Built in Sunderland since 2006 when it was launched, the Nissan Qashqai has been an enduring success story. It was one of the first modern generation Crossover models and instantly won hearts and minds, not forgetting bank accounts, of British buyers, rolling into new generations in 2013 and 2021. It was Britain’s best selling model in 2022 and it’s also picked up UK awards for reliability … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: VW Passat SEL 190 estate
Volkswagen’s golden oldie Passat is a treasure. From its launch in 1973 it is now the VW with the longest-lived name-plate after the Beetle went out of production this year and it even predates the Golf name by a year. With over 30 million sold worldwide in 46 years, the Passat is the best-selling mid-size car in the world after seven versions have been launched. The enhanced eighth generation … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: VW Arteon R-Line 2.0TDI 190ps A
Volkswagen is raising its game again. Introduced in late 2017, the VW Arteon flagship of the marque is steadily expanding and today runs to over 20 variants in the UK. There are seven petrol or diesel engine and powertrain options including manual, automatic and 2WD or 4WD versions in two trim levels in a single five-door bodystyle. Using the modular VW platform, Arteon sits … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Audi A4 Avant 40TDI quattro
While SUVs are the flavour of the season, there’re rich pickings for manufacturers and drivers in cars like the Audi A4 Avant. Most SUVs are rarely used to their full capacity or ability but an estate car, particularly a sporting estate like the Black Edition 40TDI quattro tested, can offer a more rewarding experience. It will seat five with plenty of room or offers over … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Skoda Kodiaq 2.0 TDI 190PS 4×4 7st
The Skoda Kodiaq marked a turning point for the Czech subsidiary of VW as it launched into the burgeoning SUV sector. From its introduction in 2017 the five and seven seat Kodiaq has picked up numerous awards and was followed with a smaller Karoq SUV, which has also been highly praised. It seems as if Europe and its discriminating drivers have suddenly woken up to the brand which built a … [Read more...]