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CONTENTS News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport 16 Solar power plays a key role in e-fuels Newsweek 8 COVER Land Rover Discovery 6 12 14 JLR boss tells us what the Disco’s future looks like 15 18 COVER On board Honda Civic Type R We hitch a test-track ride in the new hot hatch COVER Driven: Rivian R1T Electric pick-up roars in with 754bhp COVER TVR unveils EV plans V8 Griffith will be followed by EVs, including SUV Test your Highway Code knowledge Are you up to speed on the 2022 changes? Features 16 COVER Will combustion engines live on? 20 8 Next Discovery will head upmarket, says JLR’s CEO E-fuels made from thin air could be the answer Inside story We climb aboard a prototype Spectre, Rolls-Royce’s first EV New cars 26 COVER Vauxhall Astra 30 32 New eighth generation of Golf-rivalling family hatch 34 COVER Kia EV6 GT Performance EV has Porsche’s Taycan GTS in its sights BMW M440d xDrive Convertible Proves there’s still life in the performance diesel cabriolet Peugeot e-2008 Less anxiety, thanks to an improved, 214-mile range 14 Rivian’s supercar-quick pick-up 12 Type R assessed on track in Italy Road tests COVER DS 4 vs Audi A3 Sportback 36 50 French PHEV has something to prove to its German rival 52 Our cars: Toyota Yaris Cross Summertime and the living is easy, thanks to small SUV Our cars: Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo How many options would sir like with his EV? Products 55 Hot kit Arlo’s new camera doesn’t even need WiFi to connect 30 Hot EV6 is nipping at Taycan’s heels 26 We drive Vauxhall’s new family hatch New on the shelves 56 Draper ensures your tools will be safe at the end of the world Wet-and-dry cleaners mini test 57 Make the muck vanish with these marvels Hose reels 58 We put seven to the test to find the reel deal Buying cars 62 66 20 Up close and personal with Spectre 32 M440d carves its own path Used buyer’s guide: Jaguar I-Pace 72 36 DS 4 vs A3: prepare for a big upset Electric SUV was the first of its kind Used test: Grandland X vs 3008 vs C-HR Mid-size crossovers battle for best used family car honours New car prices All the info you need before you head to the showroom Regulars 48 Get Auto Express every week 80 82 How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine Sport Sebastian Vettel retires from F1, and Porsche’s GT3 racer Back chat Mike Rutherford on the VW Group’s battle of the brands 3 August 2022 5
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THISWEEK Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news Editor-in-chief: Steve Fowler The sun is starting to shine Deputy editor: John McIlroy on Stellantis’s many brands Executive editor: Stuart Milne News, reviews and tests Associate editor: Sean Carson News and reviews editor: James Brodie Chief reviewer: Alex Ingram Senior test editor: Dean Gibson Video content producer: Yousuf Ashraf Staff writer: Alastair Crooks Chief columnist: Mike Rutherford Consumer CDOETNATIALSCT Consumer and features editor: Chris Rosamond Deputy consumer and features editor: Tristan Shale-Hester Products Products editor: Kim Adams Production News02038903938 Tests020 3890 4039 Managing editor: Stuart Morton Consumer & Products 020 3890 3881 Chief sub-editor: Andy Pringle Sub-editor: Paul Alton [email protected] £1FOISRSSIUJXUESST Deputy executive editor: Matt Robinson Subscriptions0330 333 9491 Digital facebook.com/autoexpress @AutoExpress Group website editor: Steve Walker youtube.com/autoexpress Web producer: Pete Baiden VAUXHALL’S new Astra (above) has been a long BWREEITKALYINCA’SR B Online reviews editor: Paul Adam time coming but, according to Associate editor Sean Managing editor, central content team: Ben Custard Carson, it’s well worth the wait – it’s a very good car. Swuiptherrcoaorm-slfaoyritnhgepdaocge, ope Content editors: Shane Wilkinson, Harry Waring, Charlie Harvey “Very Golf-like,” were Sean’s words. High praise, indeed. The Astra may not be what it once was in terms of New Juke Hybrid drivenFIRST VERDICT Brit-built SUV gets EV boost RPeEuVgeEoAt mLEixDesNsaEloWon4&0SU8V Carbuyer & DrivingElectric editor: Richard Ingram sales (and it’s no longer built in Britain) but the class it Carbuyer managing editor: Andy Goodwin competes in remains mightily important to all those who D+ RNeIVwEpNlugR-ienaVrW-dMriuvletivRa8n are in it – and that’s still pretty much every single maker. Carbuyer content editors: Miles Goodson, Tom Jervis With the Corsa dominating the UK sales charts, things SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE DrivingElectric content editor: Ellis Hyde are looking rather good for Vauxhall. Especially when Design & Pictures you delve into the latest results for parent company Subscribe to Auto Express today and get six issues for just Creative director: Darren Wilson Stellantis and see how important Vauxhall and the UK £1. If you continue to subscribe, you’ll pay just £26.99 Senior designer: Victoria Coquet are to the group. We recently spoke to Stellantis UK boss every three months – 43 per cent less than the shop price. Picture editor: Dawn Grant Paul Willcox, and he revealed that Vauxhall accounts for Senior photographer: Pete Gibson over 40 per cent of all Stellantis business in the UK. Plus, Visit autoexpress.co.uk/subscribe Film team it has important factories in Luton and Ellesmere Port. Head of video: Ethan Smale But what about other arms of the Stellantis empire to subscribe, and enter the code D1740 in the UK? Willcox will be pleased to see the result of Senior video producers: Greg Dowswell, Jack Joy this week’s test of the new DS 4. The upmarket upstart or call 0330 333 9491 Filmmakers: Michael Moreira, Tej Bhola has been targeting Audi ever since the French brand’s Video editor: Will Ward creation back in 2015, so it only seemed right to put its Sixissues for £1 Every 13 issues: £26.99 Special Contributors newest car up against the Audi A3 – with a shock result. Sixmonths: £53.99 Annualsubscription: £105.99 Stellantis has learned much from the Volkswagen Europe:£130 Rest ofworld:£200 SteveSutcliffe,Vicki Butler-Henderson, Nicola Hume, Dr AndyPalmer, Group. So just as the A3 shares much with the Golf, the Andreas Conradt, Euan Doig, Sarah Bradley, Rob Keenan, Otis Clay DS 4 shares plenty with the Astra and the Peugeot 308. Subs E-mail [email protected] What’s worked well for Volkswagen seems to be doing Advertising & Promotions just fine for Stellantis, too, although the customer is the Online subscriber service Change your address and renew your Client sales managers: Pierre Clements, Neale Salt ultimate judge, and time will tell on that one. subscription at yoursubscription.co.uk We’re also admirers of the latest 308, and new Peugeot Account managers: Demi Meredith, Miles Taylor UK boss Julie David recently gave us an insight into Tell us about your car for a chance Commercial publisher: Sarah Perks more changes there, too. She told us of her plans to to win £100 of Amazon vouchers “rejuvenate the brand”, telling us that Peugeot should be Senior operations manager: Kerry Lambird more famous in the UK than it is. A focus on allure – the The UK’s number one car ownership survey, Driver Power, Senior production manager: Dan Stark attraction of the brand – and on customer service is key. wants to hear from you. Our survey is simpler to use than ever Digital brand director: Amrit Baidwan and covers new and used cars, plus petrol, diesel, hybrid and Publisher: Holly Jerram On the latter, a third place for electric models, as well as a range of motoring issues. Publishing manager: Sophie Valentine the brand’s dealers in our Driver ● What do you love and loathe about your car? ● How good Marketing manager: Luke Tutt Power survey (Issue 1,739) is a are the dealers? ● Would you recommend your car to a friend? good step in the right direction. Head of PR and communications: Karen Parry To have your say, scan the QR code above or go to SEdTiEtoVrE-iFnO-cWhiLeEfR Autovia Limited www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power Finance director: Kerry Okikiade [email protected] @ stevefowler CEO Autovia: Nicola Bates CONTENT SYNDICATION SALES Our content is available for syndication. E-mail [email protected] or call +44 (0)20 3890 3998 for more details. Copyright © Autovia Limited 2022. All rights reserved. Auto Express is a registered trade mark. Auto Express is published weekly by Autovia Limited. Autovia is a trading name of Autovia Limited, registered in England and Wales no. 13018565. Registered address: 31-32 Alfred Place, London WC1E 7DP. VAT number 494616317. Neither the whole of this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publishers. Registered as a newspaper at the Post Office. 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TOPSTORY Visit autoexpress.co.uk for your daily news updates EXCLUSIVE IMAGE Avarvarii DESIGN Our vision of how the next Discovery could look includes sleeker styling that borrows heavily from the latest Range Rover and RR Sport Land Rover Discovery set ● More luxury and electrification plus new platform for Disco 6 Steve Fowler ● Nameplate could spawn a family of models like Defender Defender – how do we make a strong territory as well for Discovery? [email protected] a success that it has eaten a part of what sale in three bodystyles and with seating @stevefowler was the territory of Discovery. for up to eight people in 130 form – and “We need to make a real family car for the new Range Rover, which is also now the most discerning families. Discovery LAND ROVER’S forgotten child, the “Defender is a brand. We believe that available as a seven-seater. has to, and should, play this role that could Discovery, is set for a major reinvention Discovery could be a brand as well. We disappear from the market otherwise – in under Jaguar Land Rover’s Reimagine are looking at how we present our future “The Range Rover with a third row could the luxury segments at least. The strategy to halt sliding sales that are partly line-up – it’s something we have in mind.” play that role, but it’s not the same spirit Discovery will be that car.” down to the introduction of the Defender. as Discovery,” said Bolloré. Speaking to Auto Express, CEO Thierry Discovery sales have been squeezed not A push upmarket for Discovery fits in Bolloré said, “We are completely reinventing only by supply chain constraints but also by “So once you consider the territory with JLR’s vision for its brands of ‘modern Discovery. We believe there is a space for it, the arrival of the new Defender family – on that is strong for Range Rover, strong for luxury’ and would move it away from the but we have to be creative. Defender is such Defender on pricing, with a less utilitarian 8 3 August 2022
TOPSTORYLand Rover Discovery Xxxxx xxxxxxxx for reinvention EXCLUSIVE We speak to JLR’s boss to learn about the firm’s plans for Discovery “The Defender has eaten and more upmarket design. “The interest Sport. Expect to see the use of flush latest Pivi Pro infotainment and over-the- a part of what was in having the Defender and Discovery glazing, super-slim hi-tech LED lights air software updates, while sustainable the Discovery’s brands is that you’re occupying very and pop-out door handles. materials will also play a big part. territory, so specific spaces,” said Bolloré. we’ll need to It’s too early to say whether a new A new Discovery would sit on a be creative” Our exclusive images show how a Discovery would lose the controversial different platform to the current car, with new, more luxurious Discovery could look, offset rear number plate, although electrification also playing a key role. But Thierry Bolloré JLR CEO refining the styling of the existing car insiders suggest that McGovern would with strong sales potential in markets by making use of the latest engineering stick to his guns and keep it, despite some such as the US, Middle East and China, techniques to give a much sleeker look, as customers modifying their own cars with combining electrification with internal JLR Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern aftermarket central plate set-ups. combustion engines will still be key. and his team have successfully done with the latest Range Rover and Range Rover Inside, there is likely to be a clear step That means the most likely solution is to up in both quality and technology, with the put the next Discovery onto the same MLA www.autoexpress.co.uk 3 August 2022 9
NEWS Land Rover Discovery EXCLUSIVEAvarvarii IMAGE “Discovery sales have been squeezed by supply chain DEFENDER Family of Defender models confirmed that all JLR nameplates would constraints and the arrival of the Defender family” be available in fully electric form by the end could set a template for what’s possible of the decade, which will include the next 10 3 August 2022 with the Discovery range in the future generation of Discovery. “Our strategy to platform as the new Range Rover and deliver the future of modern luxury to our Range Rover Sport, which means a full clients continues at speed as we accelerate range of internal combustion engines, our plans for an electric-first, brand-led including the possibility of two petrol business,” said Bolloré. and two diesel engines, plus a couple of petrol plug-in hybrid versions (with Placing more emphasis on luxury for an electric range in excess ‘discerning families’ in the new Discovery, of 70 miles) and the first as Bolloré said, would likely mean a hike fully electric Discovery. in prices from the current entry point of In JLR’s most recent £57,225, with Land Rover targeting higher financial report, the brand profit margins available in the luxury sector. DESIGNER Gerry The move upmarket might threaten the Discovery Sport, though. Asked whether McGovern will there was a future for it, Bolloré responded, be tasked with “We don’t know yet. But a Discovery, yes.” reinventing Disco That could mean any expansion of the Discovery family would be upwards, rather www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEWSLand Rover Discovery CONTROVERSY Current Disco’s offset rear number plate is a bone of contention for some but it may well remain on the new model Why the world’s love for the Discovery has endured for more than 30 years Sean Carson DISCOVERY Early three-door examples look great, [email protected] with the Conran-designed interior positioning the car as a ‘lifestyle accessory’. Land Rover got it right from day one. THE Land Rover Discovery is as old as Auto Express. Original prototypes began testing in the same year (1988) that we published our first issue. Over the three-and- a-bit decades since it hit the market, expanding Land Rover’s line-up beyond its iconic Series model and the Range Rover, the Disco has evolved into a core component of the brand’s range and underpinned much of Land Rover’s success. Just five generations span that time period, with iconic and sometimes challenging designs, but always superb off-road performance and a luxurious edge (set to be pushed even further for the new model) characterising the car. Here’s a summary of each generation, explaining why the Discovery’s popularity has remained strong for so long. than downwards with, perhaps, a long- DISCOVERY 2 The premium push continued, with DISCOVERY 3 This is where the Disco went much wheelbase version a possibility. a smarter, more luxurious interior and more space, more upmarket for the new millennium, but also much Land Rover is at the very early stage while the styling retained much of the original’s charm. more complicated. Off-road performance was still superb. of reimagining the Discovery family, with the current model expected to carry on DISCOVERY 4 Land Rover refined the recipe for DISCOVERY 5 The first Discovery to use a monocoque for a good few years yet. the Disco 4, smartening up the styling and improving chassis also brought much more modern love-it-or-hate it Jaguar Land Rover’s latest financial its engine range. It’s still a high watermark today. styling, and it was more spacious than ever, as well. results reported that £2.6billion of investment was planned over the next year 3 August 2022 11 alone, with much of that money being spent on the reinvention of the Jaguar brand. However, Land Rover will receive its fair share of investment, too, with an all-electric Range Rover launching in 2024, plus a further five new Range Rover, Defender and Discovery models by the end of 2026. Expect the new Discovery to be the last of those arrivals, which means a debut possibly three years away in 2025 before going on sale a year later in 2026. www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEWS Honda Civic Type R Alastair Crooks OFFICIAL power (and not feel) from the passenger seat, Honda’s new hot [email protected] ascertain grip levels. Despite the driver’s hatch scrubs off speed ferociously. @AllieCrooks rapid requests to change direction, the 265-section (20mm wider than before) Even from this brief experience THROUGHOUT its lifetime, the Honda Michelins stick to the tarmac. it’s clear Honda has managed to Civic Type R has been a stalwart of find plenty of areas to improve the the hot hatch class. Now there’s an Turn-in is almost immediate and, despite Civic Type R formula. We expect it all-new car – the last petrol-powered a 35mm longer wheelbase than the old car, could ride a little firmer than the old Type R ever – and we’ve already Nestor tucks the Type R’s nose into the first model, judging by Honda’s claim sampled it from the passenger seat. corner with ease. He enlightens me while that the new Type R’s chassis is 15 per Full specifications have yet to be we tear around the circuit: “The steering is cent stiffer, but we’ll have to wait until confirmed, but leaks of customer better [than the previous car], there’s a lot we drive it on UK roads to find out. brochures suggest the car’s 2.0-litre of feedback and it’s quick. There’s a lot of turbocharged four-cylinder engine will grip, but you can get the rear loose on some Verdict AERO produce 325bhp and 420Nm of torque; it of these corners.” A few moments later we will stick with a six-speed manual gearbox. brake for a tight left-hand corner and he Latest Type R We headed for the Tazio Nuvolari circuit unsettles the Type R into a slide, which is sports an near Milan, Italy, where lengthy, sweeping quickly straightened out with some throttle. aggressive bends, tight chicanes, a hairpin and a long HUGE grip, adjustability, ferocious bodykit pit straight would stretch the Type R’s legs. Braking is equally impressive. Even Jumping in the passenger seat for some though you can only get an idea of stopping brakes and strong straight-line hot laps, I join Honda’s World Touring Car performance mean – from the Championship driver Nestor Girolami. It’s very grown-up in here: the steering wheel is trimmed in suede, the air vents are located in a horizontal strip across the dash and touch points such as the door handles and gearlever leave a premium impression. Nestor points to the screen showing a 67-degree intake temperature. “It’s already very hot, let’s see how it goes”, he says. Instead of Comfort, Sport or Individual mode, we’re in ‘+R’ – which puts the engine, steering, suspension, engine sound and more into their raciest settings. We’re soon onto the pit straight, where Nestor is zig-zagging across the track to “We brake for a tight corner and the Type R goes into a passenger seat, at least – Honda’s slide, which is quickly straightened out with some throttle” all-new Civic Type R is shaping up to be one of the best hot hatches ever and a Buckle-upfitting way to sign off with petrol power. FIRST RIDE fo ● Massive grip from wider tyres ● Leaks suggest 325bhp for impressive straight-line performance ● Hugely powerful brakes CHASSIS It’s 15 per cent stiffer on the new Type R, and our early impressions suggest a firmer ride, but we’ll give our final verdict on those adaptive dampers when we try them in the UK 12 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEWSHonda Civic Type R “Turn-in is almost immediate and, despite a longer wheelbase, the nose is tucked in with ease” r Honda’s Type R ‘hot lap’ Aston Parrott www.autoexpress.co.uk DETAILS Grown-up interior features nicely supportive red “polyhedral” front seats. Brembo brakes are impressive on track, while triple exhaust remains, albeit with resized pipes 3 August 2022 13
Essentials STORAGE Rivian R1TQuad Motor Sizeable front Price: £75,000 (est) boot offers more Powertrain: 135kWh battery/4x e-motors space when your Power/torque: 754bhp/1,120Nm load bay’s full Transmission: Single-speed auto, 4WD 0-60mph: 3.0 seconds Top speed: 125mph (est) ONSALE 2023 Hauke Schrieber Driven: Rivian’s pick THE automotive industry as a whole Venice Beach, California. Like NIO’s axle, with a total power output of 754bhp might be slowing down because of ‘Houses’, these Hubs provide more resulting in serious performance. circumstances outside of its control, but than a place to look at the cars. Shared one area is gathering momentum: electric spaces, for working and being creative The 0-60mph sprint takes just three pick-up trucks. More and more EV trucks are or relaxing, are all offered. The brand’s seconds, and despite the 2.7-tonne appearing stateside, ranging from Tesla’s models look completely in place in the kerbweight there’s plenty to praise, as-yet-unrealised Cybertruck, to the vast cool surroundings, surfboards hanging dynamically, with the R1T. It’s almost like Hummer EV and the Ford F-150 Lightning. out of the rear of the R1S SUV. an electric sports car in its responses, and very different to any pick-up before it. Another American upstart is Rivian, and But there’s nothing chilled out about the having made plenty of noise over the past way the Rivian R1T pick-up performs, if you It’s agile, nimble almost, and it has the few years with a prototype EV pick-up decide to lean on its quad-motor all-electric turning circle of a small hatchback plus called the R1T, it’s finally on the road. set-up. Two e-motors are mounted on each supercar-rivalling acceleration. This in We’ve been for an early drive. a vehicle that can wade through around The first production R1Ts are now with customers, and the brand’s forthcoming SUV, the R1S, will share much of the tech from this truck. They’ll be in Europe from next year and RHD UK cars may follow. Instead of traditional dealerships, Rivian plans to open ‘Hubs’, the first of which is in TVR announces three EVs to follow V8 Griffith ITS V8-engined Griffith sports car isn’t its presentation. The brand has struggled even on sale yet, but TVR has already to put plans together for a new factory revealed plans for three fully electric despite support from the Welsh models, including a Griffith EV as well as government, who loaned TVR £2million in pure-electric saloon and SUV offerings. 2016 in return for a three per cent stake in the company owned by Les Edgar. These images, revealed at a TVR event in London, show what the brand’s all-electric TVR has not yet completed plans to cars could look like when they break cover, open the new facility in Ebbw Vale, but has following the Griffith V8, which will go into repaid its loan to the Welsh government, production in 2024. Technical details for so could produce the Griffith elsewhere. the EVs have not been revealed, but the sports cars will use the Griffith V8’s chassis. Griffith EV will use the same chassis as the V8. Two more TVR EVs will follow TVR has been marooned since the unveiling of a production-ready prototype of the new Griffith at the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new car, envisioned on legendary Formula 1 and Automotive engineer Gordon Murray’s iStream system, has been subjected to lengthy delays since 14 3 August 2022
NEWSRivian R1T innebwrisef k-up gets 754bhp oClna:sysoicuDrseffoenr d£e2r2l5ivkes Verdict INTERIOR a metre of water and with a payload WHILE it might be focusing on the future capacity greater than 800kg. IT’S early days for the electric with a new Discovery (Page 8) Land Rover Digital screens pick-up market, and indeed for is bringing back the classic Defender in are neatly There’s eye-catching tech and genuine Rivian, but this is an impressive Trophy II guise – a nod to Bob Ives’s integrated and practicality, too. The neatly integrated and assured vehicle that will suit Camel Trophy-winning Defender of 1989. there’s plenty of double-screen infotainment is tasteful, EV buyers wanting something with space on offer the front row is spacious and there are a mix of practicality, performance, This V8-powered off-roader uses six USB ports throughout the cabin. plus good manners on and off road. a 399bhp 5.0-litre V8 and an eight- We’ll reserve a star rating for our speed automatic transmission, and has There’s lots of room for rear first drive on European shores. longer-travel suspension and mud tyres passengers, while there’s also a sizeable to boost off-road performance. Just 25 front boot and just ahead of the rear axle examples will be built, with prices from is the ‘Gear Tunnel’, which spans the £225,000 for the 90 model. body, made possible by the EV platform. UK production falls GM will return to Europe with EVs but optimism grows AMERICAN giant General Motors has it’s thought that the European market’s and Buick, established a new European UK car manufacturing fell 19.2 per cent plans to return to the European market acceleration towards fully electric car division in 2021, while the firm’s chief in the first half of 2022, with 403,131 with an all-electric line-up, and the sales will help the American firm’s executive officer, Mary Barra, previously vehicles rolling off production lines. GM-owned Cadillac brand is set to lead agenda; GM has committed to a fully said: “We are looking at the growth The decline was driven by the global the charge with its Lyriq SUV (above). electric line-up by 2035. opportunity that we have now, because semiconductor shortage, which the we can re-enter Europe as an all-EV Society of Motor Manufacturers and GM hasn’t had a presence in the UK General Motors, which owns brands player. I’m looking forward to that.” Traders (SMMT) said isn’t receding as since it sold Vauxhall to PSA in 2017, and such as Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hummer quickly as was predicted in January. www.autoexpress.co.uk June 2022 was the second consecutive month of growth, however, and the SMMT anticipates supply issues will ease in the next 12 months, but expects they will still be a factor until 2024. Sono’s EV uses solar panels to recharge THIS quirky creation is the Sono Sion, a production-ready EV that incorporates solar panels into its bodywork to help charge its 54kWh battery. It’s set to be priced from 25,216 Euros (around £21,135), and Sono says the solar panels will extend the claimed 190- mile range by an average of 70 miles per week; cable charging at up to 70kW is also possible. Only the Sion’s front and rear bumpers don’t feature solar cells. 3 August 2022 15
NEWS e-fuels HYDROGEN Electrofuels, which are commonly called e-fuels, are produced by combining hydrogen with captured carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide ELECTRICITY Hydrogen obtained from sustainable electricity produced from wind, solar or nuclear power is a key component of e-fuels EthXeCLinUtSerIVnEalCcaonmubsuinstgioen- Electrofuels made from renewable energy sources could supplement auto electrification after 2035 in Euro Graham Hope ● Case for e-fuels needs to be proved by 2026 ● Use in aviation could pave the way for road transport THE European Union’s decision in until 2026 to prove that synthetic ‘e-fuels’ for the combustion engine in Europe. “But combustion engine. The problem is that June to ban sales of new cars and vans could be a CO2-neutral option for vehicles it is a chance,” he told Auto Express. “Let’s we operate it on fossil fuels,” he said. powered by diesel and petrol from 2035 with internal combustion engines. face it, that is a big shift from where they resonated around the world. were, which was ‘electrify everything’. So, what are e-fuels and how do they Germany proposed this electrofuel (e-fuel) provide a solution? In the purest sense, The bloc’s environment ministers agreed caveat and it was welcomed by many in the “I wonder if they have finally cottoned e-fuels are produced with the help to the ban after Members of the European industry, including the European Association on to the fact that we don’t have the of electricity from renewable Parliament voted in favour of it, and in doing of Automotive Suppliers, CLEPA. Its resources to do the electrification thing,” energy sources, water and so seemingly passed a death sentence on secretary general, Sigrid de Vries, said: “We he continued. “You don’t have to go too CO2 from the air. These are the internal combustion engine. have long argued in favour of a technology- far into it to find out that they cannot mass put into a process that open approach, with a smart and sensible electrify at the speed they want to do it.” produces a chemical “Goodbye gasoline,” was typical of the mix of electric vehicles and a measured use energy carrier – the unequivocal headlines, while green lobby of alternative solutions involving advanced Prof Turner’s position stems from a simplest is methanol. groups could not disguise their glee. Julia internal combustion engine technology.” simple belief. “The problem we have with And this, in turn, is Poliscanova, senior director for vehicles and transport at the moment is not the internal e-mobility at Transport and Environment, Also noting the development was long- summed up the prevailing mood when she time e-fuel advocate Prof Jamie Turner of the “We don’t have the resources to do the said: “The end of the combustion engine is Clean Combustion Research Center at Saudi electrification thing. You don’t have to go great news for the climate.” Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science too far into it to find out that they cannot and Technology. He was previously gasoline mass electrify at the speed they want to” In the race to decarbonise the automotive engine research and technology manager industry, it seems the pathway to widespread at Jaguar Land Rover, and chief engineer, JAMIE TURNER Clean Combustion Research Center electrification is clearer than ever, then. powertrain research at Lotus. Or is it? Because at the same time as the EU was making its landmark decision, Prof Turner says that the lawmakers’ intriguingly – in a move less widely reported decision probably constitutes a last chance – it also opted to give car manufacturers 16 3 August 2022
NEWSe-fuels WHATARE CAR MAKERS DOING? CO2 PORSCHE has been a leading advocate maker to sign up to the E-Fuel Alliance, of e-fuels and earlier this year confirmed a body formed to promote their benefits. Carbon dioxide (CO2) captured additional investment in a pilot production from the atmosphere can be plant in Punta Arenas, Chile. Board A Mazda spokesperson told Auto used to produce e-fuels, which member Barbara Frenkel said: “E-fuels Express: “We see renewable fuels as release the same amount of make an important contribution to climate an additional solution to electrification, CO2 back into the environment protection and complement our to drastically reduce the CO2 footprint electromobility in a meaningful way. In in both the existing fleet and in new, when they are burned total, our investment in the development highly electrified vehicles incorporating and provision of this innovative technology efficient combustion engines. amounts to more than $100million [£82m].” “The recent EU Member State E-fuel produced in Chile will be used agreement on revised CO2 emissions in a Porsche Supercup racer and the firm standards is a clear sign of the growing has been vocal in how it can play a part support for a decarbonisation approach in keeping classic Porsches on the road. that embraces the use of e-fuels. The German company’s high-profile “We welcome the opportunity to investment has led to the perception work with policymakers on this future among some that e-fuels are best suited to framework but, even more importantly, high-performance cars, but it was actually to hold an ongoing dialogue with them mainstream Mazda that was the first car to generate confidence for increased investment in renewable fuels.” feuneglisnsea?ve “We welcome the opportunity to work pe and globally if obstacles are overcome with policymakers on this future framework” Barbara Frenkel Porsche board member made into a fuel that can be used to power 15 per cent of the renewable energy e-fuels are realistic makes perfect sense. existing combustion-engined vehicles. harvested gets turned into useful work on Where, then, can we expect to be by the a car. On EVs, it is about 60-70 per cent. EU deadline of 2026? Prof Turner said: “When you burn it, CO2 comes out of the “I think we will have proved that we can tailpipe,” explained Prof Turner. “But since But Prof Turner claims that doesn’t do it [create e-fuels] on a scientific and it is a closed cycle of CO2 being taken out of matter, because the world has a massive engineering level. But as it is going to turn the atmosphere to make the fuel, there is excess of energy. “To power the entire out to be expensive, the people who don’t no net increase in CO2 in the atmosphere.” European transport fleet, you need about want to let it happen will point to the 0.25 of one per cent of the Sahara Desert expense and say we’re not going to do it – Despite the straightforward rationale in terms of photovoltaic cells driving the unless, for instance, the Saudis decide to behind e-fuels, creating them would be process, electrolysing the water, extracting do e-fuels. They could afford to do it. very expensive, with new production plants the CO2 etc,” he told us. required across the world. But Prof Turner “Imagine a scenario where Saudi Arabia said: “If you go the electric route, you There are other factors in e-fuels’ favour. developed this technology and started have to change all the vehicles and all First is the belief held by many experts that shipping tankers full of fuel to Europe and the infrastructure. These are two massive they are an inevitability in aviation. There is did a PR campaign that said: ‘The fuel that problems, and you have to do them an argument that if we can build plants to we are shipping to you has no carbon simultaneously. If you go the e-fuel route, create e-fuels for aeroplanes, it is not too impact, but you have got to electrify you only have to change the infrastructure.” big a leap to use the knowledge accrued anyway’. Sooner or later the man in the to produce them for other transportation. street is going to think: Hang on a minute. The first hurdle to e-fuels is politics. According to Prof Turner: “There is an Second is the realisation that Europe “Dieselgate really enabled the political agenda from all sorts of different people is an outlier in terms of the political push point of view that we had to get rid of who want to see the [ICE] engine killed, and for mass electrification. There is not such combustion engines. It suits the political there is no good reason for doing that, as a concerted effort elsewhere, particularly agenda that the average person thinks we can meet all the emissions regulations.” in developing countries, which means the combustion engine has to run on combustion engines will still be built for fossil fuels. But it’s not true.” The second obstacle is scientific, namely a while yet. So, investigating whether efficiency – or lack of it. With e-fuels, about 3 August 2022 17
NEWS Highway Code Inbox Your views We want to hear your views. Send your questions or opinions to the E-mail address below Contact Tristan Shale-Hester HOT TOPIC Pre-ULEZ emissions How well do you know the FROM: David Pyne IF you have a petrol FROM: JRM THIS doesn’t surprise updated Highway Code? car, it has to be really old not to meet me. ULEZ was never about lowering ULEZ standards, even if it has a emissions or improving air quality – massive V8 engine. The whole just revenue. If there were no money scheme is a waste of time really; it’s to be made out of low-emission zones just a way to try to take money from such as ULEZ, no public authorities road users. More pedestrianisation would even be considering them. would do a better job of improving Unfortunately, we’re stuck with this air quality in London than ULEZ. in London and Birmingham now. Tristan Shale-Hester 3. What is the national speed limit TSHIGENTOIMF ES for cars on motorways? WE all have to familiarise ourselves 4. How much space must drivers give NO2 emissions with the Highway Code when we’re cyclists when overtaking? in the first learning to drive. But according to a 5. How much of a gap should you quarter of survey of 2,000 drivers by Vertu Motors, leave between your vehicle and the 2021, before 44 per cent of motorists have never vehicle in front? the ULEZ refreshed their knowledge of it since then. 6. How slowly should you be driving expansion, when you pass a horse and how much were much The Highway Code was updated this space must you leave? lower than TfL year, but while 60 per cent of drivers are 7. Can learner drivers go on motorways? estimated aware of this, only 23 per cent have read 8. When parking at the side of a road, the new code. How well do you know it? you should face the front of your vehicle Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk against the flow of traffic. True or false? 1. You are indicating to turn off a main 9. When exiting a street-parked car, ■ “I avoid travelling to ■ “What about all the ■ “Realistically, road and into a side road. A pedestrian drivers are encouraged to use the ‘Dutch London because of ULEZ. money made from ULEZ, how many people is standing on the pavement, waiting to reach’ manoeuvre. What does this mean? I’ll spend my cash though? Is that being drive into London in cross the side road. Who has priority? 10. Drivers are advised to avoid elsewhere instead.” used to help air quality?” non-compliant cars?” 2. You are driving on a narrow road and making U-turns at mini roundabouts Stephen Hawkins Graham Parker Steven Ross there is a cyclist in front of you riding in – true or false? the middle of the lane. Should they be riding further to the left? QUIZ ANSWERS 1. The pedestrian. 2. No, cyclists may ride in the middle of the lane and can also ride two abreast. 3. 70mph Conti good but RR MINI’s heading in 4. At least 1.5 metres. 5. Two seconds. 6. Under 10mph and at least two metres of space. 7. Yes, as long as Sport even better the wrong direction they hold a valid provisional driving licence and are accompanied by an accredited driving instructor. 8. False. You should not park facing against the traffic flow. 9. Grab the door handle with your left hand and FROM: Glyn Pritchard YOUR Bentley FROM: William Henderson THE MINI turn your head, looking to see if a cyclist, motorcycle or pedestrian is passing before you open the door. Continental GT used Buyer’s Guide Aceman (Issue 1,739) is the wrong 10. True. You’re also advised to be aware of other drivers who may be doing this. (Issue 1,735) was very interesting. I direction for the brand. MINI already used to own a 2011 model – it was a caters for the SUV market with the New GT3 RS unveiled this month great car, but ruined by a few minor Countryman, plus it offers the five- complaints and hardly felt like a door Hatch and the Clubman estate. PORSCHE has confirmed that a new 911 to either a modest power increase for grand tourer. I replaced it with a 2016 What’s needed is something in the GT3 RS is on the way, and that the latest the new RS, or no extra power at all. Range Rover Sport and never looked opposite direction: a properly small hardcore model will be revealed in full on back – a far better car in my view and, city car, which would sell. The three- 17 August. It will top the 992 911 range, “That’s why we focused primarily on ultimately, more fun to drive. door Hatch is too big to qualify for this. and will be “more optimised for track use aerodynamics and chassis questions in than its predecessors”. the development of the new 911 GT3 Manual gearboxes We need Ford’s RS,” Porsche’s GT division chief said. are key to EV fun behemoth in the UK So says Porsche’s GT model line boss Andreas Preuninger, who confirmed some Official teasers of the car showcase a FROM: Ian Alberts TOYOTA’S plan FROM: Dave Kenton THE new Ford of the car’s specifications. The new 911 track-bred makeover with huge, race car- for hot GR EVs (Issue 1,739) sounds F-150 Raptor (Issue 1,739) looks epic. GT3 RS will be powered by a “high- like wings, with active aerodynamics also like a good idea to me. We’ve seen I find it bizarre that the F-150 still isn’t revving” 4.0-litre six-cylinder ‘boxer’ likely to feature on the newcomer. plenty of electric cars that offer offered in the UK. Yes, it’s massive, engine, so the brand’s most hardcore incredible straight-line speed – but so are lots of other SUVs and model won’t turn to turbocharging yet. OFFICIAL what that needs to be paired with pick-ups. Take the new Land Rover is great driver engagement, which Defender 130 or the BMW X7. There’s Preuninger says that this engine has I’d argue is difficult to achieve clearly an appetite for large vehicles already proven ideal for GT versions of without a manual transmission. in the UK and I think the F-150 would the 911 with its current power output New ideas are needed. satisfy that need perfectly. of 503bhp in today’s GT3. That points 18 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
INSIDE STORY Tackling the motoring issues that matter John McIlroy GSILOELNDCEEINS [email protected] “Driving Spectre for the first @johnmcilroy time made me realise how well suited this all is to the brand” IT’S the silence that grabs you. Under hard acceleration, not even a distant whine can be JORG WUNDER Lead engineer heard from the electric motor driving the front wheels of the new Rolls-Royce Spectre. We’re approaching 80mph and there’s a merest sensation of motion from somewhere beneath us, and a faint whoosh from around the A-pillars. It’s almost unnerving. Jörg Wunder, the engineer leading the project and the man driving us around the Miramas test track in southern France, is pleased, but not satisfied. He acknowledges the wind rush: “It’s a seal in the door frame,” he says. “We have improvements already identified, and we’re going to roll them into the next series of upgrades for this Spectre.” The sensation of motion, meanwhile, is there on purpose; it is, in effect, the noise designed to disguise the absence of noise. Rolls-Royce engineers have created channels where air can flow between the battery pack and the sills, allowing a controlled amount of ‘motion sensation’ to be generated. It’s inaudible when you’re pulling away; at higher speeds, it could well be the only thing preventing the person at the wheel from having no sense of speed at all. We’ve come to Miramas to get an early taste of the Spectre, and you can tell from the pictures here that it is still a work in progress. The car has not yet been revealed in full (although potential customers have been shown a mock-up at Rolls’ Goodwood HQ), and as we join the engineers, the firm’s first production EV is still only around 40 per cent of the way along its journey from the first engineering mule to the assembly line. Just 38 Spectre prototypes exist and they’re all in use, helping in the push towards Rolls-Royce’s stated goal of 2.5 million kilometres (1.55m miles) of testing. Each of the cars has a specific role – an area where its progress is more focused, such as powertrain, safety, or chassis. The vehicle assigned to us today, the 11th prototype made, is devoted to durability, so while its software is up to date, some of the hardware is ready to be replaced. You could call it a bit creaky – except it isn’t. Rolls sends cars to this region for a few reasons – but not, it transpires, the 40-degree heat. Genuine hot- weather testing takes place in Death Valley or South Africa, but Provence appeals because of the consistency offered by the test track. More important still are the spidery ribbons of tarmac beyond the facility’s concrete walls – a “library of evaluation roads”, according to Rolls-Royce’s Director of Engineering, Mihiar Ayoubi. They are key routes for matching where clients like to drive their cars, and their surfaces are far less predictable than those at Miramas – so making any model work on them is seen as a key achievement. We’re not being told too many specifics today, partly because Rolls-Royce wants to keep some of its powder dry, but also because some of the details aren’t even defined yet. However, we know that Spectre sits on a new, bespoke architecture, and that its construction has an overall torsional rigidity that is more than 30 per cent greater than that of the Ghost. The new EV’s battery will weigh 700kg on its own, and it will be the largest in the BMW Group, so that means it has to have more than the 105kWh usable capacity of the iX SUV. The car is four-wheel drive, and its coupé shape delivers a drag coefficient of 0.25. It sits on 23-inch wheels, the largest ever fitted to a Rolls and the biggest on any coupé since the Bugatti Royale back in 1926. The alloy wheels on the prototype are chosen for consistency – allowing the engineers to experiment 20 3 August 2022
INSIDE STORYRolls-Royce EV development We head for Provence to find out how Rolls-Royce is getting on with development of its first EV, the Spectre, ahead of launch next year WEIGHT With a 700kg battery, Spectre is likely to weigh more than 2.5 tonnes, yet it hides it very well
INSIDE STORY Rolls-Royce EV development AUTOMATIC kidney-squeezing force of a Porsche Taycan or Tesla Model S Brake energy in their respective performance modes – but suffice it to say with tyres and accurately document changes – and Wunder recuperation that the Spectre already feels well on the way to delivering says they’re still assessing the rubber, playing with the is adjusted that old Rolls-Royce mantra of effortless pace. compromises in ride quality, noise, grip and efficiency. automatically via GPS and Provence is sizzling by the time we jump in alongside With the Spectre parked up in front of us under the radar tech Wunder for some afternoon miles on country roads. Our baking Miramas sun, we’re able to take a good look at what starting point is relatively remote, with only the occasional these numbers mean in the metal. This is an imposing four- erratically driven Citroen van for comfort – well, that and seater coupé – bigger inside, apparently, than the Wraith – several BMW prototypes parked up in shady laybys. with a short front overhang and an enormous fastback deck that seems to go on forever. The car’s disguise cloaks the With the rear-hinged door open, we slide into the seat, details, so while we can glimpse core Rolls design cues in noticing that the floor is raised only very slightly and that the headlights and grille, the finer elements – how they even with acres of black fabric draped over the dashboard, might be different to reflect the car’s zero-emissions the overall construction makes you feel cocooned in the powertrain – are still unclear. Even so, the sheer scale of cabin. As we set off, Wunder remembers well the first time the thing, and that battery capacity, makes us wonder that he sat in a Spectre prototype – a car that, ultimately, about its weight; it must be well north of 2.5 tonnes. now shoulders the long-term ambitions of this company. “It was an emotional moment,” he recalls. “Pressing the Ayoubi and David Monks, Spectre’s Production Project start button and then not hearing anything – when even Leader, just smile in polite refusal when we ask them for further info on this. But we do glean a few of the ways in The spidery ribbons of which they aim to make Spectre a Rolls-Royce first, and tarmac beyond Miramas’s an EV second. Monks is obsessed with core elements concrete walls are a “library such as brake pedal feel, that always-tricky transition of evaluation roads” for from energy regeneration to regular discs and pads. He says they’ve found a solution whereby hydraulic Rolls-Royce’s engineers pressure is used initially, then fed off to a reservoir to allow as much energy to be harvested as possible. This, MIHIAR AYOUBI he argues, will help clients to drive their cars with the Director of Engineering smoothness befitting of the brand’s cars. www.autoexpress.co.uk Spectre won’t have multiple settings for brake energy recuperation, a traditional EV feature. Instead, the car will use multiple parameters – everything from GPS data on the road type to the radar looking at the traffic ahead – and constantly adjust the aggression of its regen accordingly. “We don’t think the clients would want to have to flick between settings for this,” Monks says, “and we’re optimistic that they won’t really notice much change between those situations. The overall goal is to not give them any nasty surprises.” A single-pedal mode will be included, though, and accessed via the steering-column stalk that’s normally used to select Drive in the firm’s combustion-engined models. The overriding view of our brief track ride is that whatever the Spectre does weigh, it does a good job of disguising it. There’s commendable pick-up from a standstill and plenty of shove mid-corner. We’re not talking the 22 3 August 2022
EXTREMES Q&A Winter testing was done in Sweden, TORSTEN MULLER-OTVOS hot weather tests are carried out in Death Valley and South Africa CEO Rolls-Royce Motor Cars with the V12, there is something – just made me realise SIMILARITIES Rolls’ boss explains why he’s so sure the how well suited this all is to the brand.” The Spectre resembles the four-seat Wraith Spectre will be a hit with customers (pictured) but there are some subtle differences Our progress is much slower here than at Miramas – Q When did your clients first start asking you to more in tune, you might say, with everyday use. Again, the Spectre feels freakishly refined, and size notwithstanding, make an electric model? it looks relaxing to drive. It even corners surprisingly flat – a trait that we’d also noticed on the test track – although all A When we launched 103EX [Rolls’s 2016 concept]. of the engineers seem convinced that this car remains a bit too firm. Wunder is confident that a forthcoming change of We knew after [2011’s] 102EX that they felt electric damper spec will move #11 closer to the ‘magic carpet ride’. propulsion will work with Rolls-Royce. But then came 103EX, which was a clear statement that the brand Key parts of the Spectre’s hardware are given enough would go electric in the future, and we announced our independence and processing power to make decisions on plan to do this. Our appetite to go electric was born as their own, to help speed up reactions. Yet these domains soon as we heard from clients that it would fit. The only also report into a central software set-up, and interact with discussion we had was when would the technology be each other when they’re required to – such as, for example, at the level where it could offer a true, spotless Rolls- dynamic control systems and safety. Royce experience. It had to be the right time. All told, there are 1,000 functions and 25,000 sub- Q So why choose a super-coupé as your first EV? Why functions across the vehicle, and more than 140,000 not make an electric version of your existing models? A It would have been easy to convert a Ghost into an electric Ghost, or do the same with a Cullinan. I’d call it boring! That’s not how I would like to celebrate the brand going electric. It’s truly an historic moment, so we wanted to make a really emotional product to celebrate that. Q You’ve already shown the car to some of your clients. Do you have a solid order book already? A Yes. I won’t specify order numbers but it’s already clear that Spectre will play a significant role in our portfolio. Currently it’s Cullinan and Ghost at a similar level, crowned by Phantom. I think it’s safe to say that Spectre will be the third pillar. opportunities for these to send or receive data – around three times the figure of any previous Rolls. Small wonder that Monks says his previous data logger set-up proved inadequate for this project. “We’re talking terrabytes of data,” he tells us. “Data loggers had been getting smaller over the past decade; now we’ve had to go up in size again, just to get enough processing power and storage capacity.” More than a million kilometres of testing still remain before the first Spectre will roll down the line at Goodwood. But the insistence of people such as Wunder that the car is currently good but not perfect – and the quest to find that higher level – leave us impressed by not only the commitment to the cause, but also the engineering nous that’s being applied to it. Rolls says Spectre is the most significant car it has introduced since its first vehicle back in 1904; if it continues on this path, it could be every bit of it – potentially the purest ever distillation of the company’s values. www.autoexpress.co.uk 3 August 2022 23
NEWCARS Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives Vauxhall Astra Running costs 51.3mpg (official) £99 fill-up FIRST DRIVE Latest Astra shapes up to be a hit, just like its Corsa little brother Sean Carson touchscreen, both sized at 10 inches (for top-spec cars) there’s a firm edge to the ride, becomes pretty noticeable if you aim for now; more on this later) on this mid-spec GS but it doesn’t seriously impact comfort; it’s the 9.7-second claimed 0-60mph time. [email protected] Line test car that we’ve tried here in the UK. more that the chassis is tautly controlled, which gives a sense of driving satisfaction But we have no major issues with the NOW into its eighth generation, the This will make up 65 per cent of sales, and the Astra hasn’t ever offered. Speed helps performance. With a maximum of 230Nm of latest Astra is a significant car for combined with the 128bhp 1.2-litre three- smooth out this trait to a point, too, so torque, the car offers just enough flexibility Vauxhall. The brand’s Corsa took the top cylinder turbo petrol manual powertrain on rough country roads the suspension so you don’t have to work the gearbox too spot for UK registrations last year, and we’re testing, will be the most popular Astra copes fairly well with bumps, but also gives hard. The six-speed transmission’s shift is this Astra is looking to build on that with in the newly simplified range, with entry-level enough support and a sense of engagement. acceptable, not the most precise but not the smart design, lots of tech and electrified Design and top-spec Ultimate either side. wooliest, and overall the ergonomics powertrains alongside pure-petrol models. The front axle turns in fairly keenly, helped inside are good, helped by seats that Let’s start with the looks, because Under the skin the Astra uses the latest by light but precise steering. We’d stick with whether you like it or not, this new car is V3 version of the Stellantis EMP2 platform, the default setting, though, because Sport certainly more modern than the dowdy old with 50 per cent new parts compared with adds too much artificial weight. While it’s five-door family hatch it replaced. The look the previous architecture. This has made a not quite as agile or as enjoyable to drive as features more than a few design elements full Astra EV (coming next year) possible, a Ford Focus, it’s one of the more dynamic that are similar to the latest Volkswagen while the firm has fine-tuned elements of family hatchbacks on offer. It’s also relatively Golf 8; as they say, if you can’t beat ’em... this platform to differentiate it from sister refined, but this serves to highlight that the But that’s doing the Astra a disservice, brand Peugeot, which also uses this tech 1.2 Turbo unit is a little grumbly under heavy because in the metal it’s a cohesive piece for its recently revised 308 family hatch. load. It’s quiet at a cruise, but the thrum of car design that gives the Vauxhall real personality – and you couldn’t always say The steering, suspension damper rates “This new car is certainly more modern than that about previous generations. The same and bump stops, as well as the anti-roll bar the dowdy old family hatch that it replaced” is true on the inside, where the firm’s Pure set-up, have all been tweaked for the Astra, Panel combines a digital dash and a central with a focus on stability at higher speeds. 26 3 August 2022 On the move, the Astra feels sporty. Even on our car’s 17-inch alloys (18s are fitted to www.autoexpress.co.uk
30 KIAEV6 GT 32 BMWM440d 34 PEUGEOT e-2008 We try early version of Niche diesel version of All-electric crossover Korean performance premium convertible gets extra range after grand tourer EV deserves to succeed a series of tweaks EQUIPMENT Essentials Standard kit on GS Line cars Vauxhall Astra 1.2 includes LED headlights, a Turbo 130 GS Line 360-degree parking camera, Price: £27,210 adaptive cruise control and Engine: 1.2-litre 3cyl turbo petrol safety features such as AEB, Power/torque: 128bhp/230Nm Transmission: Six-speed manual, lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition front-wheel drive and lane-keep assist 0-60mph: 9.7 seconds Top speed: 130mph Economy: 51.3mpg PRACTICALITY Boot capacity is decent, EQUIPMENT Mid-spec GS Line trim offers CO2: 124g/km at 422 litres, but rear legroom could be better. all the kit you’d need, plus sportier looks, However, the Astra still delivers a fair level of making it the best-value model in the Astra ON SALE Now comfort, plus lots of room and technology in line-up. MY23 cars will feature the Pure Panel the front. Visibility is good, too Pro digital screen set-up for no extra cost
NEW CARS Vauxhall Astra NTOEEKDNOW GS Line spec includes Pure Panel digital screens, the latest smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control and heated seats are good for your spine, as certified by AGR, QUALITY with a big lidded cubby between the front Verdict Germany’s Campaign for Healthier Backs. seats, cup-holders, two trays with sliding Materials are covers, and a fold-out compartment below THIS eighth-generation Astra is a return This includes the placement of the Pure mostly good inside the climate controls for phones. to form for Vauxhall. The newcomer Panel screens; the displays look good the Astra, but this handles well and offers a solid slice of and work well, boasting lots of features, chunk of solid The Astra has claimed efficiency of comfort, practicality (although we’d like including wireless Android Auto and Apple plastic on the doors 51.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 124g/km, a little more legroom) and refinement, CarPlay, plus a voice recognition system lets the side down but the price of £27,210 for this mid-range while performance is just enough. The that was intuitive and accurate for us. a little. It’s a shame, because the Astra is car is also key. Compared with a mid-spec boot is big, the tech is strong and as a a striking car from the outside, with the VW Golf with an identical amount of power, value-for-money proposition the Astra MY23 Astras will have the Pure Panel Pro Vizor grille and horizontal LED headlights it’s around £500 cheaper – and Vauxhall is appealing, also helped by smart set-up, which has two 12-inch screens; the accentuating its width, along with chunky will add another £500 discount with an styling and lots of kit. Despite more standard set-up doesn’t look bad until you wheelarches, especially at the rear. online order at the moment, plus a £750 pressure on the family hatch sector use the Pro pack, which will be standard on The tail-lights and solid-looking surfaces deposit contribution if you buy on finance. from the ever-expanding crop of SUVs, GS Line trim next year. Whichever system are reminiscent of Volkswagen and Skoda the Astra offering is stronger than ever. you get, thankfully there are physical climate models. We mean that as a compliment. controls, which are easy to use on the move. That sharply styled tailgate reveals a 422- www.autoexpress.co.uk litre boot, which is a good size for the class, There are some nice materials inside, but rear packaging isn’t the greatest and including soft-touch plastics and smart we’d like a little more legroom. Headroom is leather door inserts. But some significant fine and there’s lots of storage in the cabin, areas of cheaper plastic let the image down “The two 10-inch displays look good and work well, boasting lots of features” 28 3 August 2022
NEW CARSVauxhall Astra A to Z of key rivals Astra has to beat Ford Focus Honda Civic Hyundai i30 FORD’S family hatch is known for its great handling and APART from the recently revealed Type R hot hatch, the COMPARED with many newer offerings in this segment, fun chassis, but it blends this with comfort and usability. 11th-generation Civic range is hybrid-only. This makes the i30 often gets overlooked. But this updated car is a A tad more space would be good, but solid infotainment sense, because it’s smooth, refined and efficient, as solid choice, with strong tech and space, plus fair dynamic rounds off a package that’s easy to recommend. well as comfortable. The cabin has a premium feel, too. ability. It doesn’t really excel in any one area, though. FOR Great ride and handling balance, fun to drive FOR Hybrid powertrain delivers strong efficiency FOR Does most things acceptably, strong warranty AGAINST Not as spacious as some rivals AGAINST It also makes it a pricier choice AGAINST Doesn’t have a stand-out talent Verdict: The fun option Verdict:Efficientandupmarket Verdict: Solid and dependable Kia Ceed Mazda 3 Peugeot 308 THE Ceed was updated last year, when Kia tweaked WITH its current family hatch, Mazda nailed the design, SHARING much of its tech make-up with the Vauxhall the car’s looks while adding more kit and appeal. improved the old car’s infotainment and offered a more Astra, the 308 is a stylish family hatch that was updated Thanks to the superb seven-year warranty, it’s a upmarket interior to go with its trademark sharp driving recently, improving its infotainment and ushering in strong choice, with plenty of space and in-car tech. dynamics. But having no turbo engines hurts its appeal. plug-in hybrid power. It’s still a little cramped, though. FOR Excellent warranty, plenty of kit FOR Fun to drive, sharp looks inside and out FOR Looks, improved infotainment, PHEV powertrains AGAINST Still not the most stylish or modern AGAINST Engine range hits potential economy AGAINST Cramped rear-seat space, can be pricey Verdict: The all-rounder Verdict: Sporty but flawed Verdict: Style and substance Skoda Octavia Toyota Corolla Volkswagen Golf THE Octavia is still one of our favourite family cars, with THE Japanese brand has recently updated its Corolla ONCE upon a time, the Volkswagen Golf was the class masses of space, a more upmarket cabin than ever, hybrid hatchback, adding its new (and much needed) leader, but since the release of the eighth-generation sharp tech and a wide range of engines. It might not be infotainment set-up, subtly tweaking the looks and family hatch, others have muscled in. The Golf is still the most stylish car, but it has a broad range of abilities. boosting performance to great effect. a worthy choice, though, with ability in all areas. FOR Huge breadth of ability, massive practicality FOR Engines, chassis, practicality and image AGAINST Not the most stylish option FOR New infotainment is far better, good economy AGAINST Infotainment set-up is frustrating AGAINST CVT transmission won’t suit everyone Verdict: Up with the very best Verdict: Not what it was Verdict: New and improved www.autoexpress.co.uk 3 August 2022 29
NEW CARS KiaEV6GT Essentials “Plant your foot and the EV6 pins you to your seat, with the speed building at an alarming rate” Kia EV6 GT Price: £61,595 INTERIOR Cabin makeover is subtle, with Powertrain: 77.4kWh battery, 2x e-motors Power/torque: 577bhp/740Nm the biggest changes being a set of sculpted Transmission: Single-speed automatic, seats with contrast green stitching. This colour features throughout; lurid green brake callipers all-wheel drive sit behind a set of huge 21-inch alloy wheels 0-62mph: 3.5 seconds Top speed: 162mph www.autoexpress.co.uk Range: 263 miles Charging: 240kW (10-80% 18 mins) ON SALE Now 30 3 August 2022
KiaEV6GT NEW CARS HANDLING Standard EV6 was a great point to start, and the GT elevates things to a new level. It’s sharp, fun and very fast, although we thought high-speed refinement could be better TNOEEKDNOW The EV6 GT’s extra performance does impact range, with the claimed figure dropping to 263 miles here against the standard model’s 328-mile WLTP figure Kia EV6 GT Practicality FIRST DRIVE We try early version of performance grand tourer Boot (seats up/down) 480/1,260 litres Performance 0-62mph/top speed 3.5 seconds/162mph Richard Ingram a 0-62mph time of just 3.5 seconds, it has both on urban roads and at higher completely flat, but the small amount performance to rival Porsche’s Taycan GTS, motorway speeds. It’s surprisingly of roll adds to the engagement. Quick [email protected] a car that costs well in excess of £100,000. comfortable around town and the ride is direction changes are no trouble. @rsp_ingram It’ll come as no surprise then, that the GT is relatively fluid, but there’s more road noise Kia’s most powerful production car to date. than is ideal given the car’s GT slant. The EV6 GT is a usable and practical THE electric car power war shows no family car. Its 480-litre boot is a decent signs of slowing. Even some family SUVs But a model with this much punch needs At higher speeds on sweeping roads, shape and size, and there’s storage in now boast upwards of 400bhp, matched a specific chassis set-up. As a result, the GT the EV6 GT shows itself in a brighter light. the nose for charging cables. Cabin with mind-bending torque, big batteries, gets adaptive suspension, a limited-slip Power delivery is instant. Plant your foot quality, even in this early car, is strong and dual-motors for all-wheel drive. differential and uprated brakes. and the EV6 pins you to your seat, with and the infotainment system is intuitive. Now it’s the turn of the Kia EV6, which has the speed building at an alarming rate. been given a once-over by former brand R&D At first glance, it doesn’t look all that Verdict chief-turned executive technical advisor different to the standard car. The design is Lift off and Kia’s excellent i-Pedal set-up Albert Biermann to create this GT variant. perhaps a little more aggressive; big 21-inch allows for genuine one-pedal driving. The THE new EV6 GT can be viewed one of Biermann told us: “The idea with this car wheels wrap those new brakes, partly hiding intuitive and brawny regenerative braking two ways: as an exclusive, expensive is for it to be a fast car, but not necessarily a set of acid-green callipers. There’s a adds to the thrill on tighter, twistier roads, and exceptionally engineered Kia, or as a true high-performance model. That’s not sharper bodykit, redesigned bumpers, too. Being able to modulate your inputs a cheaper, better value and almost as what the EV6 GT is about; the clue is in the plus contrast stitching on the inside. and not having to switch from accelerator entertaining Porsche Taycan. It’s hard to name: it’s a fast grand tourer.” to brake results in seriously swift progress. ignore that the standard all-wheel-drive And we’ve now had chance to get behind Sitting behind the wheel, you’re greeted EV6 represents better value for money, the wheel of a very early version. It’s as good by further green detailing – including a GT The steering is well weighted, and the but the handful of buyers willing or able as production-ready, ahead of customer drive mode button on the steering wheel. reworked, adaptive suspension means to take the jump won’t be disappointed. deliveries starting from October this year. This dials in the Kia’s sharpest settings, body control is nicely judged. The GT is nine On paper, Kia’s flagship has a spec sheet serving up the full 577bhp and relaxing the per cent softer at the front and 11 per cent 3 August 2022 31 worthy of much more expensive machinery. stability control for a more playful character. stiffer at the rear – the former improving In fact, with 577bhp, 740Nm of torque and turn-in, and the latter reducing pitch under But before we unleash the EV6 GT’s hard acceleration; the car doesn’t stay potential, we get a chance to try the car www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEW CARS BMWM440d Diesel-engined M440d makes an excellent, and frugal, long-distance cruiser Pete Gibson Matt Robinson a rocketship when you put your foot down at cruising speeds, with the wind in your [email protected] hair adding to the sense of acceleration. The @matt_201 BMW M440dcar’seight-speed automaticgearboxshifts WHEN we reviewed the new BMW M4 smoothly and seamlessly, and yet, for all Convertible (Issue 1,734), we noted that performance, it’s very frugal. Official how lonely this latest version looks, with Audi and Mercedes no longer occupying FIRST DRIVE Niche option deserves to win mofuel economy of 45.6mpg can be improved this part of the premium drop-top market. upon on a long run with the roof up; we saw It’s become a bit of an oddity, but things around 55mpg without really trying. get even more niche with this M440d. The M440d Convertible’s performance A performance diesel cabriolet might becomes a little less impressive in corners. seem like an odd thing to build in 2022, No 4 Series drop-top is light, but this one’s NEED and sure enough, in the last three months the heaviest of the lot, tipping the scales at TO KNOW just 7.6 per cent of 4 Series Convertible comfortably north of two tonnes. You do feel buyers have opted for it. That compares with that weight, because the M440d isn’t as Alongside M440d, 25 per cent for the most popular derivative keen to change direction as lighter versions 4 Series range also – the 420i – and 17 per cent for the M440i. includes 420d and Potential buyers shouldn’t be put off 430d diesels, but by the diesel engine, though. BMW’s six- of the 4 Series. This is not helped by the lost petrol models are cylinder unit is so refined, it doesn’t expose rigidity compared with the fixed-roof model more popular you to any clatter with the roof down. The 3.0-litre turbocharged engine is – although this drop-top is four per cent hushed at idle and smooth under full load, stiffer than its predecessor. if not quite as silky as its petrol counterpart. However, with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel- Someone who isn’t clued up on cars may drive system as standard, traction is superb not even realise it’s a diesel. and there’s enough grip from the chassis. It’s fast, too. Its 335bhp output and Unlike BMWs of old, the steering doesn’t 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds sound offer up much in the way of feedback, but impressive enough, but these numbers it does feel predictable and consistent. don’t tell the full story. Of more importance The steering wheel rim is needlessly thick, is the 700Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. and the weighting of the electric power- This gives the M440d a supremely punchy mid-range that makes it feel like “The engine is hushed. Someone not clued up on cars may not even realise it’s a diesel” 32 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEW CARS Essentials BMW M440d xDrive Convertible Price: £59,695 Engine: 3.0-litre 6cyl turbodiesel Power/torque: 335bhp/700Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, four-wheel drive 0-62mph: 4.9 seconds Top speed: 155mph Economy: 45.6mpg CO2: 163g/km ONSALE Now COMFORT Convertibles sometimes flex excessively, impacting suspension set-up and ride comfort, but the M440d is smooth on the road, and its soft seats also contribute to a relaxing ride Running costs Performance Practicality ROOF Electrically operated soft-top 45.6mpg (official) 0-62mph/top speed Boot (roof up/down) replaces the folding hard-top from £115 fill-up the previous generation and takes 18 4.9 seconds/155mph 385/300 litres seconds to raise or lower. It can be ore fans operated on the move at up to 31mph assisted set-up is a little excessive in the folding fabric roof, and 40 per cent lighter Verdict Sport setting. The standard-fit adaptive than the old hard-top arrangement. dampers do a fine job of keeping body roll A HIGH-performance diesel drop- at bay, and also offer an impressive amount The car is more than quiet enough on the top might seem like a strange of ride comfort in all driving modes. move, to the point where you very quickly concept on paper, but the M440d forget it’s a convertible. The roof also opens Convertible works far better in Comfort and refinement are what the and closes a little quicker than before, in 18 practice than you might expect, M440d Convertible excels at, really. seconds, and at speeds of up to 31mph. thanks in large part to its smooth, It’s a fantastic long-distance refined and superbly punchy six- cruiser, helped by an appealing, Headroom in the rear is a little tight with cylinder engine. The car’s looks solidly built and logically laid out the roof up, but you do get more boot space certainly won’t suit everyone, this time, because the fabric roof takes less and it’s not a cheap option, but cabin. BMW’s infotainment system, as room than the previous car’s hard top. With it’s without any obvious rivals – ever, should be singled out for praise, the roof down, there’s 300 litres of luggage for the moment, at least. even if this particular model is still capacity, an improvement of 80 litres over running the older OS 7 software. the old car. Meanwhile, the compartment the ____b Unlike the previous-generation hood folds into can be moved by hand to a 4 Series Convertible and the 3 Series vertical position when the roof is up, giving 3 August 2022 33 Convertible that came before that, a total of 385 litres, 15 more than last time. there’s no folding hard-top this time. Such mechanisms are complicated and We realise the looks still might not be to everyone’s taste, but you soon forget heavy, and BMW claims its “panel bow about them on the move, when the M440d soft-top” offers “the best of both worlds”. Convertible impresses in most areas. It It’s said to be significantly better in terms seems a shame more 4 Series buyers of acoustic shielding than the average aren’t tempted in its direction. www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEW CARS Peugeot e-2008 Sean Carson more efficient at higher speeds; it means automatic transmission. Officially, the Peuge the e-motor doesn’t have to spin quite as 0-62mph sprint takes nine seconds, but in [email protected] fast to maintain a 70mph cruise, for example, reality you’ll never need to go any quicker FIRST DRIVE Extended which results in lower energy consumption. in a car like this; it’s the low-speed RANGE remains one of the biggest performance around town that counts. deciding factors for electric car buyers. Also, a more efficient heat pump, teamed But with optimisation tweaks, many with a new humidity sensor mounted inside The steering is still sharp, helped by manufacturers can now unlock more the cabin at the top of the car’s windscreen, Peugeot’s i-Cockpit layout and small miles more often and more easily. That’s better adjusts the heating and ventilation steering wheel, while the e-2008’s ride exactly what Peugeot has managed to system to further optimise power usage. It’s is acceptable. Our Allure Premium test achieve with this newly updated e-2008 surprising how much energy it can take to car came equipped with 17-inch wheels compact electric crossover. run the air-conditioning, and with this car as standard, and although the e-CMP But it hasn’t stemmed from an increase Peugeot has shown how optimising multiple underpinnings sometimes struggle to in battery capacity. The revised e-2008 still areas when engineering an EV can result in deal with the worst urban scars and uses the same 50kWh pack as before, and it a useful real-world gain. bumps on B-roads, the ride smooths feeds the existing 134bhp electric motor. out at motorway speeds, exactly as it The French brand has optimised other Our test proved that the changes were should in a car like this. areas to unlock more range and push well successful, because while the e-2008 didn’t through the 200-mile mark, with the car’s quite match its claims, a genuine 180 miles However, the cabin layout still won’t total claimed range now at 214 miles. The in hot conditions (good for the battery, bad be to everyone’s tastes. The infotainment charging rate is unaltered, though, with for energy consumption with the air-con system is laggy, although in this guise it 100kW capability giving an 80 per cent always on) demonstrated decent efficiency. does at least come loaded with features, top-up in 30 minutes. A standard home including CarPlay and Android Auto. charge will take seven and a half hours. Dynamically, this revised car feels pretty That’s handy because the standard New tyres rated A+ for efficiency have much identical to the pre-update model, seven-inch set-up doesn’t feature built-in been fitted to the car’s 17-inch wheels. which means plenty of easily accessible sat-nav, but it does include a reversing These reduce rolling resistance and improve performance thanks to its 300Nm of torque. camera and digital instruments. efficiency, and Peugeot has also tweaked No ICE-powered small SUV can muster this the electric motor’s gear ratio to make it output, and it makes the e-2008 feel peppy There’s a fair level of safety tech, too, and alert on the move, plus it’s superbly and the 434-litre boot is a good size, easy to drive thanks to the single-speed but space in the rear could be better. Revised motor gear ratio means e-2008 runs more efficiently at cruising speeds Essentials GEARBOX Single-speed automatic EQUIPMENT Allure Premium trim features a Peugeot e-2008 transmission means e-2008 is an easy car seven-inch touchscreen. You have to upgrade to Allure Premium to drive. B mode is the key to maximising GT or GT Premium trim for the 10-inch unit, but range, upping the regeneration level as you both could respond quicker to inputs. At least Price: £35,300 slow down, but it could be even stronger the latest smartphone connectivity is standard Powertrain: 50kWh batt./1x e-motor Power/torque: 134bhp/300Nm Transmission: Single-speed automatic, front-wheel drive 0-62mph: 9.0 seconds Top speed: 93mph Range: 214 miles Charging: 100kW (10-80% 30 mins) ONSALE Now 34 3 August 2022
NEW CARSPeugeot e-2008 Pete Gibson ot e-2008 PRACTICALITY e-2008 offers 434 litres Verdict range for all-electric compact crossover of boot capacity, the same as an ICE-powered PEUGEOT’S updates to the e-2008 model. It’s a good size for a small SUV, but have focused on what buyers want and space in the rear could be better and not need at this level of the market: more everyone will be comfortable at the wheel range. It’s a small but useful gain and it’s great to see the brand acting on Electric motor experience to boost this small electric SUV’s appeal. However, the so-so ride, Power/range frustratingly sluggish infotainment 134bhp/214 miles system and a shortage of rear-seat space (albeit with a big boot) still peg Performance this Peugeot back to the same result as it achieved initially. We’re certainly 0-62mph/top speed grateful for the extra range and the 9.0 seconds/93mph added flexibility it brings, though. ____b 3 August 2022 35
ROAD TESTS Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives Fr Testers’ notes DEC-rSTo4EsNs RSEiv2o2li5 A4S0ulidnTieFAS3I eSportback “On paper, this looks like one of the most promising offerings Price: £42,200 Price: £36,245 from DS yet. In the A3, it’s going up against the car that every Powertrain: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 12.4kWh battery, 222bhp Powertrain: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 10.4kWh battery, 201bhp manufacturer in this segment wants to beat, so if the French 0-62mph: 7.7 seconds 0-62mph: 7.6 seconds challenger holds its own here, it’s a genuine contender.” Test economy: 56.2mpg/12.4mpl Test economy: 58.0mpg/12.8mpl CO2: 30g/km Annual road tax: £155 CO2: 29g/km Annual road tax: £155 Sean Carson Associate editor www.autoexpress.co.uk 36 3 August 2022
50 TOYOTAYARIS CROSS 52 PORSCHE TAYCAN CT Small SUV serves up We enjoy the high levels trips to Wimbledon and of spec fitted to our all- the north Norfolk coast electric Cross Turismo ench connection Audi’s A3 may be the benchmark in the premium hatchback class, but DS wants to challenge that status with its new 4 Pictures: Pete Gibson FUEL prices might have recently passed their peak, but many new-car buyers can find ways to beat the squeeze. One of the best ways is to buy a more compact car; another is to switch to plug-in hybrid power. Downsizing might seem like a dirty word to those who demand luxury, but there are options for drivers who want to feel spoiled with quality and tech, two of which we have here. New to the scene is the DS 4. The posh offshoot of Citroen makes vehicles with style that often leaves us wishing for more substance. Like its stablemates, this new offering is certainly striking, so will it be more of the same for DS, or has the French firm finally turned a corner? There’s no sterner test for DS than the Audi A3. It’s the car that in effect defined the premium hatchback class, and those looking to move from a larger Audi into something more pragmatic really won’t feel short-changed. 3 August 2022 37
ROAD TESTS AudiA3vsDS4 MODEL TESTED: DS 4 E-TENSE 225 Cross Rivoli PRICE: £42,200 POWERTRAIN: 1.6-litre 4cyl/e-motor, 222bhp THE new DS 4 range is split into two parts: the standard models and the Cross driven here. In top-spec Rivoli trim with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Cross is priced from £42,200. This Running costs range-topping trim level has a handful of options available, but the only extra fitted to our test car is 56.2mpg (on test) metallic paint, which brings it to £42,795. £76 fill-up/£155 or 12% tax Design & engineering 4sco.r0e Practicality 804LBREAKING into the premium Boot (seats up/down) segment is tough. Just ask Lexus; over 390/1,190 litres 30 years on from its inception, it still can’t match the sales figures of the big German three. Performance But the Japanese brand has carved out a unique style, which draws a loyal following. 0-62mph/top speed DS has taken a similar route. Inside and out, it’s 7.7 seconds/145mph a world away from the A3 – or indeed other German rivals from BMW and Mercedes – in terms of design. DS 4 Flamboyant angles and curves set it apart from a distance, and up close the intricate tail-light design Is a focus on interior quality, ride comfort and and leather-lined cabin feel very expensive. equipment levels enough to topple the Audi? Indeed, thanks to the liberal use of leather and soft-touch materials, for the most part the DS 4’s www.autoexpress.co.uk interior has the Audi’s easily beaten for quality. The detailing is well judged; the integration of the directional vent controls within the bank of physical switches in the centre of the dash is very smart, for example, and a little more understated than some of DS’s previous models. There are quite a few different textures and surfaces going on, though; where the Audi is perhaps overly minimalist, the DS almost takes it too far the other way. Under the skin, the underpinnings are very familiar. The EMP2 set-up here most closely matches those of the new Peugeot 308 and Vauxhall Astra, right down to the 222bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain. That figure is achieved with a combination of a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 108bhp electric motor; power from both elements is sent to the front wheels. A 12.4kWh battery means a range of 33.5 miles, and with a top speed of 83mph in e-mode, it’ll be possible to cover many kinds of commute without using the combustion engine at all. score Driving 3.9THE original Citroen DS was famed 784Lfor its incredible ride comfort – something more recent DS models have lacked until now. Sure, this latest 4 doesn’t have the magic carpet quality that the classic car’s hydropneumatic set-up could deliver, but it feels soft and forgiving over bumps that the Audi thumps into a little more abruptly. That smoothness can be found not only through town, where it does a great job of filtering out poor surfaces, but also at higher speeds, where it remains a soothing and relaxing place to be. The comfort hasn’t come at the expense of too much body control, either. Yes, there’s a little bit of body roll in corners, but it doesn’t feel flustered. Combined with fairly slow steering, which is well matched to the response of the chassis, there’s a classically French feeling to the ride/handling balance that’s missing from other DS models. The plug-in hybrid system isn’t without its flaws, though. The engine sounds surprisingly noisy from 38 3 August 2022
AudiA3vsDS4 ROAD TESTS Details Rivoli trim adds 19-inch alloys; the battery is larger than the A3’s for an electric range of 33.5 miles Performance It might be a fraction slower to 62mph, but the DS 4 has a much better ride quality than the A3
ROAD TESTS AudiA3vsDS4 within the cabin – even at idle, but especially under � acceleration, where it sounds thrashy – and the � electric motor emits a distinct whine. These two � areas feel out of character with the impressive overall refinement. While the electric drive is smooth and performance is strong (at 7.7 seconds, the DS 4’s 0-62mph time is a smidge behind the Audi’s 7.6-second figure), there’s a little jerkiness when the combustion engine powers up. However, as we’ll go on to see, the A3 is hardly perfect when it comes to the way it delivers its power. Practicality 4sco.r0e LONG-LEGGED passengers will be happier in the back of the DS than the Audi A3. Kneeroom is impressive here, just edging the A3, which itself is better than the Mercedes A-Class. It’s a shame that a low roofline compromises rear headroom, though, and the central seat is quite narrow and raised compared to the Audi’s – although the A3’s firm centre backrest isn’t great, either. On the plus side, the DS 4’s rear-seat occupants can keep their devices topped up with a pair of USB sockets. Those up front have a pair of USB-Cs, plus a vast cubby in which to hold a smartphone and a second space farther back, but that’s quite shallow. The front door bins are carpeted, so items don’t rattle around too much on the move. Ownership 3sco.r9e Interior THERE weren’t enough DS owners The DS 4 not only surveyed to provide a clear picture of the beats the A3 on brand’s standing in the latest Auto Express design, but also on Driver Power rankings, but its French counterparts quality, with lots of show that the overall outcome should be promising. soft-touch plastics Out of 29 brands surveyed, Peugeot took a fantastic and leather fourth place and Citroen was above average in 13th – well above Audi in 22nd. Peugeot and Citroen Boot space buyers experienced fewer faults than not only every VW group brand surveyed (including Audi) but also There’s much Mercedes and BMW drivers, too – encouraging for more room on prospective DS buyers when the DS 4 is so offer than in the mechanically similar to the latest Peugeot 308. Audi with the seats up. The Running costs 4sco.r2e DS beats it with them down, too THE real-world economy figures for plug-in hybrids vary wildly based on how they’re used. While few drivers will get close to the DS 4’s and A3’s identical WLTP rating of 217.3mpg, it would be technically achievable with mainly short journeys and regular charges. Our mix of long-distance drives, short trips and everything between resulted in returns of 58mpg for the A3 and 56.2mpg for the DS 4. Those who cover shorter distances more often should expect to pay less than the estimated £1,800 or so each 12,000 miles costs in this pair. Testers’ notes “It’s a shame that DS hasn’t been more adventurous with the colour options inside. A slightly dowdy black is standard; brown is a £2,450 option.” Alex Ingram Chief reviewer 40 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
AudiA3vsDS4 ROAD TESTS THROUGH THE RANGE Which trim level might suit you? THE DS 4 line-up is split into three main All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press model lines, with trim levels within. The PHEV can be paired with two versions of the standard DS 4. The brand offers a £2,500 deposit contribution for PCP buyers; a three-year deal with a £4,000 customer deposit brings the standard DS 4 Trocadero to £609 per month. Above that sits the Rivoli, which significantly increases the cost to £676 per month. The Performance Line models stand out with black 19-inch wheels and Alcantara upholstery inside; the standard trim comes to a competitive £537 per month, while the Performance Line+ model increases that to £629 per month. The Cross version we have here is largely similar to the standard DS 4, but gains subtle SUV-inspired styling such as black and silver plastic cladding on the bumpers, plus unique alloy wheels. Prices are similar: the Cross Trocadero costs £690 per month and the Cross Rivoli is £664. Our choice: Performance Line NEXT CAR Power delivery is generally smooth, but the petrol engine and e-motor can be noisy Practicality Trimmed in high-quality leather, the front seats focus more on comfort than support Three will be happiest in the rear seats because of the extra legroom and a smaller floor hump DS continues to dazzle owners with a broad variety of materials on show in its models 3 August 2022 41
ROAD TESTS AudiA3vsDS4 MODEL TESTED: Audi A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e S line PRICE: £36,245 POWERTRAIN: 1.4-litre 4cyl/e-motor, 201bhp WITH a list price of £36,245, the Audi A3 Sportback here is a fair chunk cheaper than the DS 4. However, as we’ll see, in some areas it can’t quite match its rival’s kit levels, which goes Running costs some way towards explaining the deficit. eDnegsiingnee&ring 58.0mpg (on test) 3sco.r8e £76 fill-up/£155 or 12% tax 764LWHEN it made its debut back in late 1996, the A3 created the premium Practicality hatchback segment. Now in its fourth generation, the Audi has set a template that Boot (seats up/down) many rivals want to beat. 280/1,100 litres The key to its success is to place a desirable badge and luxurious accommodation onto fairly humble Performance underpinnings; the MQB platform it uses is widely shared throughout the Volkswagen group. Audi 0-62mph/top speed really makes the most of it, though; from modestly 7.6 seconds/141mph powered petrol and diesel models to the fire- breathing RS 3, there’s something for all buyers. Audi A3 This plug-in hybrid model sits between those extremes. The layout is similar to the DS 4’s: the PHEV power boosts the premium hatchback’s electric motor produces an almost identical 107bhp, economy, adding to its broad range of talents while the combustion side of things is handled by a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Combined, the www.autoexpress.co.uk pair make 201bhp and 350Nm – that’s 21bhp and 10Nm less than the DS 4. However, Audi also offers a more potent PHEV; it has the same basic hardware, but produces a combined 242bhp and 400Nm. At 10.4kWh, the battery is 2kWh smaller, and its WLTP electric-only range is shorter by 2.5 miles, at 31 miles. The Audi’s maximum charge speed of 2.9kW is rather disappointing next to the DS’s 7kW, which is the rate you get from a home wallbox. That means it’ll take four-and-a-half hours to replenish the A3’s battery, while the DS 4’s takes less than two hours. For those new to driving hybrids, the A3’s ‘e-tron’ hybrid menu is among the simpler ones around. There are four options: full EV mode; hybrid; a ‘hold’ mode which keeps a set amount of charge in the battery (ideal if you want to save electricity for an urban area later in the journey); or recharge, which uses the engine to replenish the battery – although this uses a lot of fuel in doing so. There are some parts that Audi still excels at: the driving position is very comfortable, and both the seat and steering wheel have a huge range of adjustment to suit all shapes and sizes. However, the cabin design doesn’t look as sharp as the DS’s, and we’d argue this A3’s interior doesn’t feel as expensive as that of its predecessor. 3sco.r8e Driving 764LIN terms of ride and handling, the DS feels like it’s more sure of its identity than the rather confused Audi. The firmness of the A3’s ride makes it appreciably less comfortable than the DS, but with little trade-off in terms of agility when negotiating corners. Throw in the minimal feedback you get from the otherwise accurate steering, and the Audi sits in an uneasy middle ground between fun and refinement, where it doesn’t manage to offer enough of either. It’s very easy to drive, but the same can be said of the DS, too. Neither car here possesses the finest hybrid system on the market, and each has its own strengths. The Audi’s engine refinement is better 42 3 August 2022
AudiA3vsDS4 ROAD TESTS Details With a charge speed of 2.9kW, the A3 takes more than four hours to top up; S line gets 18-inch alloys Performance The Audi is slightly quicker than the DS and firmer-riding, but doesn’t handle as keenly as you’d expect
ROAD TESTS AudiA3vsDS4 than the DS 4’s and it just edges it for outright � performance. However, the A3’s transition between petrol and electric power is often jerky, and the � DSG’s smoothness could also be improved. � Practicality 3sco.r7e STORING a large battery ends up creating something of a headache for engineers developing PHEV powertrains for family-sized hatchbacks such as these. In the A3, the compromises are more obvious than they are in the DS 4. In order to accommodate the 10.4kWh pack at the rear of the vehicle, the boot floor has Interior been raised compared to a regular A3’s, which means that the overall capacity stands at 280 litres – well Cabins are usually down on a non-hybrid model’s 380 litres. an Audi strength, The DS 4 manages to better package its hybrid but this doesn’t tech and as a result it offers a more generous 390 feel as expensive as litres. Fold the rear seats down and the French the previous A3’s, car’s advantage is similar; its 1,190-litre volume or as well executed is 90 litres more than the Audi’s. as the DS 4’s While the DS 4 pips the A3 for rear knee room, the A3 has plenty of foot room under the front seats. However, the central tunnel in the floor is very high, so it’s not so comfortable for a middle-seat occupant. The Audi’s Isofix mounting points are easy to reach from behind sliding plastic covers when you’re installing a child seat; the zipped panels in the DS 4 are much more fiddly. The A3’s family- friendliness is also boosted by optional Isofix points for the front passenger seat. Ownership 3sco.r8e BOTH cars have been assessed by Euro NCAP, and both bagged maximum five-star ratings. The A3 was tested in 2020; the DS 4’s test took place in 2022, when standards became a little more stringent. All A3 TFSI e models get Audi pre sense front (a forward collision warning system), lane departure warning and rear parking sensors. The Driver Assistance pack costs £1,750 extra and adds adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and a semi-autonomous parking system. The DS 4 is better catered for, though; the options list even includes a night-vision camera that can detect people and animals several hundred metres ahead. Running costs 4sco.r1e Boot space YOU may think that the economy we The high floor logged could be achieved in a similarly means the A3 sized diesel – and you’d be right. However, PHEV really official CO2 numbers and this pair’s ability to drive suffers, with just around 30 miles on a full battery mean Benefit in 280 litres on Kind charges are low: both fall into the 12 per cent offer (110 down tax band, with company car users facing deductions on the DS 4) of £1,780 a year in the higher income tax band. The DS comes in slightly higher at £1,878 per year. Testers’ notes “The A3’s wireless charging pad is angled forward so that your phone doesn’t fall out while driving. It’s a simple touch, but a clever one.” Alex Ingram Chief reviewer 44 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
AudiA3vsDS4 ROAD TESTS All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press THROUGH THE RANGE Which trim level might suit you? THE A3’s trim structure is easier to fathom than the DS 4’s. The 40 TFSI e powertrain is available with the Sport and S line trims. Standard equipment includes features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen satellite- navigation system, LED headlights and leather upholstery. That £2,500 contribution from DS really helps it compete with the A3 on price, which currently has no similar discount. As a result, if you match the PCP terms to the DS 4, the A3 Sport comes in at £555 per month over three years – £18 more than the Performance Line trim we’d recommend for its rival. The S line is the model we’d go for, because it gets a more desirable styling package on the outside, the wheels increase in size from 17 to 18 inches, while you also get privacy glass and front sports seats. These extras don’t add a vast sum to the monthly bottom line, either; on the same terms it comes to £575 per month. Our choice: S line INFOTAINMENT, FIGURES & VERDICT S line trim adds supportive and comfortable leather-trimmed sports seats in the front Back seats Audi’s DSG automatic gearbox swaps cogs quickly, but it could work more smoothly A hump in the Audi’s floor makes life difficult for a third passenger but knee room is respectable Four EV modes let you decide when the A3 can run on electric power or self-charge 3 August 2022 45
ROAD TESTS AudiA3vsDS4 Infotainment Which multimedia system is best for music, sat-nav & connectivity? Audi 86L44sco.r3e A3 Sportback MMI Navigation Plus Key features: Google Earth mapping IN contrast to the DS 4’s system, the A3’s layout is much more conventional, and it remains a very slick set-up. Its resolution is more than a match for its rival, and the colour-coded main menu icons make it even easier to switch between sub-menus on the move. The loading times are quick enough, with the navigation system plotting several routes to your destination and offering options that let the driver choose between speed and likely fuel efficiency. A column of icons along the right side of the screen gives shortcuts to the home page, connections, radio, phone and mapping menus; it’s just one of several small touches that make it an incredibly easy system to use. The A3 also has Audi’s Digital Cockpit. The digital instrument panel looks sharper than the DS 4’s, while the customisable layouts are neater and easier to read, even though they display more information. FOR AND AGAINST Display Google Great graphics, intuitive menu Maps-based navigation structure, gorgeous digital dials system looks fantastic, and the detail really helps Few weaknesses in this company, but when you’re travelling other rivals offer larger, faster systems somewhere unfamiliar. Driving modes can be altered on the screen DS 4 82L44sco.r1e Cross DS Iris System Key features: “Smart Touch” screen BY the standards of most cars, the DS 4’s infotainment set-up is somewhat unconventional. That doesn’t apply to the main display itself, though: here there’s a system that’s much improved over other DS models. The screen is sharp, responsive to touches, and loading times are a match for the Audi’s. The home screen can be configured using varying sizes of tiles that let the user prioritise their own chosen functions. But the really intriguing technology is what DS calls “Smart Touch”. A second touchscreen sits low down and close to the driver’s hand. By holding down on the panel, you can bring up six customisable shortcuts on the main screen; then pick the desired function by dragging your finger across to a specific icon. DS says that it allows you to bring up menus without having to take your eyes off the road; it felt odd to us, but with time owners will probably grow accustomed to it. FOR AND AGAINST Screen Main menu Sharp resolution, decent loading times, page lists two rows of intriguing secondary touchscreen large icons, so it’s easy to Climate controls on screen, digital find the sub-menu you’re dials aren’t as sharp as the Audi’s looking for. The full-size mapping screen hides 46 3 August 2022 the climate control functions until needed www.autoexpress.co.uk
AudiA3vsDS4 ROAD TESTS Figures DS 4 INSURANCE Audi A3 DEPRECIATION headHead to E-TENSE 225 Sportback On the road price/total as tested Cross Rivoli EVEN at its highest 40 TFSI e S line CASH buyers will INTERIOR Residual value (after 3yrs/36,000) £42,200/£42,795 trim level, our £36,245/£39,665 find the Audi’s £20,032/47.5% representative £17,579/48.5% stronger residual TO compete in this segment, Depreciation £22,168 quote showed £18,666 values a desirable DS needed to deliver on cabin Annual tax liability std/higher rate £939/£1,878 that cover for the £890/£1,780 selling point, but quality – and it really has. The £1,842/£3,071 DS 4 is cheaper £1,785/£2,975 there’s not much use of leather (or Alcantara in Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles) 31/£721/£155 than the A3. 25/£831/£155 between the two. Performance Line models) on Insurance group/quote/VED £548 (2 years) £490 (2 years) the seats and across large Service costs sections of the dash really Length/wheelbase 4,400/2,675mm DIMENSIONS 4,343/2,630mm TOWING instils a feeling of expense that Height/width 1,470/1,866mm DS 4 is slightly 1,458/1,816mm the Audi’s plastic dashboard Powertrain 4cyl inline/1,598cc longer, wider and 4cyl inline/1,395cc BOTH cars are can’t match. But some people E-Motor power 108bhp taller than the 107bhp evenly matched might find a few of the DS 4’s System power 222bhp Audi, although 201bhp when it comes to smaller details a little chintzy, Peak torque 360Nm it’s not enough 350Nm towing; A3 buyers and ergonomically, the A3 Transmission 8-speed auto/fwd to notice the 6-speed auto/fwd can add a trailer holds the edge over its rival. 40 litres/repair kit difference in 40 litres/repair kit hitch for £770. Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel 12.4kWh everyday driving. 10.4kWh CHARGING Battery capacity 390/1,190 litres 280/1,100 litres 1,653/547/1,400kg BREAKDOWN 1,560/505/1,400kg KNOWING how to charge a Boot capacity (seats up/down) N/A COVER 11.1 metres PHEV – and how long it takes Kerbweight/payload/towing weight 3 yrs (60,000)/8 yrs PLUG-IN hybrid 3 yrs (60,000)/3 yrs – can help to maximise N/A DS models come 22nd/9th efficiency. The DS 4 is able to Turning circle 85/86/74/82/5 (2022) with eight years 89/81/68/73/5 (2020) accept up to 7kW charging, Basic warranty (miles)/recovery 7.7 secs/145mph or 100,000 miles which means topping up its Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos. 56.2/12.4/495 miles of free roadside 7.6 secs/141mph battery takes just under two NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars 217.3mpg assistance. 58.0/12.8/510 miles** hours. The Audi is slower; it’s 33.5 miles 217.3mpg only able to accept speeds of 0-62mph/top speed 116/30g/km/12% 31 miles EQUIPMENT 2.9kW, which means it takes Auto Express econ. (mpg/mpl)/range 2.3kW/7kW 113/29g/km/12% more than twice as long to 7h5min/1h55min 2.9kW ON the Audi’s recharge the battery. That’s WLTP mpg 4h30min options list is a fine if you plug it in overnight WLTP range (EV) Yes/yes/f&r/yes WIRELESS Yes/yes/rear/ Storage Pack, but at home, but less handy if Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket Yes/yes/yes/yes Yes/yes/no/yes we think charging you’re out and about. Charging capability Yes/yes/part/yes SMARTPHONE Yes/yes/yes/yes £175 for extras £595/yes charging is £575/yes such as map Charging time Yes/£850* standard on the Yes/no pockets seems Airbags/Isofix/parking sensors/cam Yes/yes/yes/yes DS 4, but part of Yes/yes/yes/yes very mean. Auto box/lane keep/blindspot/AEB Yes/yes/yes a £1,900 option £1,900***/yes/yes Clim./cruise ctrl/leather/heated seats pack on the A3. Metallic paint/LED lights Keyless entry & go/powered tailgate Nav/digi dash/DAB/connected services Wireless charge/CarPlay/Android Auto Results 1stDS AUDI 2nd ROAD TEST CURRENT discounts make THE A3 takes second the DS 4 competitive when here, but it remains a CDRSO4SS it comes to money, especially very desirable candidate in the posh compared with the brand’s larger hatchback class. The infotainment JULY 2022 models. But the car also sets itself technology is brilliant, performance apart by being the first DS that gives is strong, and the Audi’s composed buyers more reasons to buy than to just chassis means that it’s a great long- be different from the crowd; the DS 4 distance cruiser. However, we think is comfortable, beautifully built, well the DS 4 has a better ride and equipped, and the PHEV powertrain handling balance than its rival, has the edge over the Audi’s. and is also a little more practical. AEB = Autonomous Emergency Braking. *Part of comfort pack **Combustion range only. ***Part of option pack. In red = equipment fitted to our test car. Insurance quotes from AA (Tel 0800 107 0680 or www.theAA.com) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data. Rivals Mercedes A 250 e AMG Line Premium Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid 225 Other options in PRICE: £37,895 POWERTRAIN: 1.3-litre turbo PRICE: £37,870 ENGINE: 1.6-litre turbo petrol, this category... petrol, 15.6kWh battery, 215bhp 12.4kWh battery, 222bhp IN plug-in hybrid form, the Mercedes A 250 e is king of the IF you fancy a French flavour, but want to save some cash, the current crop. It has the measure of Peugeot is certainly worth a look. The this pair for in-car tech and tech is the same as the DS’s, but performance. Plus its electric- the styling and sportier drive only range of up to 43 miles will appeal to some. It’s less promises even lower fuel bills. roomy inside, however. www.autoexpress.co.uk 3 August 2022 47
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OUR CARS LivingXwxxitxhxaxxTxoxyxoxta Yaris Cross Toyota Yaris Cross SECOND REPORT Small SUV serves up a Wimbledon visit and a trip to the Norfolk coastline James Brodie Running costs Practicality Performance [email protected] 54.6mpg (official) Boot (seats up/down) 0-62mph/top speed @jimmybrods £67 fill-up 397/1,097 litres 11.2 seconds/106mph THE feared ‘new normal’ of ongoing a fair amount of wind noise once you’re up Essentials of headroom in the back for changing tops, Covid-19 restrictions has not arrived, or to speed, and while there’s plenty of rubber but the rear bench of the car is quite narrow, it certainly feels that way in Britain as we around the 17-inch alloy wheels, road noise Toyota Yaris Cross and legroom is at a bit of a premium. So, experience our first ‘proper’ summer since isn’t as suppressed as you might expect. 1.5 VVT-i Design FWD swapping jeans for swim shorts isn’t the 2019. There’s plenty to do and see all of a easiest task in the back of the Toyota. I also sudden, and not wanting to miss a moment CVT gearboxes are ideal for fuel economy On fleet since: March 2022 noticed the narrow opening of the doors of it, I’ve drafted our Yaris Cross into action in town, but summoning the power to join Price new: £25,690 while trying to tie my shoelaces, leaving for some summer trips of my own already. the motorway at speed or overtake a caravan Engine: 1.5-litre 3cyl petrol me to think that the rear of the Yaris Cross One hangover of the pandemic I’ve not on an A-road makes for a thrashy encounter. hybrid, 114bhp isn’t the most accessible. escaped over the past few weeks has been Longer, cross-country drives are certainly CO2/tax: 102g/km/£160 the chaos and cancellations at UK airports, not one of the Toyota’s stronger points. Options: Tech Pack (£500), Once back from the beach, the offer of and a last-minute fall-through of a flight to free parking nearby to the Wimbledon southern France put a weekend away in However, one thing that left me seriously Platinum White Pearl paint (£920) championships meant a relatively easy day jeopardy. The solution: get in the car, and impressed was how well the car’s fuel Insurance*: Group: 12 Quote: £395 out at the tennis. And as it happened, taking head to the north Norfolk coast instead. economy held up. Having mainly used the the car proved a better option than using the With all the essentials needed for a Yaris Cross in its ideal urban environment Mileage/mpg: 1,391/64.3mpg Underground to get to the All England Club. weekend at the beach and on the marshes until now, and with it recording more than Any problems? None so far packed in the Toyota’s boot, the three-hour 75mpg in my first report, the Toyota’s The Yaris Cross is really in its element drive to Norfolk represented a good chance efficiency is beginning to fall back. But it’s *Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a in town, to the point that navigating the to see how Toyota’s smallest SUV copes on still delivering impressive figures, so much 42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points. capital is far from a stressful task. It’s bigger roads and over longer distances. In so that the trip to north Norfolk and back relatively enjoyable to make use of the short, it’s largely impressive. cost just £38 in petrol. Even with the price hybrid element and manually prod the The Yaris Cross is quite a boxy for a small of fuel skyrocketing, that’s not too bad for car into its EV mode for surprisingly long car and, together with elements such as the almost 300 miles of driving. low-speed bursts using battery power only. CVT transmission and large mirrors, it means it’s not as quiet as you might like on It’s not uncommon for any car that is And seeing the queues of tennis fans the open road at motorway speeds. There’s taken for a summer getaway to be used as waiting to get into Southfields station at an impromptu beach changing room. But close of play certainly made me glad I’d doing this with the Yaris Cross revealed a taken the car. It was the cherry on top of a few packaging constraints. There’s plenty packed weekend delivered by the Toyota. 50 3 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk
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