Indholdsfortegnelse for February 2020 i What Car?

‘Our team has provided a Target Price for every car on sale today’ If knowledge is power, this issue of What Car? is potentially the most important of the year. That’s because we’re sharing everything we’ve learned about all the cars due to go on sale in 2020. From p64, we’re even pitting some of next year’s stars against their key rivals, so you can find out right now if the new Peugeot and Renault small hatchbacks are better than the class-leading Volkswagen Polo and whether the latest SUVs from MG and Skoda offer more than just low costs. Finally, our team of mystery shoppers have been out in force, seeing what discounts are available, and they’ve provided a Target Price for every car on sale today (from p122).You don’t…

‘The Fiesta is a great basis for a small SUV if you want sharp handling’ ALTHOUGH THEY’VE BEEN popular for quite a few years now, there hasn’t yet been a small SUV that’s truly involving to drive.That could very well be about to change. These models are usually closely related to small hatchbacks, and there could be no better basis than the Ford Fiesta if you want characterful engines, outstanding ride quality and sharp, precise handling.That’s the theory behind the new Puma, which inherits its name from a small Fiesta-based coupé that Ford produced from 1997-2001. The driver sits 30mm higher than in the Fiesta, while there’s more space for rear passengers and 156 additional litres of boot space.That’s helped by an 80-litre underfloor storage space that can be washed…

JUST LIKE DAVID Attenborough and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the Audi A3 hasn’t lost any of its brilliance over the years and continues to outshine much younger contemporaries, in its case including the latest BMW 1 Series. Still, everyone must retire one day, and we can expect even greater achievements from the fourth-generation A3, with Audi claiming that it will set new class benchmarks for quietness, ride comfort and technology. Its looks are said to take inspiration from the Q3 SUV, while a lighter yet stiffer body promises efficiency gains and sharper handling. ‘An SUV-like four-wheel-drive hatchback and a five-door coupé will join the range in 2021’ On the subject of efficiency, the new A3’s 128bhp and 148bhp 1.5-litre and 187bhp 2.0 -litre turbocharged petrol engines will use a 48 -volt mild…

ASTON MARTIN HAS gone bankrupt no fewer than seven times; this new DBX is intended to ensure it never happens again. An entrant into the booming prestige SUV market, it promises the performance and luxury you’d expect from the brand, along with space and practicality you wouldn’t. Plus, it’s said to offer genuine off-road ability. Initially, the only engine available is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre petrol V8 that produces 542bhp and 516lb ft of torque. That’s enough for 0-62mph in 4.5sec and a top speed of 181mph – pretty much identical to the rival Bentley Bentayga V8’s figures. Both a V12 version and a plug-in hybrid are expected to follow. Other highlights include adaptive air suspension that allows the body to be raised (to boost ground clearance) or lowered (for added…

‘The ID 4 will be smaller than the Tiguan Allspace but have just as much space inside’ THE SECOND MODEL in Volkswagen’s new family of electric cars will be a family SUV. The ID 4 follows the Golf-sized ID 3 hatchback and uses much of the same technology. Both are the initial steps in the firm’s plan to sell 100,000 electric cars in 2020 and up to a million annually by 2025. The ID Crozz concept car that Volkswagen has been displaying at various motor shows for the past two years will spawn both the ID 4, with a more conventional roofline and tailgate design, and the coupé-styled ID 5. Both SUVs will have conventional rear doors, instead of the sliding items of the concept, and conventional door mirrors are…

IF YOU HAVEN’T owned a Vauxhall Corsa, you’ve almost certainly been a passenger in one. At the very least, you’ll have spotted one covered in L plates or being driven sedately by someone who’s had free bus travel for a number of years. The Corsa’s mix of keen pricing and cheap insurance has made it a hit with young and old alike, you see, ever since the first one went on sale in 1993. It’s always near the top of the new car sales charts in the UK, while used models find their way into countless more homes. However, this new, fifth-generation Corsa is a bit different. It’s the first Corsa developed since Vauxhall was acquired by the PSA Group (made up of Peugeot, Citroën and DS) and, as such,…

WHEN YOU THINK of fine Italian quality, you probably imagine beautiful leather handbags, freshly prepared gelato and the purest of bubbling proseccos. One thing you probably wouldn’t think of is the Alfa Romeo Giulia, due to its rather low-rent interior. So, the Milanese have picked up their finest tools to improve material quality, in addition to overhauling the infotainment and installing more safety kit. The mechanicals are unchanged, meaning there are two turbo petrol and two diesel engines on offer, including the 2.0-litre 276bhp petrol here, which is available exclusively with range-topping Veloce trim. It provides swift acceleration with a smooth delivery of power. You do need to rev it hard to get the most of those Italian stallions, though. Regardless of wheel size (they’re 18in on the Veloce), the…

THE RANGER HAS been the most popular pickup truck in the UK for quite some time, but the market is quickly swelling, so Ford has felt the need to refresh its offering to stay ahead. There are some visual tweaks, but of greatest note is the fact that the 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel engine is being replaced by the smaller, more frugal twin-turbo four-cylinder unit first used in the hardcore off-roading Ranger Raptor. If you take the view that there ain’t no replacement for displacement, the old engine is still available for a short time. But you’d be mad to overlook the 210bhp 2.0-litre motor. When unladen, it delivers pleasingly strong acceleration that can whisk the Ranger up to motorway speeds without fuss. It’s more refined, too, sending fewer vibrations through…

You can also buy fixed-price servicing packages for used cars, but is this a good idea? Well, although you get the same benefit of spreading the cost of servicing,there are fewer compelling reasons to opt for one. If you’re buying a fairly new car with a full main dealer service history,it will continue this and give the car more appeal when it’s time to sell it. However, franchised servicing can be more expensive than using an independent garage,so although a car with full service history will be worth more,the extra costs you’ve incurred could exceed that difference. According to our research, car owners are also less satisfied with franchised dealer servicing. Overall, 92% of owners were satisfied with the level of service and value for money they got from independent…

Check if a vehicle has been recalled gov.uk/ check-vehicle-recall 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…

AT THE START of my time with the latest Dacia Duster, I said that success would come if it could “conceal its necessitated inferiorities sufficiently that it feels like more than just a poor man’s Nissan Qashqai”. The question now, then, is whether it did. Well, that question is tricky to answer. Perhaps the best way to put it is that the Duster does indeed feel like a poor man’s Qashqai – because it is one. But in the same way that a BMW 5 Series is a poor man’s Rolls-Royce Phantom. Putting price aside for a moment, practicality has to be the Duster’s main attraction. In terms of metal for your money, nothing else comes close. At just over 4.3 metres long (meaning it just sneaks into the family…

In production 2015-present Price from £7000 Our favourite 1.3 SE Nav IT COULDN’T HAVE a less racy image, but the Honda Jazz has always hit the right notes over each of its three generations. That’s because it has always offered the ease of use and low running costs of a small hatchback combined with the space and practicality of a mini-MPV, all wrapped up in an ultra-reliable package and backed by a highly regarded network of dealers. The current Jazz is actually shorter than the Ford Fiesta, despite its boot and interior space being larger than the Ford Focus’s. It’s incredibly spacious in both the front and the back, helping to make it more practical than any of its direct rivals. Only two engine options have been offered: a 101bhp…

LESS THAN £20,000 Kia Ceed Our pick 1.0 T-GDi 2 List price £18,600 Target Price £17,311 MPG 50.4 CO2 122g/km For Decent performance; seven-year warranty; good build quality; large boot. Against Not the most comfortable ride or driving position; engine can sound coarse. WHAT CAR? SAYS Seat Leon Our pick 1.0 TSI SE Dynamic List price £19,355 Target Price £15,243 MPG 47.9 CO2 112g/km For Strong yet economical petrol engine with low running costs; good to drive. Against Some of the plastics feel cheap and some rivals are more practical. WHAT CAR? SAYS Hyundai i30 Our pick 1.0 T-GDi Blue Drive SE List price £19,395 Target Price £17,815 MPG 45.6 CO2 126g/km For Supple ride; good driving position; lots of room in the front; logical dash layout. Against Conservative looks;…

LESS THAN £28,000 Mazda CX-5 Our pick Skyactiv-G SE-L Nav+ List price £25,600 Target Price £23,517 MPG 38.2 CO2 146g/km For Classy interior; well equipped even in this entry-level trim; class-leading handling. Against The petrol engine feels weedy at lower revs and the ride is firm. WHAT CAR? SAYS Skoda Kodiaq Our pick 1.5 TSI 150 SE 7 seat List price £27,125 Target Price £25,419 MPG 37.2 CO2 147g/km For Value for money, with a classy and spacious interior and good driving manners. Against Ride is unsettled at low speeds, and the 2.0-litre diesel copes better with heavy loads. WHAT CAR? SAYS Citroën C5 Aircross Our pick Puretech 130 Flair List price £25,930 Target Price £23,242 MPG 44.4 CO2 119g/km For Punchy engine pulls well from low revs; versatile rear…

LESS THAN £25,000 Mini Convertible Our pick Cooper Classic Comfort/Navigation List price £21,885 Target Price £20,617 MPG 45.6 CO2 127g/km For Fun to drive, good resale values and reasonably refined. Against The pedals are offset, rear seats are cramped and it isn’t as cheap as we’d like. WHAT CAR? SAYS Fiat 500C Our pick 1.2 Lounge List price £16,545 Target Price £15,880 MPG 44.8 CO2 118g/km For Engine is perfect for town driving, and you’re well protected from the wind with the roof down. Against Lots of wind noise; not as classy as the Mini; little space inside; rear visibility isn’t great. WHAT CAR? SAYS Smart Fortwo Cabrio Our pick EQ Prime Premium (22kW charger) List price £23,335 Target Price £21,356 Official range (WLTP) 70.2 CO2 0g/km For Truly agile…

STAR RATINGS Outstanding Above average Average Below average Poor TARGET PRICE The What Car? Target Price is the maximum you should pay for your new car and is set by our team of mystery shoppers. It’s updated each month and all What Car?- approved dealers guarantee to match it. However, in a lot of cases they can save you even more. Just go to whatcar.com/new-car-deals, or call 03302 216207 between 9am and 5pm (standard network fees apply). All Target Prices are correct at the time of going to press. TARGET PCP The Target PCP is a fair monthly fee should you take out a personal contract purchase (PCP) finance agreement, over 36 months with a 15% deposit and a 10,000-mile annual mileage limit. Like Target Price, it’s set by our…

The What Car? Target Price is the maximum you should pay for your new car and is set by our team of mystery shoppers. Every day they haggle to see what discounts are available across the UK. And all What Car?-approved dealers will at least match Target Price. In a lot of cases, however, you can save even more by using our New Car Buying service. Just head to whatcar.com/new-car-deals and select the car you’re interested in, and dealers will compete for your business. It’s all done through our website, so they won’t see your details until you’re ready.…

DESPITE A CONCERTED effort to launch a range of exciting new models and boost sales,Alfa Romeo is still a long way short of the ambitious worldwide sales target it had set for 2020. However, the market for smaller SUVs is booming, so the introduction of the Volvo XC40-sized Tonale could provide the lifeline the brand needs. Based on the same underpinnings as the Jeep Renegade, the Tonale will be the first Alfa Romeo model to be sold with plug-in hybrid power, taking advantage of a reduction in benefit-in-kind tax rates for such cars from next year to appeal to the company car market. ‘The focus inside is on improved connectivity and ease of use’ The Tonale is expected to use a retuned version of the 236bhp petrol-electric setup that will…

MANY BRITISH DRIVERS have a soft spot for the Corsa because they had one as their first car. However, this all-new version of the little hatchback is looking to be desirable for many more reasons than just affordability – not least a new-look exterior design. Offered in five-door form only, the new Corsa isn’t significantly bigger than its predecessor, because, according to Vauxhall, research has shown that buyers value its compact dimensions. Nevertheless, there’s more space inside for passengers and luggage; the latter is especially important, because the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo both beat the current car for cargo capacity. Meanwhile, the interior has been redesigned to give you a sportier driving position, plusher materials and a more intuitive touchscreen infotainment system. Initially on offer will be a 74bhp…

Hyundai i30 update May Kia Ceed SW PHEV January Kia Xceed PHEV January Seat Leon Estate June Seat Leon PHEV Late 2020 Skoda Octavia PHEV October Volkswagen Golf Estate Summer Volkswagen Golf PHEV Late 2020 Volkswagen Up update January Aston Martin Vantage Volante Early 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback January BMW M2 CS June BMW M8 June Chevrolet Corvette Late 2020 Cupra Leon Autumn Ferrari 812 GTS September Ferrari F8 Tributo January Ferrari Roma October Ferrari SF90 Stradale June Lexus LC Convertible July Maserati Alfieri Late 2020 McLaren 750LT Autumn Mercedes-AMG GT R Black Series August Mini John Cooper Works GP May Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Summer Skoda Octavia vRS October Toyota Corolla GR November Toyota Yaris GR December Vauxhall e-Corsa VXR Late 2020…

STANDING OUT HAS never been tougher in the executive car market, but Mercedes-Benz is currently applying all of its engineering might to an all-new C-Class in order to do just that. The new C-Class is the first Mercedes to use new underpinnings designed to support a 48-volt electrical system, allowing for multiple hybrid variants.These include a plug-in hybrid with an electric-only range of about 30 miles, which will be available from launch, and versions that can travel farther on electric power are planned for later. If all of that sounds a bit too eco-friendly for you, you’ll be pleased to know that AMG is planning successors to the C43 and C63 performance models, with the latter getting a 550bhp 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine. Adaptive suspension will be standard even on…

‘The GLB 220d feels significantly stronger than the equivalent Discovery Sport’ WHEN IT COMES to SUVs, you’re now spoilt for choice. There are small ones, medium ones, big ones, practical ones, sporty ones, off-road ones, hybrid ones and even electric ones. However, there aren’t a whole lot of premium seven-seat SUVs that aren’t the size of an aircraft carrier. This is where the new Mercedes-Benz GLB steps in. The ‘B’ in its name might lead you to think it’s smaller inside than the GLC, but despite being a couple of centimetres shorter, it can seat two additional passengers in a third row of seats. It’s priced similarly to the five-seat Audi Q5 and BMW X3, as well as the Land Rover Discovery Sport, which up until now was the only…

BUYING A PLUG-IN hybrid car appears to make a good deal of sense: you get silent, clean electric running when you want it and then an engine so you can travel farther afield without needing to waste time at a charging station. Available as either a hatchback or an estate, the Superb iV is Skoda’s first hybrid, and it shares much with Volkswagen’s Passat GTE. Other alternatives include the non-plug-in Ford Mondeo Hybrid and, if you’re willing and able to stretch your budget, the brilliant BMW 330e. Under the bonnet of the Superb iV, then, are a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor that collaboratively produce 215bhp – the same as the Passat GTE, although that car takes 0.3sec less to sprint from 0-62mph, at 7.4sec. You…

DO YOU LIKE to have your cake, eat it, go back for seconds and still lose weight? If that sounds like you, plug-in hybrids like the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense should be right up your street. Despite being a large, four-wheel-drive SUV with a mighty 297bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 5.9sec, it manages well over 200mpg in the official test while emitting as little as 33g/km of CO2. Thank an electric-only range of more than 30 miles for that. So, for company car drivers, there’s the potential for some huge savings. The car starts in electric mode, although you can save charge or choose to blend electric and petrol power – well, stutter clumsily between them. This crudeness is matched by a gruff engine that vibrates the seat,…

Just because you’ve read a tow car test for a certain model, don’t assume that all versions of it will be able to tow. Some trim levels, such as sporty ones that add a bodykit to the car, can prevent them from being legally allowed to do so. There are two ways to check if a car you’re considering buying is permitted to tow.The first is to look on its V5 for the maximum towing weight; if this registration document doesn’t state one, it’s unlikely that the car may tow. The second place to look is on the VIN plate of the car.This should show a number of different weights.The first is the gross vehicle weight and the second is the gross train weight; deduct the former the latter to…

BUYING A SERVICING plan for your car won’t eliminate all running costs, but it should prevent you from being landed with a whopping bill just when you need it least. Choosing a pay-monthly plan will also make it easier to budget for car ownership. Just remember that unless you can get a plan thrown in for free, or at a discount, when you buy a new car from a dealer, you’ll be paying the full price for servicing and won’t be able to take advantage of any money-saving special offers. It also ties you in to main dealers for repair work and could mean you pay more for the replacement of wear-and-tear items. Meanwhile, if you’ve got an older car, you might be better off looking at aftermarket products instead,…

Mileage 4986 List price £29,735 Target Price £26,639 Price as tested £29,050 Test economy 30.3mpg LUXURY. IT’S SOMETHING that’s hard to define, because it means different things to different people; one person’s minimalist palace is another’s thinly disguised prison. In a car, though, it’s easier to trace to a feeling, a sense of internal warmth and wellbeing created by the right atmosphere on a journey. In the pursuit of luxury, Citroën even launched its own halo brand, DS. Its flagship model, the DS 7 Crossback, is based on the same underpinnings as my C5 Aircross, so I was intrigued to discover whether it is indeed more luxurious and borrowed a friend’s car for an evening to find out. There’s no doubt that the DS features more diamond-stitched leather and bejewelled…

LESS THAN £10,000 Hyundai i10 Our pick 1.0 S List price £10,025 Target Price £9233 MPG 50.4 CO2 117g/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 £10,140 Target Price £9721 MPG 55.4 CO2 101g/km For Fun to drive, with a comfortable ride and an upmarket interior. Against Feels slow on faster roads and this entry-level trim is a bit basic. WHAT CAR? SAYS Toyota Aygo Our pick 1.0 VVT-i X 3dr List price £9825 Target Price £9272 MPG 57.7 CO2 93g/km For Cheap to run, comes with a five-year warranty and has a great driving…

LESS THAN £17,000 Suzuki Ignis Our pick 1.2 Dualjet SHVS 2WD SZ5 List price £15,509 Target Price £14,360 MPG 54.1 CO2 98g/km For Real-world economy is excellent; surprisingly spacious and practical; lots of kit as standard. Against Ride is unsettled, it’s noisy on the motorway and there are only four seats. WHAT CAR? SAYS Citroën C3 Aircross Our pick Puretech 110 Feel List price £18,515 Target Price £15,653 MPG 51.5 CO2 110g/km For The boot is massive and the rear seats recline; plenty of equipment as standard. Against Engine has to be worked hard; ride and handling are sub-par. WHAT CAR? SAYS MG ZS Our pick 1.5 Excite List price £14,045 Target Price £13,705 MPG 41.5 CO2 140g/km For An 8.0in infotainment touchscreen is standard; more interior space than most…

LESS THAN £20,000 Skoda Fabia Estate Our pick 1.0 TSI 95 SE List price £16,600 Target Price £15,574 MPG 51.4 CO2 105g/km For It’s one of the roomiest small estates; SE trim adds air-con and a touchscreen. Against So-so handling and could do with more supportive seats. WHAT CAR? SAYS Kia Ceed Sportswagon Our pick 1.0 T-GDi 2 List price £19,850 Target Price £18,470 MPG 47.1 CO2 120g/km For Gutsy enough performance for most buyers; lots of equipment; boot is big and practical. Against Ride is restless and there’s quite a bit of tyre noise on the motorway. WHAT CAR? SAYS Dacia Logan MCV Our pick 0.9 TCe 90 Comfort List price £11,495 Target Price £11,388 MPG 45.6 CO2 121g/km For Lots of space; low running costs; plenty of equipment…

LESS THAN £22,000 Ford Fiesta ST Our pick ST-2 Performance Pack 3dr List price £21,625 Target Price £20,398 MPG 40.4 CO2 136g/km For Strong, characterful engine combined with engaging handling makes the ST fun at all speeds. Against It’s easily upset by bumps and the interior feels a bit low-rent. WHAT CAR? SAYS Suzuki Swift Sport Our pick 1.4 Boosterjet List price £18,999 Target Price £16,999 MPG 47.1 CO2 125g/km For You get plenty of equipment as standard, plus it’s relatively quick and cheap to run. Against It’s not the bargain that the previous one was and not as much fun to drive as we’d hoped. WHAT CAR? SAYS Abarth 595 Our pick 1.4 Turismo 70th Anniversary List price £19,885 Target Price £19,885 MPG 38.2 CO2 155g/km For Exquisite design…

VERY FEW CARS have come to symbolise the market they’re in better than the Qashqai. Close your eyes, think of a family SUV and the chances are that the car floating in your mind’s eye is wearing a Nissan badge. That’s because it has always been a highly favoured choice: 47,000 Qashqais have been sold so far in 2019, despite the model being six years old.That popularity also means the weight of expectation hanging over the third-generation Qashqai is nothing short of gargantuan.Styling inspired by the recent IMq concept should help the all-new car stand out next to rivals, which range from the Seat Ateca to the Volvo XC40, while high-tech features such as cameras for door mirrors may help pricier versions look more upmarket. ‘Various hybrids and plug-in hybrids…

WITH ITS REARWARD-opening back doors and cameras in place of door mirrors, Vauxhall’s 2018 GT X Experimental concept looked like just another show car that would never get near the road. However, ignore the standard car designer daydreaming and it’s actually the starting point for the new Mokka X small SUV. In particular, the Mokka X will feature the GT X’s radical front end design, dubbed ‘Visor’. Inspired by the eye slot of a crash helmet, the front grille stretches across the full width of the car and the headlights are incorporated within it. The rear of the concept is also set to influence the Mokka X, with it mirroring the shape of the front grille.The interior’s wide instrument panel – which does away with the need for a separate…

SKODA CALLS THE Octavia its ‘heart and engine’, which is little wonder when you learn that more than six million examples of the family hatchback have been sold since its introduction 23 years ago. One of the biggest reasons for this popularity is because it offers a space-to-cost ratio far greater than rivals such as the Audi A3 Sportback, Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf can manage. Even so, the new, Mk4 Octavia is even longer and wider, giving it more room for passengers plus an extra 10 litres of boot space (enough for another bag) in the hatchback and 30 litres in the estate. Bigger news, however, is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid that uses the same 1.4-litre petrol engine and electric motor as the five-star Volkswagen Passat GTE.This…

‘Off-road ability has actually been improved compared with that of the previous Defender’ THE ORIGINAL DEFENDER, on sale until 2016, could trace its mechanical heritage right back to the very first Land Rover of 1948. It is the very essence of the brand, then, so its replacement is enormously important. Despite retaining an intent focus on the wilderness and an instantly recognisable silhouette, it’s very different. It no longer has its body literally bolted to a separate ladder frame chassis, instead using modern aluminium underpinnings like the Discovery and big Range Rovers.This hasn’t compromised its rock-crawling capabilities, though; in fact, it has greatly improved them. Headline figures include 291mm of ground clearance, a 38deg approach angle and 40deg departure angle, a 900mm maximum wading depth and up to 3500kg towing…

Alfa Romeo Giulia update Early 2020 Alpina B3 and B3 Touring Early 2020 Alpina B8 Late 2020 Audi A3 Saloon Autumn Audi A5 update Early 2020 Bentley Flying Spur January BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé March BMW 5 Series update Summer BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo update Summer Jaguar XF update Spring Maserati Ghibli update Early 2020 Maserati Quattroporte update Early 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class update September Peugeot 508 PHEV January Polestar 1 Early 2020 Porsche Panamera update Early 2020 Rolls-Royce Ghost Summer Skoda Superb PHEV January Subaru Levorg Summer…

BELIEVE IT OR not, the electric version of Volkswagen’s Up city car has been around for six years now. That’s a fairly long time to keep a model going; it would be like you still rocking an iPhone 5S. That’s why the e-Up has received a series of updates in an effort to keep it competitive next to newly refreshed rivals such as the Renault Zoe and Seat Mii. Crucially, there’s a new battery pack with twice the capacity (36.8kWh) of the previous one. Also new is standard lane-keeping assistance and extra airbags to protect you in the event of a crash. On the outside, the only new thing you can spot is a redesigned VW badge. The bigger battery means the e-Up’s official range has jumped to 162 miles…

THE POLESTAR 1 takes the rulebook for high-performance GT cars and simply obliterates it. Rather than use a big V8, V12 or W12 to drive the rear or all four wheels, it combines a four-cylinder engine with a trio of electric motors to create a seriously rapid plug-in hybrid. How rapid? Well, total output is a hefty 601bhp – enough to take this 2350kg brute from 0-62mph in just 4.2sec. Now, before you shout that the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is quicker, you should understand that this suave Swede is about much more than just all-out pace. You see, the 1 is serious about zero-emissions driving. It uses a pair of batteries to give an official electric-only range of 78 miles – or more than three times the distance…

WHAT’S THE MAIN thing you associate with 2008? Maybe the election of Barack Obama or the Beijing Olympics? Most likely it’s the start of the financial crisis. Very few would say the Peugeot 2008 – mainly because it’s an also-ran in both objective and subjective terms, but also because it actually came out in 2013. Since then, however, Peugeot has served up a great family SUV, the 3008, and a class-leading large SUV, the 5008. Now it has used similar ingredients to cook up a new 2008, which should stand it in good stead against the likes of the Audi Q2, Nissan Juke and Volkswagen T-Cross. Unashamedly fashion-focused, it appears greatly improved inside, while a generous lengthening has increased boot capacity marginally and space for rear passengers substantially. A range…

WHAT FITS BETWEEN the CX-3 and CX-5 SUVs? The CX-30, obviously. Mazda was reluctant to name its long-awaited Seat Ateca rival the CX-4, because it already uses that in China. Go figure. That oddness aside, the main selling point of the CX-30 – aside from its eye-catching design – might be that it’s one of the safest cars built to date, having received five stars and a 99% adult occupant protection rating from Euro NCAP. Then there’s Mazda’s innovative Skayctiv-X engine, which burns petrol using a diesel-like ignition method to improve efficiency, rather than employ a turbocharger as rivals do. Plus, both this and the cheaper Skyactiv-G are mild hybrids, so you can expect to push 50mpg. The interior is striking, too, with high-quality materials, dial-controlled infotainment, a head-up display…

Many factors affect the range of electric cars, most prominently your style of driving, the weather and how loaded the car is with people and luggage. Towing is a significant extension of the latter, and the effect is enormous. For the 2019 Tow Car Awards, our testers attached a 750kg trailer to a Jaguar I-Pace to test its range.Although it was superb at towing, it could manage only 108 miles at a steady 60mph before its battery was depleted.That’s a 57% reduction in range from the 253 miles we achieved in our Real Range test. This means charging stops would be a frustratingly frequent interruption on long journeys; you’d need at least seven if you took the ferry to Calais and drove down to the south coast of France… The…

So, has the HS proved to be a pleasant surprise? It might well appear not, but although it’s last here, it’s by no means least. If you’re after a few luxuries, its generously equipped, plush interior will appeal, as will its gutsy engine and spacious rear seats. However, it’s hard to ignore such a small boot in this company, while the ride, handling and refinement are average. It’s expensive on PCP finance as well. In second place is the C5 Aircross, an SUV that will appeal to those who want largely comfortable, quiet journeys and don’t want to break the bank. It scores strongly for the flexible rear seats and generous boot, too. Counting against it are its wallowy handling, cheapest-feeling interior and stingy standard kit. That leaves the CX-5…

Mileage 3048 List price £31,995 Target Price £30,321 Price as tested £35,435 Test economy 26.8mpg WE’VE COME TO expect perpetual progress from the automotive industry, with each generation of car offering more space, smarter technology and superior performance or efficiency to the model that went before. However, if there’s one thing that we need to enjoy while we still can, it’s engine noise. Sure, in many types of car, the absence of noise is a good thing, making the experience more relaxing. But in something sporty, like my Renault Mégane RS, the soundtrack is a huge part of the appeal – or at least it will be until the twin trends of downsizing and electrification call time. ‘The exhaust crackle when I lift off the accelerator makes me smile’ It…

Audi S5 Sportback 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic List price when new £48,850 Price today £31,100 Available from 2017-present Versatile five-door version of the S5 coupé delivers pace, space and style. Kia Stinger GT S 3.3 T-GDi auto List price when new £40,495 Price today £28,300 Available from 2018-present We’re still getting used to a racy-looking, 365bhp, rear-wheel-drive Kia. Price today is based on a 2018 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing…

LESS THAN £15 000 Dacia Sandero Our pick 0.9 TCe 90 Essential List price £8995 Target Price £8913 MPG 45.6 CO2 123g/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 MG 3 Our pick 1.5 Excite List price £11,395 Target Price £11,122 MPG 42.3 CO2 140g/km For Cheap to buy and insure, with a seven-year warranty; surprisingly spacious for the price. Against Poor economy and resale values make it costly to run; only three stars in safety tests. WHAT CAR? SAYS Hyundai i20 Our pick 1.2 MPI 84 Play List price £14,670 Target Price £13,412 MPG 46.3 CO2 140g/km For Very spacious for a…

LESS THAN £22,000 Dacia Duster Our pick 1.5 Blue dCi 115 4x2 Essential List price £13,700 Target Price £13,571 MPG 57.6 CO2 115g/km For Roomy inside, reasonably comfortable and incredibly cheap compared with rivals. Against Interior is decidedly low-rent and there isn’t much standard safety kit. WHAT CAR? SAYS Ssangyong Tivoli XLV Our pick Ultimate petrol List price £19,745 Target Price £19,652 MPG 37.2 CO2 169g/km For You get leather-trimmed seats and sat-nav; there’s loads of room in the back and boot. Against The engine is noisy, the steering is vague and emissions are relatively high. WHAT CAR? SAYS Nissan Qashqai Our pick 1.3 DiG-T 140 Visia List price £20,195 Target Price £20,195 MPG 41.5 CO2 121g/km For Comfortable ride with surefooted handling and a smooth, punchy engine. Against Stingy…

LESS THAN £30,000 Skoda Superb Our pick 1.6 TDI 120 SE Tech auto List price £26,955 Target Price £26,171 MPG 67.3 CO2 110g/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, while the engine is a little gruff. WHAT CAR? SAYS Audi A3 Saloon Our pick 35 TFSI Sport List price £26,595 Target Price £25,052 MPG 42.8 CO2 123g/km For Handles well, the engine is strong and the interior is beautifully built. Against Costs more than the A3 Sportback, despite having a less practical boot. WHAT CAR? SAYS Mazda 6 Our pick Skyactiv-D 150 SE-L Nav+ List price £26,795 Target Price £25,698 MPG 55.4 CO2 117g/km For Smart interior; smooth and flexible engine;…

LESS THAN £30,000 Renault Zoe Our pick R110 ZE40 Dynamique Nav List price £21,920 Target Price £21,920 Official range (WLTP) 186 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 MG ZS EV Our pick Excite List price £28,495 Target Price £28,495 Official range (WLTP) 163 miles CO2 0g/km For Lots of room for passengers; large boot; plenty of standard equipment for the money. Against Rivals are better to drive; not especially comfortable; poor predicted resale values. WHAT CAR? SAYS Smart Fortwo Our pick EQ Prime Premium List price £21,195 Target Price £19,449 Official range (WLTP) 71 miles CO2 0g/km For Dinky dimensions are a…

LESS THAN £30,000 Mazda MX-5 Our pick 2.0 Sport Nav+ List price £25,095 Target Price £22,941 MPG 40.9 CO2 156g/km For Great to drive, with a wonderful chassis, a slick gearbox and just the right amount of power. Against It doesn’t have the classiest interior, nor much space inside for people or luggage. WHAT CAR? SAYS Toyota GT86 Our pick GT86 List price £27,830 Target Price £26,026 MPG 33.2 CO2 196g/km For Light weight and classic sports car layout make the GT86 fun. It gets decent kit, too. Against The engine needs to be worked hard and is noisy, while the interior design is dated. WHAT CAR? SAYS Subaru BRZ Our pick SE Lux List price £27,065 Target Price £26,185 MPG 33.3 CO2 196g/km For Brisk, despite its modest power,…

LESS THAN £50,000 Kia Stinger Our pick 3.3 T-GDi GT S List price £40,575 Target Price £40,575 MPG 27.7 CO2 221g/km For Nicely balanced handling, with strong pace from purposeful-sounding V6 engine. Against Tight in the back for tall adults; not quite as classy inside as its German rivals. WHAT CAR? SAYS Alfa Romeo Giulia Our pick 2.0 Turbo 280 Veloce Ti List price £45,995 Target Price £43,655 MPG 33.6 CO2 160g/km For Amazing steering; Quadrifoglio styling; great suspension setup; well-calibrated gearbox. Against The four-cylinder engine isn’t the most refined and interior quality is disappointing. WHAT CAR? SAYS Audi S3 Saloon Our pick TFSI 300 quattro S tronic List price £39,015 Target Price £36,749 MPG 34.4 CO2 158g/km For Fast, whatever the weather, and you’ll be cocooned in a top-notch…