Table of contents for 1858 in Auto Express

JAGUAR’S transformation to a high-end luxury brand has started to take shape, with the company revealing its new logos and styling details. The fresh artwork for the relaunched brand comes ahead of a new concept car that will show its new design direction as the brand moves to a line-up of three £100,000+ electric models. The prototype, which is to be shown at Miami Art Week on 2 December, will feature Jaguar’s new signature, ‘leaper’ and a ‘strikethrough’ design element set to be seen across the company’s new models, as well as a new colour palette. “These four symbols of change are elements that will be universally recognised codes of Jaguar going forward”, said the firm’s brand design director Richard Stevens. The logo is Jaguar’s signature, and the company has…

YOU know what you’re getting with a Skoda Octavia vRS these days – with almost 46,000 examples of the rapid Czech motor sold in the UK across the previous three generations and the prefacelift Mk4 too, its appealing blend of practicality, easy-going manners and admirable on-road performance has made it a big hit for the company since it first appeared back in 2001. For this updated version of the fourth-generation car, Skoda has wisely decided not to be too drastic with its midlife update. However, the changes are worthwhile and only polish what was already an absolute gem of a performance car to an even higher lustre in the process. Like its predecessors, the vRS is available as both a hatchback and an estate, and it’s the latter that we’ve…

TRYING to stand out in the busy electric compact SUV market is no easy task, but the Ford Explorer manages it. The smooth front and rear ends, squared-off lines and small windows combine to give it a purposeful look, one that’s backed up by tried-and-tested VW-derived running gear. The range is simple at the moment, with Select and Premium trims on offer, and only minimal differences in specification between them. The sole battery option is the Extended Range – the cheaper Standard Range with a 52kWh pack arrives in early 2025. Extended Range cars have a 77kWh battery, unless you choose the more powerful four-wheel-drive car, which adds a 79kWh pack. MOTORS &PERFORMANCE 4.3/5★ THE Explorer uses Volkswagen’s MEB electric car platform, so there are rear or four-wheel-drive configurations to…

Ford Explorer 4.4/5★ SYNC MOVE | KEY FEATURE: ADJUSTABLE DISPLAY THE Explorer’s vast 14.6-inch touchscreen is so large that the climate controls at its base only take up a fifth of the display, and there’s still plenty of room for big buttons that are easy to locate when you’re on the move. The SYNC software is responsive and offers quick loading times, while voice control is available if you’d rather not use the screen. A row of shortcut buttons across the top of the screen allows quick access to important functions, and there’s a Home button lower down that gets you back to the main screen, if needed. Renault Scenic 4.4/5★ OPENR LINK | KEY FEATURE: BUILT-IN GOOGLE THE 12-inch portrait display in the Scenic features crisp graphics, while the…

OUR favourite used supermini is the Vauxhall Corsa, a model that has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Following Vauxhall’s sale by General Motors to PSA (later Stellantis) in 2017, its new owners wasted no time in creating an all-new, sixth-generation model – going from clean-sheet design to production in just 18 months. Since then, it has raised its level to sit shoulder-to-shoulder with the very best in the segment when it comes to design and quality. One of the main things that held the Corsa back when new – its optimistic pricing (especially where models higher up in the range were concerned) – is not a worry on the second-hand market, because prices have now become very competitive. The Corsa’s former arch-rival as a new car, the…

SKODA has had more than its fair share of award-winning success over the years, with the Octavia often leading the charge. This is the third time in a row that this ultra-practical load lugger has bagged our Best Used Estate Car award – and it’s easy to see why. The king-sized wagon is well equipped, roomy, dynamically capable, great value, and there's a wide model range that includes a 4WD Scout option as well as the hot vRS edition, loved by unmarked traffic cops across the UK. If you want something with more of an emphasis on fuel economy, that’s no problem, while the range of trim levels goes from the relatively spartan entry-level S to the positively luxurious Laurin & Klement. The Mk3 Octavia was sold from 2013 until…

WHEN you’re spending a lot of money on a used luxury car, one of the key motivations for many people is to have something unusual – a car that isn’t predictable or common. The BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé certainly fits the bill on this score, because you don’t see them often, despite the fact that this large swoopy saloon is hugely desirable for a number of reasons. These include its superb design, the glorious driving experience, some brilliant engines and a fabulous cabin. That’s a lot of attributes in one sentence, but every one of them is deserved. The 8 Series coupé was launched at the end of 2018, but it would take several more months for the Gran Coupé to appear, with the oldest models on the market…

DESPITE the decidedly inconsistent weather, for years Brits have bought more open-topped cars than any other country in the world, aside from the US. We still purchase more than most other countries, although the numbers have dropped in recent years simply because there’s far less choice than there used to be. But one affordable rag-top that’s been around for more than two decades is the MINI Convertible, which last year notched up its sixth Convertible of the Year title in our New Car Awards. Launched in spring 2016 and replaced earlier this year, the third-generation MINI Convertible was just like its predecessors with its cheeky design inside and out, engaging driving experience and perky engines. Throw in typical BMW build quality and it’s easy to see why the factory was…

TOYOTA is credited with creating the ‘soft-roader’ three decades ago with the original RAV4, while the fifth-generation model that we’re rewarding here made its debut in spring 2019. The sharp-suited SUV has been a real money-spinner for Toyota, achieving 20 million sales globally, including 220,000 in the UK. The RAV4’s appeal is immediately obvious as soon as you drive one. We’ve always liked it for its rugged looks, peerless reliability and generous equipment levels, but because the Mk5 edition came only with a 2.5-litre petrol engine backed up by either self-charging or plug-in hybrid technology, efficiency can be impressive too, for what's actually quite a big car. Indeed, running costs tend to be on the low side, although most RAV4s breached the £40,000 expensive-car tax threshold when new, which pushes…

IT’S a win for Toyota in this category for the second year running, courtesy of its after-sales commitment. As with the medium-sized Proace that won last year, the City comes from a joint venture by Toyota and Stellantis, which sees the Japanese firm use European know-how to make a class-leading small van. The Proace City has enough space for three-abreast seating, while the large, cube-shaped load area offers cargo volumes among the best in the sector. None of Toyota’s hybrid tech can be found under the bonnet, though, with engines and running gear from Stellantis. There are three diesels, with manual transmissions for the lower power outputs, and the option of an auto for the biggest. Plus, there’s the Proace City Electric, with a 50kWh battery and a 205-mile range…

TWELVE years after Renault introduced the Twizy quadricycle to a world that was only just warming to EVs, it’s having a second shot at the idea with the Mobilize Duo. The new model sits on an all-new platform and is powered by a 10.4 kWh battery pack. This provides a range of around 100 miles — more than double that of a Citroen Ami. Mobilize tells us that, even with the heated seat on, more than 60 miles should be possible. The Duo’s 16bhp electric motor is actually sourced from the mild-hybrid powertrain in the Austral SUV. Topping out at 50mph, the Mobilize is quite a bit more capable than the Citroen Ami, which can’t even reach 30mph. That said, the Duo is far from what you’d call ‘fast’; perhaps…

WHEN we first drove the Renault Rafale coupé-SUV, we felt a little lukewarm about it. Yes, it had cool styling, space and great on-board technology, but it was let down by its uninspiring hybrid system and lacklustre driving experience. The latest addition to the Rafale range aims to fix that by replacing the conventional hybrid system with a 296bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain that promises low company car tax rates and all-wheel drive, plus an electric-only range of 60 miles or so. And it delivers that without sacrificing the standard car’s strengths. The striking, modern and distinctly Peugeot 408-ish design remains unchanged, and interior space is also largely unaltered. Rear cabin space is just as palatial as before, and the boot is still big enough to stand comparison with the Audi…

“THE EXPLORER WILL NEED TO BE PRETTY SPECIAL TO OVERCOME THE ELECTRIC CROSSOVER SCENIC” ESSENTIALS Ford Explorer 77kWh Extended Range Select Price: £45,875 0-62mph: 6.4 seconds Powertrain: 1x e-motor, 77kWh battery, 282bhp Test efficiency: 3.7 miles/kWh Official range: 374 miles Annual VED: £0 Renault Scenic 220hp Long Range Iconic Price: £45,495 0-62mph: 7.9 seconds Powertrain: 1x e-motor, 87kWh battery, 215bhp Test efficiency: 3.4 miles/kWh Official range: 369 miles Annual VED: £0 ESTABLISHED car makers are facing a challenge in the shape of new Chinese EVs, so in an effort to stand out, many are looking to connect to customers by using model names from their back catalogues. Ford has been a dab hand at it in recent years, with cars such as the Kuga (nee Cougar) and Puma borrowing names…

THE Renault Scenic E-Tech (to give the car its full name) is one of six SUVs now offered by the French firm, but it’s the only one with an all-electric powertrain. It shares its running gear with the Megane E-Tech, but is larger overall and its SUV-style body provides a more versatile, family-friendly interior. There are two battery options available, 60kWh and 87kWh, while Techno, Esprit Alpine and Iconic trim levels are offered, although only Techno can be had with the smaller battery. Either way, competitive pricing and generous equipment mean the Scenic offers good value for money when compared with its rivals, even in top-spec Iconic guise. MOTORS &PERFORMANCE 4.1/5★ RENAULT offers two power outputs in the Scenic, and which one you get depends on the battery you choose.…

WINNER Renault Scenic E-Tech THESE two cars are the front runners in the compact electric SUV class. In terms of ability, both have strong points that are countered by minor niggles. The Scenic has decent space inside, a big boot and a long list of kit, which are strengths that outweigh the negatives of poor rear visibility, a fidgety ride and a relative lack of power next to the Explorer. When it comes to pricing, the Scenic narrowly edges ahead. This top-spec model isn’t left wanting for kit, while the inclusion of a heat pump seals a narrow victory for Renault. INTERESTED? Scan the code for further information RUNNER-UP Ford Explorer PICKING between these may well come down to personal taste, the margins are so small. The Explorer has strong…

BUILDING on its success from 2023, the Kia Ceed once again scoops the honours in the Compact family hatchback category. A large part of that comes from just how satisfying Kia owners tell us their cars are to own; the brand finished a superb third overall in the Driver Power manufacturer rankings for 2024, with owners appreciating their cars’ superb value for money and excellent infotainment systems – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard on every model – above everything else. The Ceed nails all of the things that matter the most to family car buyers, with practicality and reliability rated highly among owners. That latter quality is, as always, backed up by Kia’s brilliantly comprehensive seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty. Given that the third-gen model we recommend reached showrooms…

FORD has built its fair share of great cars over the years, most of which have sold in huge numbers. However, the Fiesta and Mondeo are dead, and the Focus will soon be, but as long as we have the Puma there’s still plenty to be happy about. There are so many SUVs on the market nowadays that it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed by the choice, but the Puma stands out with its endless list of virtues; it’s great to drive, looks interesting, is well equipped, and it’s terrific value as a used buy. Throw in a big boot plus a well laid-out cabin, and it’s no wonder the Puma was the UK’s best-selling car in 2023. As a result, there are thousands to choose from on the used…

COMPANY car drivers and fleet managers love to keep an eye on the bottom line, and when it comes to the numbers game, the Tesla Model 3 is impossible to ignore as a new car. It's also difficult to overlook used, because it's remarkably affordable, delivers a fantastic real-world range and is backed up by the superb Tesla Supercharging network for ease of use. Running costs are super-low. Charge at home and you can pay as little as a penny per mile in fuel costs. As well as minimal maintenance requirements (even consumables such as brake discs and pads last for longer in an EV than in an equivalent petrol or diesel car thanks to regenerative braking systems), this is an efficient car that maxes out its use of energy…

ALTHOUGH Renault invented the compact MPV with the original Megane Scenic, it was Vauxhall that perfected the formula with its first-generation Zafira. A third row of seats was key to achieving that class-leading position when the car was launched in 1999, and the same was true of the all-new model that arrived in 2005. This in turn was supplemented (then superseded) by the more upmarket Zafira Tourer in 2012, which remains our favourite used MPV – and for good reason. Whether you buy one of the original Zafira Tourers or a post-2016 facelifted car, it’ll be refined and comfortable, plus of course, brilliantly spacious. All three generations of Zafira have offered wonderful packaging, thanks to the standard-fit Flex7 seating, which means you don't have to faff about removing seats; simply…

FORD has consistently shown that mainstream doesn’t have to mean ordinary, and the Fiesta ST proves the point. The company was overwhelmed with orders as soon as the ST went on sale back in 2012, and it’s easy to see why. Affordable, practical, sharply designed and more fun to drive than many cars several times its price, the ST brought real fun to the masses. Even in bog-standard form, the Fiesta was always one of the most enjoyable small hatchbacks to drive thanks to its razor-sharp handling, so when Ford turned up the wick to create a pintsized performance great, it was just the thing to excite hot hatch enthusiasts. The original Fiesta ST of 2004 used a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine, but the Mk7, from 2012 until 2017,…

WHEN Vauxhall launched its first full EV back in the summer of 2020, we found a huge amount to like, but we were left with one lingering reservation. Despite the fact that the Corsa E was smooth, quiet and easy to drive, and the electric powertrain made it more pleasant to be in than the petrol and diesel versions, the price was just too high. With top-spec models starting at over £30,000 when new, it would take a huge number of miles with the promise of tiny running costs to overcome the thousands of pounds extra over internal-combustion variants. However, that has all changed on the used market. Today, the all-electric Corsas have reached price parity with petrol ones of similar vintage. At the time of writing, the cheapest one…

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“VOLKSWAGEN RUNNING GEAR IS USED BY THE EXPLORER BUT FORD HAS PUT ITS OWN DISTINCTIVE STAMP ON IT” CONTENDERS Ford Explorer WHILE Volkswagen running gear is used by the Explorer, Ford has put its own stamp on the car with a distinctive, squared-off look and a cabin layout that shares little with the mechanically similar ID.4 and ID.5. The powertrains are unchanged here, although Ford has tuned the suspension to deliver the kind of handling that the company is famous for, while the drive settings are tweaked to Ford’s preferences. Renault Scenic THERE’S platform sharing going on with the Scenic, too, because not only is its CMF-EV architecture used by the Megane, it also features on the Nissan Ariya. The Scenic slots between the two in terms of size. It…

SMALL in stature but big in personality, the MINI hatchback is our favourite used city car of the moment. It’s a winner not simply because of its funky looks on the outside - with the MINI, it really is what is on the inside that counts. Hop behind the wheel, and the MINI's retro styling immediately stands out. There are banks of neat toggle switches and rotary dials, while the slick infotainment system (or small LCD screen on early base models) is packaged in a large circular display as a further nod to the original Mini's interior. The quality is particularly striking among a sea of rivals that feel like they’ve been built to a price. Look a little closer and the connections to BMW reveal themselves in the best…

THERE was a time when Vauxhall sold huge numbers of large family cars, but that was before buyers started flocking to SUVs, which led to the company vacating the segment. We think that’s a big shame, because the Insignia has long offered spectacular value as a used buy, which is one of the key reasons why this is the fourth year in a row it has scooped our Best Used Family Car award. The original Insignia arrived in 2009, with its successor going on sale eight years later. We were immediately impressed by Vauxhall’s smartly styled hatchback and estate, which is why this edition was our Family Car of the Year in our 2018 New Car Awards, before taking the same gong again the following year. Meanwhile, in 2017 the…

FOR a long time, a section of the British car-buying market has let an element of badge snobbery influence their decisions, so when Renault launched its budget subsidiary here in 2013, there were some who thought the plan might backfire. But nothing could be further from the truth, because Dacia has gone from strength to strength. The Duster has been a pillar of this success; look past its rugged looks and simple-yet-honest cabin design, and it’s the most compelling used mid-size SUV on the market right now. Dacia has left posher rivals in the shade when it comes to Auto Express awards, and perhaps most impressive of all is its first place in this year’s Driver Power New Car survey. This is an incredibly important achievement, because the victory is…

THERE are some cracking contenders in the executive car segment, and one that’s often overlooked is the Volvo S90. This is a big benefit for used car buyers; the S90’s low profile means it’s often better value than the more obvious German alternatives. True, there aren’t quite as many to choose from on the used market, but there are bargains to be found. The S90, plus the V90 estate version, went on sale in 2016, with 187bhp D4 and 231bhp D5 AWD diesel options, all using 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines. A year later, the V90 Cross Country (XC) was introduced with standard four-wheel drive and a ride height raised by 65mm; a 187bhp T4 petrol engine was also added to the range, with a higher-performance 245bhp T5 option arriving in August…

MERCEDES has experienced an enormous growth in sales over the past couple of decades, and it’s down to several factors. The ready availability of finance, the desirability of that three-pointed star, and a bewilderingly wide model range have all added up to make the brand more mainstream than ever. But that doesn’t diminish the appeal of cars like the C-Class Coupé, which offers all of the traits that make sure the Mercedes brand continues to be held in extremely high regard. Our favourite coupé is at its best in Mk4 form, which was sold between 2015 and 2021. It came with some smooth and efficient engines that range from mild (four-cylinder petrol or diesel) to wild (twin-turbo V8 in the C 63 AMG), and silky-smooth automatic transmissions along with rear-…

THE list of gongs that the Porsche 911 has racked up in its six-decade lifespan must number in the thousands. The 911’s brilliance is one of those constants, which is why this is the third time in a row that Porsche’s iconic rear-engined sportster is our Best Used Sports Car, in 991 form (produced from 2011 until 2019). Buy a vehicle that’s capable of close to 200mph and there are bound to be some compromises when it comes to practicality, but despite this, the 911 remains one of the most usable sports cars that you can buy. And when we say sports car, the 911 is really a junior supercar; even the entry-level Carrera with its 345bhp 3.4-litre engine is capable of 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, with a top speed…

AS always, the used car market is flooded with bargains, but only if you know the right places to look. One such car proved to be so compelling in 2024 that it’s simply impossible to overlook it for our prestigious top spot. The Vauxhall Corsa E was a little too pricey when it first hit the road as a new car four years ago, but the used market has completely changed the situation. For the first time, the electric version of one of Britain’s most popular superminis is the same price – or even slightly cheaper – than a petrol or diesel Corsa with the equivalent age and mileage. And given the running cost advantages that inherently come with an electric vehicle, that’s a huge deal. In addition to that,…

HOW OUR GUIDE WORKS PERFORMANCE: This is the manufacturer’s claimed acceleration time for a car, and is measured from 0-60mph or 0-62mph (0-100km/h), in seconds. ECONOMY/EMISSIONS/RANGE: Combined WLTP economy in miles per gallon, emissions in grams per kilometre of CO2 and maximum claimed range for EVs. Figures are achieved in the latest WLTP tests, but will vary according to equipment and are unlikely to be representative of everyday efficiency. INSURANCE: Group rating as quoted by the Association of British Insurers. Warranty: Next to each manufacturer’s name is the basic warranty period in months and miles for the mechanicals, corrosion and paintwork. EVs and hybrids will have dedicated battery cover. LIST PRICE: This is the on-the-road figure and includes VAT, delivery to dealer, the first 12 months’ of emissions-based road tax,…