sum of £370.
Renault is offering three years and 30,000 miles for £499 or monthly payments of £9.99. Dacia, owned by Renault, is offering £399 for any model for the same time and mileage and £9.99. You may have worked out that in both cases you add up the monthly option you get £359, so you make a saving. However, the £9.99 per month is for customers who finance their vehicle with Renault/Dacia Finance (RCI) it’s an offer that can only be applied for at point of signing the agreement and cannot be added retrospectively.
Until the end of 2021, a £599 three-year Easy Care service plan is being discounted to £299 on new Fiat 500X models. This too is conditional on taking out the associated PCP finance deal.
We’re largely talking about petrol, diesel and hybrid cars here as they still make up the bulk of sales. Electric cars are easier and cheaper to service because there is no oil to change, drive belts to replace or antifreeze to top up and come with their own service plans. To return to Renault for an upfront cost example, a three year/30,000-mile plan for a Zoe is £299 rather than £399, and £4.99 a month (£179).
Will it save me money?
Overall, yes if you assume prices are going to go up and the savings/discounts are clear based on individual standard service costs published at the time you take the plan out. There are still differences in the hourly labour rates charged in different parts of the UK. They can be higher within the London area surrounded by the M25. Service plans even that differential out with the same upfront cost for all. For example, a BMW will cost the same to service in Mayfair as it does in Inverness.
However, service plans are primarily about convenience and avoiding a surprise big bill. Don’t let a plan be a deal-breaker, see it more as a nice add-on. If you’re bold, ask for it to be thrown in for free. The amount you pay to service a mainstream new car over three years is tiny compared to the unseen thousands it will lose in depreciation or the interest payments on a PCP.
Are service plans credit agreements?
Service plans are NOT credit agreements, so not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). You won’t be asked to undergo a credit check and you can cancel a plan and get a refund of unspent money at any point. If sold alongside a PCP the service plan direct debit will run separately, not be rolled in.
What is and isn’t included?
On a fixed service schedule (usually published on manufacturer websites) certain parts are always replaced at each annual service. The prime examples are the oil and oil filter and cabin pollen filter. Then every two years there may be a brake fluid and fuel filter change.
Service plans cover these costs because they will be the same for the same type of car at the same interval. But you could still have to pay extra for wear and tear items such as tyres, brake pads and discs and windscreen wipers. This is usually made clear in the terms and conditions.
What if I have flexible servicing?
All the service plans we’ve mentioned so far work with services that have annual or fixed mileage intervals. This traditional type of servicing is aimed at private buyers, but some makes which are often sold to high-mileage business drivers have for a long time offered flexible, or condition-based servicing.
Modern engine oils in cars covering steady daily motorway miles (where the engine is fully warmed up and under less strain) don’t need an annual change. As an example, an Audi on a flexible servicing schedule only needs to be serviced a minimum of every 18,600 miles or every two years. The other Volkswagen Group cars – Volkswagen, SEAT and Skoda – also offer flexible service intervals.
BMW’s long-established condition-based servicing (CBS) will vary the times when the car tells you it needs an oil change or components such as brake discs and pads, depending on usage. The same applies to Minis. The BMW service plan can accommodate customers coming in earlier than planned when the cost may not yet have been covered by adjusting the subsequent payments in the way energy bill are adjusted.
What happens to the plan if I change my car?
You should be able to cancel a plan and have the balance returned to you at any time. If you change cars, you can cancel the plan or have the balance transferred to another car of the same make/dealer chain. Should you decide to sell privately, most plans allow transfer with the vehicle to another owner but it’s best to check the small print.
Some plans are wholly given by the manufacturer/dealer chain, so the customer pays nothing, but of course won’t get anything back when they change cars.
Can you get plans for used cars?
Yes, you can absolutely buy a service plans for a used car. Most franchised dealers have offers in place for their used car customers, so you can purchase a service plan either when you’re buying a used car or at some point afterwards.
Franchised dealers usually lose customers to independent garages when their cars were out of warranty but are now actively targeting older cars (three years or more) at the point where owners have tended to go to independent garages with service plans which provide cover similar to younger cars, with servicing, a warranty and roadside assistance included.
For example, Volkswagen claims its All-in package (two years’ warranty, service, breakdown and two MOTs) saves on average £833 over two years for £33.45 a month. Vauxhall Care, for cars over 11 months old provides three years’ Vauxhall servicing, two years’ roadside assistance (an extension of the standard first year cover) and first MOT for 35 monthly payments of £19 for petrol and hybrid cars.
Toyota has unveiled the production version of its bZ4X, an all-electric SUV expected in showrooms early in 2022.
The bZ4X is similar in size to the Toyota RAV4, and will go on sale in very similar form to the concept vehicle that was unveiled in June.
The car will be the first of seven ‘bZ’ models Toyota intends to launch as part of its ‘Beyond Zero’ strategy, which plans for at least 15 battery-electric vehicles by 2025. The strategy forms part of a collaboration between Toyota and fellow Japanese manufacturer Subaru, which will be launching an SUV on the same chassis, similar in size to its Forester.
A new chassis, dubbed e-TNGA, enables a long wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs, which frees up what Toyota claims is “class-leading” interior space, along with a 452-litre boot.
Two- or four-wheel power
Two versions will be available, with either front- or all-wheel drive. The FWD variant employs a 150kW (201hp) electric motor, which will see the bZ4X through 62mph from rest in 8.4 seconds. The AWD model has separate 80kW motors in the front and rear axles, producing a combined total of 215hp and a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds.
Both versions will draw from a 71.4kWh battery pack. Final usage figures are still to be determined but Toyota predicts an official driving range of more than 280 miles.
Recharging the battery to 80% using a 150kW fast-charging system, such as at motorway service areas, should take only 30 minutes – launch models will also be fitted with a 6.6kW onboard charger while a 11kW three-phase charger will be available in late 2022.
Toyota adds that the AWD bZ4X will have proper off-road ability, the car offering different drive modes to suit challenging conditions like snow, mud and tough off-road driving.
Interior technology
At launch, the bZ4X will have a conventional steering system, although with a small steering wheel similar to Peugeot’s i-Cockpit set-up. The instrument panel sits above the steering wheel, rather than directly behind it, which has seen mixed reviews on Peugeots to date – some drivers find it easier to see the instruments, some find it more difficult.
At some point after the car’s launch, you’ll be able to order a bZ4X with a ‘steer-by-wire’ system, which replaces the mechanical steering system with a purely electronic one. Toyota says it will allow finer control, more legroom and an improved driving position.
The steer-by-wire system will be available with what Toyota calls a ‘One Motion Grip-control’, which is similar to a yoke control as used by many aircraft and replaces the traditional steering wheel. Toyota says makes operation smoother and easier, with no need for hand-over-hand turning – full-lock can be achieved by turning through only 150 degrees.
Tesla has a similar steering yoke – although one that still keeps a mechanical system – on the updated Model S that is due to arrive in the UK next year, but initial reviews from America have not been kind.
UK pricing and specifications for the bZ4X are still to be announced, but potential customers can place reservations from mid-December.
The Audi e-tron GT is a four-door, all-electric sports saloon that is built on the same platform as the highly acclaimed Porsche Taycan. It was launched in 2021, with a mid-life facelift arriving in 2024.
Although the e-tron GT shares a lot of its powertrain and mechanical components with the Taycan, Audi has opted for a softer suspension setup than Porsche, giving the e-tron GT a more comfortable driving experience compared to the Taycan.
Since its launch in 2021, the Audi e-tron GT has had a very positive reception from the UK media, reviewers being particularly enthused by the saloon’s instantaneous and near-silent acceleration. Reviewers have also praised the e-tron GT’s refined interior trim and excellent ride comfort, with TheSunday Times concluding that the Audi is “not as raw as the Taycan, and all the better for it.”
Media outlets were also impressed by the e-tron GT’s ultra rapid 320kW charging ability, but the saloon’s battery range has collected some criticism, as Evo noted: “The entry level e-tron GT is another great grand tourer but question marks remain over touring range ability.”
Audi improved the battery capacity and driving range as part of a 2024 facelift, and claims that the updated entry-level e-tron GT now has a driving range of 384 miles on the official EU/UK lab tests. That’s a considerable improvement over the original versions, especially combined with ultra-rapid charging if you’re at a motorway services.
The entry-level model was dropped when the e-tron GT range was updated in the summer of 2024, but returned to the line-up with similar upgrades to the rest of the range in the summer of 2025.
As of May 2025, the Audi e-tron GT holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 70%. It scores top marks from media reviews and for its zero tailpipe emissions, but is let down by high ownership costs.
We have a separate Expert Rating page for the highest-spec RS e-tron GT, which is the most powerful Audi production car ever made.
“The Audi e-tron GT feels like a compelling alternative to the Porsche Taycan; it’s not quite as dialled-in to drive but it’s still polished, refined and can be surprisingly entertaining when the moment allows. You could feasibly go for one or the other depending on which you prefer to look at and sit in.”
Model reviewed: Score: 9 / 10 “The tech-packed Audi e-tron GT EV is a landmark model for the German brand.” Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Range overview (including RS version) Score: 8 / 10 “By bravely focusing on true GT performance, Ingolstadt has diverted the e-tron GT from an unexciting also-ran to a fascinating new addition to the range. Audi has used new technology to cover old ground, and it’s the most convincing EV it’s made so far.” Author: Jake Groves Read review
Car Keys
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 10 / 10 “Though the Porsche Taycan might be sportier to drive and the Tesla Model S able to travel further on a charge, the Audi e-tron GT manages to be a perfect all-rounder and proves that EVs can be just as cool as desirable as anything with an engine under the bonnet.” Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8.6 / 10 “A stunning design and 300-mile range make the Audi e-tron GT a threat to Tesla’s EV dominance.” Read review
Daily Mail
Model reviewed: “The Audi e-tron GT has scintillatingly powerful but smooth acceleration that pushes you into the back of your seat.” Read review
Driving Electric
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The Audi e-tron GT is an extremely impressive entry into the high-end electric sports saloon class from the German brand.” Read review
Electrifying.com
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 10 / 10 “Using the Porsche Taycan as a basis has allowed Audi to create an electric flagship which really nibbles at the Tesla Model S’s Achilles’ heels.” Read review
Green Car Guide
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 9 / 10 “The all-electric Audi e-tron GT offers a 298 mile range, and with 598hp, the RS GT model is the most powerful production car ever launched by Audi. It can also use a 270kW charge point, giving a 5% to 80% charge in just 23 minutes.” Read review
Heycar
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “It’s a luxurious electric saloon car that sits alongside the e-tron SUV in Audi’s range, and competes with cars like the Tesla Model S.” Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: RS variant “Great battery range, but more expensive than the Porsche Taycan.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Score: 9 / 10 “Electric power suits the Audi e-tron GT down to the ground.” Read review
The Independent
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Audi e-tron GT is a fantastic-looking four-door electric GT car that reinterprets the brilliant Porsche Taycan as a more cultured and sophisticated alternative.” Author: Richard Aucock Read review
The Sun
Model reviewed: “The e-tron GT is instantly recognisable as an Audi. Same innards as a Porsche Taycan? Yes. But cheaper and no less beautiful.” Read review
The Sunday Times
Model reviewed: Quattro variant Score: 9 / 10 “Not as raw as the Taycan, and all the better for it.” Read review
The Telegraph
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “It won’t involve you quite as much as the Porsche and, compared with the Tesla Model S, the interior is nowhere near as roomy. And while the range is decent enough, it isn’t as good as it could be. The same goes for the ride quality. For all that, though, the Audi e-tron GT is a convincing all-rounder – and an ideal option if you want to go electric without plumping for an SUV.” (Alex Robbins) Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “A handsome four-door GT that plays to Audi’s strengths, with a blistering turn of pace.” Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of May 2025, the Audi e-tron GT has not been tested by Euro NCAP. If and when it is put through its paces by Euro NCAP, we will publish the results here.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of May 2025, the Audi e-tron GT 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 e-tron GT 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 May 2025, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Audi e-tron GT to generate a reliability rating.
The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively to us using workshop and warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the e-tron GT, we’ll publish the score here.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Date: May 2024 Recall number: R/2024/219 Model types: All Build dates: 01/2022 to 12/2023 Number of vehicles affected: 229 Defect: Deviations to various important parameters were discovered on the affected battery modules. These may result in the affected battery modules becoming defective over the course of the vehicle’s service life. In turn this represents a fire hazard with the associated risk of severe or fatal injuries to people inside and/or outside the vehicle as well as significant material damage. Remedy: Check and if necessary replace individual modules of the high-voltage battery. To minimise this risk the manufacturer advises that you limit the charging target to 80% capacity until the inspection has been carried out. This significantly reduces the load on the battery during charging. You can adjust this setting in the Charging target menu in the MMI or in the myAudi app. As this setting may change during vehicle use the current value must always be checked prior to charging the vehicle and set to a maximum of 80% if necessary. Additionally until the inspection has been completed the manufacturer advises not to charge the vehicle under cover and or to ensure the vehicle is not parked adjacent to or under buildings.
Date: May 2024 Recall number: R/2024/203 Model types: All Build dates: 03/2021 to 11/2022 Number of vehicles affected: 18 Defect: Deviations to various important parameters were discovered on the affected battery modules. These may result in the affected battery modules becoming defective over the course of the vehicle’s service life. In turn this represents a fire hazard with the associated risk of severe or fatal injuries to people inside and/or outside the vehicle as well as significant material damage. Remedy: Replace individual modules of the high-voltage battery. To minimise this risk the manufacturer advises that you limit the charging target to 80% capacity until the inspection has been carried out. This significantly reduces the load on the battery during charging. You can adjust this setting in the Charging target menu in the MMI or in the myAudi app. As this setting may change during vehicle use the current value must always be checked prior to charging the vehicle and set to a maximum of 80% if necessary. Additionally until the inspection has been completed the manufacturer advises not to charge the vehicle under cover and or to ensure the vehicle is not parked adjacent to or under buildings.
Date: October 2023 Recall number: R/2023/322 Model types: All Build dates: 09/2022 to 06/2023 Number of vehicles affected: 1,579 Defect: In certain conditions and over time moisture may enter the high-voltage battery area of specific vehicles. Remedy: The airtightness of the system must be checked and where required the high-voltage battery will be replaced.
Date: December 2022 Recall number: R/2022/359 Model types: All Build dates: 08/2021 to 09/2021 Number of vehicles affected: 9 Defect: There may have been a discrepancy in the manufacturing process for the front left air spring strut. Remedy: The affected air spring strut will need to be checked and if necessary replaced.
Date: March 2022 Recall number: R/2022/058 Model types: All Build dates: 02/2021 to 08/2021 Number of vehicles affected: 322 Defect: The electrical wire for the belt-fastened sensor was not routed according to specifications and can potentially make direct contact with the ISOFIX mounting on the right rear seat. Remedy: The wiring harness for the centre rear seat belt buckle must be checked for damage and must be correctly routed and secured on the affected vehicles.
As of September 2024 (our most recent data point), there have been five DVSA vehicle safety recalls on the Audi e-tron GT for various different issues.
Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.
If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used e-tron GT, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak scrapped a widely expected rise in fuel duty in the Budget on Wednesday, after UK fuel prices hit a record high over the weekend.
Data compiled by motoring organisation the RAC showed fuel prices climbing to record levels – on Sunday 24 October, the average price of petrol reach almost 142.9p a litre, which was 4.6p above the previous record set almost a decade ago in April 2012.
RAC spokesman Simon Williams calculated this price rise – 28p per litre higher than one year ago in October 2020 – would add £15 to the cost of filling a typical family car with a 55-litre fuel tank.
“This is truly a dark day for drivers, and one which we hoped we wouldn’t see again after the high prices of April 2012,” Williams said, adding that with global crude oil prices still rising, pump costs were set to keep on climbing; “This will hurt many household budgets and no doubt have knock-on implications for the wider economy.”
Diesel prices rose to an average of 146.5p per litre, significantly up on the around 118p per litre a year ago but still below the previous record of 147.9p.
Announcing that a planned rise in duty had been abandoned, the Chancellor told MPs that with fuel prices at their highest level in eight years, he was “not prepared to add to the squeeze on families and small businesses.”
Several observers predict that the soaring fuel costs, along with recent fuel-supply issues, will drive the switch to electric. In the most recent round of sales figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), more than 32,000 new battery-electric vehicles were registered in September, almost 50% up on September 2020.
The AA has calculated that, at current fuel prices, a 20-mile round trip would cost the driver of a typical petrol-powered car ten times more than the driver of an EV: electric costs would be around 25p, saving the EV driver around £800 per year.
Safety body Euro NCAP has released its latest round of crash-test results, with four of the five cars tested securing top-class scores.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tucson, and the Toyota Yaris Cross were all given five-star ratings following the challenging series of tests – these included front and side impacts and collisions with barriers and poles as well as an analysis of each car’s active safety technology. The fifth car tested, the Hyundai Bayon SUV, secured a four-star rating.
Euro NCAP testers highlighted the difference in safety performance between the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV and its muscle-car namesake, which was tested in 2017 and only just managed three stars (and then only after receiving a specification upgrade following its initial two-star result).
The Mustang Mach-E includes as standard a centre airbag, a deployable bonnet to protect vulnerable road users and a host of driver assistance technology.
The Ford Mustang Mach-e had the best rating for adult occupant safety in this round of Euro NCAP tests, with a score of 92%
The Ford also earned a top five-star rating from Euro NCAP’s sister environmental test programme Green NCAP. With no tailpipe emissions the car scored top marks in the Clean Air Index and Greenhouse Gas Index tests, and a 9.4 out of 10 score for energy efficiency.
Both the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric family car and Tucson SUV were described by Euro NCAP safety testers as having good all-round safety features, though the Tucson’s safety assist technology was only just effective enough to achieve the five-star rating.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 had the best safety assist feature rating in this test batch, with a score of 88%
The new Hyundai Bayon small SUV was marked down as it lacks the centre airbag that is standard on both the Ioniq 5 and the Tucson. However, testers added that the Bayon has robust crash protection and crash-avoidance features, which enabled it to secure a “creditable” four-star rating.
The Toyota Yaris Cross SUV, which in the UK is supplied as a petrol hybrid, became the third consecutive Toyota model to achieve the five-star rating, following the Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell car and Yaris supermini.
The Hyundai Bayon was the only entrant in this round of Euro NCAP crash tests that failed to secure a five-star rating
The all-new Range Rover has been unveiled, with Land Rover’s flagship SUV offering seven seats for the first time and an all-electric version within three years.
The fifth-generation Range Rover will arrive on UK roads in Spring 2022. As with its predecessor, it will be available in both a standard and a long-wheelbase form extended by around 20cm, with a choice of four, five or for the first time in the long-wheelbase version, seven seats.
While visually clearly related to its predecessors, the latest Range Rover has been completely redesigned with a all-new chassis which makes possible electrification – the electric version arriving in 2024 will be Land Rover’s first EV, though the brand aims to offer fully-electric options across its complete range by 2030.
The Range Rover will initially be offered with a range of petrol and diesel mild-hybrid powertrains – all will be six-cylinder units, the car no longer available with four-cylinder engines. Two petrol and three diesel options will be on offer, with power outputs ranging from 250hp in the entry-level diesel to 400hp in the top petrol.
A flagship performance model remains in the range, but instead of the previous version’s supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine, it will use a twin-turbo unit with 530hp, sourced from BMW. Land Rover says the new engine offers more performance, going from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, and 17% better efficiency than its predecessor.
In 2024, the powertrain range will be extended not only by the full-electric version but a pair of plug-in hybrids combining a six-cylinder petrol engine with a 105kW electric motor built into the transmission.
The two offer combined power outputs of 440 and 510hp, while their 38.2kWh battery provides an official all-electric range of 62 miles, which is likely to be one of the longest in the PHEV market. Official CO2 emissions figures will be below 30g/km.
The luxury appeal of the new model will also be significantly enhanced – new measures include a fabric and wool blend that offers an alternative to leather, and noise cancelling technology using the car’s audio system. A personalised and more luxurious Range Rover SV, built by the brand’s Special Vehicle Operations department, will go on sale later in 2022.
Dealers are now taking orders for the new Range Rover, at prices starting from £94,900.
Tesla has started taking orders for its new Model Y, effectively a crossover version of the popular Model 3 employing the same technology, chassis and electric powertrain.
The Model Y will be available in two versions, dubbed Long Range AWD and Performance. The Long Range AWD version will arrive first, initial deliveries planned for early 2022 at prices starting from £54,990.
The AWD version offers an official driving range of up to 315 miles between charges. It employs separate electric motors in the front and rear axles, and while Tesla has not revealed power outputs, the car will sprint from 0 to 62mph in about five seconds.
Performance models will join the range in mid-2022 at prices from £64,995. Also using two motors, these will have around 50hp more than the AWD, dropping the 0-62mph time below four seconds.
The Model Y is slightly longer than the Model 3 but with a body 15cm higher. Interior features include a panoramic glass roof and a completely flat floor while among technology shared with the Model 3 are keyless entry using a smartphone, access to a host of features via a mobile app, and a 15-inch touchscreen providing all of the interior car controls.
Tesla offers an ‘autopilot’ system employing a host of cameras around the vehicle and including an advanced adaptive cruise control, lane-changing and automatic parking. The technology is a cost-extra option but is built into the car’s software but can be unlocked at a later date after the car has been purchased.
The Model Y will be compatible with Tesla’s expanding Supercharger network, a familiar sight in motorway service areas, and will also plug into Tesla’s new V3 Superchargers, which are said to be able to provide the equivalent of 1,000 miles of range per hour.
Prime rivals for the Tesla Model Y will include the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the recently introduced Audi Q4 e-tron – the Tesla promises both faster acceleration and a longer range than the Audi.
From regular roadsters to exotic drop-tops, we’ve calculated the best convertibles you can buy new from your local dealership.
Despite the rather dreary weather we get in the UK, it seems the British have always had a soft spot for a soft top, as we look to make the best of our two months of summer sun. If you are looking for the best set of wheels to do some wind-in-the-hair motoring yourself, we have you covered.
We’ve analysed all of the new convertibles and cabriolets available at each price point, then consulted our industry-leading Expert Rating Index to see which models have the highest review scores from across the UK motoring media.
With comprehensive review data backing our recommendations, you can be confident that this is the definitive guide to the best new convertibles for every budget that are on sale in the UK right now.
If you are looking for happiness on four wheels, this is it. For a small open-air runabout with a lot of character, you won’t find better value for money than the compact Fiat 500C. It is pretty much identical to the regular Fiat 500; but instead of a hard top it has a full-length retractable sunroof.
With prices starting from just over £15K, the Fiat 500C has been commended by the UK media for its unique styling and character which can be personalised to you hearts content, as well as being quite an affordable cabriolet package. In addition, the 500C has an easy-to-operate fabric roof that can also be opened partially.
Like the regular Fiat 500, the 500C is a very agile city car that is easy to drive and park, and has a very economical selection of engines to choose from. However, as the last facelift for the 500C was in 2015, the model is starting to look a bit dated. It is not the most practical of options either, as the back seats are quite cramped and it has a very small boot.
But does the Fiat 500C feel just a little bit too common to you? You should also check out the Citroen C1 Airscape, which is similarly nimble and cheap to run as the Fiat 500C.
As of October 2021, the Fiat 500 holds an Expert Rating of 53%, based on 21 reviews published by the UK media.
Now in its fourth generation, the Mazda MX-5 is the world’s favourite roadster and beloved in Britain. In fact, half of all MX-5s sold in Europe are now on UK roads, offering sports car thrills for much more reasonable prices than premium alternatives.
The MX-5 has won over 30 industry awards since the launch of the fourth generation model, including World Car of the Year and UK Car of the Year in 2016.
Reviewers particularly commend the Mazda MX-5 for its light and agile driving dynamics, and just how thrilling it is to drive with the top down, but more consumer-focused reviewers are quick to point out that the MX-5 lacks cabin space, and is not a very practical choice for your daily commute.
If you are looking for something with a bit more legroom, the popular Mini Convertible may be more up your alley. Similarly priced to the MX-5, the Mini Convertible also offers an exciting driving experience, while providing more interior space and a bigger boot.
As of October 2021, the Mazda MX-5 holds an impressive Expert Rating of 86%, based on 40 reviews published by UK media sources.
Another UK fan favourite, the Audi TT Roadster is a two-door convertible that possesses plenty of pace, but still maintains confident road manners and poise. Reviewers generally conclude that the Audi TT Roadster has impressive build quality and distinctive styling both inside and out.
Conversely, some reviewers feel that the TT Roadster is too sensible for its own good, as it’s not as sporty to drive as you might expect from a drop-top sports car.
Another roadster that deserves a mention in this price range is the BMW Z4, which has been praised for its build quality and its attractive design, inside and out.
As of October 2021, the Audi TT has an Expert Rating of 78%, based on 47 reviews written by the UK media.
Widely regarded by the British media as the most complete sports car package available for (just) under £50,000, the Porsche 718 Boxster is the entry-level model in the Porsche convertible range. Go much beyond the entry-level model, however, and you’ll easily be breaking the £50K threshold.
Reviews of the 718 Boxster published by the UK media have been overwhelmingly positive, as reviewers generally conclude that the 718 Boxster is beautifully built, has blistering turbocharged pace, has exceptional handling and body control, and a very attractive exterior design.
However, reviewers are not too happy about the 718 Boxster’s engine, which is rather unusual for a Porsche. Despite guaranteed driving thrills, the four-cylinder engine of the newest generation can’t quite match the punchy performance of the six-cylinder engines of older Boxster models.
If you are feeling particularly patriotic, the British-made Lotus Elise is another fantastic option under £50,000, commended for its agile handling and rapid acceleration.
As of October 2021, the Porsche 718 Boxster holds an excellent Expert Rating of 86%, calculated using the scores given in 28 different reviews.
If you prefer comfort over performance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is one of the best convertibles on the the market. This open-top cruiser offers fantastic day-to-day practicality and cabin space for four, with interior luxuries that no other cabriolet under £75K can match.
Reviewers are also keen to mention how great the E-Class Cabriolet’s ride comfort is; an elegant choice for those who prefer leisurely drives to track days. However, the infotainment system is also said to be a bit fiddly, and the optional extras available can make things very pricey quite quickly.
As of October 2021, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet holds an Expert Rating of 74%, based on reviews collected from 13 different UK media sources.
It’s no great surprise to find a Porsche 911 in this list. The 911 Cabriolet has been a mainstay of the Porsche family since the 1980s, and the latest 992 generation is undoubtedly the company’s best soft-top 911 yet.
Reviewers also generally conclude that the Porsche 911 Cabriolet has very responsive handling and is reasonably practical; there’s decent luggage space in the traditional 911 frunk, while you may as well use rear seats for storage as well, because they’re not great for passengers.
With prices starting from £95K, it is a very expensive purchase too, and although the six-cylinder engine sounds fantastic while cruising with the top down, it is not the most economical of powertrains, and you will find yourself refuelling it far more often than the family car.
As of October 2021, the Porsche 911 hold an outstanding Expert Rating of 91%, based on 41 reviews published by the UK media.
Possibly the last mid-engine V8 convertible that Ferrari will ever produce before the illustrious Italian manufacturer is dragged kicking and screaming into the electric age, the Ferrari F8 Spider is most powerful conventional V8 drop-top that Ferrari has ever produced.
Highlights for F8 Spider reviewers are the sports car’s fantastic performance and typically stunning exterior design, as well as its surprisingly practical interior trim.
If you have always dreamed of driving an extremely fast convertible sports car, then the Ferrari F8 Spider is a fantastic choice, should you have at least £225K lying around… Yes, you read that number correctly. Ferrari has also made Apple CarPlay an optional extra, and is charging a further £2,400 for it – cheeky.
Reviewers like to compare the Ferrari F8 Spider to the McLaren 720 Spider, which is another exhilarating candidate available for around the same price.
As of October 2021, the Ferrari F8 holds a formidable Expert Rating of 89%, based on 19 reviews published by UK media sources.
Carrying Britain’s convertible culture into the near future, there are a few new cabriolet candidates on the horizon, due to arrive on UK roads in the coming years.
BMW has a few convertible models set for a UK launch; the 4 Series and M4 convertible variants are arriving imminently, while there will almost inevitably be a new version of the popular 2 Series convertible. It’s not been announced yet, but the coupé version has just been launched and so the soft-top sibling is likely to be allong shortly.
Mercedes-Benz is also launching the next generation of its famous SL sports car in 2022. The new model has been developed by AMG, and is said to be the sportiest SL we’ve seen since the 1950s ‘Gullwing’ original.
If you’re in the market for a new Ferrari or McLaren, but for some reason you’re not convinced by the current models, you could instead wait for the release of the Ferrari 296 GTS and McLaren Artura Spider – neither of which have been confirmed, but are likely to appear as open-air siblings to the new coupé models from each brand.
For the definitive rankings of the best new convertibles for every budget, we’ve used The Car Expert’s industry-leading Expert Rating Index.
The Index analyses new car reviews from 25 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.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet was a four-seat convertible, sitting above the C-Class Cabriolet and below the S-Class Cabriolet. It was launched in 2017 and ended production in 2023, being replaced by the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet.
As the name suggests, the E-Class Cabriolet was effectively an open-top version of the E-Class coupé, which in turn was based on the regular E-Class executive saloon. The Cabriolet was launched in spring 2017, with a mid-life facelift arriving in 2020. Production ended in 2023 when Mercedes consolidated the two-door E-Class and C-Class models into a single model called the CLE – effectively harking back to the old CLK of the 1990s and 2000s that did much the same thing.
The E-Class Cabriolet was available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as a petrol/mild hybrid and an unusual diesel/mild hybrid option. All models had a nine-speed automatic gearbox, while all-wheel drive was available on some versions.
Mirroring the praise given to the E-Class saloon, the E-Class Cabriolet was commended for its plush and refined interior, its ride comfort, sleek exterior and everyday practicality. Car concluded that the E-Class Cabriolet was “everything a four-seat convertible should be – pretty, comfortable and luxurious for sunny weather and decently practical for everyday drudgery too.”
While the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet offered plenty of comfort, reviewers generally conclude that this drop-top is luxurious rather than sporty. Carwow commented: “It’s not much fun to drive through corners, but it excels at cruising gently with the roof down to enjoy the scenery.”
As of March 2026, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet holds a Used Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of 53%. Although it generally got good media review scores, its running costs are high and its reliability record is poor.
Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Featured reviews
“The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet oozes class and turns heads like few other drop-tops. If you want driving thrills with the wind in your hair, there are better options though.”
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet is a big, elegant soft-top that offers bags of style, enough quality and some great tech. The updates have helped further boost its appeal, and this more affordable E 300 model has just enough power given that it focuses on a relaxed drive.” Read review
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is comfortable, well-built and great to look at.” Read review
Auto Trader
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet is that rare thing: a prestige four-seat convertible. It’s a seriously tempting buy, too.” Read review
Car
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “Everything a four-seat convertible should be – pretty (except in aero mode), comfortable and luxurious for sunny weather and decently practical for everyday drudgery too.” Read review
Carbuyer
Model reviewed: Range overview Score: 8 / 10 “The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet is now a true four-seater with a decent boot, along with a stylish interior and superb comfort” Read review
Eurekar
Model reviewed: E220d Cabriolet AMG Line “The E-Class is a fine example, a two-door, four seater with a soft top that has all the bells and whistles you would expect for a car.” Read review
Evo
Model reviewed: E400 4Matic Cabriolet Score: 8 / 10 “Merc’s latest E-class Cabriolet isn’t the fastest or sportiest car, but it’s still capable of impressing.” Read review
Honest John
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “Impressive refinement, solidity and a top quality interior, few compromises over the coupe.” Read review
Parkers
Model reviewed: Score: 9 / 10 “Unique combination of high quality, comfort and space, realistically priced.” Read review
Top Gear
Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10 “The posh cabriolet market isn’t huge. Perhaps the E-Class’s utter dominance is to blame.” Read review
Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet was not tested by Euro NCAP during its production life.
The E-Class Cabriolet may have been based on the saloon of the same name but there were significant structural differences – mainly resulting from the car having no roof. As such, the Cabriolet did not inherit the saloon’s safety rating.
The Cabriolet was well equipped with standard safety technology shared with the E-Class saloon, such as autonomous emergency braking and emergency steering assistance. It also contained pop-up rollover bars behind the rear seats that could be activated in a fraction of a second, which were triggered if the car sensed that it was tipping over.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet was not tested by Green NCAP during its production life.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
Total claims: 821 Average repair cost: £715.40 Last updated: April 2025
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class family has a below-average reliability rating of 45%, according to warranty data provided exclusively to us by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This score applies to all E-Class body styles (saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet) and also to multiple generations, which is worth considering if you are considering a used Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Based on more than 800 warranty claims, the average repair cost is just over £700 so a used car warranty is well worth considering if you own or are considering an E-Class. More than a third of claims concern the electrical system, with an average bill of more than £550. Engine and gearbox faults are unsurprisingly the most expensive problems, and are not uncommon in the E-Class. Make sure that any warranty you are purchasing covers all of these problem areas.
Running cost rating
Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data
Fuel consumption
Average
Score
Petrol models
34 mpg
D
Diesel models
44 mpg
C
CO₂ output
Average
Score
Variation
Score
Petrol models
191 g/km
D
Diesel models
168 g/km
D
Insurance group
Average
Score
Variation
Score
All models
42
E
Service and maintenance
Cost
Score
Year 1
£358
D
Year 2
£849
D
Year 3
£1,388
D
Year 4
£1,664
D
Year 5
£2,141
D
Overall
£6,400
D
Running costs for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class border on expensive, according to data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, Clear Vehicle Data.
Fuel economy is disappointing for petrol models and around the market average for diesel-engined versions. Insurance costs likely to be high, though, based on data from the UK’s insurance group assessor, Thatcham Research.
Compared to the rest of the executive saloon sector, the car’s service and maintenance costs are pretty average.
Awards
Trophies, prizes and awards that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet has received
2021
What Car? Used Car Awards – Best Used Convertible
2018
Stuff Motoring Awards – Best Convertible
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, you might also be interested in these alternatives
The market for four-seater premium drop-tops is pretty small, with most car manufacturers having abandoned the market in favour of buiding ever-more SUVs instead. Mercedes continued to dominate the segment in the 2010s, with both the E-Class and C-Class Cabriolet models. It offered an S-Class Cabriolet for a generation as well, but that ended production in 2020 with no replacement.
The E-Class Cabriolet had more interior space, a higher specification and – inevitably – a higher price tag than the C-Class Cabriolet, which was a closer match to vehicles from other brands like the Audi A5 Cabriolet and BMW 4 Series Convertible.
Citroën has adjusted its trim levels and specifications for the C3 supermini, dropping the Shine trim level and adding more equipment to the recently introduced Saint James grade.
Now the third trim level in the range, Saint James versions of the C3 cost from £16,755, which is £2,575 more than entry-level C-Series variants. The price has increased by £400, but Citroën says this is more than compensated for by the extra equipment added.
The additions include a reversing camera, dark tinted windows, a leather steering wheel and Citroën’s Advanced Comfort Seats. These combine high-density foam at the centre of each seat with a thick, textured foam on the surface and softer fabric and leather-effect materials.
Saint James cars also come with styling details reflecting the name that celebrates the French Saint James clothing brand, founded in 1889. These include a bespoke styling pack with logos and roof decal and distinctive carpet mats.
The £16,755 price buys a car with the 83hp petrol engine with a manual gearbox – a 110hp version with a six-speed auto transmission is also available for £2,545 more.
The C3 range now comprises four trim levels – the entry-level versions are only available with the 83hp engine with manual transmission, while the top Shine Plus version can also be supplied with the 110hp engine in both manual and auto forms, or a 100hp diesel.
