However you look at it, the Toyota Corolla is remarkable among models and, perhaps not surprisingly as a result, is the world’s best-selling nameplate over six decades. Now in its 12th generation, the Corolla is the first to use the company’s fifth generation hybrid petrol electric technology in its 1.8 engines coming from North Wales and all assembled in its Burnaston, Derby plant, so it’s one … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: KIA Picanto 1.0 T-GDi GT Line S
With motoring costs soaring a lot of drivers are downsizing and face the dilemma of what to buy, yet do not realize how good a modern small car can be. In fact, a recent study found the typical family car today has over £32,700 of features fitted as standard which were not there a decade ago and after adjusting for inflation. We recently found ourselves facing a 400 miles trip with our Kia … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Audi RS3 Sportback
The latest Audi RS3 is really a supercar, for sensible money. There has been a long line of highly acclaimed Audi RS3 models, higher performance versions of the popular A3 series which launched in 1996 and included the S derivatives three years later before the original Audi RS3 appeared in dealerships in 2011. The revised RS then ran from 2015 until 2020 and in late 2021 we saw the current third … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: SsangYong Rexton Auto
In the automotive sector there are rarely surprises, except with the SsangYong Rexton. The Korean company has been making 4x4 models for over 65 years, a little less than Land Rover but it has evolved just like its better-known UK rival. Today’s Rexton is the fourth generation since being introduced in 2001 and it retains the rugged reputation it has earned among those who really need a … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: MG5 EV estate
All credit must go to the new MG5 EV Estate. As many manufacturers fall over themselves to produce what are essentially the same pure electric cars in hatchbacks or saloon styles, the MG5 stands out from a crowd of challengers because it has none, at least no pure electric estate cars in this price bracket. The MG5 estate sounds unremarkable but that really shouts out about its ability to be a … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Peugeot 5008 Allure 1.2L PureTech 130
The UK car industry came to the end of its Covid induced click and collect period last week with healthy March new registration plate month sales, writes David Miles. Registrations were up by 11.5% over March last year when Covid first closed showrooms. However the March 2021 total of new cars sold 283,964 units is 37% below the 10-year March average. Peugeot is one of the brands doing well with … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Audi Q7 55 TFSI e quattro auto
Audi like to do things differently and their latest model actually delivers less but gives you more. The Q7 has been a hallmark with its seven-seats but the new mild-hybrid 3.0 TFSI petrol version tested punches out more power and gives passengers more space by fitting just five seats. It’s always been debatable whether a cramped seven-seater was really desirable and how valuable it would … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Skoda Kamiq SE 1.0 95ps
Skoda is making inroads with its family friendly SUV range, writes Robin Roberts. The large Kodiaq and mid-sized Karoq have now been joined by the compact Kamiq as this SUV sector wipes away traditional saloon and hatchback models across Europe and throughout the USA. No volume manufacturer can be without at least one SUV and VW sub-brand Skoda has enormous resources to utilise as it extends … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Ford Mondeo Vignale 5dr
Size can make a world of a difference to buyers and that’s where the Ford Mondeo packs them in, writes Robin Roberts. It has consistently won awards for its internal dimensions, roominess and popularity with families and business users and it’s easy to see why. The trend towards compact cars has seen the Mondeo segment shrink in numbers if not individual dimensions, but if you really … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Mazda3 2.0GT Sport 180ps
Some cars are just in your face, over-hyped and over-sold, but not the Mazda3. This refreshed and revised mid-sized model has an appeal with its restrained but attractive styling, purposeful fittings and ultra efficient powertrains. Oh and a growing list of awards, particularly with a “family” cachet to them. Perhaps, not surprisingly, its economy has won praise from those canny Scottish … [Read more...]
