Auto Express 10.08.2022_downmagaz.net

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CONTENTS News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport 18 Tuning in to the history of in-car sounds Newsweek 8 COVER Hyundai Ioniq 6 driven 10 DRIVEN HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 12 Stylish new EV shows lots of promise in prototype form 16 8 We’re at the wheel of Hyundai’s sleek new EV 17 COVER Alfa targets BMW 5 Series Flagship EV planned, plus new sports car in 2023 COVER Rodin plots world’s fastest car Track car specialist to challenge established supercars Home charging costs set to rocket Ohme advises EV owners to change tariffs now Autoart 993R Restomod brings modern twist to classic 911 Features 18 100 years of in-car entertainment How ICE evolved from radio and cassette to streaming tech New cars 22 COVER Ferrari Daytona SP3 Sixties-inspired roadster monsters in with 829bhp COVER Mercedes EQE 350+ 24 Electric exec takes the battle to Tesla Model S Citroen C5 X 26 Petrol hatch drops trick suspension but it’s not all bad news 10 Alfa takes on BMW with its EV exec 12 FZero will hit 223mph, Rodin claims Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo 28 Rally-inspired trim returns with a bigger engine Road tests 32 COVER Astra vs Focus vs Golf 50 52 Vauxhall’s all-new hatch faces Ford and Volkswagen rivals Our cars: Mazda CX-5 Family SUV is excelling as a photographer’s car Our cars: Polestar 2 We bid farewell to our premium EV. Will we miss it? 22 V12-powered Ferrari Daytona SP3 24 Pricey but premium EQE EV tested Products 55 COVER Auto Express tyre test Rigorous assessments reveal the best tyre for your car Buying cars 65 Your verdict on the BMW 1 Series 66 26 C5 X: big practicality, small price 55 Is your next tyre a test winner? 70 You like its comfort, but not what’s under the bonnet 72 Used-car guide: Kia Ceed Great warranty and lots of car for your cash “Find me a family SUV for £20k” Second-hand options from Mitsubishi, Land Rover and Kia New car prices All the info you need before you head to the showroom 32 New Astra meets family hatch rivals Regulars Get Auto Express every week 48 81 How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine 82 Sport Formula E heads for season finale in South Korea Back chat Mike Rutherford on the stars behind Car SOS 10 August 2022 5

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THISWEEK Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news Editor-in-chief: Steve Fowler A new breed of boss is set to Deputy editor: John McIlroy shake up the car industry 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 [email protected] Managing editor: Stuart Morton Subscriptions0330 333 9491 Chief sub-editor: Andy Pringle facebook.com/autoexpress £1FOISRSSIUJXUESST Sub-editor: Paul Alton @AutoExpress youtube.com/autoexpress Deputy executive editor: Matt Robinson Digital CAR company bosses come in all shapes and sizes. SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE Elon Musk is probably most famous of them all, Group website editor: Steve Walker including exploits away from Tesla. Then there’s this Subscribe to Auto Express today and get six issues for just Web producer: Pete Baiden year’s Brit List number one, Ford’s Stuart Rowley, who £1. If you continue to subscribe, you’ll pay just £26.99 says he’s more of a businessman than a car fan, while every three months – 43 per cent less than the shop price. Online reviews editor: Paul Adam Stellantis’s CEO Carlos Tavares would get into a racing Managing editor, central content team: Ben Custard car every weekend if he had the chance. Visit autoexpress.co.uk/subscribe Content editors: Shane Wilkinson, Harry Waring, Charlie Harvey This week I’ve met with the bosses of two new firms with different plans to make it big in the car to subscribe, and enter the code D1741 Carbuyer & DrivingElectric editor: Richard Ingram world, starting with David Dicker (above), founder Carbuyer managing editor: Andy Goodwin of New Zealand-based track car specialist Rodin. Sixissues for £1 Every 13 issues: £26.99 Dicker is an Aussie bloke who made his fortune in Sixmonths: £53.99 Annualsubscription: £105.99 Carbuyer content editors: Miles Goodson, Tom Jervis his homeland selling computers. His passion for cars Europe:£130 Rest ofworld:£200 DrivingElectric content editor: Ellis Hyde and driving – he’s a race winner himself – led him to Design & Pictures launch Rodin in New Zealand (building a factory with its Subs E-mail [email protected] Creative director: Darren Wilson own test track alongside), support some of the world’s Senior designer: Victoria Coquet brightest up-and-coming racing drivers, make a bid for Online subscriber service Change your address and renew your Picture editor: Dawn Grant the Williams F1 team and now take on the big names subscription at yoursubscription.co.uk Senior photographer: Pete Gibson in the hypercar world with the Rodin FZero – plus an Film team all-electric road car that’s set to follow soon after. Tell us about your car for a chance Head of video: Ethan Smale It’s the toughest of asks and Dicker will admit he’s doing to win £100 of Amazon vouchers things in an unconventional way. However, he deserves Senior video producers: Greg Dowswell, Jack Joy huge praise for having a go and I hope he succeeds. The UK’s number one car ownership survey, Driver Power, Filmmakers: Michael Moreira, Tej Bhola Wouter Witvoet is another petrolhead who’s made wants to hear from you. Our survey is simpler to use than ever Video editor: Will Ward his money elsewhere. But I’m intrigued at what he has and covers new and used cars, plus petrol, diesel, hybrid and Special Contributors planned for his EV Technology Group, the new owner electric models, as well as a range of motoring issues. of the Moke brand, and which has also just bought well ● What do you love and loathe about your car? ● How good SteveSutcliffe,Vicki Butler-Henderson, Nicola Hume, Dr AndyPalmer, respected UK manufacturing expertise with Fablink. are the dealers? ● Would you recommend your car to a friend? Andreas Conradt, Euan Doig, Sarah Bradley, Rob Keenan, Otis Clay Witvoet plans to buy up more British brands like Moke (and let’s be honest, the UK has enough dormant To have your say, scan the QR code above or go to Advertising & Promotions brands with plenty of provenance). As he told me, it’s Client sales managers: Pierre Clements, Neale Salt easier to buy a brand than try and build new one, so with www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power economies of scale and Fablink’s manufacturing skill, we Account managers: Demi Meredith, Miles Taylor can only dream about the reimagined models Witvoet Commercial publisher: Sarah Perks and his team will be bringing Senior operations manager: Kerry Lambird back to life. It’s a simple but Senior production manager: Dan Stark brilliant plan that we think Digital brand director: Amrit Baidwan car fans are going to love, too. Publisher: Holly Jerram Publishing manager: Sophie Valentine SEdTiEtoVrE-iFnO-cWhiLeEfR Marketing manager: Luke Tutt [email protected] Head of PR and communications: Karen Parry @ stevefowler Autovia Limited Finance director: Kerry Okikiade 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. Pictures submitted to Auto Express are sent at owners’ risk. While every care is taken, neither Auto Express nor its agents accept any liability for loss or damage. Originated on Apple computers. Creative repro manager: Dave Kinnard Creative repro artworker: Renato De Araujo Printed by Walstead Bicester, Launton Road, Bicester, Oxon OX26 4QZ. Distribution: Marketforce (UK) Ltd, 121-141 Westbourne Terrace, Paddington, London W2 6JR. Tel: 020 3787 9101, Website: www.marketforce.co.uk AUTO EXPRESS ROAD TESTS All Auto Express tests are carried out at private proving grounds where cars are driven to the limit and performance tested using Racelogic VBox computer timing equipment. Auto Express also assesses the cars over many miles of mixed public roads before delivering its Road Test Verdict. DON’T WANT TO MISSAN ISSUE? Ifyou can’t always find a copy of Auto Express, help is at hand.Speakto your local newsagent and they’ll reserve an issue for you. Just ask! Auto Express is part of the Auto Bild Group networkof magazines The paper used within this magazine is produced from sustainable fibre, manufactured by mills with a valid chain of custody. www.autoexpress.co.uk 10 August 2022 7

TOPSTORY Visit autoexpress.co.uk for your daily news updates POWER With 316bhp, Ioniq 6 is very quick in Normal mode, but Eco setting blunts its response significantly ● We get behind the wheel of new Ioniq 6 prototype in South Korea Sleek Ioniq ● Uses same platform as Ioniq 5; prices expected to be similar, too Early drive of Hyundai’s sharply styled new Essentials Hyundai Ioniq 6 77kWh 325PSAWD Price: £57,000 (est) Powertrain: 77.4kWh battery, 2x e-motors Power/torque: 316bhp/605Nm Transmission: Single-speed automatic, four-wheel drive 0-62mph: 5.1 seconds Top speed: TBC Range: 379 miles (WLTP) Charging: Rate: TBC, 10-80% 18mins ONSALE Late 2022 Steve Fowler of rear legroom to go with the space above and infotainment displays merge into one, you certainly won’t be disappointed – your head, while the seats are comfortable. with clever features such as a glovebox that the 6 handles tidily. That bodes well for [email protected] On first glance, the boot capacity doesn’t slides out and gives you a flat surface to rest a potential hot N version in due course. @stevefowler look quite so good, although we don’t have things on, plus slim, cleverly lit door panels. an official measurement yet. The steering has a nice heavy weight to THE building blocks for Hyundai’s latest To keep those panels slim, the window it, too – even firmer in Sport mode – while all-electric model, the Ioniq 6 saloon, One test car had door cameras instead of switches have moved to the centre console. refinement at speed was impressive despite could not be better. It uses the brand’s traditional mirrors. Many potential owners But even on this prototype model, quality the chunky camouflage. Good visibility was E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform) might be a little wary of relying on screens seemed impressive – as did the drive. another surprise given the swoopy shape. architecture that underpins the Ioniq 5, for the rearward view, but the set-up works 2021’s Auto Express Car of the Year and really well with a crystal-clear image within Our car was the 77.4 kWh version with So, it’s good news for potential Ioniq 6 the 2022 World Car of the Year. the eyeline of where the mirrors would be. a Tesla-beating range of 379 miles and a buyers, as is the fact that prices shouldn’t It’s no surprise then that the new model In fact, if you opt for traditional mirrors, you 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds. However, be too far away from the Ioniq 5’s, meaning had more than a whiff of Ioniq 5 about it might always rue your decision – the wings maximum efficiency means selecting Eco a potential starting price around £43,000. when we took to the roads near Hyundai’s at either end of the dash where the screens mode, which blunts throttle response. We And if you get in quick, you could get your Namyang R&D base in South Korea for a would sit are left blank, looking a little odd. were nearly caught out a couple of times car by the start of next year. short drive of a pre-production model. expecting power to arrive swiftly, only for it That curvy shape (penned by SangYup Otherwise, the interior mixes the Ioniq 5’s pick up more slowly. Normal mode restored Verdict Lee, above) is part Audi TT, part Mercedes excellent twin-screen system, where driver the fun factor that we’re used to in the Ioniq 5. CLA and even part Porsche 911 from some OUR short test drive of a pre-production angles. It’s more slippery than the Ioniq 5, “If you’re inclined to In fact, you won’t be surprised to hear Ioniq 6 reveals plenty of promise. It’s but not as low-slung as it looks. The battery make the most of the that the driving characteristics of the new super-spacious inside, well built and pack under the floor means an easy slide power, you won’t be 6 are very similar to the 5’s. The ride is firm, comfortable, plus it’ll put a smile on your into the driver’s seat, while there’s none of disappointed” although it feels slightly more forgiving than face. Could it be another award winner? the worries about headroom that you might the 5 (and might be even better on 18-inch Well, the EV game moves on quickly, but expect. In fact, interior space is one of many wheels), while there’s little body roll. the Ioniq 6 certainly has bags of appeal. pleasant surprises – there’s a huge amount If you’re inclined to make the most of www.autoexpress.co.uk 8 10 August 2022 the power and enjoy some twisty roads,

TOP STNOERWYSXxxxxxxxxxxXxxxxxxxxxx q 6 is taking shape nicely w EV shows there’s plenty to look forward to HANDLING Thanks to firm suspension, the Ioniq 6 has little body roll and handles neatly along a twisty road 10 August 2022 9

NEWS Alfa’s 5 Series rival Alfa’s EV exec saloon and ● New large executive EV saloon will crown Alfa’s range in 2027 Sean Carson ● Exclusive petrol-powered sports car to break cover first in 2023 EXCLUSIVE IM [email protected] Avarvarii ALFA Romeo looks set to steal sales the car, but it will be a worldwide product Quadrifoglio version on the horizon, with SPECIAL from the BMW 5 Series with a large so will come to the UK. He told us: “We sent the STLA platform catering for dual motors electric car that will be on sale by 2027 – by someone there to develop the best answer and a 0-62mph time as low as 2.0 seconds. New sports which time Alfa’s line-up will be fully electric to the market. I highly value that Alfa car is likely to – according to the firm’s CEO, Jean-Philippe Romeo is selling cars in North America Before Alfa goes fully electric by 2027, feature the last Imparato. Despite the large SUV sector’s and in China, but we will go [sell it] however, Imparato hinted at a special of Alfa’s iconic profitability, the new flagship model will everywhere in the world.” pure-combustion-engined sports car project pure-petrol take a more traditional shape. that we’ll see next year, with styling that performance Asked by Auto Express if the brand was The Italian brand’s charismatic boss also could be inspired by historic Alfas such as engines developing a larger model as part of its told us that the car will deliver “a high level the iconic 33 Stradale: “Alfa is sportiness. future all-electric portfolio, Imparato told of performance and roominess without You will see something sporty in the first us, “We [Alfa Romeo] have a vocation to destroying the aero” and therefore range. half of 2023. We are working on some very be a worldwide premium brand so I have Alfa’s parent firm Stellantis’s STLA Large specific, high-level offerings. to be in the view of the premium E segment platform (scheduled to arrive from the end [large cars]. I will be there around 2027.” of 2023) will likely form the basis of the “I am on two scenarios: full EV or full ICE. Pushed on whether Alfa’s new electric as-yet unnamed model, allowing for battery I can tell you [this car] will be a very exciting executive model would take the form of sizes between 101 and 118kWh for a target one, very expensive, very selective. We will a large SUV or a more traditional saloon, range of up to 500 miles from a full charge, probably have some surprising, interesting Imparato continued, “What about SUV? plus rapid-charging capability that will add proposals that will not always be full EV for What about sedan? What about something 20 miles of range per minute. the coming two years.” in between? Knowing that we will be BEV, the challenge becomes aerodynamics, and Imparato’s comments on a high knowing that the DNA of Alfa Romeo is level of performance also sedan, and knowing that the signature of puts a sporty Alfa is sport, the answer is probably not SUV – I want to reinvent sportiness for the 21st Century.” Imparato has sent his team to the USA to help develop “There’s potential for a range of up to 500 miles and rapid charging for 20 miles a minute” 10 10 August 2022

NEWSAlfa’s 5 Series rival d ‘last hurrah’ sports car MAGES “Alfa is sportiness. You will see something sporty in the first half of 2023. We are working on some very specific, high-level offerings” Jean-Philippe Imparato CEO, Alfa Romeo 10 August 2022 11

NEWS Rodin FZero 223mph FZero is set to be Steve Fowler ● 1,160bhp and 1,026Nm design,” said Dicker. “Ricardo’s doing the ● Brit firms heavily involved transmission. It’s almost finished. And TRACK [email protected] we’ve got some guys working on the battery, @stevefowler powertrain offering a total of 1,160bhp which is just about done. So all we’re left The first FZeros and 1,026Nm of torque, and developed with is the carbon work and the mechanical will be for track NEW Zealand-based track car specialist by British firm Neil Brown Engineering; stuff, and you’re basically there. So, it use only. Road Rodin has revealed its first bespoke Ricardo is supplying the eight-speed makes a lot of sense. cars will follow model, the FZero, which founder David gearbox with a 3D-printed titanium casing. later, along Dicker says will be the fastest car on earth. “Our aim is to try to get some with an EV Although the first 30 FZeros will be track- Many of the other parts are made at entertainment value out of the car. It’s only, Dicker has confirmed that a road-going Rodin’s newly built facility complete with massively problematic on the sound side, version will arrive soon after, along with its own test track on New Zealand’s South because the sound provides so much of the Rodin’s first all-electric model. Island, where the car will be assembled. entertainment on the car. Our electric motor With an expected price around £1.8m runs at 25,000rpm so there might be hope. and a top speed of 223mph, Dicker said The first FZeros should be with customers of the FZero: “It’s built for the track, it’s in 2023. “If we can’t get a customer car “We’ve got a two speed transmission – built to be quicker than an F1 car. There built, say, within the next 12 months, I’ll be we only really went for that for the are no limits, no rules.” feeling very disappointed,” said Dicker. entertainment value.” The car is being built to Dicker’s own specification, with a twin-turbo V10 hybrid Following on from the FZero road cars will The electric car is likely to follow the be Rodin’s first all-electric model. “It’s in FZero into production some time in 2024. First glimpse of Swift ahead of 2023 launch THE next-generation Suzuki Swift has been Swift. Given the Swift Sport’s move to Automedia spied testing for the first time. It’s expected mild-hybrid tech, we expect the warm to go on sale next year, once again rivalling hatch will make a return for this new STYLING The most significant the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. fourth-generation car. change will be at the front, where The current Swift received a mid-life The overall styling won’t get a major there’s a clamshell bonnet, new refresh only last year after a 2017 launch. overhaul, but there will be a new front grille and round headlights It sits on Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform end, featuring a revised grille, a round (which made its debut in 2014 with the headlight design and a clamshell bonnet. www.autoexpress.co.uk Alto) and this has supported the Swift’s switch to mild-hybrid power in 12-volt The rear door handle has been given a and 48-volt form. The new Swift is likely more conventional position on the door, to continue using this platform, so don’t rather than up on the C-pillar like the expect a fully electrified version to rival the current car. From the side, we can see the Vauxhall Corsa-e or Peugeot e-208 just yet. overall proportions won’t differ too much from the outgoing Swift. The rear doesn’t Suzuki has partnered with Toyota to look too far removed either, with similar provide plug-in hybrid versions of its Swace rear lights, boot lid and bumper. estate and Across SUV (both of which are rebadged Toyotas), but it’s highly unlikely The current Swift starts from £15,499, this partnership will extend to a hybrid and we could see a price rise with the introduction of the new model in 2023. 12 10 August 2022

NEWSRodin FZero e world’s fastest car ninebwrisef Caption to go in this space here please Caption to go in this space here please “It’s built for the track, Australian-born racer and collector Dicker made his millions through his Porsche considered a it’s built to be quicker computer company, Dicker Data, and set up Rodin in 2016 convertible Cayenne than an F1 car. There are no limits, no rules” Q What was your inspiration with the design of FZero? THE Porsche Cayenne celebrates its A “I wanted to shake things up, because I reckon it’s got boring. I mean, McLaren’s 20th anniversary this year, and to mark the milestone Porsche has revealed a a perfect example. The cars are great – I’ve got a few – but they all look the same.” number of secrets about the original SUV’s development – including short- Q Will the FZero go racing? lived plans for a convertible edition. A “We’ve got a separate project to do with racing. It’s going to Alongside a proposed Coupé and be cataclysmic in the motorsport world if we can get it going.” seven-seat version, the drop-top Cayenne (above) was the only design Q You’re a bit of a Ferrari fan. How many have you got? study where a full-size model was built. A “I’ve got about 20 Ferraris and five on order Two different design proposals both feature a distinctive rear end, and the – I’m better at buying than selling! My claim drop-top uses a roof mechanism similar to fame with the Ferraris is that I’ve still got to the one used by the 911 Targa. every single new Ferrari I ever bought.” Registrations fall David Dicker Rodin boss for a fifth month NEWCOMER NEW car registrations in the UK fell by nine per cent in July 2022, to 112,162 Prices start from units, marking the fifth consecutive £25,995 for the month of decline. Supply chain issues – MG 4. Even primarily the global shortage of entry-level SE semiconductors – played a major role. Standard Range cars get digital Covid lockdowns in major logistics instruments and manufacturing centres in China were another issue, as was the Ukraine Prices announced for MG’s new hatch war. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ prediction for full-year 2022 BARGAIN-hunting EV buyers are about to motor. It features MG Pilot advanced driver 135kW rapid charging tech that will top has been cut to 1.6 million registrations have another model to choose from with assistance, automatic LED headlights, rear up the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in – a 2.8 per cent fall from 2021. the arrival of the MG 4, because the brand parking sensors, 17-inch alloys, adaptive 35 minutes. Prices start from £28,495. has announced prices for its VW ID.3 rival. cruise control, automatic climate control C3 Shine trim adds and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, The range-topping MG 4 EV Trophy can four new colours The hatchback 4 will start from £25,995 along with a seven-inch digital dash. cover a claimed 270 miles between top- for the entry-level SE Standard Range ups. Kit includes an expanded MG Pilot SHINE trim has joined the Citroen C3 model, which has a 51kWh battery for a Long Range SE models feature a 64kWh assistance suite. Prices start from £31,495 supermini line-up, introducing four new claimed range of 218 miles and a 167bhp battery for a range of 281 miles, and and order books open in September. body colours: Soft Sand, Cumulus Grey, Platinum Grey and Spring Blue. Shine www.autoexpress.co.uk gets 16-inch alloy wheels, a seven-inch infotainment system and keyless go. It’s fitted with a 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine and a six-speed automatic gearbox. Prices start from £16,995. 10 August 2022 13





NEWS EV charging costs “Ohme says EV drivers should switch to a smart home charging tariff as soon as possible” COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS EfoxrpEeVctoewd nperircsetroiscehsasnpgaerktacraiflfls New energy price cap due to come into force in October could cause cost of home charging to rocket Tristan Shale-Hester current standard variable tariff of 28p route for some drivers, but this option offering any EV-specific tariffs because per kWh, an average EV that covers a isn’t always available. of high wholesale prices. [email protected] typical annual mileage of 6,800 miles @tristan_shale costs £476 in home charging over 12 EDF is one major energy company that However, one major provider that is months. If the price cap rises as used to offer a home charging tariff, but continuing to offer its customers EV-friendly ELECTRIC vehicle owners are being expected to 60p per kWh, this figure no longer does. The company told Auto tariffs is Octopus Energy. Its Octopus Go advised to switch to the best possible would more than double, to £1,020. Express: “Unfortunately, due to market and Intelligent Octopus tariffs are both energy tariffs for smart home charging conditions, we recently took the difficult designed to reduce the cost of home ahead of an expected price rise. Smart charger manufacturer Ohme has decision to withdraw our EV tariff, charging an EV, and they are still available Energy regulator Ofgem is set to issued advice to EV drivers – particularly GoElectric, from [the] market.” It added to new and existing customers. announce the new energy price cap at those who have recently gone electric – that it “remains committed to helping our the end of August, with the change taking encouraging them to switch to a purpose- customers switch to electric vehicles” and is Under the Intelligent Octopus plan, effect in October. It’s currently set at 28p made smart home charging tariff as soon as “working to make sure tariffs are available EV owners are charged a rate of 7.5p per per kilowatt hour (kWh), but experts predict possible to take advantage of off-peak prices. to support EV drivers as soon as possible”. kWh. At this rate, the electricity for a typical a staggering rise to around 60p per kWh. UK driver’s annual mileage of 6,800 miles This would mean bad news for EV drivers Switching to such a tariff within an It’s a similar situation with British Gas. in an average EV would result in a bill of who charge their cars at home. On the existing contract may be the easiest The company told us that it isn’t currently as little as £127.50 per year. Retailers not passing on drop in fuel prices ALTHOUGH EV home charging is set to become more wholesale cost of petrol dropped by 20p to 131.75p, expensive (see above), petrol and diesel prices are which means retailers are currently charging around still high, hovering at around 180p and 190p per 15p per litre too much for unleaded. The RAC litre respectively at time of writing. estimates this is costing drivers an average of £9 extra on a tank of petrol, and £6 more for diesel. But The average pump price of petrol fell by 8.74p uncertainty and instability in the global oil market per litre in July, while diesel came down by 6.69p. mean any price cuts at the pumps may not last. However, from the start of June to the end of July, the 16 10 August 2022

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 Honda Civic Type R OFFICIAL FROM: Tony Elridge IT looks good FROM: Lee Cullen THIS may be an enough. After the controversially odd opinion, but I prefer the rear- Autoart 993R brings modern exuberant styling of the current end design of the outgoing model, twist to classic Porsche 911 model, understated was probably a especially the integrated spoiler. The good direction for the designers to go new one, which is more subtle, looks in. Regardless of what it looks like, like a bit of an afterthought. The Type though, it will definitely drive well. R is meant to look fun and exciting. PORSCHE specialist Paul Stephens has revealed DONATION Honda has revealed the latest the Autoart 993R, a modern interpretation of the version of the Civic Type R hot German brand’s last air-cooled 911. 993R features hatch, thought to pump out 325bhp brakes from the Based on a narrow-bodied 993-generation 911, 993 RS, plus Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk the restomod includes 993 RS and Porsche GT parts, wheels from and a sprinkling of bespoke components. Power comes the 996 GT3 ■ “Front looks bland, ■ “Doesn’t work for me; ■ “Good-looking. It from a reworked version of the 993 Carrera 2’s 3.6- but the rest is great. it’s not a cohesive design. does remind me a bit litre engine, with capacity increased to 3.8 litres. As a More like an Accord And that rear wing just of a Kia Stinger, but result, output rises to 380bhp and 360Nm of torque – than a Civic, though.” looks a bit stupid.” it’s certainly not bad.” compared with 272bhp and 330Nm in the original car. Alistair Taylor John Minshall Matt Heggs A number of weight-saving measures shed 150kg It’s worth investing Not optimistic about over the 993, which means the 0-62mph sprint takes to develop e-fuels TVR’s plans for EVs four seconds and top speed is 180mph. The standard suspension is replaced with Porsche Motorsport parts FROM: Harry Walsworth ELECTROFUELS FROM: George Oliver I WISH I could be with plenty of adjustability. Braking, meanwhile, comes have to be worth massive investment excited by TVR’s plan to build three from 993 RS discs and pads, complete with ABS, all (Issue 1,740). Electrification requires electric cars (Issue 1,740), but I simply hidden behind 996 GT3 wheels. enormous infrastructure changes, don’t believe it’s going to happen. whereas the ability to keep existing We’ve been hearing about the new Prices are unconfirmed, but a donor 993 Carrera internal combustion technology Griffith V8 for years, but it’s still not could cost at least £60k before conversion. working would save huge amounts here. The firm should focus on getting of time, effort and money. that out of the factory doors first. “Power is from a reworked version Drivers in dark over Do shopping centre of 993 Carrera 2’s Highway Code rule showrooms work? 3.6-litre engine” FROM: Ian Benn OF all the new FROM: Craig Dern HAVING visited a Grand Cherokee starts at £70k Highway Code rules (Issue 1,740), the large shopping centre last weekend, one drivers are definitely least aware I’d be curious to find out how the PRICES and specifications for the new system, mated to an eight-speed of is pedestrians crossing side roads retail spaces brands such as Tesla, Jeep Grand Cherokee have been revealed, automatic transmission. Total output is having priority over vehicles. This will Genesis and Polestar have set up in with Jeep’s largest offering in the UK 380bhp and 637Nm of torque, and the be clear to anyone who has tried such locations are paying off. I would kicking off from £69,900 when it arrives car offers a 32-mile electric range. walking through a busy town or city, still only feel comfortable visiting a later this year. The entry point to the line- as drivers do not generally give way. traditional dealer myself. up is the Limited 4xe, with the £82,900 Summit Reserve 4xe topping the range. Offered exclusively as a five-seat plug-in hybrid, the Jeep uses a 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a 17kWh battery and electric motor UCosenftualcts THE following provide help Legal Used car inspections Car registration/history Problems with dealers Problems with makers with motoring problems. AA: 0345 850 1130 (m) AA: 0800 056 8040 HPI: 0113 222 2010 The Motor Ombudsman: The Motor Ombudsman: www.autoexpress.co.uk Some services are free, RAC: 0330 159 1446 (m) RAC: 0330 159 0720 AA: 0800 316 3564 0345 241 3008 0345 241 3008 others charge a fee or Citizens Advice Consumer DVLA: 0300 790 6802 Consumer Ombudsman: Financial problems operate on premium-rate helpline: 03454 040506 Technical advice RAC: 0808 164 1923 womwbwu.cdosnmsaunm.oerrg- Financial Ombudsman: lines (p), while some offer Local Trading Standards AA: 0370 142 0002 (m) Traffic information RMIF: 0845 305 4230 0800 023 4567 advice for members only (m) Local Citizens Advice Bureau AA: 0906 888 4322 Scottish Motor Trade Safety concerns/recalls Driving licences RAC: 09003 444999 (p) Assoc. 0131 331 5510 www.check-mot. DVLA: 0300 790 6801 service.gov.uk 10 August 2022 17

INSIDE STORY Tackling the motoring issues that matter A CENTURY OF ICE In-car entertainment dates back 100 years in 2022. In that time there has been a bewildering array of technologies to deliver music on the move – but not all of them hit the right note Bob Murray radios in cars before but making it a standard feature been the wireless receiver, and in automotive terms that – and indeed naming the car for it – was entirely new. goes back to well before the Minx, to 1922. IT was 1934 and a popular car of the day, the Hillman Early adopters included a young Hughie Green, who was Minx, was unveiled in a new version called the Melody photographed with the Melody Minx and the cast of the How car radios began Minx. It differed from the standard Minx because it had a Entertainment Hour outside the BBC. stylised harp as bonnet mascot. Why Melody? Why a harp? Radio ‘hams’ experimented with home-built radios in cars Because it was the first car to have a radio as standard. When other car makers, such as Crossley Motors, picked in the very early years of the 20th century, but the first one up on the idea of the factory-fit radio, there was no looking offered by a car manufacturer and designed to work reliably The Philco Balanced Superhet Radio in the musical Minx back, with music-on-the-move developing into today’s was sold by Chevrolet in the US exactly a century ago. was big, heavy and expensive – the Melody cost 25 per cent online streaming services via record players, 8-track more than a standard Minx. As a difficult-to-tune crackly cartridges, cassettes, mini-discs, CDs and plug-in MP3 With huge batteries under the seat, loudspeakers taking valve set, it was a world away from the hi-fidelity sound players. All had their moment in the spotlight. up the back seat and an aerial that covered the roof, it was and automatic tuning that were to come. impractical and cost thousands of pounds in today’s terms. Through it all emerged a booming new industry devoted Still, it was still a revelation for an increasingly car-mad to ICE – in-car entertainment. The one constant in it all has But the potential of it was not lost. The New York Radio country fresh out of the Roaring Twenties. There had been Times reported: “With a car equipped in this fashion, it is 18 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

INSIDE STORY HISTORIC TUNE-IN The National Motor Beaulieu’s The Story of Motoring in Museum in Beaulieu 50 Objects features car audio – the holds a huge collection exhibition runs until next spring of cars with all forms of in-car entertainment. possible for a family to drive anywhere within 100 In the 1964 Amphicar miles or so of a broadcasting station and picnic while (main) you could sing the radio in their car amuses or instructs them with along on land or at sea music, sermons or wireless telegraphy.” Being able to listen to a Sunday sermon while far from your local church was a selling point in America in the twenties. Other advantages of car radio were said to be entertaining the children on long journeys and helping keep the driver awake. Some things never change. Others said a radio would distract the driver and cause accidents. Some US states proposed legislation to ban them. But that never happened and by the time a more compact set arrived that fitted into most cars of the day, the radio’s place in automotive history was sealed. The new radio was Galvin Manufacturing Corporation’s 5T71. It cost $130 (around £1,200 in today’s money) and was demonstrated as the world’s first commercially available car radio at the Radio Manufacturers Association convention in Atlantic City in 1930. The company couldn’t afford to take a stand at the show, so company boss Paul Galvin parked his radio- equipped Studebaker outside and left it there with 10 August 2022 19

INSIDE STORY 100 years of in-car entertainment the windows open and the volume cranked up. Who of passage for young drivers in the eighties and nineties. PROGRESS knows, maybe it was here that Lord Rootes’ staff got With a boot packed full of amplifiers and massive The compact the idea for the Melody Minx? subwoofers, even a small car like the custom favourite cassette Vauxhall Nova could become a mobile boom-box. replaced the Paul Galvin got so many orders for the 5T71 he 8-track before thought he’d better come up with a snappier name Music on demand it was made for his company. Motorola was born. obsolete by All this was not just to play what came out of the radio, of the CD player As car radios became more compact, more usable course. ‘Music on demand’ first arrived in the fifties in the and cheaper, the full benefits of in-car listening became unlikely form of the in-car record player. Chrysler offered apparent. Traffic and weather reports and news joined the first in its top models in 1955. Called the Highway the music. Later, live sports events made the airways. The Hi-Fi, the firm promised that “It’s almost impossible to late, great Sir Stirling Moss said he once listened to the jar the arm off the record.” That wasn’t quite true. radio commentary of the race he was in, while he was in it! The idea didn’t die though. Philips thought it had the Car radios for everyone skipping needle problem sorted with its Auto-Mignon ‘floating’ record player. In the sixties, no rock ’n’ roll The car companies loved ICE because it made their cars god’s Rolls-Royce or Bentley was complete without an more appealing, and profitable, and radio stations loved it Auto-Mignon, most famously John Lennon’s Phantom. because they suddenly had a vast new listening audience. The 8-track cartridge arrived in 1965. With four Uptake was rapid; one estimate is that just 16 years channels of stereo tracks pre-recorded on an endless after the first Motorola nine million cars around the world loop of magnetic tape inside a sturdy plastic case, it had radios in them. Despite efforts of cars like the promised unheard-of in-car user-friendliness. In theory. Melody Minx, uptake in the UK was slower. For one thing, you needed a radio licence until 1971! Today few have good memories of the 8-track. It quickly became obsolete at the hands of something far superior As Patrick Collins, research officer at the National in all ways: the compact cassette, which was rapidly Motor Museum in Beaulieu tells us, licence records adopted by motorists, making 8-track players redundant provide a stark indication of how car radios took off in overnight – until the electronics industry came up with a this country. In 1947, 24,000 car radio licences were cassette-to-8-track conversion device. issued; by 1969 the number was a million. The compact cassette would go on to be incorporated Advances that drove the growth included the first into tens of millions of cars until the 2000s. Musical eras FM car radio (from Blaupunkt) in 1953, while the were defined for entire generations who grew up listening innovative Becker Mexico arrived a year later – it had a to music in their cars on cassettes, often the mix-tapes novel feature: it could automatically search for stations. they had created themselves. But the tipping point came in 1963 when Becker But there is always something new around the corner, launched the Monte Carlo. It replaced vacuum tubes and the cassette’s nemesis was the compact disc. The with transistors, making radios much smaller and less first one of these, the Pioneer CDX-1, arrived in 1984. expensive. Other radio makers quickly changed to solid A year later Mercedes became the first manufacturer to state and global sales hit 50 million. offer factory-installed in-dash CD players. And since then? Stereo arrived in 1969 with the Becker But not even the CD could outlast what came next: Europa; push-button presets made finding your favourite a shift first to digital music sources like MP3 players, station easier, features proliferated, power outputs shot satellite radio, and up and speakers went hi-tech and multiplied. now online streaming through apps in The top car brands also started offering premium Apple CarPlay or systems that were built into the car at the design stage; Android Auto. the Bose system in Cadillacs from 1982 was the first. Today, all the big car names have a hi-fi partner, with All you need in your something like the Mark Levinson audio system in the car today to listen to Lexus LS featuring 23 speakers and 2,400 watts of power. virtually all the music ever recorded is your Big-power ICE also found a ready home in the mobile phone. aftermarket, where a whole automotive sub-culture grew up around it. Upgrading your audio became a rite ANNIVERSARY This is Beaulieu’s “In the sixties, no rock ’n’ roll 50th year – it god’s Rolls-Royce or Bentley was the world’s was complete without an first permanent Auto-Mignon record player” national motor museum ’22 ’34 ’47 ’53 ’55 ’60s Melody Minx 24,000 radio ‘Floating’ record Chevrolet is the launched licences First FM car radio Chrysler offered player on Rolls-Royce first manufacturer music on demand to offer a car radio (John Lennon’s Phantom) and Bentley 20 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

INSIDE STORY The radio to have in 1952 AMONG the most impressive of early radios was the Trimatic from DRH, a division of GM. With its streamlined look and simple rotating tuning dials, it was very modern for 1952. Companies that factory- fitted the 18-guinea (plus purchase tax) radio in their cars included Crossley Motors. Today the influential DRH Trimatic has another claim to fame: it is one of the items chosen by the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu for The Story of Motoring in 50 Objects exhibition. The 50 items, from a Rolls-Royce Ghost to a crash test dummy and an England football supporter’s car accessory pack from 2013, have been assembled to mark 50 years since the museum opened. Edward, Lord Montagu first displayed five cars in the entrance to Palace Hall as a tribute to his motoring pioneer father John 2nd Baron Montagu. The display grew into a museum which was opened by HRH The Duke of Kent in July 1972. It was the first permanent national motor museum in the world. Today, with Edward’s son Ralph the current Lord Montagu at the helm, the National Motor Museum has more than 1.7 million items in its collection, all cared for by the National Motor Museum Trust. It is from this vast resource that museum curators whittled down the 50 most historically important vehicles, motoring artefacts, images, films and documents – and radios, of course. The Story of Motoring in 50 Objects exhibition remains open until April 2023. ’63 ’65 ’69 ’82 ’85 ’22 Bose stereos Vacuum tubes were 8-track cartridge Stereo arrived. in Cadillacs In-dash CD players, Apple CarPlay and replaced with transistors, introduced One million first introduced Android Auto now by Mercedes virtually standard making radios smaller radio licences and cheaper 10 August 2022 21 www.autoexpress.co.uk

NEWCARS Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives “You daren’t take your eyes off the rapidly approaching horizon to check the dials” Ferrari Daytona SP3 FIRST DRIVE Sixties-inspired Icona model features a V12 with 829bhp Adam Towler substantially reworked it. It has then taken Ferrari says the SP3 has been the so-far ultimate version of its V12 engine developed to be fun and THE Daytona SP3 is the latest – a 6.5-litre unit as used in the 812 rewarding to drive, rather instalment in Ferrari’s Icona range, which Competizione – and evolved it with a new than for ultimate lap times began with the SP1 and SP2 Monzas – intake and exhaust system to liberate a single and twin-seat large roadsters further 10bhp, bringing the total to a without windscreens, based on the brand’s staggering 829bhp. It’s the most powerful 812 Superfast road car – that were inspired Ferrari road car engine ever. by the sports car racers of the fifties. The rest of the Daytona is a logical use The Icona range is about taking specific of Ferrari’s latest hardware, including inspiration from a successful period of various chassis systems (such as the e-diff), Ferrari’s past and then reimagining it with carbon-ceramic brakes and the cockpit the latest technology. Icona models sit infotainment and driver displays from the beside the ultimate Ferrari hypercars at the 296 GTB. Nevertheless, there are plenty of top of the tree and are priced accordingly. examples of Ferrari putting the effort in to For the SP3, Ferrari has turned to its create a complete, polished car, such as the curvaceous racing sports cars of the sixties, development of a bespoke Pirelli P Zero in particular the Daytona 24 Hour-winning Corsa tyre for the SP3. Most of all though, P4 of 1967, hence the Daytona SP3’s name. it’s about the sense of style, borne from a truly spectacular exterior design and a To realise this concept, the Italian brand has taken a LaFerrari Aperta’s chassis and 22 10 August 2022

24 MERCEDES EQE 350 26 CITROEN C5 X 28 SKODA FABIA Electric saloon has Tesla Pure petrol hatch misses Our verdict on sporty Model S and Porsche the fancy suspension, range-topping Monte Taycan in its sights but gains in other areas Carlo version of hatch Aston Parrott NOISE With no electrification to boost its EQUIPMENT Steering wheel-mounted performance, the Daytona SP3 is all about the switch alters driving modes, tweaking gearbox naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12, which sounds and engine settings to make ballistic SP3 even glorious with its new exhaust. It’s a celebration more hardcore if needed. Pushing the switch of Ferrari’s history that boasts massive character activates a softer mode for the suspension pod-like interior that mixes strong themes but the sheer potency of the SP3 is Verdict from the P4 with a futuristic vibe. unbelievable. It is genuinely a challenge to exceed 5,000rpm on the road, and once THE third model in Ferrari’s Icona It takes some contortion to get in behind the engine is working up at 9,000rpm you series is unique – it’s the only the wheel, but once you’re there the view daren’t take your eyes off the rapidly mid-engined Icona special so far, out through the domed windscreen is approaching horizon even to check the and the Daytona SP3 lives up to spectacular. You sit on one-piece instrumentation. The volume and quality of its billing. It’s a pure hypercar, with hammock-style seats formed from draping the V12’s exhaust note are also exceptional. a pure-petrol, naturally aspirated electric blue material over the tub itself, V12 powertrain. Performance is while the carbon-fibre roof panel lifts out The steering is wonderfully accurate and ferocious, but the chassis and because the Daytona SP3 is a roadster. well weighted, and there’s a clear sense of handling are a match for it. It’s how each corner of the car is working. It’s an emotional, thrilling car, the The big appeal of the SP3 is that it brings a monster, but you do learn to trust it, to Daytona SP3, a celebration of Ferrari’s powerful V12 together with a mid- gently tease its limits and to enjoy the the Italian brand’s V12 that we’ll engined chassis – and yet without any sort feeling of the chassis working hard. miss so much when it’s gone. of electrification in sight. That makes it a more traditional offering, as per its brief, In a way, these dynamic rewards are a 10 August 2022 23 although you do get Ferrari’s latest seven- bonus, because for many the SP3 will be speed dual-clutch transmission. bought as an art piece – in fact they are all sold, for £1.7million apiece. That’s a lot of The resulting performance is absolutely money, but then the SP3 is quite some car. huge: 0-62mph is listed as 2.9 seconds,

NEW CARS Mercedes EQE 350+ Sean Carson per cent capacity, it was still on track for quick enough for pretty much any day-to- EQE is at its best [email protected] when you adopt more than 300 miles from a full charge, day situation. It does feel heavy, but the a more leisurely which is an impressive showing. zip from the single rear-mounted motor driving stye NOT long ago, if you wanted a premium Standard 170kW charging means it’s allows you to use the performance in electric saloon, the Tesla Model S was down on rivals such as the Porsche Taycan bursts whenever you need it. your only option. However, Tesla doesn’t and Audi e-tron GT – not to mention Tesla – The EQE’s high 2,355kg kerbweight currently sell its executive car in the UK, but a 10-80 per cent top-up will take 32 means it’s not a driver’s car, though. On while its rivals have caught up – and this minutes, which isn’t too much of a hurdle. country roads, the chassis struggles to Mercedes EQE is an appealing all-rounder. The EQE’s straight-line performance contain more aggressive ruptures and It’s based on the firm’s EVA platform, isn’t Tesla-fast or what we’re used to from ridges in the tarmac, and the car feels which also underpins the larger EQS, and the sharpest electric saloons. But it still weighty and big. The feeling is made this EQE features a 90kWh battery slotted has 565Nm of torque, while its ICE E 220 d worse by the swooping bonnet, which is within its still-considerable wheelbase. The counterpart only offers 440Nm, so there’s invisible from the driver’s seat and means EQE offers up to 394 miles of range, with more than enough mid-speed flexibility, it can be hard to get an idea for where the this EQE 350+ model in AMG Line Premium and powertrain refinement is in a different nose is when you’re manoeuvring. Plus trim serving up a claimed 356 miles. league in the EQE. It’s very quiet on the move. On smoother surfaces the sometimes Our car showed a predicted 327 miles at Officially, the 0-62mph sprint takes 6.4 soft-feeling air-sprung set-up allows a lovely level of float, so the EQE delivers Mercedes EQE 350+justunder100percentcharge,andby50 secondsandtheMercedesismorethan FIRST DRIVE New electric executive car tackles British roads Performance Practicality 0-62mph/top speed Boot space 6.4 seconds/130mph 430 litres “The EQE is more than quick enough www.autoexpress.co.uk for pretty much any day-to-day situation” 24 10 August 2022

NEW CARSMercedes EQE 350+ a relatively soothing ride and supreme responses. It’s one of the best and refinement on the motorway, for example. simplest systems on sale and is joined by a super-clear digital driver display. It’s best to play to the EQE’s strengths, keep the pace leisurely and enjoy the However, because the Hyperscreen spans qualities it can deliver on this front. the full width of the dash, our set-up leaves a large slab of plain material in front of the The adjustable regenerative braking passenger. The quality is disappointing; helps here, too. There are four modes – there are some harder surfaces and our car off, low, high and intelligent – with ‘high’ had one or two rattles, but the alternative allowing one-pedal driving. fabrics and trims feel premium, which is just as well given the EQE’s price. The retardation is strong and intuitive, with the ‘intelligent’ setting adapting to The 350+ line-up starts from £76,450, road conditions to the point that you with our AMG Line Premium Plus car coming almost don’t notice it happening. However, in at £88,450. Along with this trim’s the brake pedal moves on its own as the sportier styling (including 21-inch wheels), system works, so it can sometimes feel a a head-up display, 360-degree camera, little odd when you apply the brakes, with keyless go, heated seats, Mercedes’ Digital a small step as the systems work together. Light LED headlights, wireless phone charging, lots of driver-assistance tech and The EQE has loads of tech and the rest augmented reality sat-nav are all included. is integrated well. The 55.5-inch full-width Hyperscreen option wasn’t fitted to our car. There’s plenty of space inside, with The standard 12.8-inch set-up is similar to lots of legroom and sound headroom in what’s in the S-Class and is solid, with the rear, thanks to the almost bucket-style strong connectivity (wireless CarPlay and sculpted rear seats; the 430-litre boot could Android Auto, plus lots of info on charging be bigger though, even if it’s a good shape. points etc), great graphics and super-fast Essentials Pete Gibson Mercedes EQE 350+ PRACTICALITY Boot space is acceptable, EQUIPMENT The 55.5-inch Hyperscreen AMG Line Premium Plus at 430 litres, but not stellar. Given the EQE’s display will be an option but isn’t available Price: £88,450 size, some more room for luggage would be in the UK yet. The standard set-up, shown here, Powertrain: 90kWh batt./1x e-motor nice, but legroom in the rear seats is good is still superb, offering sharp graphics, quick Power/torque: 288bhp/565Nm and the cabin feels spacious overall responses and lots of tech and connectivity Transmission: Single-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive 0-62mph: 6.4 seconds Top speed: 130mph Range: 356 miles (WLTP) Charging: 170kW DC (10-80% 32mins) ONSALE NOW RIDE On undulating roads the EQE floats along, but sharper Verdict ridges highlight the saloon’s weight, and the 21-inch wheels on THE EQE feels like a logical all-electric our car don’t help the firmness of the reactions to these bumps counterpart to Mercedes’ E-Class saloon. The genuinely impressive www.autoexpress.co.uk range is the EQE’s trump card, which is good, because charging rates could be faster. However, it offers enough performance, a mostly comfortable ride, sound refinement and super technology, which means the EQE is a pricey but appealing premium EV. ____b 10 August 2022 25

NEW CARS CitroenC5X Citroen C5 X FIRST DRIVE Pure petrol version promises better practicality than the PHEV C5 X Sean Carson new 12-inch touchscreen is a slicker system than previous efforts from Citroen, and it’s [email protected] joined by a seven-inch digital dash. There’s leather, LED ambient lighting and some WE’VE already tested Citroen’s big C5 X nice metal trim parts that give an upmarket in the UK in plug-in hybrid form, and look – plus physical climate controls, which we very much liked the blend of space, are so much easier to use than a purely efficiency, comfort and value it offered. screen-based set-up. And this cheaper, pure petrol version looks like it could serve up more of the latter. Yet the C5 X’s price tag doesn’t reflect It’s powered by a 128bhp 1.2-litre these premium touches. It’s not going to three-cylinder turbo unit, which doesn’t rival an Audi or a BMW, but it shows the sound like all that much when you realise brand is on a push when it comes to quality. it has to drive a large family hatch-cum- Priced from £29,290 for this PureTech 130 estate. However, with 230Nm of torque and automatic model in mid-spec Shine trim, it mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox still offers plenty of affordability. that’s smooth-shifting but not the fastest, there’s an acceptable level of performance Shine models get loads of kit, including for such a big machine. wireless phone charging and the latest Officially, the 0-62mph sprint takes 10.4 connectivity tech, sat-nav, dual-zone seconds, but in reality that’s not at all how climate control, plenty of advanced driver- you drive the C5 X to extract the best from it. assistance and safety systems, plus an It much prefers a laid-back approach, using eight-speaker stereo and multiple USB the low-down torque and moving along with ports to keep passengers’ gadgets charged. a sense of serenity that you don’t quite get There’s also no scrimping when it comes in rival cars, such as a Skoda Superb. Some to space, because the C5 X feels roomy in of this comes from the engine, which is the rear, and the front of the cabin delivers relatively refined and only gets raucous a good amount of storage, with plenty of when you rev it hard, but much of it comes versatile oddment trays and bins. from the chassis set-up and the ride. The petrol-powered C5 X doesn’t get the Where the petrol car excels over its same active suspension set-up as plug-in plug-in sibling is boot space, because there models, which scans the road ahead and are 545 litres on offer, compared with 485 adjusts the dampers accordingly to account in its battery-assisted sibling. This is a for any lumps or bumps. Instead, this healthy extra amount, plus handy PureTech model only features the firm’s levers in the boot fold the rear Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension seats down to reveal a set-up, which uses clever tech to smooth maximum of 1,640 litres out the dampers’ reactions to inputs and here, meaning the C5 X cushion the blow more effectively. delivers on many fronts. It isn’t quite as smooth or as plush, but that’s to be expected. Yet it still does a solid job of balancing ride comfort and refinement with respectable handling. Around town at low speed, depressions or ridges in the road are noticeable, but it’s still far from uncomfortable, the dampers doing their best to smooth out the surface. At higher speed the C5 X’s chassis offers a nice degree of float to its ride and feels in keeping with the plug-in hybrid; both offer a consistent approach in their set-ups. The raised ride height that gives the C5 X its jacked-up estate look gives a bit more suspension travel, too, but the petrol car gets more unsettled by patchy roads in corners. It never really impacts the car’s stability, though, so it still feels secure. This gives it a premium feel, which is backed up by the materials inside. The “Petrol-powered C5 Xs don’t get the same active suspension set-up as plug-in models” 26 10 August 2022

NEW CARSCitroenC5X Essentials Citroen C5 X PureTech 130 EAT8 Shine Price: £29,290 Engine: 1.2-litre 3cyl turbo petrol Power/torque: 128bhp/230Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, front-wheel drive 0-62mph: 10.4 seconds Top speed: 130mph Economy: 48.6mpg CO2: 136g/km ONSALE Now COMFORT There’s good space in the rear of the C5 X. Occupants will also appreciate the relatively absorbent ride that delivers a decent amount of comfort and refinement on the move Performance Running costs PRACTICALITY Heavily raked 0-62mph/top speed 48.6mpg (official) tailgate reveals a spacious boot, with a 554-litre capacity rising to 1,640 litres 10.4 seconds/130mph £101 fill-up with the seats folded. Storage options inside the cabin are many and varied Citroen’s latest 12-inch screen works well; there are physical controls for air-con system Verdict THIS PureTech petrol model loses a little of its ride comfort when compared with the plug-in hybrid C5 X, but it improves on that version in other areas, with a larger, more practical boot and an even more affordable price tag given the equipment and space on offer. With stronger tech than ever from Citroen, plus a unique design that doesn’t compromise usability, the C5 X is a solid family car for those who’ve decided that they definitely don’t want an SUV. 10 August 2022 27

NEW CARS Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo Essentials PRACTICALITY Fabia remains a hugely COMFORT Rear-seat space is once again Skoda Fabia 1.5 TSI practical supermini. The 380-litre boot is a a class-leading trait for the Fabia – few DSG Monte Carlo match for many cars in the class above, while superminis have this much room. Monte Carlo the back seats fold down – albeit not fully flat trim gains sporty-looking black upholstery Price: £23,735 – and expand the load volume to 1,190 litres with red highlights throughout the cabin Engine: 1.5-litre 4cyl turbo petrol Power/torque: 148bhp/250Nm Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive 0-62mph: 8.0 seconds Top speed: 139mph Economy: 49.7mpg CO2: 129g/km ONSALE Now Sporty styling add-ons are backed up by a more potent petrol engine option with 148bhp Sko FIRST UK DR Alex Ingram the underside of the bumper, while deeper 40bhp and 50Nm clear side skirts and a rear spoiler add to the of the 1.0 TSI, an engine [email protected] sporty design. It rides on 17-inch alloys as that can also be paired with @AxleIngram standard, with 18-inch wheels optional. Monte Carlo trim. The 1.5 is mated exclusively to a seven-speed TO some, the name Monte Carlo will The Fabia’s cabin ranks up there with the dual-clutch automatic gearbox. conjure up glitz, glamour and excess. best in the supermini segment for design, If you’re a petrolhead, however, it’s more quality and practicality. The Monte Carlo is In a car of this size, those figures likely to see your brain jump straight to lifted by a racier black-and-red theme that deliver strong performance. A 0-62mph Formula One cars brushing barriers at high wouldn’t look out of place in a full-blown time of eight seconds is suitably rapid, speed. It may even remind you of a World hot hatch. The seats look great and offer and it’ll keep going to almost 140mph. Rally car slithering through the Col de Turini plenty of side support, but they’d be even on a cold January evening. better if they could adjust to be a little The engine is a willing performer, It’s the latter that the Fabia’s long- lower. While many users will make use of but the gearbox takes the edge off the running tie-in with the Monte Carlo name the slick Android Auto and Apple CarPlay sportiness. It’s fine for everyday driving, that will have your mind racing towards. connectivity for mapping, it’s a surprise to despite being a little jerky at low speeds. After all, the Czech brand still competes in see that built-in sat-nav is a £1,070 option. Drive keenly, though, and it feels rather WRC2 – the second tier of international lazy and unresponsive. You can knock rallying – with its previous-gen model. On the technical side, the Monte Carlo the gearbox into Sport mode and it’ll This is the latest Fabia Monte Carlo, marks the introduction of a more powerful hang onto the lower gears a little longer, which sits at the top of the Renault Clio and engine option in the Fabia. This 1.5-litre TSI but it’s a shame that there are no Vauxhall Corsa rival’s line-up. It’s easy to unit makes 148bhp and 250Nm – a full gearshift paddles mounted on the spot the differences between the Monte Carlo and lesser Fabias, because the more “The cabin ranks up there with the best purposeful bodykit adds an extra degree of superminis for design, quality and practicality” excitement from the off. The front bumper has a chin spoiler that juts forward from 28 10 August 2022

NEW CARSSkoda Fabia Monte Carlo “The engine is a willing performer, but the gearbox takes the edge off its sportiness” oda Fabia Monte Carlo Running costs RIVE Bigger engine and an auto for Skoda’s rally-inspired supermini 49.7mpg (official) £74 fill-up Performance 0-62mph/top speed 8.0 seconds/139mph steering wheel to offer an extra degree of Verdict control. You can take manual control with the gearlever, but in common with most IN all forms, the latest Fabia is VW Group DSG gearboxes, the lever’s shift a challenger to the very best directions are counter-intuitive, so it’s not superminis. Some will certainly that satisfying to use on a twisty B-road. see a benefit in the extra power of this 1.5 TSI engine over the Despite the styling and new engine, there existing 1.0-litre unit, especially are no technical changes to the chassis, so because it sacrifices almost it’s very much business as usual from nothing in fuel consumption. But behind the wheel. This means safe and don’t let the looks (and name) of precise handling, but not the most fun. the Monte Carlo fool you; this is not a remotely sporty hatchback. That combination of biggish engine in a small car translates into decent fuel 10 August 2022 29 consumption. Officially, the 49.7mpg claim is just 0.2mpg behind the 1.0-litre TSI auto. In most situations, it’s easy to top 50mpg on a motorway cruise, and overall economy in the mid-40s is achievable. Prices for the Fabia Monte Carlo 1.5 TSI start from £23,735. That’s £1,800 more than the 1.0-litre unit in the same trim, the difference being £365 rather than £320 per month if you go for a three-year PCP agreement with a £2,500 deposit.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE WEVH-YSPDEOCIYFOICUTNYEREEDS? The particular needs of an electric vehicle mean that for optimum performance, you need the right tyres E LECTRIC vehicles are very different material inside the tyre to reduce what’s known tyre life. Prolific use of natural oils meanwhile beasts compared to petrol and as ‘cavity noise’, while the inner tread grooves means less material needs to go into the tyre, diesel-powered cars – so it pays to think are knurled to combat tread noise. leading to a weight reduction of up to one differently when it comes to tyres. kilogram per tyre. A lighter tyre is easier to turn, That’s why Hankook has developed a new Also, the size and shapes of the tread blocks so this helps rolling resistance even more. range of tyres to address all the specific are varied, so they don’t contact the road in needs of EVs, with the aim of improving both a uniform manner. This stops the tyres from Air resistance efficiency and performance. emitting a drone as they rotate at speed. REDUCING rolling resistance is just one way a But what are these EV demands? Let us take tyre’s efficiency can be improved – iON tyres you through these challenges, and how the Rolling resistance are also carefully optimised to cut through the Hankook iON is able to solve them. WITH charging an EV still being a relatively air as cleanly as possible. The tread pattern has time-consuming experience, it’s important to been designed for better airflow, and even the Noise reduction make each charge last as long as possible. lettering on the sidewalls has been designed for NORMALLY, the sound of an engine does a good the best aerodynamic efficiency. job of drowning out tyre noise. Replace it with By reducing rolling resistance, ON tyres one or more quiet motors, however, and reducing can increase your EV’s efficiency, Weight the roar of four tyres making contact with the improving its range. This is done mostly ELECTRIC vehicles are on average 25-30 per road becomes a lot more important. through the make-up of the rubber itself. cent heavier than the equivalent petrol or diesel powered car, thanks largely to the hefty battery To do this, Hankook iON tyres feature Sound Each iON tyre is made with Hankook’s packs they use. This puts extra strain on the Absorber™ technology. This involves a special EVolution compound, which uses high- concentration silica and various eco-friendly materials for lower rolling resistance and longer 30 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

tyres, so the iON S and SX summer tyres use ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE reinforced belts containing aramid fibres. This is a super strong material often found in body SIZES AND TYPES armour, which helps the iON keep its shape when under load, so more of the tyre stays IN Europe, the iON range covers four different in contact with the tarmac. categories and a variety of sizes to accommodate many current EV models. The iON S is a summer There’s an EV-specific ‘contour’ for the tyre, tyre, coming in nine sizes from 18 to 21 inches too, giving a 10 per cent increase in stiffness in diameter, while for SUVs there’s the iON SX when cornering, and all tyres in the range are in 14 sizes from 18 to 22 inches. built for the top XL (extra load) rating. Joining the range in September 2022 will be the iON winter tyre. This will be sold in 13 sizes from Instant torque 18 to 21 inches, while the iON X SUV winter tyre EVs are known for being able to deliver their will come in 23 sizes from 18 to 22 inches. torque outputs – which are often significant – instantly. This puts yet more stress on the TYRE JARGON tyre while it already deals with the typical extra EV weight. To prevent wheelspin, iON Blocks tyres use extended outer shoulder blocks of tread, providing more rigidity and a better Raised blocks of rubber that make contact with contact patch with the road. the road surface. www.autoexpress.co.uk Compound The mix of ingredients that makes up tyre rubber. Ribs Bands of tread blocks that run around the circumference of the tyre. Grooves The gaps between the ribs that run around the circumference of the tyres. Pitch frequency The shapes and sizes of the tread blocks, which can be varied to avoid the tyre making a monotonous droning noise Contour The shape of the tyre which determines how round or flat it is. Flatter is better for wear and performance but generally worse for ride comfort and noise. Rolling resistance The friction that occurs between the tyre and the tarmac as the wheels turn. Reducing this can boost efficiency and tyre life. 10 August 2022 31

ROAD TESTS Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives faFvamouilyrites? Vauxhall’s all-newAstra locks horns with old rivals, the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, in our hatchback shootout Testers’ notes Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 130 Style “The Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf present a fascinating comparison for Price: £27,765 the Astra. Both cars have unique strong Engine: 1.5-litre 4cyl turbo, 128bhp points; if the Astra is able to match – or 0-62mph: 9.2 seconds even beat – any of their key strengths, Test economy: 44.3mpg/9.7mpl* then Vauxhall could be onto a winner.” *mpg/mpl for automatic mild-hybrid CO2: 124g/km Annual road tax: £155 Sean Carson www.autoexpress.co.uk Associate editor 32 10 August 2022

50 MAZDACX-5 52 POLESTAR 2 Our family SUV gets Compact executive a clean bill of health hatch is everything a at its first service premium EV should be THERE was a time when the family choose to buy anything else. Indeed, new-car registrations, and only in ninth spot. clamber back towards the top – both in hatch was the backbone of Britain. between 2005 and 2007, the Focus and The Ford and the Vauxhall have long since terms of the sales rankings, but also to Sensible, affordable models such as Astra were the UK’s two biggest-selling slipped away. But are buyers wrong to move challenge the best models in the class. the Vauxhall Astra, Ford Focus and new cars, with the VW consistently away from these cars? Do they still offer the Volkswagen Golf were the default choice lurking just a couple of places behind. same all-round ability they once did? We’ve put the latest version up against for most buyers. Add in practicality and its two oldest foes, the Golf, now in Mk8 there was little reason why anyone would Today, the rise of the SUV means that Well, there’s an all-new Astra on the form, and the Focus, in its new-for-2022 Pictures: Pete Gibson just the Golf is still in the UK top 10 list of scene, which Vauxhall hopes will see it Mk4 facelift guise, to find out. Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost 125 10 August 2022 33 Titanium Vignale Price: £28,840 Engine: 1.0-litre 3cyl turbo, 123bhp 0-62mph: 10.2 seconds Test economy: 44.6mpg/9.8mpl CO2: 123g/km Annual road tax: £155 www.autoexpress.co.uk

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals MODEL TESTED: Vauxhall Astra 1.2 Turbo GS Line Detail PRICE: £27,210 ENGINE: 1.2-litre 3cyl, 129bhp Thermoplastic bootlid helps reduce weight; Vauxhall badge THIS is the eighth generation of the Vauxhall is now the boot Astra and it marks a radical development for release, similar the brand’s family hatchback in terms of design to VW’s set-up and the engineering under the skin. We’re testing Running costs the mid-spec 1.2 Turbo GS Line model (predicted 47.0mpg (on test) to be the biggest seller), which costs £27,210. Design & £98 fill-up/£165 or 30% tax engineering 4sco.r2e Practicality 844LWITH Vauxhall part of the Stellantis group, this all-new Astra uses the same Boot (seats up/down) EMP2 platform as sister brand Peugeot’s 308. This 422/1,339 litres multi-energy architecture allows for plug-in hybrid power, while a full-electric Astra will arrive next year. But it’s the more affordable pure-petrol 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo model we’re testing here. This engine produces 129bhp and 230Nm of torque. Given its prevalence across Stellantis group Performance cars, it’s a known quantity, combining strong performance and economy but leaving better 0-60mph/top speed refinement to be desired. It’s linked to a six-speed 9.7 seconds/130mph manual gearbox that drives the front wheels. The car uses MacPherson-strut suspension up front and a torsion beam axle at the rear, and Vauxhall has focused on tweaking the Astra’s steering, suspension damper tuning and bump stops, as well as the anti-roll bars to focus on a sportier feel and more high-speed stability. There are some lightweight components, such as the thermoplastic boot, which help to reduce weight and boost handling and efficiency, too. This new material has also allowed the Astra’s angular design, particularly from the rear, where there are many similarities to the latest VW Golf. At the front the car features Vauxhall’s trademark Vizor grille while inside, the firm’s Pure Panel infotainment is standard and joined by ergonomic seats and mostly decent materials. While there are some hard plastics in conspicuous areas, on the whole, quality is okay but not class-leading. Still, Driving 4.3IN the first 50 yards it’s easy to tell 86L4Vauxhall has focused on sportier the Golf is not as good in this area as it used to be. Vauxhall Astra score All-new version of long-running nameplate aims to settings for the Astra’s chassis, and it take the hatchback fight back to the Focus and Golf works. The steering is light and precise, while the body control is solid. It means the Astra feels genuinely good to drive, and even fun on some occasions. It’s still not quite as engaging as the Focus, but the Astra is now as close as it ever has been Performance dynamically to its rival, which is an achievement. Astra splits its While the engine isn’t the greatest unit, it delivers two test rivals adequate performance and more than enough in terms of flexibility, thanks to its low-down slug of torque. top speed and The six-speed manual gearbox is fine, too – not a acceleration weak point nor a highlight – and makes the car easy to drive around town. The shift action is positive enough, but not the last word in precision. The slight downside of the car’s sportier tuning is that the Astra does feel taut on the road. The firmer set-up doesn’t unduly impact ride comfort, but the Vauxhall’s chassis does pick-up more bumps and imperfections than the Golf’s suspension. Still, it’s relatively well controlled and the dampers do their best to smooth out most surfaces, so the resulting compromise highlights some positives in the Astra’s 34 10 August 2022

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals www.autoexpress.co.uk 10 August 2022 35

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals chassis tuning and the level of comfort and � refinement on offer is relatively good. � On this latter point, all Astras feature a special � noise-reducing windscreen, so on the motorway the car is quiet, and at low revs under light load the engine is refined. It only starts to get a little grumbly when you accelerate hard, which doesn’t yield the greatest performance anyway. Practicality 4sco.r0e WHEN it comes to passenger space, the Astra isn’t a class leader. Beside the Golf, it’s reasonably competitive; rear kneeroom is ever so slightly less – the deeply sculpted backs to the front seats help here. But compared with the Focus, there’s noticeably less space. Plenty of room for feet is found under the front seats, though, and the central hump in the floor is much lower in the Vauxhall than it is in the Volkswagen. All three models are very evenly matched for headroom. There are lots of storage points inside, with a huge lidded cubbyhole between the front seats, cup-holders behind the gearlever, and a larger, lidded tray in front of it, plus a fold-out panel below the central air vent for sunglasses. The only downside is that the door bins, although deep and high-sided, aren’t carpeted like they are in both the Focus and Interior the Golf, so items tend to rattle about more. Rear visibility is fine despite the Astra’s sharp Cabin quality and looks, while GS Line models feature a reversing materials are decent, camera as standard anyway. This mid-spec model with only a few harder also has an ergonomic driver’s seat that’s certified plastics letting the side by AGR, the Campaign for Healthier Backs in down. Pure Panel Germany, and it is comfortable over long distances. infotainment system will be upgraded to Ownership 4sco.r0e Pure Panel Pro for MY23 Astra SAFETY organisation Euro NCAP awarded the Vauxhall Astra four stars in Boot space its assessment. While the Focus and the Golf achieved five stars, they were tested in 2018 Astra’s 422-litre and 2019 respectively. With NCAP’s testing regimes boot is the becoming more stringent every two years, the Astra biggest with the has been assessed to higher standards. All Astras seats up, but is come with eight airbags, lane-departure warning, beaten by the cruise control and speed limit sign recognition. Focus with them folded Running costs 4sco.r0e DEPRECIATION has a big financial influence over the choice for any private car buyers, and in this area, the Astra falls just a little bit short of its two test rivals. Over three years or 36,000 miles, it’s expected to hold on to 48.7 per cent of its original value, compared with 51.4 per cent for the Golf, and 52.3 per cent for the Focus. In monetary terms, that means the Astra will lose just under £14,000 of its original value, the Golf will drop by £13,500 and the Focus will shed £12,850. Testers’ notes “The Astra’s IntelliLux headlights are made up of 168 LED units, which can switch individually to maximise light without dazzling other road users.” Alex Ingram Chief reviewer 36 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals THROUGH THE RANGE Which trim level might suit you? VAUXHALL has launched the Astra with All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press three trim levels, making the new model’s range much easier to understand than the slightly baffling number of trims and variations of its predecessor. The entry level is called Design, and comes with plenty of kit; 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, sat-nav, and climate control are standard. Place a six-month up-front rental on a three-year lease agreement with a 10,000-mile annual limit, and the monthly payments come to £242. As we’ll see, that’s very cheap beside its rivals. GS Line gets 17-inch alloys, 360-degree parking cameras, adaptive cruise control with stop/start and keyless entry for £320 per month. The top-spec Ultimate boasts 18-inch wheels, IntelliLux LED lights, wireless smartphone charging, an upgraded hi-fi, a head-up display and panoramic sunroof. On matching terms, this model comes to £376 per month. Our choice: GS Line NEXT CAR Driver’s seat has been approved by the German campaign for healthy backs Practicality Red highlights on the door cards and dash break up all the darker colours in the cabin While rear seat space is on par with the Golf, the Focus is noticeably more roomy than the Vauxhall Shift for Astra’s six-speed manual gearbox is fine in use, but not the most precise 10 August 2022 37

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals MODEL TESTED: Ford Focus Titanium Vignale Detail 1.0 EcoBoost 125 PRICE: £26,950 ENGINE: 1.0-litre 3cyl, 123bhp Recent refresh gave the Focus sharper styling; Titanium Vignale WHILE the Focus shown in our pictures is the trim gets 17-inch Titanium trim, we’re testing it against its rivals alloy wheels here as the higher-spec Titanium Vignale, which is the closest match on price. It starts from £26,950, Running costs slightly undercutting the Astra. Options fitted here 44.6mpg (on test) that are still cost extras on the Titanium Vignale £94 fill-up/£165 or 29% tax include the grey Magnetic paint (£725), Driver Assist Pack (adding traffic-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control and auto high beam for £525) and the Parking Pack (a £500 option that adds park assist, Denegsiingnee&ring 82L4THE Astra faces an even tougher task a rear view camera, and door edge protectors). 4sco.r1e Practicality Boot (seats up/down) 375/1,354 litres in this contest, because the Focus has recently benefited from a mid-life refresh. Cosmetic changes mainly take place at the front, where a new Performance set of headlights straddle a fresh grille design. It now features the Blue Oval logo at its centre; the 0-62mph/top speed previous Focus placed it on the leading edge of the 10.2 seconds/124mph bonnet. Subtly reprofiled tail-lights, plus new wheel and colour options, round out the changes. Inside, a key revision comes in the form of Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment system, reviewed on p46; it’s a vast improvement over the previous set-up. Little else has changed. The cabin quality is only okay; none of these cars top the class in this area – look to the Skoda Octavia or the Peugeot 308 if that matters most to you – but even in this company, a slightly plain layout and too many cheap-feeling plastics mean that the Focus impresses the least. Under the bonnet, the Focus soldiers on with Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. Like the Astra’s motor, it has three cylinders and a turbocharger – although more potent variants have now been equipped with mild-hybrid power that helps to reduce load on the engine and save a little fuel as a result. The Focus is now one of few competitors in this segment not to share its underpinnings with any other manufacturer, which offers the potential for Driving Ford Focus 4.4IT might have been around for A mild mid-life refresh helps to keep Ford’s perennial 884Llonger than either of its rivals, but a unique feel beside the competition here. score the Ford’s chassis still feels the most favourite competitive against a raft of talented rivals sophisticated here. There aren’t many everyday family hatchbacks that are fun to drive, but the Focus certainly sits at the top of the pile. It feels agile yet predictable when turning in to corners, there’s loads Performance of grip, and the steering has a linear, responsive The 1.0-litre weighting. Taken at face value, these traits won’t EcoBoost needs necessarily sound vital for many family car buyers, some revs when but they mean the Ford delivers a feeling that you pulling away and don’t get from its rivals – and peace of mind that it’ll sends vibrations respond accurately when you need it to. into the cabin Most impressive of all is that, despite this sharpness, there’s little in the way of compromise when it comes to comfort. It is marginally the firmest of this trio over bumps, but it never jars or throws its occupants about. Wind and road noise are slightly more audible than in the Astra at higher speeds, but the levels of refinement are still more than good enough. If there’s one area in which the Focus is starting to show its age, it’s the powertrain. The 1.0-litre 38 10 August 2022

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals www.autoexpress.co.uk 10 August 2022 39

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals EcoBoost engine is the smallest here, which means � that before the turbo chimes in, it feels a little lethargic. If you want to pull out of a junction, you � will need to set a few more revs than you might � initially think is acceptable – if you don’t, it’ll crawl away from the line and eventually surge forward when the boost arrives. The three-cylinder motor also transmits more vibration into the cabin than either of its rivals here. At least the six-speed manual gearbox is slick in its operation. Practicality 4sco.r1e FORD’S trump card here is its rear passenger room. In this company, it’s the most spacious choice; even taller adults won’t have much to grumble about in the back. It’s also the best for a third passenger because the centre hump in the floor is low, so obstructs feet the least, and the middle seat is the softest here. The job of installing a child seat is also made easiest in the Focus, thanks to it having the largest rear doors and all that space. The Isofix brackets are also really easy to get to behind removable plastic covers. The Golf’s fixing points are great, too – they’re covered by hinged plastic doors – but the Astra’s are behind small zips, so they are much more fiddly to reach than the others here. The Ford’s boot lacks the twin-level floor of its rivals, but like the other two, it comes with a Interior couple of bag hooks, and a ski hatch for carrying longer items while allowing a pair of passengers Cheap plastics to continue using the outer two rear seats. make the Focus feel the least Ownership 3sco.r9e impressive for quality, while the NONE of these three manufacturers layout lacks any covered themselves in glory in our latest sort of flair Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, with Ford faring the worst of the three. Of the Boot space 29 included brands, Ford took a disappointing 25th overall; Volkswagen and Vauxhall weren’t Ford’s is the too far ahead, taking 18th and 19th respectively. smallest here Vauxhall owners experienced the fewest faults of with the seats up those three, with 16 per cent reporting an issue but the largest of any sort, compared with 19 per cent of VW with them drivers and 21 per cent of Ford’s customers. folded; there’s no adjustable floor Running costs 3sco.r9e COMPANY car users will swing towards plug-in hybrid or fully electric models because of the tax benefits they bring. Unfortunately, Ford doesn’t offer a model with a plug in this class – PHEV versions of the Astra and Golf present more tempting solutions. Of these specific models, there is little to separate the trio on Benefit in Kind; all sit in the 29 per cent category and a standard-rate taxpayer will face annual deductions of £1,564 (Vauxhall), £1,549 (Ford) and £1,596 (VW). Testers’ notes “Despite the facelift, we can’t help but think that the Focus looks a little bland in this company, especially compared with the razor-sharp Astra.” Alex Ingram Chief reviewer 40 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals THROUGH THE RANGE Which trim level might suit you? PRODUCTION bottlenecks with the Focus All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press mean Ford isn’t currently taking any new orders. However, there are plenty of lease deals available on the facelifted car. Titanium, ST-Line and the jacked-up Active model all have standard and Vignale model lines, while the Trend kicks off the range. The standard Titanium gets 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, dual zone climate control, parking sensors all round, plus the fabulous 13.2-inch infotainment system with a B&O sound system. A three- year lease on matching terms to the Astra comes to £395 per month. The Titanium Vignale adds rear privacy glass, an electric driver’s seat, plus heated front seats and steering wheel, for £436 per month. The ST-Line model comes with a sportier bodykit and striking 17-inch alloy wheels, and is available with competitive lease rates; the best we found was £294 per month. The ST-Line Vignale is also keenly priced, coming in at £352 per month. Our choice: ST-Line NEXT CAR Titanium Vignale trim brings heated seats; the driver’s can be adjusted electrically Practicality Reprofiled tail-lights and new paint colours help to keep Focus’s styling looking fresh Three rear passengers will be happiest in the Focus, while it’s the best car here for child- seat installation Six-speed manual gearbox is one of the best you’ll find in the family car sector 10 August 2022 41

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals MODEL TESTED: Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 130 Style Detail PRICE: £27,765 ENGINE: 1.5-litre 4cyl, 128bhp Mk8 Golf gained slimmer lights front and rear; Style trim has IN terms of trim level, Style is the Golf model smart 17-inch that most closely matches the Astra and the alloy wheels Focus. The model pictured is a 1.5 TSI with a DSG auto gearbox; we’re comparing it here as a manual, Running costs eDnegsiingnee&ring 824LWHEN Volkswagen introduced the which at £27,765, is the priciest car on test. 44.3mpg (on test) £94 fill-up/£165 or 29% tax 4sco.r1e Mk8 Golf back in 2019, it had big shoes Practicality to fill. Its predecessor was a car with very few flaws, so how could the latest version improve? Boot (seats up/down) VW’s solution was to introduce new tech; more 381/1,237 litres safety systems, updated powertrains and a new cabin infotainment system all graced the new car. New doesn’t necessarily mean better, of course. While the new exterior styling, which brought in sharper headlights on a lower nose, is largely Performance successful, we’re far from convinced about the new cabin ergonomics. Two touch panels – one 0-62mph/top speed to the right of the driver for lighting controls; 9.2 seconds/133mph another in the centre of the dash for key comfort and infotainment shortcuts – leave the driver environment looking much clearer and uncluttered, but are a little fiddly to use. Worst of all are the temperature and volume controls, which are operated by sliding or tapping your finger across a touch-sensitive panel, placed right where you’d choose to steady your hand when using the infotainment set-up. Compared with the old Golf, which was almost flawless ergonomically, it’s a big step back and hard enough to use when you’re at a standstill, let alone on the move. It’s also the most frustrating set-up of this trio. On the plus side, the Volkswagen’s driving position is excellent and there’s a wide range of adjustment in both the seat and the steering wheel. Under the skin, the specs show some promise. The trusty 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is the only four-cylinder car in this company, and its peak Driving 4.1WHERE the Ford is the default 824Lchoice for the keener driver, the torque of 200Nm is 30Nm more than its rivals’. Volkswagen Golf score Now in its eighth generation, the motoring icon combines classy Volkswagen instead aims to lead the looks and practicality while focusing on a comfortable drive way for comfort and refinement. In terms of ride quality, it takes the lead in this trio. On the 17-inch wheels fitted to this test car, it does an impressive job of soaking up rougher road surfaces. Despite the compliant suspension, the Golf Performance also delivers excellent high speed stability. On a The 1.5 turbo motorway, there’s very little adjustment needed petrol is smooth to keep it pointing straight, and it feels the most and refined, but sure-footed of this trio. the Astra and There are areas where it lags behind the other two, Focus are more though. Even though the Golf’s steering is fairly fun to drive precise, the Ford’s is sharper and more positive still. There’s little to separate the Volkswagen and the Vauxhall for ride comfort, but the Astra feels more fun to drive. The Golf’s light steering is great around town, though, and it is very precise. It’s hard to fault the Volkswagen’s engine either. The turbocharged 1.5-litre unit is the smoothest here, and delivers its performance in a more linear way than the Astra’s, and with less noise and vibration making its way into the cabin than the Ford’s. The 42 10 August 2022

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ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals manual gearbox is easy to use and has a more � satisfying shift than the Vauxhall’s. � Practicality 4sco.r0e � IN terms of both passenger and boot space, the Golf draws a neat balance between its two competitors. It sits just ahead of the Astra but behind the Focus for rear-seat occupants, while its 381-litre boot just pips the Ford at 375 litres, but loses to the Vauxhall, at 422 litres. Fold the back seats down and the advantage switches in favour of the Ford. Its 1,354 litres in two-seat mode just pips the Astra (1,339 litres) while the Golf falls some margin behind, at 1,237 litres. Many of the Golf’s cubbies are well thought out. The mobile phone charging cubby is angled forward so your device won’t fall out while driving, while the glovebox is large and well shaped. The centre bin between the seats is smaller than the Astra’s, though, and the only thing we can think of that fits neatly in the small slots beside the gear selector is the key. None of these cars get very smart features like 12-volt sockets in the boot, but the Golf’s tethering hooks allow you to tie down more valuable items. In its raised position, the false floor leaves only the smallest of loading lips to overcome, and a level load space through when the back seats are folded down. Ownership 3sco.r9e Interior ALL three of these cars are the same Many of the when it comes to warranty cover: each Golf’s controls, comes with three years and 60,000 miles including those for (whichever comes first) of protection. The same the temperature, applies to breakdown cover; buyers of all three get rely on touch- one year of roadside assistance from the moment sensitive panels they drive the car off the forecourt. The Golf is fairly well stocked for safety kit, but Boot space we think that, for something so important, it’s a little bemusing to see that side airbags for rear It’s easier to slide occupants are a £360 optional extra. As with the objects in with Focus, a reversing camera is an extra, at £315. The the boot floor Astra’s 360-degree camera is standard. raised – and it provides a level Running costs 4sco.r0e surface with the seats down RELATIVELY small, turbocharged petrol engines used in the right way can often return impressive fuel consumption, and here it’s the Astra which proved to be the most frugal, returning 47.0mpg. The Focus and the Golf proved to be closely matched, achieving 44.6 and 44.3mpg respectively. Cover 20,000 miles at current fuel prices, and that means a cost of £3,627 for the Astra, £3,822 for the Focus, and £3,848 for the Golf. The Astra looks like competitive value when it comes to key features in the equipment list. Reversing cameras are £315 and £500 extras for the VW and Ford, for example, while a full 360-degree system is standard on the Vauxhall. Testers’ notes “The light-coloured fabric in this model really lifts the atmosphere of the Golf’s cabin, but if you have a young family we’d suggest an in-car food ban.” Alex Ingram Chief reviewer 44 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press THROUGH THE RANGE Which trim level might suit you? LIKE the Astra, the Golf is available in three trim levels. The range kicks off with Life, which as standard gets 16-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control and an ambient lighting system with 10 colours to choose from. Above that sits the Style model, with more advanced LED lights and the wheels grow by one inch, while inside there’s three-zone climate control, velour upholstery and 30-colour ambient lighting to suit your mood. The range is topped by R-Line. Here, there are sporty exterior add-ons such as unique 17-inch wheels, rear privacy glass and a bodykit. The cabin gets sports seats up front, plus adjustable drive modes. On similar lease terms to the Astra and the Focus, the entry-level model is more expensive than the Vauxhall, but the top level model is cheaper. Expect to pay £298 per month for the Life, £350 for the Style but just £307 per month for the R-Line. Our choice: R-Line INFOTAINMENT, FIGURES & VERDICT Seats with Style trim are comfortable and supportive, and look good in this shade Practicality Expect average fuel economy to work out around 45mpg if you use a mixture of roads Two adults will be happy here, although a third will have to negotiate the centre console, which juts out Auto ’box is a £1,920 option; the standard manual is nicer to use than the Astra’s 10 August 2022 45

ROAD TESTS Vauxhall Astra vs rivals InfotainmentVauxhall 86L4 88L4 824LAstra Which multimedia system is best for music, sat-nav & connectivity? 4sco.r3e Ford 4sco.r4e Volkswagen 4sco.r1e Focus Golf PureConnect Multimedia SYNC 4 Discover Navigation Pro Key features: Digital instrument panel Key features: Over-the-air updates Key features: Wireless smartphone charging BEFORE we fully assess Vauxhall’s infotainment system, INFOTAINMENT has generally been an area where FROM a features viewpoint, the VW is well catered for. it’s worth pointing out that while launch versions of the previous versions of the Focus have merely managed to Wireless smartphone charging is standard and this, Astra will feature the PureConnect infotainment system scrape by beside its rivals. But the new SYNC 4 set-up is combined with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android tested here, from 2023 GS Line and Ultimate trims will one of the very best in this class. The 13.2-inch screen is Auto, means you can leave your cables behind. USB-C get a larger and upgraded system. The basic function and the largest here, and the fonts and graphics are simple, ports are present if you prefer to tether up. menu layouts are largely the same, however. clear and consistent. Loading times are excellent. Routes boot up more quickly here than in the competition, We’re also fans of the digital instrument panel. The The Astra’s home screen is split into three main pages, although the Golf is also very speedy in this area. graphics are crisp, the information is presented clearly, which can be accessed by swiping on the display; there are and it’s possible to customise how that info is shown music and temperature settings on the first, navigation We often complain about on-screen climate controls, with a choice of several different layouts. Loading and on the second, and two rows of tile icons for apps on the yet the Ford’s arrangement lets you make little changes response times are quick; they’re not quite as impressive third. The loading times are the slowest of this trio; it through a permanent bar along the lower edge of the as the Focus’s, but better than the Astra’s. takes longer to process a navigation route than in the display and is among the easiest to use of its type. The other two. The digital dials aren’t as neatly resolved here car in these images isn’t fitted with digital dials, but Yet the Golf’s set-up can often be ergonomically as in the other two cars, either. It’s a big display that’s the Titanium Vignale has a 12.3-inch screen. It rivals the frustrating. The climate controls are adjusted on screen; mostly wasted; everything but the speed readout is Golf for clarity, although the VW and the Vauxhall offer while they’re a permanent fixture on the Ford’s display, small, leaving wide black spaces everywhere else. more customisation for displaying information. they’re buried in a sub-menu here. Once you reach them, the menus seem far more fiddly than they need to be. Display The Astra’s graphics look sharp Touchscreen Ford’s display looks great, Panel First impressions of the touchscreen – most clearly in the reversing camera, responds quickly and is simply laid out. The aren’t too bad. The menus are bright and which has great definition – and the mapping page is neat, too. Some might colourful, and the main menu tiles are large screen responds quickly to touches. find it just a little too large, though. and easy to use, but sub-menus are fiddly. FOR AND AGAINST FOR AND AGAINST FOR AND AGAINST Sharp graphics, screen Huge screen has sharp graphics, Great digital dials, responsive screen, responsive to touches rapid loading times, logical menus neat and colourful graphics Slow loading times, untidy home page, Touchscreen is pushing the limits of Fiddly climate controls, irritating touch- digital dials not employed to full potential what is an acceptable size in a car sensitive sliders, lack of physical switches 46 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk

ROAD TESTSVauxhall Astra vs rivals Figures Vauxhall Astra Ford Focus Volkswagen GS Line 1.0 EcoBoost 125 Golf 1.5 TSI 130 On the road price/total as tested 1.2 Turbo Titanium Vignale Style Residual value (after 3yrs/36,000) £27,210/£27,810 INSURANCE £26,950/£28,700 SERVICING £27,765/£28,450 DIMENSIONS Depreciation £13,251/48.7% THERE’S little £14,100/52.3% £14,274/51.4% GOLF’S interior Annual tax liability std/higher rate £13,959 to split our test £12,850 FORD’S service £13,491 and boot space £1,564/£3,128 trio through £1,549/£3,098 package is slightly £1,596/£3,192 are impressive Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles) £2,176/£3,627 our example £2,293/£3,822 cheaper than the £2,309/£3,848 considering that Insurance group/quote/VED 20/£640/£165 insurance 13/£616/£165 Golf’s over two 18/£608/£165 it’s the shortest Cost of 1st/2nd/3rd service £470 (2 years) premium, but £370 (2 years) years, and beats £386 (2 years) and narrowest Length/wheelbase 4,374/2,675mm the Astra is the Astra’s, too. 4,284/2,619mm car here. Height/width 1,432/1,860mm marginally the 1,491/1,789mm Engine 3cyl inline/1,199cc most expensive. 4,382/2,700mm TOWING 4cyl inline/1,498cc SPARE Peak power/revs 129/5,500 bhp/rpm 1,475/1,825mm 128/5,000 bhp/rpm FORD is the only Peak torque/revs 170/1,750 Nm/rpm TURNING CIRCLE 3cyl inline/999cc FOCUS has the 200/1,400 Nm/rpm car to get a spare Transmission 6-speed man/fwd ASTRA turns in a 123/6,000 bhp/rpm lowest towing limit 6-speed man/fwd wheel as standard, 52l/dealer-fit option tighter space than 170/1,400 Nm/rpm of this trio; the 50 litres/£105 although a space Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel 422/1,339 litres either of its rivals, 6-speed man/fwd Golf is the car 381/1,237 litres saver is a cheap Boot capacity (seats up/down) 1,371/509/1,200kg which helps when 52 litres/space saver to have for 1,306/496/1,400kg option for the VW. Kerbweight/payload/towing weight 10.5 metres you’re parking. 375/1,354 litres hauling loads. 10.9 metres 3 yrs (60,000)/1 yr 1,330/565/1,100kg 3 yrs (60,000)/1 yr Turning circle 19th/N/A 11.0 metres 18th/10th Basic warranty (miles)/recovery 80/82/67/66/4 (2022) 3 yrs (60,000)/1 yr 95/89/76/78/5 (2019) Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos. 25th/8th NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars 85/87/72/75/5 (2018) 0-62mph/top speed 9.7* secs/130mph 10.2 secs/124mph 9.2 secs/133mph MPG Test economy (mpg/mpl)/range 47.0/10.3/538 miles 44.6/9.8/510 miles 44.3†/9.7†/487 miles 48.7mpg 52.3mpg 51.4mpg DESPITE the WLTP combined 10.7mpl 11.5mpl 11.3mpl Golf’s superior WLTP combined 130/124g/km/29% 146/123g/km/29% 132/124g/km/29% performance, it Actual/Claimed CO2/tax bracket Yes/yes/f&r/360 Yes/yes/f&r/£500* runs the Focus Airbags/Isofix/parking sensors/cam. £1,500/yes/no/yes £1,890**/y/£400/y very close for Auto box/lane keep/blindspot/AEB Yes/adaptive Yes/yes economy. Climate control/cruise control No/yes Artificial/yes Leather/heated seats £600/yes CRUISE CONTROL £575/yes LEATHER Yes/yes/f&r/£315 Met paint/LED lights Yes/no Yes/no £1,920**/yes/yes/yes Keyless entry & go/powered tailgate Yes/yes AS with the Golf, Yes/yes FORD’S artificial Yes/adaptive Sat-nav/digital dash Yes/yes adaptive cruise Yes/yes leather does a No/yes DAB/connected services No control is fitted Yes reasonable job of £685/yes Wireless charging Yes/yes as standard. It’s Yes/yes impersonating the £425/no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto a cost extra on real thing. Unlike Yes/yes the Focus. the old Vignale, Yes/yes there’s no real Yes leather available. Yes/yes Results 1stVAUXHALL FORD 2nd 3rdVOLKSWAGEN ROAD TEST IN one of our closest tests AS an all-rounder, IN truth, all three of these in recent years, the Astra the Focus is a deeply cars make for an excellent VAAUSXTHRAALL and Focus tie on points. In the end, the impressive prospect. It’s still the best family hatchback. Even though the Vauxhall wins because it outscores the family hatchback to drive, it’s one of Golf takes third in this test, there’s AUG 2022 Ford in areas which suggest it’ll be a the most spacious inside and it’s much to like. It’s comfortable, better, cheaper car to live with. It relatively cheap to buy. The recent handsome, and has the best engine in impresses as an all-rounder; in 1.2-litre facelift means that Ford now has the terms of performance, refinement and petrol form and a with manual gearbox, best infotainment system in the class, economy. But its rivals have the edge it shows very few weaknesses. The too. However, the Astra scrapes ahead when it comes to handling, while the Astra has a larger, more versatile boot, courtesy of its more frugal petrol ergonomics are intensely frustrating, it’s a little more refined, and unlike the engine, and because the range overall and the Golf lacks the high-quality Ford, you can order one right now. has a stronger choice of powertrains. feel that was once a VW trademark. AEB = Autonomous Emergency Braking. *Part of Parking Pack. ** Also adds mild-hybrid system. †mpg for auto mild-hybrid. In red = equipment fitted to our test car. Insurance quotes from AA (Tel 0800 107 0680 or theAA.com) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data. Rivals Skoda Octavia SE L 1.5 TSI Toyota Corolla Icon Tech PRICE: £27,475 ENGINE: 1.5-litre 4cyl, 148bhp PRICE: £28,285 ENGINE: 1.8-litre 4cyl hybrid, 120bhp Other options in THE Octavia is a near-faultless family hatchback. In terms of WHILE you might expect the hybrid Corolla to be impressively this category... comfort and cabin quality it’s one frugal – and at up to 62.7mpg, it beats its of the very best, while no rival rivals here with ease – what is more comes close for passenger or of a surprise is that it’s great boot space. It’s great value for to drive, too. A recent update money, offering more power has also introduced a vastly than its rivals for similar cash. improved infotainment system. www.autoexpress.co.uk 10 August 2022 47

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OUR CARS Living with a Mazda CX-5 Mazda CX-5 Performance THIRD REPORT Our family SUV gets a clean bill of health at its first service 0-62mph/top speed 10.7 seconds/124mph Practicality Boot (seats up/down) 510/1,626 litres Pete Gibson on the dashboard, with a notification soon dealer, Westdrive in Braintree. It’s a turbodiesel engine and six-speed automatic after that advised me the car needed an oil family-owned Mazda and Kia dealership gearbox felt as fresh as the day the car arrived. [email protected] change. But the warning lamp I needed that I’ve used before; I ran a Sportage SUV to deal with first was the AdBlue top-up as a fleet car many moons ago now, plus a The powertrain is great and is quiet and I COVER so many miles travelling all request, which was already glowing at me. Mazda 3 a few years back. refined around 90 per cent of the time; on over the country to take pictures for the motorway the gruff diesel growl that the magazine and Autoexpress.co.uk that in I decided to sort the AdBlue myself, I was impressed with the service then, comes through to the cabin under hard barely more than four months, my Mazda because a main dealer often charges an and the same is true today. Having booked acceleration melts away and the grunty CX-5 is already in need of a service. extortionate amount for a one-litre bottle, in the CX-5, I received a courtesy call the day four-cylinder unit settles down to a refined It’s covered 13,673 miles – not all of them whereas I bought a five-litre container for before from senior service advisor Mark and efficient cruise. I’m averaging around with me behind the wheel, admittedly – but I £16.99 at a petrol station. That filled the car’s Burleton, checking that everything was 45mpg, which I think is fair given that the knew it was time for a routine maintenance tank to 80 per cent, which should be enough okay. By the time I handed the car over to car is always loaded up with my work gear. check when the Mazda recently won for the rest of my time with the CX-5. him for the service, the CX-5’s odometer warning light bingo. At roughly 11,800 had ticked over to 13,673 miles. So while it But back to the service. Everything was miles the ‘service due’ reminder popped up Once that was dealt with, I could book was over its scheduled interval, the 2.2-litre carried out with no issues and the Mazda the car in for its routine checks at my local received a solid bill of health. It cost £189.83, 50 10 August 2022 www.autoexpress.co.uk