Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2021 i What Car?

‘Reducing subsidies may well force a delay in the ban of petrol and diesel car sales’ My daughter will sometimes ask for two conflicting things, and there’s no reasoning with her. But then there’s a good reason for that: she’s four. It’s harder, though, to reconcile the Government’s recent decision to cut the electric car grant (see p32) with its desire for us all to switch from fossil fuels to electric power. I get it; this move is an easy way for Number 10 to save a bit of money at a time when the coronavirus pandemic has left a yawning public debt. However, it needs to recognise that reducing subsidies may well make it necessary to push back the proposed 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and…

WHILE MANY CARS are eye-catching and some become iconic, very few will redefine styling conventions.You expect an SUV to be big and tall, for example, or a sports car to be low-slung and sleek.The Ioniq 5, though, exists in a space of its own, closely following design cues from 2019’s Hyundai 45 concept – a car that seemed to be straight from the 22nd century. The Ioniq 5 is a large electric car with a unique shape that’s more upright than the Tesla Model 3, but you’d never call it an SUV. It sits between the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe in terms of length but is lower and sleeker than either. Distinctive features include slim LED headlights that are shaded by an overhanging bonnet, plus flush door handles that…

IF YOU’RE A fan of the Cupra Formentor’s sharp styling but have no need for hot hatch-baiting performance, picking the entry-level 1.5 TSI 15o engine seems the logical choice. For a start, it’s the cheapest engine in the range, and its 0-62mph time of 8.9sec will probably be quick enough for most. It’ll cruise at motorway speeds without breaking a sweat and rarely needs revving hard in everyday driving conditions. And there’s enough poke to have a bit of fun in bends, where the precise steering gains confidence-inspiring weight as cornering force builds. The Formentor is low by SUV standards and quite firmly sprung, so there’s little body lean, loads of grip and decent balance. The flipside is that its ride isn’t as soft as that of the comfiest SUVs…

A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN British start-up Gridserve and electricity provider Ecotricity promises to transform the ageing electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities at motorway services around the UK. The first phase of the improvements will be to replace all existing Ecotricity public chargers with more powerful modern units that can cater for more cars at a time. The new chargers will be able to accept contactless payments – an easier method of getting a top-up than the existing phone app-based system. The majority of them will provide DC charging for cars with CCS or CHAdeMO ports. As is the case now, there will also be some slower Type 2 (AC) units. The second phase of upgrading will involve the installation of between six and 12 additional high-power, 350kW chargers at each motorway…

Does having an automatic gearbox affect my car’s resale value? Cars with automatic gearboxes tend to be more expensive to buy new than manual models, and they tend to retain that extra value secondhand, especially in classes where such gearboxes are relatively rare or where an auto ’box is expected. So, with manual gearboxes more commonplace in small cars, automatics can command a premium. Conversely, most luxury cars are bought with automatic gearboxes, and those with manuals are likely to be less appealing to buyers of used examples. Should I take my driving test in an automatic? You can take your driving test in an auto, but you’ll only be legally entitled to drive a car with this gearbox unless you retake the test in a manual car. It’s also…

Should I go electric or hold my horses? I currently own a 2015 Mazda 3 Saloon and, although it’s practical and runs well, our family has expanded and we need a bigger car. In the past, I would have simply read the reviews on whatcar.com and used them to inform my buying decision. However, I’m confused about what type of engine to go for, due to the impending ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel-engined cars in 2030. I’m tempted to buy an electric car, but they are expensive at present and should become more affordable in three to five years’ time. I am concerned that if I buy a petrol or diesel now, it could lose value steeply, leaving me with a large deficit when I do…

If our winner was the car that attracted the most attention during our time with it, we’d have to pick the Mach-E. It has other, more tangible strengths, too, including a better infotainment system and stronger performance, plus it trades punches with the ID.4 on interior quality, equipment, practicality and cost.The ride is annoying, though, and its handling flatters to deceive. We think the ride could be a clincher for many buyers, and it’s one reason the ID.4 wins.As well as driving more appropriately for a large SUV, it also has a vast boot and a longer range between charges. If only Volkswagen would address the disappointing infotainment and usability issues, it would be even better. Volkswagen ID.4 For Good range; comfy ride most of the time; big boot; cheaper…

As important as it is to protect the planet, doing so can seem a little inconvenient. Whether it’s remembering to grab a handful of bags before heading to the shops, paying a bit more for responsibly sourced goods, or finding that eco-friendly cleaning products just aren’t as effective as the bad stuff, wouldn’t it be nice if the right choice was also the easy one? Well, after big advancements in battery and charging technology over the past decade or so, we’d argue that swapping a gas-guzzling premium-badged SUV for an electric one is becoming something of a no-brainer for many. After all, electricity is far cheaper than petrol or diesel, electric company car tax rates are jolly attractive and, at this price, you certainly won’t be stuck with a car…

Mileage 1920 List price £52,325 Target Price £44,583 Price as tested £59,080 Test economy 79.8mpg One of the things I like most about my flat is its high ceilings. Right up until the point when a light bulb blows, that is, because the only way to replace it is to get the ladder out of my storage unit. It’s only a five-minute drive away. However, the ladder won’t fit through the ‘40’ side of my 5 Series’ 60/40 split-folding rear seats, so I have to drop the ‘60’ part, which is on the passenger’s side of the car, where my daughter’s child seat normally resides. The child seat then has to be shifted over, adding to the general faff. But once that’s done, the extended load area is long enough…

LIKE QUITE A few Skoda models past and present, the Octavia is a bit of an anomaly. Technically, it’s classed as a family car, competing with the likes of the Ford Focus, Seat Leon and Volkswagen Golf. In terms of size, though, it’s a fair bit bigger than those rivals – or, more specifically, longer, to the tune of around 30cm – and barely any smaller than executive saloons such as the BMW 3 Series. Indeed, with this latest generation it feels as though the Octavia aspires to junior executive car status, rather than its traditional role as an exceptionally practical family runabout. The arrival of the cheaper Skoda Scala in the same class has allowed the Octavia to be pushed upmarket, with far more evidence of premium materials, glitziness…

Dacia Sandero WHILE WE PRAISED the old Sandero for being a great budget buy, you could see where Dacia had cut corners to make it so affordable. That’s not the case with the new one, though; in fact, it would be worth considering even if it cost the same as most rivals. Except it doesn’t. The Sandero is an absolute bargain that’s even within reach of those who would normally be considering only used cars. Our pick 1.0 TCe 90 Comfort List price £11,595 Target Price £11,595 MPG 53.3 CO2 120g/km For Amazingly cheap; well equipped in our preferred spec; comfortable ride; lots of space for people and luggage Against Not exactly thrilling to drive; entry-level trim is very basic; there are quieter small cars WHAT CAR? SAYS Honda Jazz…

Ford Puma THE PUMA IS a joy to drive, because it’s super-nimble for a small SUV, while the steering gives you a real sense of connection with the front wheels. These are things you’ll appreciate no matter what type of road you’re driving on. True, rear seat space is only so-so, but the Puma is still surprisingly practical, thanks to a huge boot with a height-adjustable floor. It’s also well equipped, strong on safety and very fuel-efficient. Our pick 1.0 Ecoboost 155 Titanium List price £22,780 Target Price £21,146 MPG 50.4 CO2 127g/km For Great fun to drive, yet rides bumps well; remarkable blend of performance and economy; big, clever boot Against Space in the back is adequate rather than outstanding; over-the-shoulder visibility could be better WHAT CAR? SAYS Skoda…

BMW 3 Series THE HYBRID BMW 330e slickly integrates the latest tech with the long-held wants and needs of executive car drivers. It’s easy to live with, has a high-quality interior and is great to drive, yet it’s also cheap to run. When charged, it can officially cover 37 miles on electricity, and it remains fairly frugal when running on petrol power. The resulting low emissions yield huge tax savings for company car drivers. Our pick 330e M Sport Pro Pack List price £44,635 Target Price £41,683 MPG 188.3 CO2 34g/km For Great to drive; low emissions and good electric range; high-quality interior; class-leading infotainment Against Smaller boot and petrol tank than regular 3 Series; sporty suspension setup won’t be to all tastes WHAT CAR? SAYS Tesla Model 3 Our…

Tesla Model 3 PUT SIMPLY, NO large electric car balances range, performance, price and technology as well as the Model 3. It was already hugely compelling, both as a private buy and a company car, but a refresh for 2021 made it even better. Factor in access to Tesla’s unbeatable charging network and the Model 3 is an incredibly desirable yet thoroughly sensible choice. It’s the best argument yet for switching from fossil fuels. Our pick Performance List price £56,490 Target Price £56,490 Range 352 miles CO2 0g/km For Dependable, fast charging network; well priced; stuffed with tech; surprisingly practical; enjoyable to drive Against Firm town ride, pricey finance deals; interior is better than it was, but could still be plusher Porsche Taycan Our pick 4S (Performance Battery Plus) List…

Volkswagen Touran THE TOURAN MATCHES the flexibility of huge MPVs such as the Ford Galaxy, with its independently sliding middle-row seats. And despite being a far more compact car, adults fit in all three rows. What’s more, the Touran feels much like a normal hatchback from behind the wheel, thanks to tidy handling and a supple ride. So yes, it exists to offer an abundance of functionality, but that doesn’t define the way it drives at all. Our pick 1.5 TSI 150 SE List price £28,580 Target Price £23,043 MPG 42.8 CO2 150g/km For Compact outside yet spacious inside; seats seven adults; Isofix on all rear seats; tidy to drive; tempting PCPs Against There are cheaper cash buys; Ford Galaxy has more third row space; automatic gearbox can be hesitant…

BMW 4 Series ITS LOOKS MIGHT be divisive, but whether or not you’re a fan of this 4 Series’ aggressive styling, you’ll love what’s underneath. This is one of the most rewarding driver’s cars in the class and, if you opt for the Pro Pack’s adaptive suspension, it’s also a very comfortable everyday car. In addition, the 4 Series benefits from a wonderful interior with supportive seats and class-leading infotainment. Our pick 420i M Sport Pro Pack List price £43,285 Target Price £40,670 MPG 42.2 CO2 151g/km For Rewarding handling; no longer so derivative of 3 Series; high-quality interior; composed ride Against Looks won’t be for everyone; some rivals have larger boots; you hear wind and tyre noise at speed WHAT CAR? SAYS Audi TT Our Pick 45 TFSI Sport…

Ford Puma ST UNTIL RECENTLY, BUYING a sports SUV required a sizeable outlay, but the Ford Puma ST changes that. And don’t think the fact that it costs far less than the competition means it’s far less fun. Even the mighty Porsche Cayenne has to bow to the Puma’s incredible agility, while its greater driver engagement and less extreme acceleration mean there’s far more chance to enjoy yourself on public roads. Our pick 1.5 Ecoboost 200 Perf Pack List price £31,365 Target Price £30,135 MPG 41.5 CO2 155g/km For Hugely entertaining handling; tuneful and punchy engine; relatively cheap to buy and run Against Occasionally bouncy ride; infotainment system could be slicker; Volkswagen T-Roc is bigger in the back WHAT CAR? SAYS Porsche Cayenne Coupé Our pick GTS List price £90,980…

WHAT EXACTLY IS the Audi E-tron GT? If you’re thinking of Googling ‘E-tron’ to find out, we’ll save you the trouble. It means “enjoyment while driving and unlimited suitability”. Unlimited suitability? Hmm. That implies it can do anything, like the Messiah. Well, having driven it, I can tell you it’s good. Very good. But Jesus? Nah, it’s not quite the second coming. Of course it’s very good. It’s closely related to the Porsche Taycan, which is one of the most exciting cars on sale. The Taycan is not just a great-handling electric car; it’s a great-handling car full stop. There are two versions of the GT, both with four-wheel drive, and the cheaper one is called simply the E-tron GT quattro. It has 468bhp but peaks at 523bhp for 2.5sec…

WHEN WE ADDED the coupé SUV category to our Car of the Year Awards, the Range Rover Velar was the first winner. While its nemesis the BMW X6 was crowned 2021 champion, the Velar is fighting back with a range of updates. You wouldn’t necessarily spot them from looking at it, though (and arguably there was nothing wrong with the styling anyway). The biggest changes are under the bonnet, where you’ll find a new mild hybrid petrol or diesel engine, or a plug-in hybrid. So far, the 3.0-litre six-cylinder D300 diesel has impressed us the most; its 296bhp gives strong acceleration, and there’s plenty of punch from seriously low in the rev range. If you keep an eye on the rev counter, you’ll notice that the automatic gearbox changes up…

THE GOVERNMENT INCENTIVE paid out to buyers of new electric cars has been cut from £3000 to £2500 and will now be available only on cars costing less than £35,000. Before the March change, buyers of zero-emissions cars costing up to £50,000 could claim the benefit. The Government says the list price limit and payment amount have been reduced to “reflect a greater range of affordable vehicles available” and to help the funding go further as more drivers switch to electric cars. Research by What Car? last September found that the availability of a plug-in car grant would influence the buying decisions of more than half of potential electric car owners. Of the 12,029 buyers we surveyed, almost 60% were considering going electric with their next car, but 27% said…

BEST BUY BMW Coup 420i M Sport List price £40,460 Target Price £38,001 Options we’d add M Sport Pro Package (£2500), Comfort Plus Pack (£1950), Technology Pack (£1900), metallic paint (£670) Cost of options £7020 Adding the M Sport Pro Package (£2500) transforms the 4 Series from a very good car into a great one.As well as giving you an upgraded stereo, it also brings adaptive suspension that helps to soak up the lumps and bumps of UK roads, while increasing driving enjoyment when they get twisty. The Comfort Plus Pack (£1950) bundles a lot of kit together, including keyless entry, an electric bootlid and a heated steering wheel. Most useful, however, is the addition of electric adjustment for the front seats – including for lumbar support – to help…

Hot hatches are supposed to be about cheap thrills, aren’t they? That’s what made ’80s legends like the Peugeot 205 GTi and Renault 5 GT Turbo such massive hits: the fact that you could have a bigger engine and sharper handling for only a few thousand quid more than you’d pay for an otherwise tardy runaround. Fortunately, cars like the £16,000 Volkswagen Up GTI still offer smiles on a shoestring – but these days the term ‘hot hatch’ is rather broader and also covers serious performance cars that just happen to be wrapped up in a practical hatchback body. Indeed, the German trio we’ve got lined up here – the Audi S3, BMW M135i and new Volkswagen Golf R – are roughly as quick as a V8-powered Audi R8 from…

If you’re after a quick yet comfortable SUV, the I-Pace is a fine choice. Go gently on its accelerator pedal and more than 250 miles of range is possible, plus it’s spacious and good to drive. However, the iX3’s overall grades are even more impressive and push the I-Pace into second place here. No, the iX3 can’t go quite as far on a full charge, but its ability to top up at a faster rate means long journeys should pose no fear. It’s more fun to drive, too. But where it really wins us over is with its practical, well-built interior, proper buttons and brilliant infotainment system. Factor in a lower price, lower running costs and a longer kit list and the iX3’s case looks even stronger. BMW iX3 For…

I HAVE A DREAM, and while it’s not quite as selfless as Martin Luther King’s, it might be similarly ambitious: no road tax, no Congestion Charge and no compromises. Yes, I’ve gone electric, and while that means the first two boxes have been ticked, the third is proving trickier, especially as my budget doesn’t stretch to something big and luxurious. I went for the Renault Zoe because it has one of the best official ranges of any small electric car. Specifically, I’ve got the more powerful R135 variant in the hope that it will feel just as at home on motorways as it does in town, and the Rapid Charger function, so I don’t have to sit around stationary for any longer than I have to. Our recommended trim is…

Mileage 3845 List price £19,235 Target Price £16,427 Price as tested £19,980 Test economy 51.2mpg I’ve really grown to enjoy the growl from my Ibiza’s 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, but it’s still nice to set my own soundtrack. Handily, the DVD-based navigation system you get with FR trim puts it on a thinning list of cars that cater to those of us who prefer CDs to downloads. But is the BeatsAudio sound system worth the £380 upgrade cost? Well, it’s rare that a small car’s audio set-up does music real justice.All too often, the top and bottom octaves are lost in the roar of tyre and wind noise. But not so with the BeatsAudio system.To my ears, its sonic signature is like that of the brand’s headphones: lots of welly, if…

SO, YOU WANT all the virtues of a small or family car – driving manners, refinement, practicality and safety technology – but wrapped up in something more compact and cheaper to buy and run? Then you want a city car, and these days the best of them are up to any task you might throw in their direction. Take the Hyundai i10. Through all its three generations, it has impressed us so much with its all-round competence that it has carried off category and class wins in our annual Car of the Year Awards. Likewise, the diminutive Kia Picanto has often jostled for top spot with the i10. Here, we’re testing nearly new examples of each car in their larger-engined and higher-spec guises. By buying at a year old, you’ll…

Seat Leon AS A FAMILY car, the latest Leon gets the basics right by offering a big boot and even more space for passengers than the gigantic Skoda Octavia. But it also serves up a very welcome slice of fun and costs less to run than you’d think. Don’t go thinking that the Leon feels even remotely hairshirt, either. It’s every bit as smart inside as the more expensive Volkswagen Golf, while its infotainment system is more user-friendly. Our pick 1.5 TSI Evo 130 FR List price £24,060 Target Price £20,499 MPG 50.4 CO2 127g/km For Great handling; smart, spacious interior; punchy yet frugal petrol engines; generous standard spec Against Ride is on the firm side; more wind and road noise than some rivals; very few optional extras available WHAT…

Volvo XC40 IT MIGHT BE a few years since we voted Volvo’s most affordable SUV our overall Car of the Year, but it remains a hugely desirable product that’s backed up by real substance. The XC40 blends generous passenger space and a practical boot with a quality interior and the sort of top-notch safety you expect from the brand. Plus, our recommended version has plenty of poke and comes well equipped. Our pick T3 R-Design auto List price £33,545 Target Price £31,450 MPG 38.2 CO2 166g/km For Stylish, high-quality interior; big and clever boot; supple ride on most versions; comprehensive safety kit Against Fiddly infotainment system; lacks the rear seat flexibility of some rivals; body sways around a bit WHAT CAR? SAYS Range Rover Evoque Our pick P300e HSE List…

Skoda Octavia Estate THE iV IS one of the more expensive Octavias, but it’s still one of the cheaper plug-in hybrids, and for many the investment will pay back dividends. Its official 282.5mpg economy shows what’s possible if you charge regularly, plus the car drops into the exceptionally low 6% benefit-in-kind bracket. As a bonus, you get all the usual Octavia Estate benefits, including lots of kit, a very comfy ride and vast space. Our pick 1.4 TSI iV SE Technology List price £34,230 Target Price £34,230 MPG 282.5 CO2 23g/km For Very low company car tax; 41-mile electric range; cosseting ride; vast boot; competitive price; well equipped Against Plenty of rivals are more fun to drive; floaty over undulations; air-con controls are in touchscreen WHAT CAR? SAYS BMW 3…

BMW 5 Series OUR FAVOURITE LUXURY car for the past four years still offers the very best traits of this class. Take the interior, for example: it’s virtually identical to that of the pricier 7 Series and just as well made, despite the 5 Series costing far less. As a bonus, the 530e plug-in hybrid variant can complete many journeys on electric power. And even when its petrol engine does fire up, the car is quiet enough to shame full-on limousines. Our pick 530e M Sport Pro Pack List price £54,820 Target Price £46,872 MPG 188.3 CO2 34g/km For Fast and fun, yet comfortable and refined; low running costs, particularly as a company car; superb interior Against You need to add adaptive suspension (part of the Pro Pack) for the…

Skoda Superb Estate SPACE IS THE name of the game when you’re looking at wagons, and the Superb Estate has been our favourite for six years, striking the sweet spot of practicality, comfort, low running costs and value more accurately than any rival. In fact, with masses of load space for flat-pack furniture or suitcases and palatial comfort for passengers, it’s one of the most impressive family holdalls in any class of car. Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 SE Technology List price £28,500 Target Price £27,947 MPG 57.7 CO2 129g/km For Comfortable ride; limo-like rear passenger space; huge boot with lots of practical touches; well priced Against Some rivals are more fun to drive on twisty roads; automatic gearbox can be a tad jerky in traffic WHAT CAR? SAYS Skoda…

BMW X6 THE COUPÉ SUV class wouldn’t exist without the BMW X6. However, the latest version isn’t the benchmark due to its history, but because it moves the game on again. It’s one of the more entertaining cars in the class to drive, and offers stunning performance, no matter which engine you choose. Meanwhile, the interior is as easy to use as it is beautifully built, and you even get generous rear space. Our pick xDrive30d MHT M Sport List price £66,910 Target Price £62,838 MPG 42.2 CO2 176g/km For High-quality interior; powerful yet frugal diesel engine; practical by the standards of the class; great to drive Against Ride is on the firm side; some options you’ll want are pricey; looks won’t appeal to all WHAT CAR? SAYS Range Rover…

Porsche 718 Cayman IT’D BE EASY to write off the Cayman as a poor man’s 911. It can be bought for as little as half the money, so it must be half the car, right? Well, actually, no; in the ways that matter most, the Cayman is the best sports car on the planet. The only caveat is that you need to go for the GTS version, because this swaps the uncouth engines of lesser versions for a glorious 4.0-litre flat six. Our pick GTS 4.0 List price £66,385 Target Price £66,385 MPG 25.9 CO2 247g/km For Brilliant handling; rich, soulful naturally aspirated six-cylinder GTS engine; classy interior Against Lacks the level of standard kit you’d expect of such a pricey car, both in terms of luxuries and safety WHAT…

Porsche Taycan SOME MIGHT VIEW it as heresy to declare an electric car the number one performance car, but the Taycan is proof that such models can be just as rewarding and usable as the best petrol rivals, and then some. Even the entry-level 4S version can sprint from 0-62mph in just 4.0sec. Plus, the Taycan has exceptionally precise, tactile steering and incredible poise in corners. Its brakes are monstrous, too. Our pick 4S (Performance Battery Plus) List price £87,541 Target Price £87,541 Official range 288 miles CO2 0g/km For Massive and instantaneous performance; remarkably agile; gorgeous interior; seats four adults Against Charging network isn’t as good as Tesla’s; similar-priced Model S is more spacious WHAT CAR? SAYS Mercedes-AMG C63 Our pick S Estate List price £78,103 Target Price £73,953…

THE MERCEDES-BENZ EQA is like that colleague who always wears a full suit and tie for the daily video conference call, while everyone else is in dressing gowns and pyjamas. You see, while there are now almost enough small electric vehicles (EVs) to fill an entire gallery-view Zoom call, very few of them have a posh badge. So, while EVs like the Kia e-Niro and Volkswagen ID.3 are certainly praiseworthy, they might not appeal to the same crowd as those lured by the glitzy gravitational pull of the three-pointed star. But beyond its premium image, what does the EQA bring to the table? Well, it’s based on the Mercedes GLA, which is a fossil fuel-powered family SUV, but Mercedes’ engineers have yanked the engine from under its bonnet and reworked…

THE LATEST LAND Rover has received brand spanking new diesel engines already, just a few short months after going on sale. Four-cylinder offerings have been banished in favour of 3.0-litre six-cylinder engines with mild hybrid technology. There are three to choose from; we’re testing the mid-range 249bhp D250, which sits between the 197bhp D200 and the 296bhp D300. Outright power isn’t up by much over the previous D240, but low-down grunt certainly is, allowing for stout in-gear acceleration. That means you’ll rev it far less when merging on to a motorway, for example. The stumpy three-door 90 isn’t as comfortable as the longer 110, even with the optional air suspension fitted, giving occupants a nodding dog sensation over bigger bumps. There’s also a bit more fidget over imperfections mirrors and…

THE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI was once the default choice among front-wheel-drive hot hatches, but upstarts such as the Honda Civic Type R have gained the upper hand over the past few years. To help the Mk8 GTI fight back, Volkswagen has introduced a more hardcore version called the Clubsport. Understudy to the four-wheel-drive Golf R (which you can read about from p64), the Clubsport gets tweaked suspension, beefier to twirl when picking your way through traffic. In Sport, meanwhile, its consistent heft feels just right through fast, sweeping bends and complements the steering’s inherent accuracy. As well as upgraded brakes that are all the better to wipe off speed, the Clubsport has huge reserves of grip. However, its surefooted neutrality contrasts with the brakes, trick aerodynamic aids and a serious…

WHETHER YOUR STYLE is more Lövbacken than Lack, or whether you see yourself enjoying the Pax more than the Poäng, there’s little denying that us Brits love Scandinavian design. Even when lockdown meant we couldn’t browse the hallowed halls of Ikea in person, the Swedish furniture giant reported that online sales in 2020 surged by 31% over the previous year. Volvo, too, enjoys a well-earned reputation for sleek yet functional design, and if the brand’s recent offerings could be described as Scandi-cool, this new C40 is positively Arctic. Its front end will look familiar; it’s shared with the recently launched XC40 Recharge P8 electric family SUV. Step around to the side, though, and you’ll notice that the bluff, muscular rear end of that model has given Slightly longer than the…

REMEMBER THE DAYS when searching for your next big family or executive car meant just that? Long before SUVs became the default choice for carrying kids and impressing colleagues, it’s likely that you’d be looking at a five-door, five-seat hatchback just like the Vauxhall Insignia that stands before you. It may not be the fashionable choice these days, but the Insignia certainly looks like a sensible one. That’s especially true after undergoing a serious upgrade for 2021. It has gained all-new petrol and diesel engines that promise improved efficiency, plus a smattering of new technology and the customary restyled bumpers front and rear. The engine range kicks off with the 1.5-litre Turbo D – a three-cylinder diesel with a modest 120bhp – and goes all the way up to the…

WHAT CAR? HAS launched a new section of its website that’s dedicated to helping company car drivers. It features a new company car tax calculator that lets you quickly and easily to see the financial implications of running every model available in the UK. The hub was created to support the UK’s estimated 850,000 company car drivers. As well as the tax calculator, our motoring experts demystify the process of running a company car, offering relevant news and advice, including top tips to help you get the most from such schemes. Rachael Prasher, managing director of What Car? and its publisher, Haymarket Automotive, said:“The company car market remains a strong and critical part of the wider automotive sector, yet navigating your way through the benefits and pitfalls remains tricky, especially…

LONG BEFORE THE coronavirus pandemic dealt a huge blow to the finances of countries around the world, the UK Government was facing a cashflow catastrophe. The accelerating trend for motorists to switch from petrol and diesel-powered cars to electric vehicles (EVs) is predicted to leave a £40 billion hole in tax revenues over the next couple of decades. This threat to the public purse was flagged up in the Government’s Net Zero Review: Interim Report, published in December. It said: “The Government will need to consider how to offset lost tax revenues – whether through adjustments to other taxes or reductions in government spending – so it can reach net zero while maintaining public finances.” Some of the shortfall will be due to a drop in fuel duty income. The…

Mach 1 is the speed of sound, but did you know that it’s not a constant? It varies depending on how high up you are. Land speed record holder Andy Green went supersonic just before hitting 763mph in 1997. But Concorde passengers sipping Moët at 60,000 feet could smash the sound barrier while flying a touch slower than Andy’s Thrust SSC. Confused? Well, get used to that feeling because, as it turns out, Mustangs aren’t a constant, either. The Mustang Mach-E isn’t another low-slung sports car with a dirty great V8 engine. It’s a relatively tall SUV powered by the very antithesis of a V8: an electric motor. Apparently, it’s not even a Ford (there’s no Ford badging anywhere), and, for the record, its top speed isn’t Mach 1. It…

The 1 Series is a very fine car in its lesser forms, with a great interior and a fabulous infotainment system. The range-topping M135i throws some serious performance into the mix, and there’s enough about the way it drives to keep you entertained at reasonable speeds. The best hot hatches stand up to harder driving, though – and both the S3 and Golf do just that. They not only have higher handling limits but are also more composed when driven close to them. True, neither offers the raw driving thrills of the very best of the breed, but then they will cosset you more on a commute – particularly the Golf when equipped with its optional adaptive suspension. That’s partly why the Golf edges out the S3 for honours here,…

ALL CAR BUYERS hope to find something that suits them down to the ground. I’m not talking about just ticking boxes here. I mean a car that fits you as perfectly as a well-tailored suit. Something that slots into your life as easily as bread into a toaster and which, as a result, you want to hold on to for years. I found that car in 2017. It was the pre-facelift Audi Q5 and, over the course of my time with it, I fell hopelessly in love. Circumstances meant I had to let it go in favour of something else, but when Audi revealed a facelifted version of the car last June, I knew I had to have one on my driveway. And here it is, resplendent in Floret Silver…

Mileage 6942 List price new (2019) £39,215 Price new with options £45,085 Value now £28,550 Test economy 36.9mpg VOLVO AND SAFETY go together like Ant and Dec. It was the Swedish firm that first promoted the three-point safety belt in 1959, remember, and it’s estimated that more than a million lives have been saved as a result. Modern-day Volvo is still equally keen on preserving life, of course. Its upcoming models promise new safety tech such as cameras that monitor driver behaviour, more sophisticated driver assistance packages and smart speed controls. On top of that, all new Volvos will be capped to a top speed of 112mph. Mine isn’t, though. As a 2019 car, my V60 would hit 137mph if I had somewhere I could legally do that. But it…

THE PAST 12 MONTHS have felt pretty apocalyptic. However, while I’ll be pleased to see the back of the coronavirus and lockdowns (fingers crossed), I’ll very much miss the Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian X that has been serving as my transport during that time. Pick-up trucks have always been on the fringes of my life, and when I finally got my hands on one of my own, I couldn’t wait to put it through its paces to test its practicality, usability and on and off-road performance. I really wanted to push it to its limits and I think I succeeded – despite various periods when it had to remain parked up. My L200 had to battle through the intense storms and flooding at the end of last year, moved my life…

Mileage 4670 List price £25,880 Target Price £24,886 Price as tested £28,180 Test economy 42.7mpg I KNOW THAT having an MPV on the driveway isn’t going to impress the Joneses at number 34 these days. I’m going to stick my neck out, though, and say that if most SUV drivers spent a week with my Berlingo, they’d be amazed how much easier it made their lives. You still get those benefits (both real and perceived) that come with an elevated driving position, along with so much more practicality. Sliding rear doors, for example, make loading the average 2.4 children (or my son Callum) a doddle, not only because they require a lot less space but also because they reveal wide, rectangular openings. ‘If most SUV drivers spent a week with…

The Picanto is great to drive and cheaper to buy than the i10. It’s one of our favourite city cars, and we wouldn’t blame you if you were tempted to put one on your driveway. However, if it were our money, we’d spend the extra cash and go for the i10. If you’re looking for a city car that offers civilised motoring on a sensible budget, the more modern i10 is the ideal candidate. It’s smart, spacious and as comfortable as some much larger, more expensive choices. In short, it’s an outstanding city car whether bought new or used. Hyundai i10 For More comfortable ride; quieter on the motorway; more kit; roomier in the back Against A bit more punch would be nice; more expensive to buy Kia Picanto For…

Toyota GR Yaris THE GR YARIS is a truly special machine that feels tailor-made for tackling a British B-road. With its small proportions, clever four-wheel drive system and firecracker of an engine, its performance is incredibly accessible, yet it’s also fast enough to frighten thoroughbred sports cars. For pure driving thrills, hot hatches don’t get any better. And yet it’s well priced and should be fairly cheap to run. Our pick 1.6 Circuit Pack List price £33,495 Target Price £33,495 MPG 34.4 CO2 186g/km For An absolute riot in the bends; incredible traction and acceleration off the line; tempting finance deals Against Limited rear seat and boot space; interior too similar to a regular Yaris’s; small range of options WHAT CAR? SAYS Honda Civic Type R Our pick 2.0 VTEC…

Kia Sorento THE SORENTO’S HYBRID tech combines good real-world fuel economy with comparatively low CO2 emissions, while the ride is forgiving and the steering pleasingly accurate. Throw in a nicely made interior that can seat seven adults in comfort, a driving position that’s lofty enough to make HGV drivers jealous, and Kia’s unmatched seven-year warranty, and you’ve got an outstanding all-rounder. Our pick 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid 2 List price £38,845 Target Price £37,621 MPG 40.9 CO2 158g/km For Vast interior; frugal and strong engine; industry-leading warranty; comfortable ride; well equipped Against Expensive considering you don’t get a premium badge; automatic gearbox can be hesitant WHAT CAR? SAYS Peugeot 5008 Our pick Puretech 130 Allure List price £31,435 Target Price £30,141 MPG 46.0 CO2 136g/km For Quiet cruiser; comfortable ride; practical…

Volkswagen ID.3 THANKS TO REAR-WHEEL drive, accurate steering and fine body control, the ID.3 is an electric car that’s genuinely fun to drive. What’s more, its practicality is up with the roomiest family hatchbacks, and predicted resale values are superb. As a bonus, the ID.3 performed exceptionally well in the latest Euro NCAP safety tests, because it’s good at protecting occupants in a crash and at avoiding crashes in the first place. Our pick Pro Performance Life List price £32,990 Target Price £32,425 Range 263 miles CO2 0g/km For Long official range; fun to drive; spacious and practical interior; slow predicted depreciation Against Iffy interior quality; infotainment systems puts style before substance; charging network weaker than Tesla’s WHAT CAR? SAYS Fiat 500 Our pick 42kWh Icon List price £27,995 Target…

BMW X5 WHEN CHOOSING A plug-in hybrid, it goes without saying that you want economy and cost-effectiveness, but if you don’t want to compromise on the finer things in life, the X5 xDrive45e is right up your street. It offers the same fantastic interior as any other X5, and is even more refined. Yet it’s cheaper to run than rivals, not least because it can travel a whopping 54 miles on electric power. Our pick xDrive45e M Sport List price £69,915 Target Price £66,465 MPG 217.3 CO2 29g/km For Superb ride and handling balance; excellent infotainment; big pure electric range; low company car tax Against Only seats seven if you go for our preferred engine; the boot isn’t as big as you’d expect WHAT CAR? SAYS Audi Q7 Our pick…

Fiat 500 Cabrio THE LATEST FIAT 500 Cabrio is all-electric – a sign of the times, no doubt. However, don’t think that it takes the number one spot just because it taps into the zeitgeist. True, the way you can whizz around near-silently gives it a trump card that no other drop-top can match, but just as appealing is its high-quality interior and the fact that it’s every bit as good to drive as the hatchback on which it’s based. Our pick Icon List price £30,645 Target Price £30,645 Official range 188 miles CO2 0g/km For Great interior with lots of kit; refined and good to drive; low running costs; useful range between charges Against Tiny rear seats; ride could be more settled; pricier than some conventionally powered rivals WHAT…