Buying Guides – Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times

Buying Guide: Best used 4×4 estate cars for adventures off-road

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:46:55 +0000

Before the world became obsessed with SUVs, there was an alternative option for buyers in need of family-friendly transport that could cope with the great outdoors: the off-road estate.

Often these are based on premium estates, but with a raised ride height, extra body cladding and a four-wheel-drive transmission to help tackle slippery conditions. Admittedly, many are unlikely to travel far off road, but then, how many SUVs do the same?

Originators in the off-road estate class include Subaru with its permanent four-wheel-drive transmissions, while Volvo Cross Country and Audi allroad models have history in the sector, too. Elsewhere, Skoda has dabbled with the off-road estate as an alternative flagship to the typical high-performance models, while Mercedes briefly entered the sector with the E-Class All-Terrain, as did Peugeot, with the 508 RXH, a car that also came with hybrid power.

But why choose an off-road estate? Well, while they have a raised ride height when compared with the estate cars on which they’re based, they’re not as tall as an SUV, so there’s still some semblance of entertaining driving dynamics going on. And while four-wheel drive is the order of the day, the majority (Subaru excepted) come with part-time set-ups, so most of the time they only send power to one axle, which benefits fuel economy. Again, the lower ride height when compared with an SUV also benefits fuel economy in an off-road estate due to lower aerodynamic drag.

You don’t need to compromise on practicality, either. Since most are based on already-large estate cars, often there is more space available than in an SUV of a similar price, making them far more practical for everyday life, whether you’re ferrying kids, taking on adventure sports or towing a horse box or caravan.

Unfortunately, the off-road estate is becoming something of a dying breed. Audi no longer sells new allroads, and Volvo’s Cross Country badge will disappear when the V90 is shelved and the company no longer builds estate cars. The most recent Skoda Octavia Scout was only available to paramedics in the UK, there’s no RXH version of the latest Peugeot 508 and the E-Class All-Terrain has yet to make a return. That just leaves the Subaru Outback on new-car price lists, but all is not lost, because there are still options to be found on the used-car market.

Off-road estates attract a discerning kind of buyer, so while they’re not as common as some other types of estate car or SUV, you’re more likely to find a well-cared-for example. And because they are usually based on high-spec trims, you get a lot of kit for your money. Here are some top picks from the sector, with a range of models to suit different budgets.

Audi A6 allroad quattro

Approved used cars start at £24,000
Independently sold used cars start at £2,500

Subaru pioneered the off-road 4×4 estate car, but the A6 allroad introduced upmarket luxury to the mix. There has always been a rugged version of the A6 Avant estate, with four generations now on the roads, launched in 2000, 2006, 2013 and 2019, although the latest iteration was dropped from the line-up at the start of 2022.

The original model looked quite rugged, but later cars have a more sophisticated appearance, with body-coloured cladding on the wheelarches and door sills instead of black plastic. The obligatory increase in ride height was present, although cars from 2013 onwards feature adaptive air suspension, so the height can be adjusted according to conditions.

Air suspension is just one piece of hi-tech kit on board, and with most models packed with technology, we’d advise having a potential purchase checked over by a mechanic, or going for an approved used A6 allroad, to help give yourself some added peace of mind when it comes to reliability.

Boot space is vast in the A6, as is room in the back seats, so you won’t be having any complaints from occupants in the rear.

Since the A6 allroad is considered to be an upmarket option in the A6 Avant range, it only comes with higher-powered engines. You’ll find 3-litre V6 petrol and diesel options, which means these cars are great for towing, though the combination of a raised ride height and quattro four-wheel drive does mean fuel economy isn’t great.

Overall, the Audi A6 allroad is as upmarket and desirable as any top-spec luxury SUV, but it’s a more discreet package that is arguably more practical and spacious as family transport.

If you find a V6 engine a little too thirsty for your liking, then the Audi A4 allroad uses exactly the same formula as the A6, but applies it to the A4 Avant, so it has smaller engine options. The A4 Avant wasn’t around for as long as the A6, so is only offered as a Mk3 (from 2009-2015) or Mk4 (2016-2022). This means the earliest cars start from around £4,500, with approved used versions from Audi dealers starting at around £36,500.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

Approved used cars start at £28,000
Independently sold used cars start at £26,000

When one German car maker enters or creates a new niche, then the others almost always follow. But there’s no such thing as an off-road BMW 5 Series Touring (although xDrive four-wheel drive is available), while Mercedes only entered the off-road estate car market for the first time in 2016, with the E-Class All-Terrain.

It’s based on the W213-generation E 350 d Estate, so you know there’s going to be plenty of space inside, while 4Matic four-wheel drive and a V6 diesel powerplant mean it packs a punch, too. It won’t be the most economical choice, but then the luxury on board will soon help you forget about that.

Air suspension is standard, while a 29mm taller ride height is on offer. The 20-inch alloy wheels probably aren’t the first choice for off-road exploits, though, and really the difference in ride height is only noticeable if you park an All-Terrain model next to a standard E-Class Estate.

Your other task is trying to find one – the All-Terrain was quite expensive when new and was only sold for a couple of years before disappearing again.

Peugeot 508 RXH

Independently sold used cars start at £6,000

By their very nature 4×4 estates are obscure, but this could be the most obscure of all. It is based on the previous generation Peugeot 508, sold from 2010 to 2018, so from an era before the French car maker rediscovered its design mojo. It wasn’t a big seller in the UK and the rugged RXH (“H” standing for hybrid) off-road model was even rarer.

The 508 RXH was designed in the mould of Audi’s allroad models, although it’s closer in size to the smaller A4 allroad.

The grey plastic cladding for the wheelarches and door sills give the RXH a more distinctive look than the bland 508 SW estate, and this was one of the first Peugeots to use the distinctive ‘lion claw’ style LED daytime running lights in the front bumper.

The diesel-electric hybrid system delivers 200bhp, so it’s relatively quick, while the combination of 2-litre diesel and a modest battery and electric motor helped it achieve an official 67mpg. However, the 508 RXH is more about comfort than driving fun, and that raised ride height is combined with soft suspension. The four-wheel-drive system also relied on the hybrid set-up for traction, with the rear wheels being driven exclusively by the electric motor.

A 423-litre boot isn’t one of the biggest in the class, but since the RXH is at the top of the 508 range, it’s loaded with equipment. We’d advise checking that everything works properly before you spend your cash, though, because Peugeots of this era aren’t necessarily the most dependable in terms of electrics.

Skoda Octavia Scout

Approved used cars start at £17,300
Independently sold used cars start at £2,200

Before the Kodiaq, Karoq and Kamiq SUVs, the closest you could get to a Skoda off-roader was the Octavia Scout. In many ways it mirrors Audi’s allroad philosophy by delivering an upmarket alternative to a performance model — if you didn’t want a fast Octavia vRS then the Scout offered something different.

The first Octavia Scout arrived in 2007 and while it was upmarket, it still stuck to the company’s mantra of offering great value when compared with similar 4×4 estate cars for sale by Audi and Volvo, or Subaru for that matter.

A part-time four-wheel-drive system, increased ground clearance and the usual black plastic cladding made an appearance, and it was a formula that returned for the following generation in 2014. The current Octavia Estate introduced in 2020 is offered in Scout guise, but is only available as a special-order model for the UK’s paramedic services.

Power came from 2-litre petrol and diesel engines in higher power outputs, and with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes. That means all cars are great for towing, while the vast 580-litre boot means that it’s far more practical than the 508 RXH above.

If that’s not enough boot space, then the second-generation Skoda Superb Estate was also available in high-riding guise. It wasn’t called the Scout, though, instead being named the Superb Outdoor. Either way it still had a vast 633-litre boot, just like the standard Superb Estate. It had the same diesel engines as the Scout and was sold from 2012-2014, and can be found for around £10,500.

Subaru Outback

Approved used cars start at £13,300
Independently sold used cars start at £1,500

Subaru pioneered the 4×4 estate philosophy and the Outback has become a staple of country life for a dedicated band of the brand’s fans who are in tune with outdoor pursuits.

Originally based on generations of the Legacy Touring Sports estate, the Outback became a model in its own right in 2004 when the Legacy was dropped from the UK line-up. That was the third generation, while today you’ll find the sixth incarnation, introduced in 2020, on new car forecourts – and it’s one of the few remaining off-road estates that you can buy new.

Whichever version you choose, the Outback comes with permanent four-wheel drive, unlike the part-time systems seen in some of the other models mentioned here. That means the Outback is ready for rough conditions at all times, while a limited-slip differential and (on more recent models) a host of electronics help you in rough conditions.

All cars also get Subaru’s traditional boxer engines. Early cars could be had with thirsty 2.5-litre or 3-litre petrol units, while boxer diesel variants are more economical (though still relatively thirsty thanks to the permanent four-wheel drive and the extra friction that causes). Maintenance costs are on the steep side for these models, although reliability should be a strong point.

Volvo XC70

Independently sold used cars start at £1,800

It seems appropriate that Swedish firm Volvo participated in the 4×4 estate car class: a high-riding estate would seem to be the perfect fit for winters in the Arctic Circle. The XC70 and V70 Cross Country variants follow the same formula as the Audi A6 allroad by offering space, practicality and versatility in an upmarket package.

Early cars weren’t quite as sophisticated but are dependable workhorses, while running costs will be on the high side for a prestige marque. But then safety will be second-to-none for cars of the same age, and the ageless look of a two-box Volvo estate appeal, too.

Power comes from petrol and diesel engines, with a unique five-cylinder layout offered on earlier cars. As with other off-road estates, only engines with higher power outputs were offered on the XC70, but while that engine format delivers a unique sound, they’re not the most economical, even in diesel guise. Still, proper maintenance and care should help the XC70 rack up a high mileage without too much trouble.

In 2016, the XC70 was replaced by the V90 Cross Country, which went even further upmarket. If you’re looking for a manufacturer approved used car, it’s going to be one of these that will fit the bill, with prices from £20,000 (or from £19,000 privately). There’s also the smaller V60 Cross Country, available from 2015 in the first-generation body, and then the second-generation from 2018 on. These start from £11,500 used, while later approved used Mk2s V60 Cross Countrys start from £20,500.

If the off-road estate isn’t a specialist enough niche for you, then Volvo also offered Cross Country variants of the V40 hatchback (starting from £3,600, although four-wheel drive wasn’t available on all variants) and even the S60 saloon (if you can find one).

Prices correct at time of publication

If you enjoyed this 4×4 estate car buying guide, you might be interested in our review of the 2019 Volvo V60 Cross Country
For an ultimate off-roading experience, you might want to take a look at what we said about the new Land Rover Defender
Or here’s a leftfield option: the electric Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

Latest articles

The post Buying Guide: Best used 4×4 estate cars for adventures off-road appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Best used electric cars for under £17,000

Shane.odonoghue@sunday-times.co.uk — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 13:18:00 +0000

As new models electric cars can be expensive. That means not everybody can stretch their budget to get behind the wheel, especially since there are no longer any government grants to help them do so.

But all is not lost because it’s been nearly 20 years since the first EVs of the modern era hit showrooms, and many have found their way to the used market. Here we list the electric cars that are the best in their price brackets, up to a maximum of around £17,000.

Why £17k? Because according to research by Auto Trader, the average price of a used car in the UK is £17,654. But while the EVs we’ve chosen are below average in price, they shouldn’t be sub-par for their electric driving experience.

We’ve also included some tips on what to look out for when buying a used electric vehicle.

Best EVs for under £3k

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Range when new: 93 miles (NEDC)

A modern EV pioneer, the tiny i-MiEV is based on the petrol Mitsubishi i city car. The addition of electric drive transformed it into a smooth and likeable machine for urban use. The 16kWh battery is minuscule by modern standards, and the modest range means it’s only really suitable for local motoring. Also look for the Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot iOn, which are essentially the same car.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Best EVs for £3-7k

Nissan Leaf (first generation)

Range when new: 155 miles (NEDC)

This price bracket gets you behind the wheel of a first generation Nissan Leaf, but the updated version from 2016, with a slightly larger 30kWh battery, is within reach. This version offers more miles between charges than the 24kWh version, which was rated at 120 miles under the old, less accurate official test, and less than 100 miles in the real world was more likely. Buying today you’ll need to check the maximum predicted range on the dashboard when it’s fully charged before putting down your money.

While not the most glamorous EV around, it’s a real trailblazer, has a smart cabin and offers plenty of interior space.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Renault Zoe

Range when new: 130 miles (NEDC)

The first Renault Zoes featured a 22kWh battery, but in a bid to make its EV more affordable up front Renault offered the car either with the battery included or on a separate lease deal. If you buy a used Zoe at this price point, it’ll be one of these cars, so you’ll have to sign up to a lease contract to drive the car — Renault told us buyers will need to contact Mobilize Financial Services to arrange the payments, and the cost will depend on the annual mileage.

The Zoe itself is a really likeable little car, and though smaller than the Leaf it’s prettier and drives really nicely. However, a fairly shocking zero-star Euro Ncap crash test score in 2021 has worried many, with low scores for adult, child and pedestrian protection. But bear in mind that its main shortcomings were in automatic driver assist tech, as the Zoe doesn’t have features such as auto-emergency braking and lane-keeping assist on the entry-level models that Euro Ncap tests. Renault made these standard after the results in 2021. See the full results here.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Best EVs for £7-11k

BMW i3

Range when new: 100 miles (NEDC)

The BMW i3 is an exraordinary car, partly because it features a lightweight carbon fibre tub, onto which all the parts are bolted. That’s F1 technology, meaning reduced weight and extra strength. It also has a cabin that was way ahead of its time in design, and neat rear-hinged back doors allowing easy entry and egress. All of which means it’s already a considered a future classic.

The first 2014 models had batteries badged 60Ah (Ampere-hour), which translates into a 22kWh pack that offered a very modest 100-mile range. The REx range-extender is available if you feel like the pure-electric model’s range is too short, although in fact the battery in the REx is even smaller and the petrol engine’s fuel tank is also teeny, so frequent refuels are required either way. It’s also known to be less reliable than the EV if the petrol engine suffers from a lack of use. We still think the i3 is a cracking car, though.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Hyundai Ioniq

Range when new: 174 miles (NEDC)

If an i3 is the interesting side of EVs, the Ioniq is as plain as they come. The five-door hatch has a reasonable range for the price, and it’s a spacious family EV with decent kit, a comfortable ride and rock-solid reliability. However, watch for high-mileage models that could have been used as Ubers.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Nissan Leaf (second generation)

Range when new: 170 miles (WLTP)

The second-generation Leaf was a big step on from the first one, and what’s more it was built in the UK. The official range was more achievable thanks to a larger 40kWh battery and the more accurate WLTP test procedure, while equipment took a significant step up and the styling was far less blobby. It’s still not the most attractive car out there, nor the most exciting to drive, but it’s comfortable, dependable and spacious for its class.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Renault Zoe 41

Range when new: 190 miles (WLTP)

A bigger 41kWh battery was offered in the facelifted Zoe from 2016-2019, offering much more miles per charge, and while these cars still use the battery lease model (see the earlier Zoe entry for more info, and for notes on a poor safety assessment), they gained the option of rapid charging and more power from a 107bhp electric motor.

Nice looking cars, good to drive and very definitely at the affordable end of the market.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Seat Mii Electric

Range when new: 160 miles (WLTP)

At the compact end of the EV spectrum, the Mii was a short-lived model combining the small, versatile body of Seat’s city car with the electric powertrain from the virtually identical Volkswagen e-Up!. It offered a decent range and peppy performance for the price.

The e-Up! is a couple of grand more expensive, making the Seat (and indeed the also-identical Skoda Citigo) a bargain by comparison. Boot space is small but you’ll be surprised at how much room there is for front and rear occupants, and they’re nicely-built cars.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Best EVs for £11-17k

BMW i3

Range when new: 190 miles (NEDC, 94Ah model)/ 192 miles (WLTP 120Ah model)

Later i3s are a better option thanks to a battery that increased to 33kWh in 2017, then expanded to 42.2kWh for 2018, almost double the original pack’s size.

Up to 192-mile range is achievable in the real world, while the car’s futuristic looks remained unchanged. You can also find the slightly sportier i3s at this price level. Find a good one, and the i3 has the potential to be a future classic as a pioneering EV.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Fiat 500e

Range when new: 199 miles (WLTP)

The i3 may have futuristic construction but the Fiat 500e blends retro chic with its modern lines. It was only launched in 2022 but the most basic models now dip under the £17k mark.

The looks are pure retro style, while the 42kWh battery delivers a range that means you might not even need to charge it up after every journey. If you do, rapid DC charging at up to 85kW is possible.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Hyundai Ioniq

Range when new: 193 miles (WLTP)

While a post-2019 Ioniq delivers the same dependable and uneventful ability as the earlier models, it also comes with a larger 38kWh battery and a more powerful electric motor. Dull but high quality and appealing in its lack of pretension.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Hyundai Kona Electric

Range when new: 279 miles (WLTP)

Here’s proof that you don’t need to splash out big money for an EV to get a decent range. A three-year-old Kona Electric with a larger 64kWh battery is within reach. It will have a higher-than-average mileage, but there are still two years of Hyundai’s unlimited-mileage warranty remaining. Check that this slightly compact SUV has enough space for you before buying.

Find examples on Auto Trader

MG ZS

Range when new: 163 miles (WLTP)

The MG ZS pioneered the Chinese-owned firm’s entry into the EV market. While the quality of the interior and tech on board isn’t quite up to the standard of rivals, a 44kWh battery offers reasonable range, and the SUV body is practical.

Potential buyers ought to be aware that Chinese car makers have been criticised for receiving an unfair advantage through WTO rule-breaking state support, from a regime that Amnesty International reports carries out torture, genocide and routine suppression of dissent. MG did not respond when requested for comment on such allegations.

Find examples on Auto Trader

MG5

Range when new: 214 miles (WLTP)

This electric estate (of which there are very few) has a bigger battery than the ZS, at 53kWh, hence the longer range, but it’s also a bit newer and so pricier to buy. Popular with private hire firms and taxis, a £17k budget offers a decent choice of low-mileage examples, although all models at this price are dull-looking pre-facelift cars.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Peugeot e-208

Range when new: 211 miles (WLTP)

The e-208 is one of several cars that share the same 50kWh battery/ 135bhp electric motor set-up from the Stellantis Group (which includes Vauxhall, Citroën, Fiat and Jeep) and is arguably one of the most stylish. There are plenty of low-mileage examples at this price point, although we’d recommend trying the i-Cockpit cabin layout, which its downsized steering wheel, before parting with your cash.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Renault Zoe (2019-onwards)

Range when new: 245 miles (WLTP)

The most recent Zoe, introduced in 2019, ditched the battery rental scheme completely so that simplifies the used buying process somewhat. It also has the biggest battery, at 52kWh, so it can go a relatively long way on a single charge, while the revamped interior shares high-quality switchgear with the latest Clio.

Around £12,000 will get you behind the wheel of a basic model but easily more than 200 miles of range in everyday driving. Bear in mind that this Zoe scored a poor safety rating with Euro Nap in 2021, as the tests involve entry-level models which at the time didn’t include advanced driver aids available on the higher-specification versions. After the result, Renault made features such as auto-emergency braking and lane-keeping assist standard across the range, so check what is available on your chosen model.

Find examples on Auto Trader

Vauxhall Corsa-e

Range when new: 210 miles (WLTP)

If you can’t get on with the Peugeot e-208’s driving position, all is not lost because the Corsa-e is identical under the skin. It uses the same 50kWh battery and charging system, and while it’s not the most exciting to drive, it’s quiet, refined and has a conventional cabin layout. Far more grown up and accomplished than you might expect.

Find examples on Auto Trader

What to look for when buying a used electric vehicle

As well as all the usual checks you should make when buying a used car — looking for damage and excessive wear; running a history check; checking for outstanding finance — there are some other things to look for on an EV.

First, check the charging socket — if that’s damaged then there’s a potential fire risk, or you might not be able to charge the car at all. Most EVs should come with charging cables, too. See if you can see it charging.

Similar to how petrol engines lose power over time, electric vehicle battery packs start to lose performance. The older an EV is, the less charge the battery may be able to hold. Most manufacturers offer an eight-year warranty for the drive battery that guarantees a capacity of 70 per cent (depending on cover). If it dips below that, then replacement could be possible.

Check the predicted range when the car is fully charged, and if possible take it for a short drive to see what happens to the range calculation. If the range is greatly below what you might expect, the battery may be more tired than some other examples, so be prepared to shop around.

Thanks to regenerative braking (where the electric motor is used as a generator when lifting off the accelerator, to recover some energy back to the battery and thereby slowing the vehicle down) means there is often less wear on the brakes. However, it’s worth checking these to ensure they haven’t deteriorated through a lack of use; brake discs can warp when not used regularly.

One thing that is possible is excessive tyre wear. EVs are relatively heavy, so tyre wear could be higher than for a similar petrol car.

This article features cars that have been chosen independently by Driving.co.uk journalists, and our opinions are unbiased. We may earn revenue if you click the links and make a purchase, but we never allow this to affect our opinions.

After reading about used EVs for under £17,000, you might like to read about all the car-makers’ plans for EVs
We’ve compiled a list of the best ULEZ-compliant used cars, all costing less than £10,000
You might also like to read all about the Maserati MC20 supercar

Latest articles

The post Best used electric cars for under £17,000 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Five best supercars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Thu, 04 May 2023 12:34:20 +0000

It’s fair to say supercars are a bit marmite. These speed machines, built not to save the planet but to cross sections of it in the shortest possible time, are deemed by enthusiasts as the pinnacle of automotive evolution. Others see them as the nadir for wheeled wastefulness. But for those who are pro-performance and in favour of flashiness, we’ve listed five of the best supercars money can buy.

There’s no doubt that all five class as supercars — they all have the requisite performance, beauty and drama — but they are different in their approaches. Although all five are powerful cars, there’s only one purely petrol-powered vehicle among them. Two are fully electric, while the other two use hybrid power. It’s a changing world, and for all the noise surrounding supercars, there’s no question the speed machines of the future will be a little quieter than those of yesteryear.

Nevertheless, there’s still plenty of combustion to keep the old-school purists happy, and those who think the days of piston-powered performance are over are mistaken. But it’s clear Europe still leads the supercar charge, with three of our five hailing from Italy, while the other two are from factories elsewhere on the continent.

But wherever they come from, and whichever floats your boat, you know you’re getting something capable of turning heads with its design and stomachs with its performance. These aren’t just supercars; they’re also super cars.

Ferrari 296 GTB

From £241,560

When most people think of supercars they think of Ferrari, but one might not necessarily associate either of those two words with ‘hybrid’. Yet here is the new hybrid Ferrari, complete with a 164bhp electric motor that’s fed by a 7.45kWh battery.

Technically speaking, it’s a plug-in hybrid – you can recharge the battery from a plug – but the electric motor isn’t only for sneaking about quietly when you’re having an affair. The 296 GTB is at its best when you start the 2.9-litre V6 engine and combine it with the electrons to unleash all 818bhp.

And the Ferrari’s best is incredibly good indeed. Not only is it ballistically quick, but it’s incredibly agile, and it sounds animalistic when that V6 engine comes on song. This isn’t just one of the best hybrid supercars of all time — it’s one of the all-time great supercars.

Ferrari 296 GTB 2022 review: Prancing horse’s V6 hybrid brings performance but also magic

Rimac Nevera

From £2.4m

If hybrid supercars are a bit old-school for your tastes, then the Rimac Nevera is a much more futuristic proposition. Hailing from that supercar mecca of, erm, Croatia, the Nevera is a sensational performance car with a massive 1,887bhp coming from its four electric motors. Some call it a hypercar, in fact.

Unsurprisingly, therefore, the Nevera is unbelievably fast, getting from 0-62mph in 1.97 seconds and on to 186mph in less than 10 seconds. The top speed is 256mph. By anyone’s standards, the Nevera is ridiculously quick in a straight line, but it’s also ridiculously fast through the corners, and it comes with a Drift mode to help you perform some impressive skids.

All this comes at a price — the Nevera costs well over £2 million — but while it isn’t especially pretty it is exquisitely crafted, and it’s striking in all the traditional supercar ways. Croatia, it seems, is setting the standard for supercars of the future.

Rimac Nevera review: On road and track with the fastest electric car in the world (and yes, it drifts)

Maserati MC20 Cielo

From £231,885

As beautiful as it is brilliant, the Maserati MC20 is available as a coupé and a convertible, and it’s the open-top Cielo model that has the most drama.

Like the conventional MC20, it’s powered by a 3-litre V6 petrol engine that’s turbocharged to produce 621bhp. Admittedly, that’s quite a lot less than you get from the Ferrari 296, but the Maserati is just as quick, getting from 0-62mph in less than three seconds and playing in the 200mph ballpark at full chat.

Although it’s a convertible, the MC20 Cielo has a solid folding roof, which tucks away behind the driver and comes with a glass panel, allowing the sunshine in even when the roof is up. And there’s a little electric window at the back allowing you to hear that V6 engine roar more clearly.

Yet even with all these features, the MC20 Cielo feels no less alert and agile than its hard-top sibling, and it’s a fabulous car to drive on the road or a racetrack.

Maserati MC20 Cielo 2023 review: Above us, only sky

McLaren Artura

From £189,200

Creating a plug-in hybrid supercar to compete with the Ferrari 296 GTB is no easy task, but in the Artura McLaren has done a cracking job. Though the Woking firm says it’s not meant to be a direct rival, the Artura clearly is: like the Ferrari, the Artura has a V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain that allows it to cruise about on electricity alone.

But this is a supercar at heart, and it’s best experienced with the engine turning and burning.

Do that, and you unlock the enormous performance potential that allows a 0-62mph time of three seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph, thanks in no small part to the 671bhp output. But as well as accelerating at lightning speed, the Artura also stops with alacrity, thanks to its impressively powerful brakes.

Even more spectacular than the Artura’s stopping power is the way it rides. Few small hatchbacks ride this well, let alone supercars. It’s so supple and stable that it’s a pleasant car to drive at everyday speeds, and even tall drivers will be able to get comfortable at the wheel (though the sportier Clubsport seats are best for those of average height).

McLaren Artura review: Woking wonder hybrid is a true Ferrari-worrier

Pininfarina Battista

From £1.94m plus tax

Pininfarina has penned some of the greatest car designs in history, and now it has turned its attention to building cars, too. The Battista is its first stab at a supercar but it’s considerably more than just a pretty face.

Four electric motors provide a massive 1,874bhp and all-wheel drive, allowing the Battista to get from 0-62mph in less than two seconds, while the top speed is well over 200mph. Yet it still has an official range of more than 300 miles, and it can charge from 20 to 80 per cent in just 25 minutes.

If all that sounds familiar, it’s because the Battista is based on much the same underpinnings as the Rimac Nevera, but the design is bespoke. The interior is just as stylish, with its plush leather and machined aluminium, as well as its sharp digital displays.

Pininfarina Battista review: A collectable Italian hypercar that just happens to be an EV (with 1,874bhp)

If you found our article on the best supercars to buy in 2023, you might also be interested to hear that Aston Martin begins deliveries of £2.4m Valkyrie hypercar
You might also like read about Rolls-Royce sales boom to highest in company history
Here are nine of the most exciting new cars arriving in 2022

Latest articles

The post Five best supercars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Best hot hatchbacks to buy 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 11:27:27 +0000

Back in the 1980s, the hot hatchback was the king of the road. Hot hatches were cars to aspire to, offering accessible performance in a practical package.

Their popularity waned in the 90s, with an increase in accidents, thefts and insurance premiums, but they’re back with a vengeance in the 21st century.

Today, the hot hatch is a staple of the new-car market in the UK, with a huge range of models for buyers to add to their shopping lists, from brands including Honda, Ford, Toyota, Audi, Mercedes, Renault and VW. They offer a one-stop solution for motorists with family responsibilities but a strong desire to still enjoy the school run and work commute.

Here we pick our recommended hot hatches for 2023. We’ve chosen vehicles to suit different budgets, from the affordable Hyundai i20 N to the premium Mercedes-AMG A 45 S, but they all have one thing in common: the ability to put a smile on your face.

1. BMW 128ti

From £36,785

The 128ti is a front-wheel-drive, high-performance BMW without an M badge, but it’s still a cracker of a hot hatchback and a more premium alternative to a Golf GTI.

The BMW hatch might seem tepid beside the top-of-the-range, four-wheel-drive M135i but it’s less expensive, 80kg lighter and even more fun to drive thanks to agile handling and a limited-slip differential to maximise traction.

2. Cupra Born

From £36,420

Electrification is here, and the Born from SEAT’s performance offshoot Cupra gives a taste of what an electric hot hatch could be like.

It’s quick rather than blindingly fast – it shares the same basic underpinnings as the Volkswagen ID.3 – but there are plenty of sporty touches inside and out, and a bespoke chassis set-up designed to deliver a fun drive.

3. Honda Civic Type R

From £46,995

The new Civic Type R has just arrived in the UK and is based on the 11th-generation of the long-standing Japanese hatchback.

The scorching Type R has been tamed down looks-wise but carries over a lot of tech from the last generation. That’s no bad thing at all because the old version is an absolute hoot to drive, and blisteringly quick around a track.

4. Hyundai i20 N

From £25,750

Rally success has rubbed off on Hyundai, which now has a fleet of N-badged performance models to its name. The i20 N is a traditional front-wheel-drive hot hatch with a manual gearbox, and is a rival to the brilliant Ford Fiesta ST.

The i20 N is a true Fiesta ST-beater, we reckon, as it’s just brilliant to hustle quickly while being a marginally more rounded package than the ST, with lots of tech. We love the automatic throttle blips when changing down gears, too, which do the job of heel-and-toeing for those who find it tricky to master. Hugely entertaining.

5. Mercedes-AMG A 45 S

From £60,860

The AMG A 45 takes the hot hatch formula to the extreme. It gets some updates to style and tech for 2023, though no power upgrades. But with more than 400bhp and a sub-four-second 0-62mph time, it can lay waste to many supercars, while four-wheel drive keeps the car glued to the road.

Even more extreme is the price, at just over £60k. But it does exude style and comes with premium cabin materials and refinement. You get what you pay for.

6. Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport

From £40,655

The grandfather of the hot hatchback class is still going strong. As ever, it doesn’t have the biggest power figures, fastest acceleration or sharpest handling, but as an all-round prospect, the Golf GTI still delivers.

The Clubsport version is the one to get, with an extra 54bhp, bigger brakes and styling with more presence. It’s still a very usable everyday car, though, with strong refinement, five seats and a decent boot.

If you liked our article on the best hot hatches to buy in 2023, you might want to check out our news story about the Cupra Born
Also check out what Clarkson said about the previous Golf GTI Clubsport
And if you like hot hatches, check out this video review of 2018 Ford Fiesta ST

Latest articles

The post Best hot hatchbacks to buy 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Best executive cars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:32:47 +0000

If you’re looking to buy an executive car, then the chances are that you’re after one that will deliver a good impression in the company car park.

The best executive models turn heads but also deliver decent running costs and cheap tax rates to help you balance your books. These are our top choices for sale in 2023.

Audi A6

From £39,605

Constant evolution means that the Audi A6 is as luxurious as the previous-generation A8 limousine in the class above, and almost as high tech as the new A8, too. Plug-in hybrid drive helps to keep the tax costs low.

2018 Audi A6 review (video)

BMW 5 Series

From £42,580

Much like the A6, the BMW 5 Series delivers tech and luxury with low running costs, but it also adds performance and handling prowess to the mix. There are few better executive cars for drivers interested in rewarding handling and performance. There’s plug-in hybrid option here, too, with the top-spec 545e delivering impressive pace and low tax.

The Clarkson Review: 2017 BMW 5‑series (530d xDrive) Touring

BMW i4

From £49,995

We’ve tried to include just one model from each manufacturer here, but the i4 is too good to overlook. It manages to deliver the kind of handling we’ve come to expect from BMW in a 3 Series-sized package with an electric range of up to 365 miles, which means smooth, powerful (and tax-busting) zero-emissions performance.

BMW i4 eDrive40 review 2023: Mid-range premium electric car beats Tesla at its own game

Genesis G80

From £42,650

Something of a left-field choice, the relatively new Genesis brand offers excellent quality and high technology, with Hyundai Motor Corp’s engineering expertise underneath the svelte skin. The G80 is an excellent thing to sit in and drive, with petrol and diesel options, and even a pure-electric model with a 323-mile range.

Genesis’ concierge service means you have a personal assistant on hand to help with the buying and servicing; they’ll even arrange for the car to be picked up and dropped back on your driveway when it needs an oil change. And the best bit? Genesis is a bold alternative to the obvious German fare.

Genesis Motor confirms first cars set for UK in European launch

Lexus ES

From £39,980

Not everyone is able to connect a plug-in hybrid for a recharge at home, to make the most of its electric range. The ES is a full hybrid and while it’s not the most exciting to drive, it’s hugely comfortable and is likely to be massively reliable. Jeremy Clarkson isn’t a fan, but if you want to waft from A to B in comfort — and value reliability — this is an excellent choice.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

From £48,190

This list wouldn’t be complete without the E-Class. Updated in 2020, its interior is a high-tech haven, and the comfort and refinement offered is second to none in this class. It comes in two plug-in hybrid guises, one petrol and one diesel, with the latter offering a great mix of zero-emissions city driving and long-distance economy.

Polestar 2

From £44,950

Polestar is the electric sister brand to Volvo, and the 2 is a rival to the Tesla Model 3. It can’t go as far as the 3 on a charge but its design-focused cabin, quality of materials, sporty handling and strong safety kit help to make up for that.

2020 Polestar 2 review

Polestar 2 updated with more range, performance and quicker charging

Tesla Model 3

From £42,990

With a range of up to 374 miles between charges and access to Tesla’s excellent Supercharger network, the Model 3 is one of the most convenient electric company car for sale right now. If you spend a lot of time cruising up and down motorways, this works very well (usually … reliability isn’t Tesla’s forte). The tech-packed cabin will keep gadget fans amused, too.

2019 Tesla Model 3 review

Tesla Model 3 was second in list of UK’s best-selling cars 2021

Volkswagen Arteon

From £38,820

VW’s sporty take on the repmobile uses Passat engineering within a swoopy four-door coupé body. Plug-in hybrid tech is available to keep down running costs, and there’s also a practical (and gorgeous) Shooting Brake estate available.

VW reveals updated Arteon and new Arteon Shooting Brake

The Clarkson Review: 2018 Volkswagen Arteon

If you found our article on the best executive cars to buy in 2023, you might also be interested to read the best compact cars to buy in 2023
You might also like to see our guide to the car makers’ electric vehicle plans
Nine of the most exciting new cars arriving in 2023

Latest articles

The post Best executive cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Best mid-sized family cars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 08:58:20 +0000

If you’re in need of the best family car to cope with the challenges of daily life, then there are plenty of options available to you.

Whether it’s a traditional hatchback or estate, an SUV or even an MPV, here we list 11 of our favourite medium-sized family cars.

Audi Q3

From £31,280

If you’re after a premium SUV with space for family life, but which doesn’t skimp on technology, the Q3 is a safe bet. You can choose from regular or Sportback body styles, while a range of efficient engines seal the deal.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

From £33,525

The Active Tourer stands out from other BMWs thanks to its MPV body. Under the skin it has the same front-wheel-drive layout as the 1 Series, so you get fine handling to go along with a versatile interior. There’s an efficient plug-in hybrid available, too.

Ford Puma

From £24,660

Compact dimensions belie the Puma’s versatile interior. There’s enough space for five inside, while the boot can swallow far more than you might expect thanks to the versatile ‘Megabox’ under the boot floor. It’s a great-handling car to drive, too.

Hyundai Tucson

From £30,140

Time has seen the Tucson evolve from a good-value compact SUV to a tech-filled family car, and the current model is a front runner in the class. User-friendly infotainment and a range of efficient hybrid engines mean it’s a car with multiple talents.

Mazda CX-5

From £29,435

Here’s proof that you don’t need to sacrifice fun when driving your family. Mazda has managed to distil some of the fun of the MX-5 into the CX-5, yet this SUV has plenty of space for family life.

Mini Countryman

From £28,815

If there’s one thing that appeals with a Mini, it’s the retro-inspired styling. The Countryman takes these design cues and super-sizes them to create funky family transport. The plug-in hybrid model offers super-low running costs, too.

Peugeot 3008

From £31,570

The second generation 3008 has thoroughly modern SUV styling, while the car’s upmarket interior matches Audi for a premium feel. It’s one family SUV that delivers a surprising amount of luxury.

Seat Ateca

From £26,395

Another compact SUV with a sporty edge is the Ateca, which was Seat’s first SUV. It looks sharp, while the range of engines spans from efficient to powerful. Check out the Cupra Ateca for a real family thrill ride.

Skoda Octavia

From £22,795

If space is your primary requirement, then you can’t go wrong with the Octavia. The current version maximises space like no other hatchback, including the VW Golf with which it shares its platform.

Toyota Corolla

From £30,210

Toyota has refined its hybrid technology with years of development, and the set-up in the Corolla is the most accomplished yet. Available in two guises, and in hatch or Touring Sports estate body styles, the Corolla is a great all-round family car with efficiency a particular highlight. Though it’s not best for interior space.

Volkswagen Tiguan

From £30,030

It’s the number-one best seller for VW worldwide, and the Tiguan excels as dependable and practical family transport. It won’t excite or wow with its tech, but if you need a car that can take all the punishment a family can dish out, it’s well worth a look.

If you found our article on the best mid-sized family cars to buy in 2023 interesting, you might also like to read our extended test in the Volvo XC90 Recharge
You might also like to see our guide to the car makers’ electric vehicle plans
We drove the new Tesla Model Y in the UK and found its one flaw… but forgive it

Latest articles

The post Best mid-sized family cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Five best off-road cars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 09:17:01 +0000

While SUVs are popular in nearly every new-car category, the reality is that there are only a handful that are really able to tackle the toughest off-road conditions. Here we select five of our favourite 4x4s to get you over the most demanding terrain.

To be the best off-road car, four-wheel drive is essential. Sending power to all four wheels makes the most of the grip available, or lack of it, while clever electronics and differentials help these cars to send power to the tyres with the most traction on offer. The ability to lock differentials, electronically or manually, is also key for proper off-road ability.

Low-range gears can help massively in the toughest conditions but having them wasn’t a prerequisite for our list. Some of these cars have electronic control systems that manage all of the mechanical and electronic parts, including hill descent control, which is enough to get you out of all but the most extreme of situations.

Our selection of the best off-road cars covers most bases, from the budget conscious to the utilitarian and luxurious.

Dacia Duster

From £23,345

If you’re intent on heading off road in a brand-new car, then the Dacia Duster makes a lot of sense since it’s such excellent value. With prices for the four-wheel-drive versions starting from around £23k, you won’t be quite so precious if it gets the odd knock here and there.

The 4×4 models are diesel only, so good fuel economy will help to keep those costs down in everyday driving.

It’s not the most hardcore 4×4 on our list but it does have decent ground clearance, short overhangs, off-road displays on the infotainment system, hill descent control and an electronic locking centre differential to help make sure there’s traction in slippery conditions.

Dacia Duster 2021 review

Ford Ranger Raptor

From £46,300

While it’s based on a commercial vehicle, the Ranger Raptor doesn’t qualify as a CV because it can’t carry a tonne of payload. That’s because it has rally raid-based suspension under those wide wheelarches that’s designed to cope with fast off-roading rather than heavy load-carrying. Think of it more like a performance off-roader than a workhorse pick-up.

The trick suspension isn’t just good for travelling across rough terrain at speed; it’s also pretty comfortable as family transport on road.

The second generation of the Ranger Raptor continues where the original left off, though now with a brawny petrol engine.

Ineos Grenadier

From £55,000

Ineos is a newcomer to the 4×4 sector and the firm’s first model to launch here is the rugged Grenadier. Created by billionaire petrochemicals industrialist Jim Ratcliffe after production of the old Land Rover Defender was ended, the French-built Grenadier features similar utilitarian styling, a basic interior and go-anywhere off-road ability. However power comes from very modern BMW-sourced petrol or diesel engines.

Land Rover Defender

From £51,365

The old Defender was no longer up-to-spec when it comes to safety or emissions standards, so an all-new model was inevitable. Launched in 2020, the second generation is more upmarket, with more sophisticated tech and a far more comfortable interior, but the Defender is still supremely talented off road.

The addition of air suspension and Land Rover’s most sophisticated version of its Terrain Response off-road electronics help it conquer all surfaces.

There’s plenty of space in the five-door 110 and longer 130 versions, while the three-door 90 model offers a more compact package — and there’s a commercial “Hard Top” version, too.

The most impressive things about the Defender are its on-road refinement and handling, which are light years ahead of the old machine.

Toyota Land Cruiser

From £47,675

Japan’s answer to the Range Rover is still going strong and combines near-unstoppable off-road ability with decent luxury, though it’s nowhere near as plush as its British rival.

The four-cylinder diesel engine under the bonnet isn’t the most refined or economical either, but if you want to head for the hills with the confidence that your 4×4 won’t let you down, then the Land Cruiser is a top choice.

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser review

If you liked our article on the best off-road cars to buy in 2023, you might also be interested to hear that you can still buy a new Lada Niva 4×4 in the UK – but there are some snags
Also check out our guide to the best used 4×4 estate cars for adventures off the beaten track
And if you’re into affordable 4x4s, take a look at how we got on off-road with the Ssangyong Musso and Rexton

Latest articles

The post Five best off-road cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Five best electric cars to buy in 2023

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 17:14:23 +0000

The 267,203 battery-electric vehicles sold in the UK last year represented a 40 per cent rise on 2021’s figures, and electric cars now comfortably outsell diesel and hybrid-electric vehicles. Indeed, the nation’s third best-selling car in 2022 was the pure-electric Tesla Model Y, coming well ahead of perennial favourites such as the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Golf.

There are a wide range of factors driving British motorists’ appetite for battery-electric motoring. Concerns about the environment and fuel supply play a part, certainly. Many drivers also undoubtedly see the writing on the wall with the government’s 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and are getting onboard ahead of time.

Although electric vehicle purchase prices remain higher than their internal combustion equivalents, these are expected to reach parity by the second half of the decade, and for those that cover higher mileages, the lower running costs do go some way to offset the higher initial purchase price or PCP payments. And business users see the biggest benefits, in terms of 2% Benefit-in-Kind tax rates — well below even hybrid models.

Further driving demand is the ever-increasing choice of new electric cars on the market, which are now ticking more buyers’ boxes than early entrants to the EV market such as Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe.

This greater choice means that whether a buyer’s priority is good value, high quality, performance or looks, there’s likely now an electric vehicle out there offering a genuine alternative to a petrol or diesel model.

Bigger batteries, more efficient powertrains and an expanding public charging network are also helping to eliminate range anxiety, one of the biggest factors that has, up to recently, deterred drivers from making the electric switchover.

Below are some of the best electric vehicles on the market right now at a range of different price points.

Fiat 500 Electric

From £27,364

The Italian city car has been reinvented for this new era of electrification and is a great introduction to electric motoring. Priced from £27,364, the Fiat 500 Electric is one of the cheapest electric cars you can buy right now.

Yes, it’s tiny and no, it’s not the most practical car in the world, but the 500 Electric is fun to drive with a chic cabin that’s reasonably well made, too. What’s more, it’s available as a hatchback or as a cabriolet, making it one of the few electric cars on sale offering open-top driving.

There are two battery options, starting with the 24kWh version for that budget-friendly £27,364. The caveat is the range is only good for about 118 miles according to official figures, so that’s strictly for city and suburban use.

The 42kWh version costs a bit more (from £30,364), but offers a lot more driving between charges; up to 190 miles according to the official figure. It’s also got more power for nipping around city streets and keeping up with traffic away from them.

The all-new electric Fiat 500 plays a melody to pedestrians as you drive

Mercedes EQS

From £104,750

The EQS is Mercedes’s electric equivalent of its flagship S-Class saloon and as such is a showcase of what the company can do with an electric vehicle. With its massive 107.8kWh battery (in the 450+ model), sleek aerodynamics and up to 453 miles between charges, the EQS is the longest-range EV on the UK market right now, as well as being packed full of the latest advanced technology.

Inside, the cabin centres around the dashboard-spanning Hyperscreen incorporating the digital instruments, central infotainment screen and another display for the passenger. The EQS is also the first car to go on sale in Europe featuring Level 3 self-driving technology meaning that in the near future (when regulations allow), at low speeds on motorways drivers will be able to take their eyes and hands off the wheel and let the car take over. Impressive, but very pricey too.

Mercedes-Benz EQS is a 479-mile electric luxury limo with an astonishing dashboard

Hyundai Ioniq 5

From £43,150

Nothing on the road looks like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with its retro concept car styling. For many buyers, this will be one of the Ioniq 5’s biggest draws. Peeling away the skin though still leaves a particularly fine car.

The Ioniq 5 shares its underpinnings with the equally accomplished Kia EV6 meaning a choice of single and dual motors and a maximum range in the version with rear-wheel drive and the larger 73kWh battery of up to 300 miles.

Although these are decent figures and the outside looks great, the Ioniq 5’s party piece might actually be its lounge-like interior and fully-reclining seats, which make taking a rest while recharging a comfortable prospect.

The Ioniq 5 is bigger than it looks in pictures, so interior space is plentiful and the 527-litre boot is also useful.

2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

BMW i4

From £49,995

The BMW i4 is easily one of the best driving EVs on the market to date and packages everything keen drivers love about the handling of classic BMW saloons – but with zero emissions.

Based on the 4 Series Gran Coupé, the BMW i4 is a joy to drive, no matter which version you go for. There are three i4s to choose from, starting with the eDrive35 and eDrive40 with rear-wheel drive. These are both more involving to drive than most EVs and the latter is the range champ of the line-up with up to 365 miles possible between charges.

For more performance there’s the i4 M50 with 537bhp and twin-motor, all-wheel drive. The i4 M50 will sprint to 62mph from rest in a blistering 3.9 seconds to an enhanced soundtrack by none other than Hans Zimmer, the famous composer.

Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric

From £36,995

Renault has reinvented the Mégane hatchback as a pure-electric model that gives the well-established Volkswagen ID.3 a serious run for its money. Based on an all-new platform — shared with the Nissan Ariya — with a new thin battery design and lightweight electric motor, the Mégane E-Tech is a stylish electric option, offering comfort and refinement.

The Mégane’s 60kWh battery is good for a range of about 280 miles, while standard 22kW AC charging means the Mégane will charge quicker than many other EVs on the market at kerbside AC chargers.

The Mégane’s well-built cabin has plenty of space and offers some of the best technology of the segment including a specially developed Google operating system.

Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric 2022 review: Function, form and efficiency

If you found five best electric cars to buy in 2023 interesting, you should read our review of the Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV vRS
Here are all the car makers’ electric car plans
Read our review of the Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric

Latest articles

The post Five best electric cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Driving.co.uk’s guide to the best sports cars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 10:46:01 +0000

In a world of humdrum hybrid hatchbacks and increasingly weighty electric SUVs, it’s good to know that there are still cars out there designed specifically to thrill.

It’s true that there are many fewer sports cars on the market than there used to be and they really do feel like a dying breed, especially at the less expensive end of the market. That said, buyers still have some choice when it comes to cars designed not for mere mobility, but to put a smile on a driver’s face and to look good doing it.

Here are some of the best sports cars on sale in the UK today.

Alpine A110 R

From £89,990

The most hard-edged, performance-focused version of what was already one of the best drivers’ cars on sale today, the Alpine A110 R is a featherweight, clocking in at just 1,082kg. That makes it a real antidote to the likes of the BMW M4 which, awesome though it is, feels really rather heavy.

The 296bhp 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the middle of the Alpine isn’t the most exotic or mellifluous power unit, and isn’t any more powerful than the one found in the A110 S, but with so little mass to propel thanks to the extensive use of carbon-fibre and a borderline ascetic level of dedication to weight-saving, it’s more than adequate to really exploit the A110 R’s outstanding chassis on both road and track.

There’s one big fly in the ointment with the A110 R though — its price. At £89,990, it’s a significant jump beyond the asking price for the £61,990 A110 S. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 starts at £81,700 and, with an extra 118bhp on tap, it might seem mad to opt for the Alpine instead.

But while not a heifer by any stretch of the imagination, the Porsche is a lot heavier than the featherwight Alpine. The French car is also likely to be more exclusive, and the carbon fibre wheels must cost around £10,000 a set on their own, so the A110 R is capable of justifying its lofty price tag.

Mazda MX-5

From £25,800

Think of some of the great cheap classic sports cars, such as the MGB, Triumph Spitfire and Fiat 124 Spider. They weren’t especially quick even in their own time, but they looked great and offered relatively accessible driving fun and wind-in-the-hair motoring to the ordinary man or woman in the street. There aren’t many cars left like that, but the Mazda MX-5 is one of them.

The current-generation MX-5 is getting on a bit now (it was launched in 2014), but with so few real rivals left, it’s just as compelling a prospect as ever. The 1.5-litre engine is perky enough to be fun in such a small, lightweight car (it only weights around a ton), though the 2-litre unit that was introduced in 2016 adds some welcome performance.

The MX-5 looks just as good now as it did when it was launched, and a starting price of £25,800 for the classic rear-wheel-drive roadster experience makes it a very tempting buy.

BMW M4 Competition

From £58,235

Any qualms about the BMW M4 Competition’s looks rapidly disappear when you mash your right foot into the carpet and feel the sheer power of its 503bhp twin-turbocharged straight-six engine.

On the road, the M4 is a comfortable, refined and well-appointed cruiser capable of effortlessly soaking up the miles.

When really pushing on, on a track or twisty road, the M4’s 1,800kg weight and size are apparent, and it can feel a little unwieldy. Its optional all-wheel drive, meaty brakes, array of electronic stability and traction control systems, plus the ability to judiciously use that reservoir of power, mean that a driver can still have a lot of fun. The M4 remains stable and forgiving even when the person behind the wheel gets a little too enthusiastic.

Caterham Seven

From £28,990

With the possible exception of the Alpine A110 R, all of the other cars on this list could be used as a person’s daily driver without much in the way of compromise or discomfort. It’d take a lot of bravery and dedication to commute to work on a cold, wet winter’s morning in a Caterham Seven, though. This is a machine more for weekend use by true enthusiasts.

Little has changed in the Seven since it first wore a Lotus badge back in the 1960s and, now as then, it’s a car for people who care about driving pleasure more than anything else.

The Caterham is not especially comfortable, it’s not at all practical and it’s probably not very safe. What it is, though, is pure undiluted fun, and we love it.

With prices starting from a fairly reasonable £28,990 for one of the 84bhp 660cc three-cylinder turbocharged models, and reaching upwards of £64,990 raw, visceral, windscreenless experience of the 310bhp supercharged 620 R, the Seven is available for drivers of varying levels of skill (and nerve) but all versions are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Porsche 911 GT3

From £135,700

Constant road and track development means that the 911 GT3 is arguably the ultimate track-focused road car. It may well indeed be the default choice for those looking for a track day car that’s not also terribly uncomfortable on the drive to work.

Pin-sharp steering and a crisp-shifting six-speed manual gearbox — or the even faster seven-speed PDK auto — connect you with everything that’s going on around you, so you can enjoy the 503bhp flat-six all the way to its 9,000rpm redline.

We awarded it five stars out of five after driving it on track at Anglesey and named it our sports car of the year at the 2021 Sunday Times Motor Awards.

If you found our article on best sports cars to buy in 2023 interesting, you might also like to read Lamborghini Countach returns: new supercar gets V12 hybrid, 221mph top speed
Did you hear that Aston Martin’s Valhalla plug-in hybrid supercar will hit 217mph, 0-62mph in 2.5sec?
Gordon Murray’s V12 fan supercar now comes in track-only T.50S Niki Lauda form

Latest articles

The post Driving.co.uk’s guide to the best sports cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Driving.co.uk’s guide to the best seven-seat cars to buy in 2023

Kieran.ahuja@sunday-times.co.uk — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 08:43:16 +0000

Big families need big cars and, even with only three regularly-scheduled children in the back, many will still feel the need for some extra carrying capacity.

While large SUVs seem to have cornered the seven-seat market to the detriment of the MPV, that doesn’t mean that the old-fashioned people carrier has gone away, and there are still a few on the market that manage to make a strong case for themselves as versatile and practical family cars.

Buyers these days are also faced an extra question that they mightn’t have asked a decade ago: should I stick with petrol or diesel or is a hybrid or fully-electric option the one to go for?

Luckily, those in the market for a seven-seater have plenty of choice, no matter what kind of powertrain they opt for, and, whether it’s an SUV or an MPV, there’ll be tons of space in the rear and even room for that friend who always seems to be tagging along.

Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140

From £22,595

Easily the cheapest new seven-seater on the UK market, the Dacia Jogger is also one of the best. As a sort of halfway-house between SUV and van-based people carrier, it’s really a big estate car, with a tall capacious body. Don’t go expecting anything plush or sporty to drive though — that’s not what Dacia is all about.

The interior feels reasonably solid and features enough tech to keep all but the most ardent gadget fans happy. Even with all seven seats in use, there’s 200 litres of luggage space in the boot and, with the rearmost seats removed (which is easy to do) there’s just under 700 litres of storage capacity. Those rear seats are spacious enough for adults, too.

The hybrid version of the Jogger, powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 36kW electric motor, develops up to 138bhp, but while it never feels sprightly, it does return fuel economy in excess of 55mpg.

In short, there simply isn’t a new car on the UK market offering as much value as the Jogger relative to its competitors and, rather than feeling bargain-basement, it’s an accomplished and highly-competent machine.

Hyundai Santa Fe

From £41,445

The Hyundai Santa Fe has evolved into a properly upmarket family car. The interior fit, finish and equipment levels are excellent, and it even the looks are high-end. We’d go so far as to say that the Hyundai could happily hold its own in the comfort and luxury stakes against rivals from premium German brands.

Using the same underpinnings as the Kia Sorento (another fine seven-seater), the Santa Fe’s seven seats will accommodate adult-sized passengers in reasonable comfort.

For those covering higher mileages or who need to tow, the 2.2-litre 193bhp diesel model developing 325lb ft of torque is the best option. For everyday family duties though, the plug-in hybrid model with its 13.8kWh battery pack and 36 miles of electric-only range should prove the sweet spot.

Citroën ë-Berlingo XL

From £32,495

Plenty of buyers would run a mile at the thought of driving a van-based people carrier and head straight for the nearest SUV, but maybe they shouldn’t. Citroën’s ë-Berlingo XL is one of just a handful of seven-seat electric cars on the market (there’s also a five-seat model) and, despite the fact it’s not especially stylish, it makes a compelling case for itself as one of the most versatile family cars out there.

Powered by the same 50kWh battery and 136bhp motor combo as the Peugeot e-2008 and Vauxhall Corsa Electric, the electric Berlingo offers quite a refined and pleasant drive, but, as the boxy looks suggest, where it really majors is on practicality. The cabin is festooned with storage bins and cubby holes, the seating arrangements are endlessly configurable and, even with all seven of them upright, there’s still 250 litres of cargo space in the rear.

A 174-mile range isn’t stellar, although it’ll likely prove perfectly sufficient in everyday use and cost much less to run than a combustion-powered equivalent.

Volvo XC90

From £61,995

Even though it’s getting on a bit now and there’s a new all-electric replacement on the way later this year, the Volvo XC90 can still hold its own in the practicality and luxury stakes.

Although it’s a seven-seater, the rearmost seats are quite cramped and mostly only suited to occasional use, but it makes up for that in myriad other ways. The cabin is exceptionally comfortable and packed full of kit to keep everyone entertained.

There’s the XC90’s enviable reputation for safety, too. While the popular idea that no-one has ever been killed in an accident involving an XC90 can’t be verified, Volvo did say in 2018 that no Volvo XC90 driver or passenger deaths had been reported in UK car-to-car crashes from when records began in 2004.

For the broadest range of uses, the 232bhp mild-hybrid B5 diesel model is the best in the line-up, although the T8 plug-in hybrid with its 31-mile range and 445bhp is very quick and reasonably economical if — and only if — the batteries are kept charged.

Ford S-Max

From £38,450

Around since 2015, the Ford S-Max isn’t now long for the chop as Ford makes way for more electric models. Still, that should mean there are good deals to be found in 2023 on leftover stock.

The S-Max may be old, but it was always one of the best-driving MPVs on the market, handling well and conducting itself in a fairly refined fashion on the road, and that’s still the case, with 2.5-litre, 188bhp hybrid power now the only powertrain option. The interior really is starting to show its age though and it’s not nearly as slick or up to date as some rivals. That said the S-Max still provides plenty of interior space, with seats configurable in any arrangement you please and a substantial 285 litres of space in the rear when laden with a full complement of passengers.

What’s more, given that the UK market is increasingly shunning diesel, it’s good to know that the petrol-electric hybrid powertrain is capable of returning a decent 44mpg — not bad for a car of this size.

If you liked our article on the best seven-seat cars to buy in 2023, you might also be interested to read the best compact cars to buy in 2023
You might also like to see our guide to the car makers’ electric vehicle plans
Here are five of the best luxury cars to buy

Latest articles

The post Driving.co.uk’s guide to the best seven-seat cars to buy in 2023 appeared first on Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times.

Buying Guides – Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times

Buying Guide: Best used 4×4 estate cars for adventures off-road

Audi A6 allroad quattro

Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

Peugeot 508 RXH

Skoda Octavia Scout

Subaru Outback

Volvo XC70

Related articles

Latest articles

Best used electric cars for under £17,000

Best EVs for under £3k

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Best EVs for £3-7k

Nissan Leaf (first generation)

Renault Zoe

Best EVs for £7-11k

BMW i3

Hyundai Ioniq

Nissan Leaf (second generation)

Renault Zoe 41

Seat Mii Electric

Best EVs for £11-17k

BMW i3

Fiat 500e

Hyundai Ioniq

Hyundai Kona Electric

MG ZS

MG5

Peugeot e-208

Renault Zoe (2019-onwards)

Vauxhall Corsa-e

What to look for when buying a used electric vehicle

Related articles

Latest articles

Five best supercars to buy in 2023

Ferrari 296 GTB

Rimac Nevera

Maserati MC20 Cielo

McLaren Artura

Pininfarina Battista

Related articles

Latest articles

Best hot hatchbacks to buy 2023

1. BMW 128ti

2. Cupra Born

3. Honda Civic Type R

4. Hyundai i20 N

5. Mercedes-AMG A 45 S

6. Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport

Related articles

Latest articles

Best executive cars to buy in 2023

Audi A6

BMW 5 Series

BMW i4

Genesis G80

Lexus ES

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Polestar 2

Tesla Model 3

Volkswagen Arteon

Related articles

Latest articles

Best mid-sized family cars to buy in 2023

Audi Q3

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Ford Puma

Hyundai Tucson

Mazda CX-5

Mini Countryman

Peugeot 3008

Seat Ateca

Skoda Octavia

Toyota Corolla

Volkswagen Tiguan

Related articles

Latest articles

Five best off-road cars to buy in 2023

Dacia Duster