Indholdsfortegnelse for November 2018 i What Car?

‘The best modern SUVs are as civilised as they are practical’ Forget hose-clean interiors, knobbly tyres and bumpers made from girders; the best modern SUVs are as civilised as they are practical, which is one of the reasons why they’re so popular. However, the sheer variety of models on offer also helps. In this issue alone, we pit the UK’s cheapest new SUV, the Dacia Duster, against the rival MG GS, while at the other end of the price spectrum,Audi’s stylish and luxurious Q8 takes on the Range Rover Velar. And if you’ve got a big family, you need to read our test of Hyundai’s latest Santa Fe, which is up against the equally box-fresh Mitsubishi Shogun Sport and the class-leading Peugeot 5008. But whichever type of car you’re interested…

PEOPLE WHO DON’T like convertibles often refer to them as hairdresser’s cars, presumably because they think they’re for showing off your latest ’do rather than letting the wind rush through it. However, BMW says its priorities with the new Z4 were performance and precise handling rather than posing. Initially, three versions are available: the 194bhp sDrive20i and the 254bhp sDrive30i, both with 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines, and the M40i, which has a turbocharged 335bhp 3.0-litre engine.This range-topping model gets from 0-62mph in 4.6sec, but even the sDrive20i can manage 6.6sec. As with the outgoing car, all engines are combined with rear-wheel drive, while buyers can choose from a six-speed manual gearbox and an eight-speed automatic. The new Z4’s structure is made from a mixture of high-strength steel, aluminium and magnesium,…

NO, YOUR EYES aren’t deceiving you; the car you’re looking at is the updated Mazda MX-5. Unlike most manufacturers, which tend to slap on some reprofiled bumpers, fancy new wheels and a couple of new paint shades in a refresh, Mazda has done virtually nothing to change the MX-5’s appearance. Thankfully, it has been more thorough with the MX-5’s mechanicals, with upgrades to both engines to get them through the latest emissions regulations. The 1.5-litre offering gets a teeny 1bhp power boost, but it’s the 2.0-litre that has been hitting the gym hard. With a freer-flowing intake and exhaust, bigger valves, lighter pistons and a higher rev limit of 7500rpm, power is up from 158bhp to 181bhp, with flexibility improved across the rev range, too. There’s also start-stop tech for…

THE 3 CROSSBACK is the second car to be launched by DS since parent company Citroën made it a standalone brand. Sitting below the 7 Crossback in the French firm’s range, it will rival premium small SUVs such as the Audi Q2 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. Built on a new platform that eventually will be widely used across the line-ups of Citroën, DS, Peugeot and Vauxhall, the 3 Crossback is available with a multitude of personalisation options. Buyers can choose between 10 alloy wheel styles, 10 body colours and three roof colours to create their own tailored car. Inside, there’s the choice of nappa leather and Alcantara trims, plus there’s a 10.3in infotainment screen, a digital instrument screen and a head-up display on offer. The infotainment system offers smartphone mirroring and…

TWO OF THE biggest trends in cars right now are electric power and SUVs, so combining the two seems like a no-brainer. And where once Tesla’s Model X was your sole such option, now there’s the Jaguar I-Pace and soon the Audi E-tron, too. Naturally, Mercedes wants in on this action. The EQC is the first Mercedes model to come from the firm’s electric EQ sub-brand. It’s loosely based on the underpinnings of the GLC but is slightly longer and lower. Power comes from two electric motors, which together produce 402bhp and 564lb ft of torque and drive all four wheels. The EQC’s claimed 0-62mph time of 5.1sec is slightly slower than that of the I-Pace, largely because it weighs significantly more, at 2425kg, compared with 2133kg. The EQC’s range…

IF YOU’VE EVER said to yourself “I’d rather die than drive around in one of those vans with windows”, please indulge us. Yep, we get it. An MPV isn’t the most fashionable thing in which to ferry your kids, particularly if it’s styled like a vehicle designed to have ‘Smith & Sons’ plastered on its sides. And that’s fine if you have the wherewithal to buy a properly big SUV: an Audi Q7 or a Land Rover Discovery, perhaps. That way, you can enjoy practicality with a dose of glamour. But if your budget is closer to £20k, you have three choices: buy a much smaller and less practical SUV to stay trendy, buy second hand or forget about fashion and buy something like the Combo Life. This indirect replacement…

Age 61 Job Businessman Drives Mercedes-Benz GLE “I’ve owned Mercedes cars for the past 30 years, but I’m looking to leave the brand. A friend bought a previous-generation Santa Fe recently and I was blown away by it, because it was such good quality, so I’ve begun toying with the idea of buying this new model. “I’ve owned seven-seat cars in the past, and now that I’ve recently become a grandfather, it’ll be handy to have the extra seats again. The pull-up window blinds for the rear doors and full-length sunroof cover will also be handy for shading my grandson. “There are lots of great features, too, such as the head-up display and the powered tailgate. They’re the sort of things my GLE has, so I can appreciate how useful…

THERE’S A LOT of talk these days about how switching to a hybrid vehicle can reduce running costs and how you’ll never have to visit a fuel station again if you go electric. The Government has joined the push for cleaner cars, too, with its £2.7 billion Road to Zero strategy. This states that at least half of all new cars sold must be hybrid or electric by 2030 and that no new cars powered solely by petrol or diesel can be sold from 2040. That’s far in the future, but other changes that are already under way might be making you think it’s time to ditch your older petrol or diesel car in favour of a hybrid or electric vehicle (EV). London has introduced a zone that imposes a…

Should I buy a Porsche 911 or one of its rivals? I am a 52-year-old man who has always dreamed of owning a Porsche 911. I have flirted with Boxsters, which I really enjoyed, but I still long to own a current-generation 911. In the past, there has always been a more sensible use for my hard-earned cash. However, I’m now in a position where my current car lease ends in 12 months and I’m actively researching a 991 model, circa 2015, preferably in S spec. Having waited this long, I’m now concerned that the introduction of hybrid and electric models could pose a risk to my purchase. While there is no question about the amount of enjoyment I’d get from a 911, my joy would be negated if the…

ALFA ROMEO 147 (2000 to 2004) 3699 cars FIAT PUNTO (2000 to 2004) 5496 cars KIA RIO (2000 to 2003) 2778 cars MAZDA MX-5 (2000 to 2001) 6811 cars MG TF (2000 to 2004) 11,171 cars ROVER 25 (2000 to 2007) 25,035 cars ROVER 75 (2000 to 2008) 12,472 cars SEAT AROSA (2000 to 2004) 5756 cars SKODA FABIA (2000 to 2006) 11,242 cars VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2004 to 2006) 33,358 cars…

What we looked for The expectations of small car buyers have grown over the years; no longer is it enough to just make a car that’s short in length, inexpensive to buy and run and easy to park. Modern small cars must also come with the latest tech to appeal to the smartphone generation, cutting-edge safety equipment to keep those insurance costs down and a smattering of big car comfort to keep you sane on long trips. Other finalists Small cars can be dull to drive, but the Fiesta is one of the exceptions. It’s also comfortable, with suspension that feels at home on both the motorway and around town.And it’s spectacularly cheap to buy. The Mini isn’t as small as it was, but it’s still a compelling premium package.The…

What we looked for A used luxury car needs to deliver elegance and comfort through every part of the vehicle, making the owner feel as exceptional as their car. It should be packed with high-tech gadgets, have a refined interior and offer a seamlessly smooth and near-silent ride. To add to the mix, the best luxury cars must also be reliable, be made from good-quality materials and not break the bank to run or buy. Other finalists Last year’s winner of this category remains a compelling choice, thanks to its upmarket styling and sense of class. It’s also terrific to drive and, given the amount of kit you get, very reasonable value. Porsche’s big luxury contender is as involving as its smaller models yet also matches its luxury rivals on…

What we looked for Luxury SUVs don’t come cheap, even when they’re second-hand. So, buyers have a right to demand a lot for their cash. A luxury SUV must offer top-notch equipment and interior fittings, as well as the comfort and refinement of the best luxury saloons. It also has to be capable of going anywhere and carrying anything. So, more than any other type of car, a luxury SUV must be able to do it all. Other finalists The car that showed a luxury SUV could be fun to drive remains so today. It’s also well equipped and there’s even the option of seven seats.Throw in gutsy diesel engines and you have a very good deal indeed. This generation of the Range Rover Sport is almost as opulent as…

What we looked for By their very nature, MPVs need to be flexible. One minute they’ll be transporting you and six of your nearest and dearest; the next they’ll need to be voluminous vans that can clear a whole house in one go. However, they must still drive like a car, be quiet and comfortable on long journeys and be cheap to run; after all, you’ve got more important things to spend money on than fuel. Other finalists Despite costing nearly £27k new, a two-year-old 1.5 SE petrol Gran Tourer is now a bargain at less than £16k. What’s more, it has class-leading infotainment, flexible seating and gutsy, economical engines. Few MPVs are more accommodating for big families or have such a high-quality interior, while the sliding doors are a…

‘The fact that you can buy a barely used example of this suave, refined grand tourer at this price level is astonishing’ What we looked for We Brits love a convertible, but our mixed climate means that a good drop-top must be able to expose its occupants to the sunshine at the flick of a switch and cover them again quickly when the rain sweeps in. None of this must spoil the driving experience, of course, nor the comfort, refinement and feel-good factor that many seek from a convertible. A dash of glamour certainly wouldn’t go amiss, either. Other finalists The latest MX-5 is a lightweight delight, with quick steering, joyous handling and a choice of two engines, of which we’d pick the sweeter and cheaper 1.5, preferably combined with…

What we looked for A good used example of a tax-friendly hybrid or electric-powered car must offer more than just low CO2 emissions and great fuel economy. These cars must do an equal job to petrol or diesel-engined vehicles, while efficiency shouldn’t mean they’re less comfortable or well equipped than conventional rivals, either. And of course, as with every used car purchase, good value is key. Other finalists This plug-in hybrid BMW 3 Series is for those who don’t want to compromise. Use electric power only around town, or blend with the petrol motor on longer trips. Prices are reasonable and availability is good. A refined and readily available means of keeping fuel costs and emissions down. The electric-only range isn’t great, but clever use of the electric motor means…

The old Audi A6 was well off the pace, so the fact that this latest iteration feels vastly improved is no surprise. In this test, it proves the most practical option, too. But it’s a shame that it couldn’t closer push the 5 Series in other areas, such as ride, refinement and the ease of use of its infotainment. Still, those first two aspects might prove better when we try versions with different suspension and wheel options. The E-Class remains a fine choice. It has a very practical boot and a smart interior, and if you specify air suspension, aspects of its soothing ride are unequalled by its rivals.The issues that hamper it are its refinement at speed and its flawed driving position. Which leaves the 5 Series continuing to…

All of our contenders undoubtedly make more financial sense in cheaper trim levels, but if it’s bells and whistles you’re after then the Santa Fe and 5008 have plenty going for them.The former just edges it because, although it’s expensive to buy on PCP finance, it’s otherwise an excellent all-rounder that majors on convenience, boot space and standard equipment. That said, if you can live with the 5008’s poor head room, particularly in the second row of seats, it will cost you substantially less to own, has the poshest interior of the trio and is the most enjoyable to drive. The Shogun Sport? Well, it feels like a relic from a bygone era.Were it priced accordingly, it wouldn’t have found itself up against such talented opposition and, as such, it…

Mileage 938 List price £21,320 Target Price £20,705 Price as tested £23,540 Test economy 36.1mpg EVER SINCE THE Nissan Qashqai changed the way people thought about SUVs in 2006, the race has been on to create the ideal high-riding alternative to the ubiquitous hatchback. Perhaps Volkswagen wasn’t keen to relinquish the Golf’s crown just yet, because it has been notable by its absence from this sector, relying instead on the bigger, more expensive Tiguan to appeal to family SUV buyers. Now, at last, it has created a small SUV. The T-Roc mates a fairly conventional hatchback body – albeit with a sloping rear roofline to give more of a coupé look – with the raised ride height so beloved by SUV buyers. For me, the T-Roc is an unusually spec-sensitive…

Mileage 11,500 List price £27,105 Target Price £24,253 Price as tested £28,490 Test economy 36.7mpg My now-departed Skoda Octavia was the most practical car I’ve ever run, so it was always going to be a hard act to follow, and the Grandland X does indeed feel smaller when you climb into the rear. I’ve still found it perfectly suitable for my needs, though, with the boot in particular impressing when it was time to pick my son up from university. With the variable-height boot floor in its lowest setting and the rear seats down, we managed to fit in countless boxes of clothing, books and bedding, as well as a bicycle – more than I reckon I could have fitted in the Octavia, thanks to the Grandland X’s higher roof.That’s…

Mileage 2420 List price £32,890 (before £4500 gov’t grant) Target Price £27,405 Price as tested £34,555 Test range 140 miles AN INDICATED RANGE of 160-170 miles might not sound like enough to give you complete freedom in an electric car such as my Leaf, but I’m quickly discovering that the rapid charging infrastructure at motorway services and other locations along major routes in England is now good enough that longer runs can be relatively painless. Once upon a time, I might have been deterred from attempting such trips by the prospect of having to wait for hours while the batteries recharge. But in reality, I won’t have to, because in those situations the Leaf is rarely likely to need a 0-100% charge. On most out-of-town trips – even ones of…

LESS THAN £15,000 Dacia Sandero Our pick 0.9 TCe Ambiance List price £8595 Target Price £8498 MPG 57.6 CO2 109g/km For Lots of space for the money, decent to drive and a fair amount of standard kit. Against The engine is unrefined at most speeds and the interior is comparatively basic. WHAT CAR? SAYS Skoda Fabia Our pick 1.0 TSI 95 SE List price £14,380 Target Price £13,531 MPG 64.2 CO2 101g/km For Spacious interior, good to drive and relatively cheap to run. Against Hard interior plastics and low-speed ride could be better. WHAT CAR? SAYS Suzuki Swift Our pick 1.2 Dualjet SZ3 List price £11,999 Target Price £11,630 MPG 65.7 CO2 98g/km For Good to drive, with sharp steering and fine body control, and it’s fairly well equipped. Against…

LESS THAN £22,000 Seat Ateca Our pick 1.0 TSI Ecomotive 115 S List price £21,880 Target Price £19,351 MPG 54.3 CO2 119g/km For Excellent handling, with a spacious interior, a smooth engine and good resale values. Against The ride might be a bit too firm for some and the interior looks a bit bland. WHAT CAR? SAYS Nissan Qashqai Our pick 1.2 DiG-T Visia List price £19,300 Target Price £19,300 MPG 50.4 CO2 129g/km For Practical and classy interior, comfortable ride, superb refinement and low running costs. Against Visia trim misses out on some goodies and the thick pillars limit visibility. WHAT CAR? SAYS Dacia Duster Our pick 1.6 SCe 115 Comfort List price £13,195 Target Price £13,072 MPG 43.4 CO2 139g/km For Roomy inside, reasonably comfortable and incredibly cheap…

LESS THAN £23,000 Citroën Berlingo Our pick 1.5 BlueHDI 130 Flair M List price £22,970 Target Price £22,970 MPG 65.7 CO2 113g/km For Practical and relaxing to drive, thanks in part to decent engine choices. Against Wallowy handling, a laggy infotainment system and cheap-feeling plastics. WHAT CAR? SAYS Vauxhall Combo Life Our pick 1.5 (130PS) Turbo D Life List price £22,660 Target Price £22,660 MPG 65.7 CO2 113g/km For Great value and masses of passenger space, sliding rear doors and a comfy ride. Against Interior feels very cheap and conventional MPVs have better seating flexibility. WHAT CAR? SAYS Kia Carens Our pick 1.6 GDi ISG 1 List price £19,505 Target Price £17,526 MPG 45.6 CO2 143g/km For Competitively priced, seven seats, air-con, cruise control and Bluetooth as standard. Against Unsophisticated…

‘We wanted the car to be thrilling and composed, not thrilling but exhausting’ THE ARRIVAL OF a new BMW 3 Series usually requires us to redefine what ‘best in class’ means. BMW’s compact executive saloon has gained iconic status, so much so that it has even become shorthand for describing its rivals. The Audi A4? That’s Audi’s 3 Series. The Giulia? That’s Alfa Romeo’s 3 Series.And so on. The 3 Series has earned its status by consistently doing everything well and being exceptional in a number of areas. Most notably, it’s invariably engaging to drive, has strong, frugal engines, offers high-quality materials and sets technology benchmarks. But the 3 Series hasn’t been regarded by What Car?’s testers as the class leader since 2016, when it was usurped by the Audi…

EVERY SO OFTEN, along comes a car that is so innovative, or so accomplished relative to its peers, that it single-handedly changes the face of the automotive sector. The new Audi Q3 is not one of those cars. But that’s not to say it isn’t important – far from it, in fact. A rival to models such as the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40, the Q3 has been a resounding success for Audi, with more than 1.1 million examples sold since it arrived in 2011. For context, that leaves the Audi TT coupé, one of those aforementioned game-changers, trailing in its wake, with ‘only’ 600,000 sold over the past 20 years. So, despite being as predictable as the tide and the moon, the new, second-generation Q3 is a…

THE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF is one of the bestselling cars in the UK, with almost 50,000 examples sold in the first eight months of this year. It neatly straddles the mainstream and prestige hatchback markets, competing with everything from the Ford Focus to the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. But despite the fact that the Golf was only recently facelifted and still holds a five-star What Car? rating, a new version is scheduled to arrive next year. To help it move upmarket and stay competitive with the likes of Audi and BMW, Volkswagen says the new Golf will offer connectivity options, fuel-saving technology and self-driving systems that surpass those of the competition. Don’t expect a revolution when it comes to the way the Golf looks; the new car will feature sharper…

‘With its standard air suspension, the X5 glides over bumps and potholes’ TIME HASN’T BEEN kind to the BMW X5. Where once it ruled the roost as the most car-like SUV, younger, fresher rivals such as the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90 and Porsche Cayenne have come along and surpassed it. BMW is determined to win back some ground with this latest model, which gets a smart new interior, lots of new tech and a grille you can see from space. There’s a choice of two trim levels and three engines – for now, at least. Kicking off the range is xLine – although this is no bargain-basement model. In fact, you get leather seats that are heated up front, ambient LED lighting and air suspension, all as standard. Or you…

IF YOU CAN recall the new Kia Proceed’s predecessor, you might note that it had more punctuation, a rather different shape and two fewer doors. Predicting a time when SUVs aren’t the only answer to having a fashionable, practical family car, Kia has introduced this sleek five-door shooting brake version of its new Ceed alongside the five-door hatchback and Sportswagon estate. An off-road-inspired variant is on the way, too, for you tall car fans. In the small family car arena, only the CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-Benz does something similar. And although it’s a mainstream brand, Kia thinks it can learn from that example. Buyers typically spend more on a CLA Shooting Brake than they do on other CLA and A-Class models, so the Korean brand will offer the Proceed…

THE KADJAR MAY not be such a familiar sight on our roads as the Nissan Qashqai, with which it shares its underpinnings, but it’s an important model for Renault. So, to keep it fresh as it approaches its fourth birthday, the large SUV has been given a facelift and its engine line-up has been revamped, with two improved diesels and the firm’s latest 1.3-litre petrol engines. Styling tweaks include a bolder-looking front end with more LED lights, including square foglights, as well as a broader grille with chrome inserts and bumpers with more body-coloured paintwork.There are new LEDs at the rear, too, with slimmer reversing lights and foglights. Already in use in the Scenic, Captur and Mégane, the 1.3-litre petrol engine comes in two states of tune, producing 138bhp or…

VOLVO HAS REVEALED a concept that could one day make short-haul air travel redundant and in turn improve air quality. Called the 360c, the concept provides “a glimpse of how autonomous drive technology will change the world as we know it”, according to Volvo’s head of corporate strategy, Mårten Levenstam. Conceived as a fully autonomous vehicle that requires no driver input at all, it swaps the traditional two or three rows of seats for an interior than can be configured as a mobile bedroom, office or entertainment space. “The 360c is a conversation starter, with more ideas and answers to come as we learn more,” Levenstam said.“It will have a profound impact on how people travel, how we design our cities and how we use infrastructure.The possibilities are mind-boggling.”…

‘Quilted, perforated leather over the door speakers is a nice touch’ Age 65 Job Retired Drives BMW 3 Series “I’m thinking of buying a large SUV, but I’m not keen on the exterior styling of some – the BMW X5, for example. This new Santa Fe looks great, though. “Nothing feels flimsy inside, and all the switches and doors make a nice noise when you use them. I’m also impressed with the attention to detail, such as the quilted, perforated leather that covers the door speakers. “I especially like the old-fashioned, physical dials for the climate control; I’ve had cars before where you have to scroll through the infotainment screen to change the temperature, and that’s tricky to do while driving. “Only the lower-level trim areas that you don’t interact…

CARS WITH THE latest technology, such as new hybrid systems and electric motors, can be far more expensive to buy than their conventionally powered counterparts. And this is one factor that can push up the cost of insurance. In fact, recent studies have revealed that electric cars are as much as 60% pricier to insure than their petrol and diesel rivals. And indeed, looking at the models in our comparison tables, the electric version of the Volkswagen Golf costs nearly twice as much to cover for three years than the petrol model, while the electric Hyundai Ioniq is costlier than its hybrid and plug-in hybrid siblings. Insurers state that the extra cost of electric car premiums is due to a number of factors, including their higher purchase and parts prices…

Check if a vehicle has been recalled gov.uk/check-if-a-vehicle-has-been-recalled New car, service, repair and warranty issues themotorombudsman.org Citizens Advice Bureau citizensadvice.org.uk Check a car has a valid MOT test certificate gov.uk/check-mot-status What Car? New Car Buying whatcar.com/new-car-deals Trading Standards nationaltrading standards.co.uk Financial Conduct Authority fca.org.uk Check car crash safety ratings euroncap.com Motability motability.co.uk What Car? advice whatcar.com/advice…

‘It’s our goal to help you separate great cars, priced low, from those that are cheap for a reason’ THIS MIGHT WELL be the year of the used car. With the supply of new cars strangled as manufacturers wrestle with new emissions rules, and the prospect of Brexit also having an impact, the used car market looks set to become more important than ever for buyers seeking to change cars promptly and without hassle. So if you’re going to wade into it, you’ll no doubt want to be equipped with the best and latest insight. Cue the 2019 What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards. As ever, it’s our mission to help you navigate the used car market – to separate great cars, priced low, from those that are…

What we looked for Lots of cars can be family cars, but here we’re using the term to describe the sort of compact yet spacious hatchback that’s become the norm in the UK – the sort that can carry two adults and three children comfortably, with enough space for plenty of luggage in the back. The best ones combine all that with quality, comfort, value and flair to make family motoring a treat rather than a chore. Other finalists Last year’s overall Used Car of the Year is still an excellent choice. Our favourite engine is the 1.4-litre petrol, but the 1.2 is cheaper to buy and run, easier to find and peppy enough for most people. Vauxhalls are often second-hand bargains, but the Astra is more so than most,…

What we looked for Small SUVs are becoming the go-to choice for families, so we’re looking for plenty of interior flexibility as well as an elevated driving position. Fuel economy is important, too; the modern crop of small SUVs can mostly be found with a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines, so high running costs won’t be tolerated. Interior quality and comfort are also high on the list of priorities. Other finalists Clever sliding rear seats that allow you to prioritise either leg room or boot space are a huge plus point here.The Captur is also perky to drive, comfortable and more affordable than many of its rivals. Easy to drive, well equipped and practical, the Tiguan is a great buy, especially at this price point. Its 40/20/40 split-folding…

What we looked for It’d be easy to simply say a hot hatch must be fun and end it there. Indeed, an exciting drive – the sort that’ll make you grin until your cheeks ache – is a priority. But that’s not all. When you just want to get home, a hot hatch needs to be comfortable and docile; and when you want to carry passengers or luggage, it should be practical, too. Not just a jack of all trades, then – but a master of them. Other finalists The Fiesta ST won this category last year and is still an outstanding used hot hatch. No other small car is as involving or sharp to drive; throw in that magnificent engine and you have an exemplary package. The Focus RS…

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi Premium SE 4WD auto List price £43,495 Target Price £42,668 Latest version of Hyundai’s seven-seat SUV is incredibly well equipped in Premium SE trim. Mitsubishi Shogun Sport 4 Diesel List price £39,775 Target Price £38,616 Unashamedly rugged, but is the new Shogun Sport a good choice for families? Peugeot 5008 2.0 BlueHDi 180 GT List price £37,900 Target Price £35,127 Range-topping version of our favourite large SUV looks well priced in this company.…

List price £21,320 Target Price £20,705 Price as tested £23,540 Extras Discover Navigation (£780), metallic paint (£575),Active Info Display (£405), Car-Net ‘Security and Service’ (£350), luggage compartment mat (£70), 17in ‘Mayfield’ Atlantic Blue diamond-turned alloy wheels with anti-theft bolts (£40), Ravenna Blue dashpad (free), black roof (free) Running costs True MPG na Official economy 55.4mpg (NEDC average) Tank 55 litres Contract hire £259 per month Insurance group 11 Typical insurance quote £1305…

Mileage 6240 List price £39,905 Target Price na Price as tested £39,905 Test economy 35.8mpg “Modern SUVs, such as the Volvo XC40, are useless off road and couldn’t cross a dried-up stream. Discuss.” Right, let me tell you straight off that they can, and I have photographic evidence. I borrowed the XC40 for a week spent doing jobs on the Howell family farm in Wales. Sure, the land was as dry as a bone, but, believe it or not, long, dry grass coating the side of a mountain can still be slippery. Yet, despite being on standard, road-focused tyres, the XC40’s four-wheel drive dragged it up slopes and its hill descent control brought it safely down the other side. Occasionally it dangled a wheel helplessly in the air, so it’s…

‘The E-Class Estate combines a spacious interior with elegant styling and a comfortable ride’ THE RISE OF the luxury SUV may be continuing apace, but there’s plenty of life left in the old concept of an estate based on a luxury saloon. Of these, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is one of the most long-lived and the most impressive, as its victory in our 2019 Used Car of the Year Awards has just shown. As with all the previous incarnations, this latest model combines a spacious interior with elegant styling and a comfortable ride, and it offers the sort of competence in the way it drives that the taller SUVs struggle to match. WHAT’S IT LIKE? As far as engines go, there are three diesel options: 2.0-litre four-cylinder units with either…

LESS THAN £20,000 Seat Leon Our pick 1.2 TSI SE Dynamic Tech List price £18,960 Target Price £15,851 MPG 56.5 CO2 116g/km For Strong yet economical petrol engine with low running costs, and you get lots of safety kit. Against Some of the plastics feel cheap and it can seem sluggish on the motorway. WHAT CAR? SAYS Vauxhall Astra Our pick 1.4T 16V 125 Design List price £18,460 Target Price £17,148 MPG 52.3 CO2 124g/km For Low CO2 emissions make it an ideal company car; decent to drive, with a practical interior. Against The steering feels numb and Tech Line trim adds more kit for only a little more money. WHAT CAR? SAYS Skoda Rapid Spaceback Our pick 1.0 TSI 110 SE Tech List price £16,505 Target Price £15,093 MPG…

LESS THAN £20,000 Skoda Fabia Estate Our pick 1.0 TSI 95 SE List price £15,545 Target Price £14,623 MPG 64.2 CO2 101g/km For It’s one of the roomiest small estates; SE trim adds air-con and a touchscreen. Against Costs more than the hatchback and seats could do with more support. WHAT CAR? SAYS Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Our pick 1.4T 16v 125 Design List price £19,810 Target Price £18,396 MPG 47.9 CO2 136g/km For There’s plenty of room and you get air-con, Bluetooth and auto headlights as standard. Against This is the least powerful engine in the range and the boot isn’t that flexible. WHAT CAR? SAYS Dacia Logan MCV Our pick 0.9 TCe Lauréate List price £11,115 Target Price £11,012 MPG 57.6 CO2 109g/km For Lots of space, low…

LESS THAN £50,000 Alpine A110 Our pick 1.8 Pure List price £46,905 Target Price £46,905 MPG 46.3 CO2 138g/km For Grin-inducing handling is unmatched at this price level; surprisingly cheap to run. Against Limited luggage space and there are signs of cost cutting inside. WHAT CAR? SAYS Porsche 718 Cayman Our pick 2.0 List price £43,467 Target Price £43,467 MPG 38.2 CO2 168g/km For Balletic handling, sublime steering and gearshift, as well as strong pace. Against Stingy levels of standard equipment and the engine doesn’t sound special enough. WHAT CAR? SAYS Porsche 718 Boxster Our pick 2.0 List price £45,328 Target Price £45,328 MPG 38.2 CO2 168g/km For All the stuff we love about the Cayman but with added sunshine. Against Kit levels are just as sparse as in the…

BMW 3 Series The best-selling car in the class in the UK until this year, its final year of existence. BMW is showing an honest appreciation of where it needs to improve – and appears to have done all it can to address every issue. Audi A4 For Exceptionally refined; smooth and powerful engines; top interior quality Against Some options are costly; Ultra versions have a firm low-speed ride Alfa Romeo Giulia For Engaging handling; handsome looks; strong performance Against Noisy diesel; residual values a leap of faith; disappointing interior quality Mercedes-Benz C-Class For Low CO2 emissions of diesels; plenty of standard kit; decent finance deals Against Firm ride on standard suspension; relatively pricey cash buy; small boot…

REMEMBER WHEN IT seemed as if almost every manufacturer was clamouring to board the retro train? From mainstream brands right up to luxury car makers, everyone seemed to have at least one reborn classic on their books. The retro fad may have died down since then, but there are always a few exceptions to the rule, and the one we’re looking at here is the Fiat 500X, a small SUV that has just been facelifted after three years on sale. Although we could go into the entirely predictable new paint colours alloy wheel designs, bumpers and lights, most of the money has been spent under the bonnet. While the old 1.6-litre petrol engine soldiers on with a few changes to comply with the new WLTP emissions standards, it’s joined by…

THERE IS NO magic formula to guarantee success in the new car market, but as we’ve seen time and again recently, the closest thing to a manufacturer glugging down a sweet elixir is launching a new SUV. Well, Lexus has conjured up another such model and is hoping it will eventually become its biggest seller in the UK. This is the UX, a family model that shares its underpinnings with the three-star Toyota C-HR and sits below the luxury RX and large NX in the Japanese brand’s SUV line-up. It’s clearly cut from the same cloth as those cars, because along with the familiar sharp, angular looks, the UX is a hybrid. That means it competes with the Kia Niro and Mini Countryman S E, as well as conventionally powered…

‘The plug-in hybrid should be capable of over 50 miles on electric power alone’ IF YOU LIKE your SUVs large, luxurious and wearing a premium badge, chances are you’ve heard of the Mercedes-Benz GLE.A rival to the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Volvo XC90, it’s just about to be replaced by a brand new model. Based on new underpinnings, the second-generation GLE promises to be significantly roomier than today’s car, largely because its axles are farther apart.A third row of seats will also be offered for the first time, making the GLE a seven-seater, in line with the Q7 and X5. In addition, the second-row seats now offer electric adjustment. Extra space has also been liberated in the boot, with 825 litres available.That’s a significant improvement over the old GLE…

CARS AND SUVs are pretty predictable these days. A new model is launched, it’s facelifted after three years and then three or four years later, it’s replaced. Simple. Well, it might be for the majority of cars, but that’s certainly not the case with the Suzuki Jimny. You see, the previous generation of Suzuki’s titchy three-door off-roader had been on sale since 1998, and you could still buy it new from a Suzuki dealer until very recently. Sure, it was tweaked here and there during those 20 years on sale, but essentially it was the same car. Therefore, the fact that Suzuki is launching a brand new Jimny is quite a momentous occasion. It still has a rugged ladder frame chassis, basic live axles front and rear and a low-range…

WE’VE KNOWN THE Seat Tarraco was coming for some time. From the minute Skoda brought out the Kodiaq (itself related to the Volkswagen Tiguan) in 2016, it was inevitable that there would be a Seat equivalent, based on the same underpinnings.And so we come to the Tarraco, a large seven-seater that joins the small Arona and family-sized Ateca in the Spanish car maker’s SUV line-up. Four engines will be available at launch: 148bhp 1.5-litre and 187bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol units, along with two 2.0-litre diesel options, producing either 148bhp or 178bhp.We recommend the lower-powered diesel in the Kodiaq. Electrified powertrains are also likely in the future. Four-wheel drive is available on some models, while gearbox options are a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic. While the Tarraco is virtually…

THE HYUNDAI SANTA FE is just months away from turning 18, and like the children whose parents drove them around in one in the early 2000s, it has matured. Back then, it was a gawky 4x4 from a budget brand, with a load of hard grey plastic and cloth seats inside. Now, in its fourth generation, it’s an imposing £33k SUV with an upmarket interior, produced by a firm capable of wooing customers from BMW. One engine is on offer at launch – a 198bhp 2.2-litre diesel – with 2.0-litre petrol and diesel units due later. Drive is sent through a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox to either the front or all four wheels. In addition, it’s roomier than before, even in the third row. It’s plusher and better…

Age 48 Job Sales director Drives BMW 5 Series Touring “I’ve owned a couple of Santa Fes in the past, so I was keen to see how the model has evolved. I like the new look; it’s modern and premium, and the big bonnet and grille and the striking headlight design will give the car real presence on the motorway. “On the inside, the quality of the materials and the fit and finish are all well above that of the previous Santa Fe. It’s also great that you get a premium stereo system; you’ll pay a lot extra for that in an Audi or a BMW. And it’s great that a head-up display and wireless phone charging pad are standard in range-topping form. “The designers have tried to address other…

WHILE THE LATEST battery technology has eased the range anxiety that has always been a concern for most potential electric car buyers, the ability to get to or find a charging point can still be a worry. However, the UK’s public electric infrastructure is growing apace. Today, there are 10,264 public charging points across the UK, with connectors to charge up 17,615 cars. Still, that’s way short of the 300,000 electric cars that the Transport Research Laboratory estimates will be on our roads in 2030 – and it predicts that could soar to 12 million by 2040. To further boost the infrastructure, the Government has proposed making it mandatory for chargers to be fitted to new flats and houses in its Road to Zero strategy. This also said new lamp-posts…

New, greener petrol could be on fuel station forecourts up and down the country by 2020 as part of a government initiative to reduce greenhouse gases. However, not all petrol cars will be compatible with the new fuel, which is called E10. What is E10 fuel? It’s petrol that contains twice as much bioethanol as the E5 unleaded that’s currently sold in the UK: 10%, as the name suggests. This type of petrol is sold elsewhere in Europe, including France and Germany, and all new cars sold in Europe since 2011 are able to run on it. However, even though fuel suppliers have legally been able to sell it in the UK since 2013, one reason they have chosen not to is the concern that it will cause damage to…

What we looked for A city car needs to be compact, yet spacious enough to carry four people inside. It must have enough oomph to cope with most roads, while still providing excellent fuel economy. The car also has to be agile in town, easy to park and cheap to run. On top of that, the best ones provide all the quality in fixtures and fittings, as well as the safety equipment, that you’d expect from a larger car. Other finalists The first-generation i10 had a roomy interior, good road manners, low running costs and an impressive standard kit list. Today, the 1.2 Classic makes for a terrific, frugal runabout that’s remarkably cheap to buy. The latest i10 has a choice of efficient engines, a comfy interior and generous equipment.You’ll…

What we looked for Comfort and class: that’s what the discerning executive expects and therefore what the ideal executive car must deliver. But that’s not all. It needs to offer a useful amount of space, so that it can double as a family car at the weekend. On top of that, the best handle well, look smart and come with plenty of toys. Too much to ask? Not if an executive car wants to be in with a shout of winning this award. Other finalists A robustly built interior, sharp handling and excellent, punchy engines make the 6 a terrific buy. At this price, you get so much for your cash, and it’s easy to find a high-spec, well-equipped example. The A3 has a terrific, high-quality interior, giving it an…

What we looked for The very best estates combine a huge boot, decent practicality and a spacious interior, all in one family-friendly package. As a bonus, they’re often much more engaging to drive than the equivalent SUV or MPV. Our favourite load-luggers will also be comfortable and well equipped, as well as having all of the latest safety kit. Find a good one and you’ll have one of the most complete cars you can buy. Other finalists This really is a fantastic all-rounder: good to drive, comfortable and tremendously roomy inside. It’s practical, too, with a huge boot, and for this money it’s unbeatable value, especially in 2.0 TDI Elegance form. Buyers after a premium badge at this price point can do no better than the 3 Series Touring, which…

What we looked for A great coupé will appeal not only to your heart, but also to your head. First, it should have neck-snapping good looks that make you feel special every time you drive it, even if you’re just off to get milk. Second, it should have precise handling and potent performance; it’s no good if it hasn’t got the go to match the looks. The best used coupés, however, must also be good value – and not cost the Earth to run. Other finalists When it comes to fun coupés on a budget, the Mini Coupé is unbeatable. It’s really nippy and handles incredibly well, whether you choose the standard Cooper or the hot John Cooper Works model. Coupés don’t come more stylish than the F-Type. While it…

What we looked for Exhilarating. Intoxicating. Exciting. It goes without saying that the ideal used sports car should be all of these things. Therefore, it must have the performance to thrill you and the agility to make your hair stand on end. A spine-tingling engine note and racy interior trimmings help matters, too, while quality and value also play their parts. Above all, a sports car must make you want to drive just for the sake of it. Other finalists Last year’s category winner is still one of the finest sports cars for this sort of money.A V10 soundtrack, supercar pace, four-wheel drive and astonishing grip combine to deliver an electrifying driving experience. Having slipped in value since it hit the used market, Mercedes’ twin-turbo V8 supercar can now be…

According to Nissan research, around 39% of drivers feel scared, nervous or uneasy driving on Britain’s roads, with 23% feeling particularly anxious taking on the challenge of a busy motorway. Fortunately, the 100% electric new Nissan LEAF is here to banish the horrors of the highway and bring the joy back into the journey. It comes with ProPILOT – an advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility feature that lends a helping hand in the congested motorway traffic that typically sends stress levels soaring. ProPILOT uses Intelligent Cruise Control and Intelligent Emergency Braking to maintain your new LEAF’s speed, as well as a safe distance to the vehicle in front. It will even slow your car and bring it to a halt in stop-start traffic. Perfect for the 16% of drivers who don’t…

Mileage 5583 List price when new (2017) £25,245 Value now £15,194 Test economy 50.9mpg “IT’LL EITHER BE one of these or an Audi A3 that I’ll buy.” That was the conclusion of our video apprentice, Oli Kosbab, after poking around my Seat Leon. That he was so quickly impressed by it is no surprise; the Leon is an excellent car in its own right. But as good as it is new, it’s on the used market that it makes the most sense, with a 67-plate car in our favoured 1.4 EcoTSI FR Technology trim being almost £10,000 cheaper than it would have been originally. The Leon is such good value, in fact, that we named it our 2018 Used Car of the Year. And that’s why I’ve just taken delivery…

Mileage 12,980 List price £31,290 Target Price £29,407 Price as tested £31,615 Test economy 39.7mpg THE SKODA KODIAQ is a really good car. It has a large, flexible interior that’s comfortable and well laid out. Its third row of seats pop up and down easily. It’s economical for a large SUV. Its infotainment system is logical to use. It’s good to drive in pretty much any circumstances. The list goes on, with the word ‘good’ being applicable to almost every facet of the car, so perhaps it’s just as important to state that at its worst, the Kodiaq is… still very good. Yes, there are niggles, such as the proximity of the hazard warning switch to your knuckles when you change gear, or the fact that there isn’t even the…

LESS THAN £10,000 Suzuki Celerio Our pick 1.0 SZ2 List price £7999 Target Price £7315 MPG 65.7 CO2 99g/km For It has a practical interior with a DAB radio and the engine gives adequate performance. Against The interior feels cheap, resale values are weak and infotainment options are limited. WHAT CAR? SAYS Hyundai i10 Our pick 1.0 S List price £9795 Target Price £9095 MPG 60.1 CO2 108g/km For The three-cylinder engine is refined and the interior is surprisingly roomy. Against This entry-level trim doesn’t give you much kit and the engine struggles out of town. WHAT CAR? SAYS Volkswagen Up Our pick 1.0 60 Take Up 3dr List price £9325 Target Price £8920 MPG 64.2 CO2 101g/km For Fun to drive, with a comfortable ride and an upmarket interior.…

LESS THAN £26,000 Skoda Superb Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 SE Technology List price £24,255 Target Price £23,085 MPG 65.7 CO2 112g/km For Masses of standard kit, lots of rear leg room and boot space, comfortable ride. Against Some other executive cars are more fun to drive and the engine is a little gruff. WHAT CAR? SAYS Volkswagen Passat Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 S List price £25,295 Target Price £19,949 MPG 67.3 CO2 109g/km For Drives well, with a good ride and refined diesel engine, while the interior is smart. Against Some rivals are more practical and the dashboard design is a bit dull. WHAT CAR? SAYS Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport Our pick 1.6 Turbo D Ecotec 110 Tech Line List price £22,745 Target Price £21,446 MPG 70.6 CO2…

LESS THAN £16,000 Suzuki Vitara Our pick 1.6 SZ4 List price £15,999 Target Price £15,540 MPG 53.3 CO2 123g/km For Good to drive and practical interior. SZ4 trim brings enough equipment. Against CO2 emissions are comparatively high and resale values are only average. WHAT CAR? SAYS Kia Soul Our pick 1.6 GDI 1 List price £14,725 Target Price £14,149 MPG 43.5 CO2 152g/km For Spacious interior, decent to drive and 1 trim gives you air-con and a DAB radio.. Against Ride is overly firm; steering gives no indication as to what the front tyres are doing. WHAT CAR? SAYS Suzuki Ignis Our pick 1.2 SHVS SZ5 List price £14,509 Target Price £12,301 MPG 65.7 True MPG 59.6 CO2 97g/km For Excellent real-world economy, it’s fun to drive and you get…

LESS THAN £30,000 Renault Zoe Our pick Q90 ZE40 Dynamique Nav List price £23,670 Target Price £15,170 Official range 230 miles CO2 0g/km For Very low running costs; quiet and easy to drive; longer range than most electric cars. Against So-so performance; brakes are inconsistent in feel; interior isn’t exactly plush. WHAT CAR? SAYS Hyundai Ioniq Our pick Electric Premium List price £29,995 Target Price £24,101 Official range 174 miles CO2 0g/km For Quick off the line; easy to drive around town; spacious and well-equipped interior. Against Battery pack robs boot space and rivals are better to drive. WHAT CAR? SAYS Volkswagen e-Up Our pick e-Up List price £25,640 Target Price £20,328 Official range 99 miles CO2 0g/km For Great to drive; well equipped; easy to manoeuvre and park in…