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CONTENTS Newsweek COVER Early verdict on Toyota’s first full EV 8 News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport bZ4X isn’t cheap, but it’s a statement of intent from its maker COVER MG lines up new all-electric hatch 12 Striking MG4 is expected later this year, at around £26k Morgan reveals revamped three-wheeler 14 Unique roadster gets Ford power and modern tweaks ‘Government must enforce accessibility’ 16 Boss of one of the UK’s top charging networks speaks out Mercedes-AMG GT targets 911 18 Flagship sports car goes hardcore to take on Porsche’s finest Features 20 Can Extreme E really save the planet? 32 In-depth look at the sustainable off-road race series ‘Mr Jaguar Land Rover’ signs off We join firm’s top tester Mike Cross for a farewell spin 109 new cars COVER Brilliant cars for 2022 and beyond 35 Be prepared with info on all of the key forthcoming models 8 On the road in Toyota’s first full EV 109 New cars 24 12 Inside line on MG’s electric hatch COVER DS 9 E-Tense 4x4 360 NBREIWLLCIAANRTS Flagship brings power, pace and luxury – but at a price COVER Ford Mustang Mach-E GT 26 Be prepared with key details and Fastest version of electric SUV driven on British roads exclusive images of all the major Citroen C4 PureTech 155 Shine Plus 28 forthcoming models – page 35 Range-topper offers extra power, but still focuses on comfort Audi S8 30 Revamped model is final flourish for twin-turbo V8 limo Road tests 68 COVER Lexus NX 450h+ vs Audi Q5 TFSI e 82 84 Japanese brand’s first PHEV meets talented German rival Our cars: Fiat 500 Rising prices means EV city car is a little less of a bargain Our cars: Citroen C4 & e-Berlingo A week in family hatch precedes electric MPV’s arrival Products 87 Hot kit 88 24 First taste of rapid flagship DS saloon 89 McLaren launches new clothing in time for 2022 F1 season 90 26 UK verdict on faster Mustang Mach-E 20 Extreme E’s race to save the planet 68 Plug-in Lexus NX faces Audi Q5 New on the shelves Lego widens its popular range of Speed Champions kits Dash cams mini test Vantrue and Ring newcomers face Kenwood test champ Online tyre retailers We rate 10 of the top web-based rubber suppliers Buying cars 95 Your verdict on the Ford Puma 96 100 Owners really rate small SUV’s ride and handling 104 COVER Buyer’s guide: BMW 5 Series Latest-gen exec saloon is a stellar choice, from £16k COVER Plug-in hybrid estates: Kia vs VW Second-hand Optima faces big-booted Passat New car prices All the info you need before you head to the showroom Regulars Get Auto Express delivered every week 66 How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine Sport 113 McLaren and Ferrari quick out of the blocks in F1 testing Back chat 114 Mike Rutherford on how to avoid price hikes for motorists Special Issue 5
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THISWEEK Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news Editor-in-chief: Steve Fowler Switch to EVs will change Deputy editor: John McIlroy how we buy our cars 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 Chief columnist: Mike Rutherford Consumer DCOETNATIALSCT Consumer and features editor: Chris Rosamond Deputy consumer and features editor: Tristan Shale-Hester Products Products editor: Kim Adams Production facebook.com/autoexpress Managing editor: Stuart Morton @AutoExpress youtube.com/autoexpress Chief sub-editor: Andy Pringle Sub-editor: Paul Alton News James_Brodie@autovia.co.uk Consumer & Products Tristan_Shale-Hester @autovia.co.uk Deputy executive editor: Simon Reynolds Digital Tests Alex_Ingram@autovia.co.uk Group website editor: Steve Walker Subscriptions 0330 333 9491 Web producer: Pete Baiden E-mailfirstname_lastname@autovia.co.uk Online reviews editor: Paul Adam Content editor: Alastair Crooks ANOTHER week, another new entry into the FOISRSSIUJXUESST electric-car market. And this time it’s a biggie: £1SPECIAL OFFER Get all the Carbuyer & DrivingElectric editor: Richard Ingram Toyota, the leading light of hybrid electrification over Carbuyer deputy online editor: Ben Hodges the past 20 years, has finally ditched the combustion motoring news delivered engine altogether for the first of its bZ EV line-up. EVERY WEEK for less... Carbuyer content editors: Ben Custard, Tom Jervis We’ll leave you to read Sean Carson’s full verdict on DrivingElectric managing editor: Stephen Errity a late prototype of the bZ4X in this week’s Top Story – Subscribe to Auto Express today DrivingElectric content editor: Ellis Hyde but one interesting aspect to take from the review is and get six issues for just £1, plus Central content team that Toyota is trying to use this car to shake up its retail a free STP Complete Fuel System Senior content editor: Andy Goodwin, model. Fact is, a four-wheel-drive version of this car Cleaner worth £14.99. This is is going to have a list price of more than £48,000 – designed to clean and protect the Content editors: Shane Wilkinson, Harry Waring, Charlie Harvey which is quite a lot for a five-seat family SUV. fuel system for lower emissions Design & Pictures However, Toyota is aiming to make this figure and restored performance. If you irrelevant for many private customers by rolling out the continue to subscribe, you’ll pay Creative director: Darren Wilson bZ4X on a lease deal that makes the more conventional just £26.99 every three months – Senior designer: Victoria Coquet PCP finance scheme look a bit pricey. We wouldn’t say the 43 per cent off the shop price. ‘Kinto’ arrangement is particularly cheap, with a deposit Picture editor: Dawn Grant of more than £3,500 and monthly payments of over Visit autoexpress.co.uk/subscribe Senior photographer: Pete Gibson £600. But then, it does include servicing, installation of a home charger and a period of access to Toyota’s to subscribe, and enter the code D1718 Special Contributors ‘single-card’ public charging network – while costing Steve Sutcliffe, Vicki Butler-Henderson, less every month than the regular PCP. or call 0330 333 9491 Dr Andy Palmer, Andreas Conradt, Euan Doig, We’ve seen others experimenting with ‘all-in’ lease arrangements before – some firms are using their all- Sixissues for £1 Every 13 issues: £26.99 Sarah Bradley, Rob Keenan, Otis Clay electric models to play with moving the whole process Sixmonths: £53.99 Annualsubscription: £105.99 Advertising & Promotions online – but it seems quite significant that Toyota, one Europe:£130 Restofworld:£200 of the most mainstream of brands, has chosen now to Client sales managers: Pierre Clements, Neale Salt really push the idea (and through its showrooms, some Subs E-mail subscriptions@autoexpress.co.uk Account managers: Demi Meredith, Miles Taylor of which will feature ‘bZ hub’ areas devoted to the EVs). Commercial publisher: Sarah Perks As the transition to electric motoring continues to Online subscriber service Change your address and renew your Senior operations manager: Kerry Lambird accelerate, manufacturers are going to have to use lots subscription at www.managemymags.co.uk Senior production manager: Dan Stark of tricks (or let’s call them novel approaches) to bring Digital brand director: Amrit Baidwan the buying process and ownership experience closer to Tell us about your car for a chance Publisher: Holly Jerram as many customers as possible. We’ll see dozens of EVs to win £100 of Amazon vouchers Publishing manager: Sophie Valentine Marketing manager: Luke Tutt unveiled in the months ahead; The UK’s number one car ownership survey, Driver Power, Head of PR and communications: Karen Parry we may also see a varied wants to hear from you. Our survey is simpler to use than ever line-up of ways of getting and covers new and used cars, plus petrol, diesel, hybrid and Autovia Limited them onto our driveways. electric models, as well as a range of motoring issues. CEO Autovia Media: Nicola Bates ● What do you love and loathe about your car? ● How good Chief financial officer: Benedict Smith JDOeHpNutMy CEIdLiRtoOrY are the dealers? ● Would you recommend your car to a friend? Autovia Group CEO: Andy Oldham CONTENT SYNDICATION SALES John_McIlroy@autovia.co.uk To have your say, scan the QR code above or go to Our content is available for syndication. @ johnmcilroy E-mail nicole_creasey@autovia.co.uk or www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power 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. 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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 MISS AN 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 Special Issue 7
TOPSTORY Essentials Visit autoexpress.co.uk for your daily news updates Toyota bZ4XAWD Price: £48,350 ● First EV from Toyota in new series of ‘bZ’ electric vehicles Battery/motor: 71.4kWh/2x e-motor ● One battery and two motor options; more than 280 miles of range Power/torque: 215bhp/336Nm Transmission: Single-speed automatic, Sean Carson stronger for the four-wheel-drive model, front-wheel drive with Toyota claiming 6.9 seconds for the 0-62mph: 6.9 seconds sean_carson@autovia.co.uk benchmark sprint. It’s worth pointing out Top speed: 100mph that at this stage all figures are still Range/charging: >280 miles (est)/ TOYOTA has decades of experience provisional, but they’re not likely to when it comes to electrification, which change much between now and the 150kW DC (0-80% in <30mins) makes it all the more unusual that it’s only car being fully homologated. just launching its first full EV, the bZ4X SUV. ONSALE Now Of course, the Japanese brand says it’s Rapid charging capability stands at not late to the party, citing early-adopter 150kW, which means an 80-per cent top-up CHARGING With rapid 150kW manufacturers and that it, as a mainstream takes less than 30 minutes, but like the rest brand, is arriving in this sector at the right of the bZ4X’s vital stats, this is only average DC capability, the bZ4X can replenish time and with the right product. for the class rather than setting new its battery to 80 per cent in less than It’s the first in a series of seven bZ-badged standards. And that’s how the bZ4X feels in 30 minutes. A real-world range of models (five of which are confirmed for general from our first taste – like it has been more than 280 miles is promised Europe), the initials standing for ‘beyond benchmarked against its rivals to deliver Zero’, Toyota’s commitment to reduce its competitive but not class-leading ability FIRST DRIVE carbon footprint – not just with the cars it in the key areas an EV needs to. sells, but also with how it manufactures them. INTERIOR The bZ4X is targeting the heart of the This is still a positive in some ways, EV market, because it’s a mid-size family though, because Toyota has long been Cabin features SUV, so it rivals the Skoda Enyaq iV, the explicit about actually living up to the next-generation Volkswagen ID.4, the Ford Mustang Mach-E numbers it quotes, rather than just offering touchscreen and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 crossover. unachievable headline stats. Plus the infotainment It’s based on Toyota’s new e-TNGA platform, platform underneath the car’s squared-off system, which and a 71.4kWh battery is installed in the frame is an impressive piece of engineering. is better. But floor, giving it some extra rigidity. It feeds the interior either a single 201bhp motor driving the On the move the bZ4X doesn’t feel that looks drab front wheels, or a pair of electric drive units fast like some four-wheel-drive EVs, with offering a total of 215bhp and four-wheel acceptable, sustained acceleration up to drive; it’s the latter model we’re testing here motorway speeds. But it is incredibly in camouflaged late-stage prototype guise. smooth, delivering Lexus-like refinement, Final figures have yet to be homologated, bar for a very mild wind whistle from around but Toyota claims that every bZ4X variant the doors in this prototype. We’re confident will offer more than 280 miles of range. The traits like this will be eradicated by the front-wheel-drive car will accelerate from time the car makes production. 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds, while the time is Sitting on 20-inch alloy wheels even over broken Spanish surfaces and some off-road gravel-track driving, the bZ4X rides sweetly, 8 Special Issue
ToyotabZ4X TOPSTORY Avarvarii iDsRaIVsEtaNteNmewenTtooyfoitnatebnZt4X FIRST VERDICT Company’s first EV shows huge promise for the Japanese giant’s electrified future RIDE Our AWD test car featured Special Issue 9 20-inch alloy wheels, but the ride was respectable, while the bZ4X’s motor refinement was impressive, too www.autoexpress.co.uk
TOPSTORY ToyotabZ4X LOOKING FOR A GREAT DEAL ON A NEW TOYOTA bZ4X? Scan the QR code, enter your details, and a Toyota dealer will be in touch. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TOYOTA smoothing out bumps with help from its ENGINEERING Under the bonnet the TECH sophisticated multi-link rear suspension layout that allows for four-wheel drive. bZ4X’s electrical engineering is on full Black strip between show. Not fitting a storage tray feels like headlights houses It’s comfortable, but this doesn’t come a missed opportunity to boost practicality sensors for new at the expense of good handling. Because programmes giving an extra strand of T-Mate safety systems despite the circa-2,000kg kerbweight, the versatility means it’s a strong step on. steering is positive (a steer-by-wire system “The bZ4X doesn’t feel as fast as some EVs, but it is will come later) and the bZ4X doesn’t roll It’s a shame the digital dash isn’t quite as incredibly smooth, delivering Lexus-like refinement” too much. This two-fold gain contributes impressive, but there is plenty of kit on offer, to comfort and dynamics. including Toyota’s new T-Mate safety system. This includes a camera and radar sensor However, even with the car’s higher brake integrated into the black strip between the regeneration mode engaged, the retardation car’s headlights, bringing AEB with collision from the pair of electric motors is still not warning and cross-traffic alert – tech that strong enough for one-pedal driving, which picks up cars approaching at an intersection is rapidly becoming a must for any EV. This and a system to warn of cars and bikes so capability further adds to the relaxing feel of you don’t open a door on them. an electric SUV in our book, so it’s a shame you have to use the bZ4X’s brake pedal Space in the front of the car is fair, and more than you might imagine instead of just forward visibility is good; room in the rear is modulating the throttle to adjust your speed. also acceptable, although it’s far from the most spacious machine in the class. Inside, we’ll put some of the more plasticky finishes down to the stage of this car’s build, But Toyota might have a trick up its sleeve but the interior did feel a little drab. Storage here to give the bZ4X a USP. The brand is is fine, with a central area between the front focusing heavily on lease deals for its new occupants and a cubby below this, but the EV, offering a service that can, if you choose, bZ4X doesn’t feature a glovebox, which bundle everything into one monthly could be an oversight. Neither does it feature payment to reduce complexity. a ‘frunk’ in the nose to store charging cables, so they’ll have to sit in the 452-litre boot. Called Kinto One, the offer includes servicing and is £611 per month for the bZ4X The bigger positive inside is the next Motion, based on a three-year deal with generation of Toyota’s infotainment. It’s an £3,662 initial rental. All bZ4X owners benefit area where the brand has really struggled from a home wallbox, six months’ free access in recent years, but a slicker 12-inch to Toyota’s charging network and three years’ touchscreen with sharper graphics, more roadside assistance. The same car on a PCP processing power for faster responses costs £670 per month with a £3,662 deposit, and the latest smartphone connectivity but servicing is £12 per month extra. 10 Special Issue
ToyotabZ4X TOPSTORY Key rivals Toyota has to topple Verdict Ford Mustang Mach-E OUR early taste of Toyota’s first THE Mach-E is a great EV, offering sporty dynamics and EV shows that it’s a solid electric SUV some impressive in-car technology. Having been on boasting range claims that should be sale for a little more than a year now, there are more achievable, and a relaxed and refined variants in the line-up – including Standard Range, driving experience. It doesn’t push Long Range and a sporty GT version (driven on p26). the boundaries of what’s possible in this class in any one area, but it FOR Fast and fun, tech, range of battery options delivers more than adequate charging AGAINST Quality could be higher, not the comfiest capability and practicality, while the new infotainment is a big step Verdict:The driver’s electric SUV on. It bodes well for the brand’s future all-electric bZ models. Hyundai Ioniq 5 www.autoexpress.co.uk AS the reigning Auto Express Car of the Year, the Ioniq 5 is a superb machine that offers a genuinely premium feel, plenty of practicality and impressive range and charging capability. It’s a brilliant all-rounder that’s kickstarted Hyundai’s Ioniq EV push to great effect. FOR Range, charging tech and refinement are great AGAINST Car’s size, boot could be a more useful shape Verdict: Ourcurrent CaroftheYear NissanAriya THE sleek Ariya crossover boasts two battery sizes, and for a similar budget to the entry-level bZ4X, you can get an Ariya that offers 223 miles of range. However, the larger 90kWh model offers up to 310 miles, eclipsing the Toyota. All-wheel drive is also available. FOR Styling, two battery options for extra choice AGAINST Charging not as strong as bZ4X’s Verdict: Sleek electric SUV Skoda Enyaq iV DESPITE Skoda’s reputation for pragmatic cars, the Enyaq iV boasts a beautiful interior with plenty of tech, so quality feels good. There’s also a choice of battery sizes, while four-wheel drive is offered. A Coupé model has recently joined the range, as well as a sporty vRS. FOR Plenty of choice, lovely interior, practicality AGAINST Charging rates could be better Verdict:An appealing all-rounder Volkswagen ID.4 USING the same MEB platform as the Enyaq iV, Volkswagen’s ID.4 SUV is a bit more drab. The infotainment is a frustration, but it has at least allowed updates to cars to improve charging capability. The ID.4 is quiet and refined though, and there’s a sporty GTX. FOR Space and usability, refinement AGAINST Frustrating infotainment Verdict: Stylish, but lacks substance Special Issue 11
NEWS New MG4 nMeGwcehlaercgterisc ahhaetcahd with ● All-electric family car is expected to be called MG4 ● Full production model will be revealed late this year TEASERS MG is yet to show the full car, but our exclusive images show how the MG4 could look when it goes into production James Brodie ● Could share EV tech with recently updated MG5 estate and ZS EV (usable) battery for a 250-mile range, ● Expected to cost less than ZS EV; starting price of £26,000 possible combined with 100kW rapid-charging tech. James_Brodie@autovia.co.uk @JPBrods previewed in our exclusive images, is in brand’s budget electric SUV. MG has just Although MG’s inconsistent approach to contrast to the brand’s big-grille design given the ZS EV a major update, including battery technology across its electric-vehicle MG will expand its range in the UK language used at present. new batteries, and there’s a fresh Long portfolio makes it difficult to pin down what later this year and has teased a new Range version of the car using a 73kWh will power the MG4, the carry-over of electric all-electric model, which the brand says Instead, we expect that the MG4 will battery capable of 273 miles on a single motor tech from the ZS EV and the 5 should it will reveal towards the end of 2022. adopt more typical EV design elements. charge, according to WLTP certification. be straightforward, using a front-axle- Although there’s no official confirmation, The teasers reveal side skirts with chunky mounted e-motor with an output of 154bhp. data on the brand’s UK website suggests black plastic cladding, suggesting that the A standard-battery version employs a the vehicle will be called the MG4. Alongside new MG will be an elevated hatchback 51kWh pack for a 198-mile range, although MG says that the new car has been the teaser images (above) this suggests that along the lines of the Volkswagen ID.3 in the smaller, lower-riding MG4 this would “developed with the UK consumer in mind.” it will be a larger family hatchback compared and the new Renault Mégane E-Tech probably be able to take the car beyond the Although the brand’s strategy means that with the brand’s MG3 supermini. MG has Electric, rather than a lower-riding, more 200-mile mark. Sitting above the MG4 in the electric models such as the Marvel R SUV already confirmed the size of the vehicle, conventional family hatchback, as is the firm’s line-up will remain the MG5 estate, are available in Europe, but not here, the at 4.3 metres long, putting the MG4 into case with Peugeot’s all-electric e-308. recently updated with a new 57.7kWh MG4 will almost certainly be offered in both competition with family hatchbacks such the UK and continental Europe. as the Volkswagen Golf. And given the all- At the rear, meanwhile, a new full-width “Given the all-electric electric powertrain, the MG4 will be a rival LED tail-light bar curls around the tailgate, powertrain, the MG4 will Further details will be provided closer for cars such as the Volkswagen ID.3, Citroen similar to the design used on the Kia EV6. be a budget rival for cars to the car’s unveiling, which will take place e-C4 and upcoming Peugeot e-308, albeit like the Volkswagen ID.3” towards the end of the year. However, given with a more budget-friendly ethos. No technical specifications have been MG’s focus on affordability, we expect it Leaked patent images from China could alluded to, but the MG4’s dimensions will be much cheaper than its rivals. If the point the way to the design of the car. The overlap with the ZS’s, so it’s possible that MG4 is to sit below the ZS in terms of cost, a totally modernised look, which we’ve the new car will share the same platform, starting price around £26,000 for a potential battery and electric motor technology as the standard-battery version seems likely. 12 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEWSNew MG4 EXCLUSIVE IMAGES “The totally modernised look is in complete contrast to the brand’s big- grille design language used at present” Avarvarii STYLING Rear end is dominated by LED light bar that runs across tailgate Special Issue 13
NEWS Morgan Super 3 Ford power for Morgan’s n Yousuf Ashraf OFFICIAL the Super 3 a 0-62mph time of around seven seconds and a top speed of 130mph. Yousuf_Ashraf@autovia.co.uk BASICS Although the new car is slightly heavier than @ashrafoncars the previous model, it can still return up to Pared-back bodywork 40mpg, according to Morgan. MORGAN is bringing its iconic covers new Super 3’s 3 Wheeler into the modern age running gear The firm has tuned the engine to make it with the new Super 3, which is on of the dashboard, and creature comforts more characterful, and promises a buzzing sale now, priced from £41,995. include a footwell heater, and an optional three-cylinder rasp. The motor is joined by The last 3 Wheeler was characterised Beeline smartphone-linked nav system a five-speed gearbox from the Mazda MX-5, by its snorting V-twin motorcycle engine, with a small screen behind the wheel. The which is also used in the outgoing model. but Morgan has adopted a 1.5-litre three- steering wheel and pedals are adjustable. cylinder unit from Ford for the Super 3, Morgan claims that the new monocoque “Morgan has tuned the requiring a ground-up redesign. design – with parts of the structure made Ford engine to make it The new car has smoother surfacing from superformed aluminium – allows a sound more characterful” and aerodynamically optimised 20-inch lighter and more rigid chassis construction, wheels, while the Ford unit has necessitated plus improved safety and cabin space. the fitment of radiators on either side of At the front, pullrod suspension and a the body. The designers have embraced set of lengthened wishbones have been these as features, by fitting large ‘blades’ fitted to improve ride and handling. The to house them, which can also be used rear wheel is suspended by twin trailing for mounting luggage racks. arms with two spring and damper units. Instead of the 3 Wheeler’s large side- The engine sends 118bhp and 150Nm mounted exhaust, the Super 3 has a to the rear wheel using a belt drive, giving neater ‘exhaust cannon’ exiting the rear of the body. A new windscreen to reduce buffeting at speed is optional. As with the previous model, the Super 3’s exposed interior is as much a part of the exterior. Digital instruments sit in the middle Updates boost appeal of electric Leaf hatch WITH new competition arriving all the time, cruise control, lane assist and traffic jam OFFICIAL Nissan has given its all-electric Leaf family assist. The semi-autonomous tech aims to hatchback a refresh for 2022, adding new make driving on motorways and around paint options, wheel designs and, in time, towns less tiring, by maintaining a safe Amazon Alexa integration. distance from the car in front. Chief among the visual changes are new The second-generation car’s clever 16 or 17-inch black alloys with Nissan’s e-Pedal tech is another key feature, using latest logo on the centre caps. Buyers have regenerative braking to give the driver the a choice of two new colours, Pearl Blue and ability to control the Leaf’s speed using Magnetic Blue, which were previously only just the accelerator pedal, along with available on the Qashqai SUV. full one-pedal driving capability. The Leaf’s battery and motor options The Leaf’s NissanConnect infotainment remain the same, with the 39kWh pack system boasts Android Auto and Apple offering a claimed range of up to 168 miles. CarPlay smartphone connectivity, along The Leaf e+ (which is fitted with a larger with Nissan’s own user interface. Later in 59kWh battery) offers a range of up to 239 the year the Leaf will also be able to link miles, according to official testing. to Amazon Alexa. The new car is on sale now, priced from £26,995 after the Plug-in The Leaf gets Nissan’s ProPilot driver- Car Grant. Deliveries begin in April. assistance system, which includes adaptive 14 Special Issue
NEWSMorgan Super 3 new three-wheeler innebwrisef Major expansion plans for Brit firm renews safety Cupra over next four years car commitment in F1 Pete Gibson CUPRA has announced plans to Rebel concept (above). We’ll see a ASTON Martin has confirmed an launch a pair of new electrified production version of this in 2025 expanded presence on the 2022 Formula models before the end of 2023, as a city-focused EV from Cupra. One grid by continuing to supply safety boosting the company’s range and medical cars for use at selected from four cars to eight within the Auto Express spoke to Griffiths rounds of the 2022 championship. next four years. The brand’s CEO following the announcement, and Wayne Griffiths said: “In the next although he stopped short of In a similar deal to last season, 12 two years we will be announcing revealing what form these new race weekends will see the Vantage two new models that nobody has cars might take, he told us they coupé (above) and DBX SUV take on seen yet, and expanding our will not sit in “classical” sectors. duties. They’ll begin their campaigns product line-up.” “One of them may not be fully at the third race of the season, the electric; electrified”, he said. Australian Grand Prix. The news formed part of the brand’s fourth anniversary Griffiths is also president of UK car makers see celebrations, where Griffiths SEAT, and on the mainstream production slump unveiled ‘Cupra X 2’ – a vision for Spanish brand’s future he said, the coming year that details plans “As long as combustion cars are CAR manufacturing in the UK saw its to double the firm’s retail network around, SEAT’s going to be in worst January production figures since and subsequently double sales good shape.” But with plans for 2009, with 68,790 cars rolling off and turnover. The event, streamed Cupra to become an EV brand assembly lines. That’s 20.1 per cent online, culminated with a shot of from 2030, and new ICE cars set fewer than in the same month last year. Griffiths beside two covered cars, to be outlawed from 2035, the Difficulties were driven mainly by the either side of the brand’s Urban plans for SEAT beyond this point ongoing global semiconductor shortage. in the future still seem unclear. According to the Society of Motor UPGRADED Exterior is tweaked with new wheels and Micra gets special treatment Manufacturers and Traders, the figures were exacerbated by the closure of paint, while Amazon Alexa is on the way in the cabin A SPECIAL-edition Nissan Micra has arrived. The Micra Kiiro Honda’s Swindon plant in July 2021 (above) joins the Juke Kiiro in the line-up, and tweaks include and production variations from some www.autoexpress.co.uk yellow exterior trim, textured Kiiro badging on the C-pillars, popular UK models being changed over. metallic grey paint and 17-inch gloss black alloys. Eco fuel approved The car is based on Acenta trim with extra kit as standard, for Audi’s V6 diesels including navigation, rear parking sensors and automatic air- conditioning. Prices start from £18,375, with a CVT auto AUDI has announced that some of its model priced from £19,725. Just 250 cars will come to the UK. V6 diesel engines have been approved for use with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The e-fuel is made from waste and residue oil that undergoes hydrogenation to make its suitable for use in diesels. The company has said V6 engines with up to 282bhp and manufactured from mid-February 2022 are approved to run on HVO. Audi claims the fuel reduces CO2 emissions by 70 to 95 per cent when compared with diesel. Special Issue 15
NEWS Chargepoint accessibility ‘Government must enforce accessibility, or it won’t hap EXCLUSIVE CEO of Osprey, one of the country’s leading chargepoint operators, calls for legally binding standards Chris Rosamond ● DfT consultation ends in April ● Just recommendations expected Chris_Rosamond@autovia.co.uk THE boss of one of Britain’s leading are a valuable asset,” he said. “We know 1. PROGRESS 1 public chargepoint operators is calling that each bay is worth X thousand pounds 2 on the Department for Transport to regulate a year, and we’re not going to give it up so Osprey boss Ian Johnston minimum standards for accessibility. you can cover it in hatching.” says that 90 per cent of the A DfT consultation on public charging sites his firm is delivering ends on 10 April, and it’s expected that a Johnston said he is working hard with are fully accessible steering committee will deliver accessibility landlords to convince them to allow the policy recommendations in the spring. The firm to build fully accessible sites, but 2. IDEAL SCENARIO British Standards Institution is also due to “ultimately, money talks, and some launch accessibility standards for public landlords don’t want to do that”. Our graphic shows how a chargepoints this summer, but there’s no fully accessible charging bay plan to make any new standards enforceable. “We’ve got customers affected by issues should look, according to According to Osprey CEO Ian Johnston, of accessibility, and they’re very quick to say consultants Urban Foresight unless new laws are passed, current they love one site, but another is dreadful. accessibility problems won’t go away. The only difference is that we haven’t been Home charger grants to “Many of the sites across our nationwide able to deliver the layout we would want end for many EV buyers network are not up to standard, but other with the given landlord in that case.” sites we’ve delivered in the last six to 12 THE Government’s Electric Vehicle also pointed out that the EVHS is months have been fantastic from an Auto Express has been campaigning Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) will finish beneficial not just for people buying new accessibility perspective,” the Osprey boss to raise the profile of public charger at the end of this month for the majority EVs, but also for those buying second- told Auto Express. “We’ve had them tested accessibility, and Johnston agrees that the of British homeowners. hand examples, and that removing it at by the right people and they give us good public wants accessible sites everywhere, this early stage could prevent drivers feedback. So the question is, why are we but suggests he’s caught in the middle. Those who own (with or without a switching from petrol and diesel cars. not doing it consistently?” “You could challenge us and say you can mortgage) and live in a single-use “To say we’re looking forward to the walk away [if a landlord doesn’t agree to property – such as a detached house, Remaining incentives standards is a cop-out, because what we accessibility measures at a site], but do I get bungalow, semi-detached or terraced need is the standards to be made law,” he criticised for not having enough chargers, or house – have until 31 March to have THE Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme said. “The only thing that’s going to fix this for not making chargers accessible? their home charger installation is still available to people who live in a flat is if the law says: ‘if you want to offer EV completed under the scheme. they own, or any other property that they charging, Mr. Retailer, and you want to have “What we need to do,” he said, “is to rent. Meanwhile, businesses can still use the benefit of drivers coming into your site, influence the landlords, the retailers, to The EVHS, which lets drivers claim the Workplace Charging Scheme, which and to make money from EV charging, then understand why this is so important, and up to 75 per cent of the cost of installing is capped at £350 per chargepoint with you have to meet this minimum standard.’” it’s great to have voices like your publication a smart home EV charger, will remain a limit of up to 40 sockets. If new standards are introduced only as a to shame them into doing it properly. open to drivers living in rental properties, best practice recommendation, then many as well as those in an owned flat. The Government has made several corporations will not engage with them for “I’d say 90 per cent plus of the sites we’re rounds of cuts to its Plug-in Car Grant, a number of reasons, Johnston argues. delivering are fully accessible, but it’s what The change comes in spite of the but drivers can still claim up to £1,500 off Objections can range from a requirement to every site should be like. The bit we need to Society of Motor Manufacturers and the price of a new electric car, providing it offer a minimum number of parking spaces hit again are the sites that don’t meet the Traders (SMMT) having recently called costs no more than £32,000. The Plug-in bar. There need to be powers in place that for the scheme to be extended into the Van Grant, meanwhile, offers up to – making larger, more force those sites to be fully accessible.” second half of the decade. £2,500 off the price of a small van and accessible spaces cuts £5,000 off a large van. The Government the number of spaces Interestingly, Johnston dismisses concern This call was echoed by the AA, and the also still offers up to £500 off plug-in available – to the bottom that accessibility legislation could delay the organisation’s head of roads policy, Jack motorcycles and £150 off mopeds. line. “Organisations, be speed of new infrastructure rollout. Cousens, told Auto Express that EV grants they supermarkets or in general should be kept for longer. He www.autoexpress.co.uk local authorities, “I don’t think it will hold up the rollout at will say our bays all. The networks can only roll out chargers where the landlord issues a contract, so that is going to happen anyway. It comes down to ‘we’d like 10 bays, please, to install five chargers’; that’s a pretty quick conversation. But at the moment, in some cases you’re met with a pretty quick answer – which is no.” “To say we’re looking forward to the new standards is a bit of a cop- out, because what we need is for the standards to be made law” IAN JOHNSTON CEO, Osprey 16 Special Issue
NEWSChargepoint accessibility ppeunb’lic chargepoint innebwrisef EQUAL Renault banks on new limited-edition Captur ACCESS FOR ALL THE Renault Captur line-up has gained a new limited-edition model, of which Duster is taken to extremes just 800 will be sold in the UK. The for flagship special edition Captur Rive Gauche (above) comes with exclusive glossy black exterior details, 3 A NEW Extreme SE special-edition central storage area, while gloss black 18-inch wheels and metallic paint. version of Dacia’s Duster has joined the inserts and charcoal grey trim complete 3. EASY ACCESS line-up, offering more style and extra kit the Dacia’s internal makeover. Standard equipment includes a 9.3- at the top of the SUV’s range. inch infotainment system and part-black Features include wide bays The Extreme SE line-up starts with synthetic leather upholstery. It’s offered for wheelchair users, no Based on the Duster Prestige, Extreme an 89bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol with both the E-Tech Hybrid and TCe90 obstructive kerbs or bollards, SE trim adds gloss black 17-inch alloys and a 99bhp Bi-Fuel petrol/LPG version. turbocharged three-cylinder petrol and easy-to-read screens and a Quartz Grey finish for the roof Both cost £17,495. drivetrains, and prices start at £24,490. bars, door mirrors and grille, plus orange Counting the cost accents to pick out some of the design The more powerful TCe 130 and 150 Pfoorleluntdiotno eLoxpnderotnsUcaLlElZ details. There’s also a fresh Urban Grey engines cost £18,845 and £20,845 OUR inaugural Driver Power home paint finish alongside seven other respectively. The sole diesel option LONDON’S ULEZ is a “blunt instrument” charger survey in 2021 was won by shades, and black satin chrome ‘Duster’ is a Blue dCi 115 unit that comes in at that should be replaced with incentives the myenergi Zappi, which starts at badging features on the tailgate. £19,345, and is the only model also that reward people for choosing green £695 and has a six-week lead time. offered with four-wheel drive, costing an transport, an air pollution expert has Inside, there are more orange accents extra £1,300. The Extreme SE goes on told the London Assembly. A number of other providers offer highlighting the air vents, door pulls and sale in April, and deliveries start in May. similar prices, but potential buyers Simon Birkett, director of Clean Air in should be warned that complications New Amarok sketched out London, joined Isabel Dedring – former in the installation process can push deputy London mayor for transport – in the cost up significantly. CHUNKY proposing a plan that incentivises people to walk or cycle, arguing that schemes One Auto Express reader told us New image shows like the ULEZ and the congestion charge that he had received quotes from that second-gen are “primitive” in charging motorists for multiple home charging companies driving “100 yards into a zone”. and that the total cost of both the Amarok will retain hardware and its installation had the original’s style Rfaitsainligtiepsrodpuoerttoiodnroinfk ended up at between £1,300 and £1,550. This was for minimal extra NEW sketches have given us our best commercial vehicles, so we expect similar DRINK-drivers caused an estimated 15 work over a standard installation. look yet at the soon-to-be-released tech to its American cousin, including an per cent of fatal accidents in 2020 – up Volkswagen Amarok pick-up. onboard inverter to power electric tools. from 13 per cent in 2019, according to www.autoexpress.co.uk new provisional Government data. It’s set to launch in summer this year, A Ranger EV is also known to be in and we already know from the VW’s the pipeline, so an all-electric Amarok A total of 220 people were killed in sibling, the new Ford Ranger, that V6 in time is a possibility, too. drink-driving accidents in 2020. That’s diesel power will be on offer. However down from 230 in 2019, but 2020 saw these new images show the vehicle will The new Amarok will go on sale in less traffic than 2019 due to lockdowns. retain its chunky, squared-off looks, the UK towards the end of the year The number of crashes where at least albeit with a new LED lighting signature one driver was over the alcohol limit was and a sportier front end. 4,620 in 2020 – an average of 12 a day. The second-generation Amarok forms Special Issue 17 part of a tie-up between Ford and VW for
NEWS Mercedes-AMG GT STYLING Our image shows that we expect the new GT to have a more aggressive profile than the old car EXCLUSIVE IMAGE AMG targets 911 with sleeke Sean Carson confirmed for that car, an E-Performance steering, AMG’s Active Ride Control adaptive bonnet with AMG’s trademark Panamericana plug-in hybrid V8 version could also feature suspension and anti-roll tech too. grille. Our exclusive image shows how these sean_carson@autovia.co.uk in the new GT line-up. details could look in production form. Our spies have already caught the new FOLLOWING the recent debut of its Thanks to the new aluminium-intensive GT undergoing testing, and their shots show It’s expected that the next AMG GT’s even sportier SL roadster, Mercedes- MSA platform that has been engineered to an even more aggressive profile, with a interior will receive a complete overhaul too, AMG is gearing up to launch a more accept Mercedes’ 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive heavily raked rear screen. Some details are potentially inheriting elements of the SL’s hardcore second-generation AMG GT. The system, the next AMG GT is likely to break evident, such as muscular rear wheelarches cabin, including an 11.9-inch touchscreen. Porsche 911 rival will be based on an all- from the tradition set by the outgoing model and sleek proportions, including a long new platform that it will share with the SL, and send its power to all four wheels. That AMG’s Chief Technical Officer Jochen with the new GT set to be positioned as an should mean the car delivers a 0-62mph “With four-wheel drive, Hermann has already confirmed that the even racier version of the car it will replace. time that dips under 3.5 seconds. the new GT could deliver next GT won’t be offered in roadster form, It’ll be powered by a familiar engine, a 0-62mph time that dips with the new SL covering that market. It’s in the form of AMG’s 4.0-litre biturbo V8. As in other all-wheel-drive AMG models, under 3.5 seconds” not known if the GT will inherit the SL’s 2+2 This could produce more than 600bhp the set-up will offer a more driver-focused layout or if it’ll remain a strict two-seater. in the GT 63-badged model, placing clear bias, sending more power to the rear axle, distance between it and the 63 version and with the system’s parameters changing We’ll see the new AMG GT break cover of the new SL; and, as has already been depending on the driving mode, boosting later this year, with an on-sale date in early agility and stability. Expect rear-wheel 2023 likely. Prices will rise slightly over the current car’s £108,390 entry point. Silence is golden as electric i7 limo shapes up BMW’s new i7 all-electric luxury limo has could top 400 miles from a full charge, OFFICIAL been undergoing acoustic testing to ensure as well as boosting refinement. the model is as relaxing and as quiet as possible. The brand has also confirmed This latest image (right) shows BMW’s energy consumption figures for the new car. trademark large kidney grille and we can make out slim headlight units. Underneath Returning up to 19.5kWh per 62 miles the camo, the German brand says “increased (3.2 miles per kWh), the i7 improves on the body rigidity at the front end and tyres 19.8kWh per 62 mile figure of the iX SUV. with a foam absorber on the inside for With a 105.2kWh battery, the iX xDrive50 integrated noise insulation help raise the claims a range of up to 382 miles. Since acoustic and vibration comfort of the new the i7 will be based on the same platform, luxury sedan to an outstanding level.” we expect it to inherit this large battery and dual-motor drive system. Combined We expect to see the new i7 and its with its more slippery aerodynamic profile combustion-engined 7 Series counterpart it’s highly likely BMW’s new limousine break cover before summer, with an on-sale date towards the end of the year likely. 18 Special Issue
SPIED Avarvarii Inbox Your views CAUGHT OUT New GT has been spied undergoing We want to hear your views. Send your questions or opinions to the E-mail address below testing, but camouflage can’t hide the trademark AMG grille, wide wheelarches and heavily raked rear screen Contact Tristan Shale-Hester HOT TOPIC MINI Countryman FROM: Michael Newham CONSIDERING FROM: Paul Fielden I UNDERSTAND that how bland some SUVs are, the MINI MINI has something of a premium Countryman has always been a brand image nowadays, but I think breath of fresh air. It’s got funky instead of making larger, pricier styling and it’s enjoyable to drive models like the Countryman, it should if you buy a Cooper S variant. I’m make a smaller, more affordable car glad a new model is on the way. in the spirit of the original Mini. We’ve spotted the next MINI Avarvarii Countryman testing and our exclusive image previews what it could look like r, sharper GT Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk aNweway1wSiethrielastgeesttsucpadrariteeds ■ “I don’t like what BMW ■ “I dread to think what ■ “At this rate, it’ll be has done with the MINI the price tag will be on possible to fit a classic SPIED brand; a car of this size this. Up to £60,000 Mini in the boot of a isn’t mini in any way.” wouldn’t surprise me.” Countryman.” TAKE AWAY RM Philip Jarrett Ross Trousdale Camouflaged Automedia Range Rover PHEV’s Roadworks speeder 1 Series was food for thought questions two fines spied on a transporter FROM: Andy Graham IF a plug-in hybrid FROM: AM I WAS caught speeding Range Rover can produce as little as twice – once at 46mph and once at AN updated version of the BMW 1 Series two cars share a platform, so we also 18g/km of CO2, why are new internal 50mph – on a stretch of the A55 in has been spied by our photographers – expect the 1 Series to feature more mild- combustion-engined cars being North Wales that had been reduced not undergoing development, but hybrid tech to boost efficiency, including banned from sale by 2035 in the from 70mph to 40mph due to on the back of a flat-bed truck. a 168bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol UK? Imagine how efficient such a roadworks. The trouble is no workforce 120i. A plug-in hybrid model could be powertrain could be if it were in a was present when I was caught, so I It’s unknown why the car was being added to the line-up, too, given that supermini, not a boxy, heavy SUV. don’t see why I should be fined. transported, but we can see from this the platform accepts this technology. camouflaged car that the 1 Series’ overall An EV efficiency tax Highway Code rules profile will remain similar. Expect subtle Inside, expect BMW’s latest OS 8 iDrive should replace VED will cause accidents styling changes in line with the recently set-up with a pair of displays integrated revealed 2 Series Active Tourer MPV when into one curved unit. The updated 1 Series FROM: Martin Allingham A BETTER way FROM: Bryan Desborough I STOPPED it comes to the headlights and grille. The is due to be revealed in the summer. of replacing Vehicle Excise Duty and when turning off into a side street Fuel Duty than road pricing would be to let a waiting pedestrian cross, as to put a smart meter on every home dictated by the new Highway Code and public EV charger (much like the rules. The driver of the car behind me smart home chargers seen already). sounded his horn and became very Then EV drivers can be taxed on how angry. It’s only a matter of time before efficient or inefficient their car is. an accident results from this. CUosenftualcts 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 Special Issue 19
INSIDE STORY Tackling the motoring issues that matter Stephen Errity “I wanted to take motorsport to places where the effects of Stephen_Errity@autovia.co.uk climate change are more visible, in order to tell that story” MOTORSPORT and the environment have in the past not been the closest of bedfellows. But with climate ALEJANDRO AGAG Extreme E founder change now a huge issue around the world, being “part of the solution, not part of the problem” has become they had to cancel because of Omicron,” he says. “In imperative for what has traditionally been an escapist Sardinia, the hills around the course would allow for pursuit of speed and power, existing in its own bubble. thousands of spectators; later this year we’re in Punta del There’s still a lot of work to do. According to Enovation Este, Uruguay, where there’s huge passion for motorsport – Consulting’s 2022 Sustainable Championships Index, we could have thousands of people attending there, too.” which analysed the sustainability credentials of 106 racing series worldwide, “a shift to sustainability is While Agag claims countries are lining up to request a happening, [but] there are still too few leading the visit from Extreme E, the series isn’t about to jump to an pack, and too many laggards following behind”. F1-like calendar of 20 or more rounds – not least due to Of the 106 championships looked at, only Formula E the ironic reality that one of its most important means of earned the report’s top-tier sustainability rating, two reducing emissions is a fossil-fuelled cargo vessel, which (Formula 1 and MotoGP) made it into the second tier takes its time getting from A to B. The ex-Royal Mail ship and five were in the intermediate tier. The other 98 St Helena was acquired ahead of the series’ first season, languished in the bottom two. But almost all showed then extensively refitted to make it as ‘green’ as possible. at least a degree of engagement with sustainability. It may seem strange that two of the top three were It runs on low-sulphur diesel and most of the time uses combustion-engined championships. However, this only one of its two engines, like a large-scale version of reflects the fact that for motorsport, as is true elsewhere, cylinder-deactivation in a road car. It transports Extreme E’s sustainability is a complex and multifaceted topic. Going infrastructure and vehicles from venue to venue, in the racing sustainably is not simply about switching from process slashing the championship’s declared CO2 combustion to electric power and declaring “job done”. emissions by 75 per cent compared with using air freight. According to F1’s 2019 sustainability report, the cars on track accounted for just 0.7 per cent of its annual carbon The other major environmental pillar for the series is emissions. Rather, it’s the wider activities surrounding the 40kW fuel-cell generator developed by AFC Energy, a championship (not least travel and transport) – as which uses hydrogen (produced from water using solar well as the size of audience that it can influence and energy) to generate the power that keeps the Extreme E engage – that truly determine how sustainable it is. With eight seasons of Formula E under his belt, the electric single-seater series’ founder Alejandro Agag has more of a handle than most on the challenges of sustainable racing. By his own admission, he prefers starting new projects to running something established, so with Formula E bedded in and attracting manufacturer support, he began pondering what would come next. “I wanted to take motorsport to places where the effects of climate change are more visible, in order to tell that story,” he says of the initial idea for Extreme E. The battery-powered, rallycross-meets-Dakar Rally series visited Saudi Arabia, Senegal and Greenland in 2021, but pandemic restrictions meant events in Brazil and Argentina had to be switched for Sardinia and Dorset. Now, its second season is under way, starting in Saudi Arabia’s barren, rocky north-western desert: a location reminiscent of iconic Western movie locations in the US crossed with the alien surface of Mars. An hour’s drive west of the existing city of Tabuk, the area has been earmarked by Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman for a huge complex of sustainable ‘smart cities’ called NEOM – a plan that has drawn praise from some quarters for its environmental ethos (there will be no cars or roads, apparently) while being criticised by others as nothing more than a vanity project. For now, it’s a spectacular if desolate landscape, interrupted only by one four-lane highway to the coast, as well as forests of monstrous power lines snaking endlessly to the horizon. This is where Auto Express travelled to experience Extreme E up close – and see how its initial sustainability promises have held up. Relaxing in the tented paddock on a chilly afternoon after a rainstorm, Agag admits the enforced changes of venue at the end of 2021 prompted a rethink of some aspects of the series, which he originally intended to take place exclusively in far-flung, remote locations, out of reach of fan and VIP attendance. “We had a lot of guests and sponsors due to come to Dorset, but 20 Special Issue
ExtremeE INSIDE STORY RACTIHNEGPTLOASNAEVTE? CLEAN POWER A year after its launch, we check in on the Solar-powered hydrogen Extreme E electric off-road racing series to fuel cell generates power find out if motorsport can be truly sustainable to charge Extreme E grid Special Issue 21
INSIDE STORY TYRES Continental has used Extreme E to develop “To beat climate change, we’ll tyres partly made from sustainable materials; the need engineering solutions technology will appear in road tyres from April and people who are going to grid charged up between sessions. Although the system accelerate progress. If we sit at can’t yet handle the entire paddock’s energy requirements, home and moan, climate change that’s a medium-term goal. According to utilities manager is going to get us, and the planet” Andy Welch: “Things are moving quickly; this was designed and built two years ago, but already AFC has something DR RICHARD WASHINGTON four times the capacity that’ll fit in a 10-foot container.” Oxford University climate science professor Agag has bigger plans around hydrogen, too: ahead of nasty the future will be; we needed to do that to get this year’s Saudi Arabian round, he announced a parallel people’s attention, but here we can be more optimistic ‘Extreme H’ category for 2024 onwards. This will be raced and demonstrate what’s possible with new technology. by cars identical to the Extreme E machines in every respect, save for replacing the battery with a hydrogen fuel-cell. “We shoot footage explaining environmental issues in the days leading up to the race, which is then spliced in Aside from minimising its footprint across transport with the TV broadcast. It may only be a minute or two here and power generation, Extreme E also wants to be an or there, but when have you ever seen that sort of message experimental arena where companies can trial and develop in the middle of a football or cricket match? Plus, it’s a sustainable technology. A case in point is the Continental chance to see places up close – I’ve taught my students off-road tyres worn by all the cars, which contain 35 per cent about the Greenland ice sheet for 25 years, but the first sustainable materials, including silica made from rice husks time I stood on it was when I visited with Extreme E.” and polyester made from recycled plastic bottles. Ambitions to use the St Helena as a floating research According to Continental’s head of product management, platform as part of these efforts have had to be walked Catarina Silva, they’ve been refined based on lessons from the first season, and the firm is working towards 50 per cent www.autoexpress.co.uk sustainable composition in the future. From April this year, the construction will be incorporated into production tyres. But while motorsport as an incubator for road-car tech isn’t a new idea, one area where Extreme E goes beyond the standard template is its scientific outreach, or ‘Legacy Programmes’, which aim to make a positive and lasting impact on the race locations. So far, these have included planting a million mangrove trees in Senegal, developing climate education in Greenland schools in collaboration with UNICEF, rainforest restoration in Brazil (which went ahead despite the series being unable to visit in 2021) and support for sea-turtle conservation on the Red Sea coast. Oxford University climate science professor Dr Richard Washington heads the series’ scientific committee: a team of academics that advises on locations and content for these programmes, as well as hoping to spread their messages beyond just students and fellow specialists. “When we write an academic paper, we’re happy if 10 people read it; the world of science is very closed,” Washington told us. “Extreme E lets us showcase solutions to the climate problem to a new audience. Scientists have talked a lot about the threat of climate change and how 22 Special Issue
ExtremeE INSIDE STORY SEA POWER ACTION ON TRACK Transporting cars and equipment ONE of the criticisms levelled at Extreme E is that by ship (left) has there’s so much fuss over environmental credentials, reduced Extreme you can almost forget there’s a race on at the centre E’s CO2 footprint of it all. What’s more, teething troubles with the by 75 per cent Odyssey 21 car, a couple of less-than-ideal course compared with designs and ongoing tinkering with qualifying and using air freight race formats occasionally hampered the chances of close action developing during season one. The season-two opener made a stronger case in this respect. First of all, there was the jaw-dropping course, with breathtaking rock formations serving as a backdrop, plus near-vertical climbs and drops to test the drivers’ mettle. And once racing began, a dramatic clash between Nasser al-Attiyah and Carlos Sainz in one of the semi-finals, along with Tanner Foust’s enthralling pursuit of a place in the final during the ‘Crazy Race’ meant there was no shortage of entertainment or storylines. Rosberg RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Ahlin-Kottulinsky (below) emerged victorious after the former’s epic downhill overtake of Sainz’s team- mate Laia Sanz towards the end of the five-car final. Extreme E is hoping that engaging action like this – combined with broadcasts around the world, plus the social-media footprints and fanbases of drivers like Sainz, US TV star Foust and Sebastien Loeb, plus its big-name team owners Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Jenson Button – will all help it reach enough eyeballs to make its desired impact. back, however. “That was pared down due to Covid; the environmental impact; so rather than shooting for that focus was on making the races happen,” Washington impossible goal, the next best thing is to accurately explained. “Travel restrictions made getting scientists measure impact, then reduce it as much as possible. on board difficult, but we also learned about the ship’s limitations. A lot of ocean research requires you to sail As Washington puts it: “If you adopt the mindset that very slowly, but the St Helena’s engines can be damaged unless every step is perfect, you can’t take that step, by running too slowly. It’s more suited to remote sensing it’ll hold you back. Not everything Extreme E does is than trawling for samples, so we’re regrouping on that. perfect, but to beat climate change, we need engineering I guess that aspect looks disappointing after year one.” solutions and people who can accelerate progress. The common theme that emerges – whether looking “If we just sit at home and moan, climate change is at logistics, power, tyres or outreach – is that Extreme E, going to get us. We need to roll up our sleeves and get and sustainable motorsport in general, remains a ‘work imaginative. Engineering delivers when it’s up against in progress’. No human activity is ever going to have zero the wall, and motorsport has always had a streak of innovation in its DNA. That’s what we need right now.” www.autoexpress.co.uk Special Issue 23
NEW CARS 26 FORD MUSTANG Can sporty GT version Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives of the Mach-E do the Mustang name justice? NEED Essentials TO KNOW DS 9 E-Tense 4x4 360 DS 9 E-Tense 4x4 Rivoli + 360 has been developed and Price: £57,200 is built by DS Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl turbo + 2 e-motors Performance in the Power/torque: 355bhp/520Nm same workshop Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, where its Formula E cars are prepared four-wheel drive 0-62mph: 5.6 seconds Top speed: 155mph Electric range: 38 miles Economy/CO2: 256.8mpg/41g/km ONSALE Now DS 9 360 4x4 FIRST DRIVE DS’s Formula E know-how filters into flagship model Sean Carson any better in conjunction with the 360’s sharper and the system more responsive, bespoke set-up. What’s not in question is but at least it comes packed with technology sean_carson@autovia.co.uk refinement, with acoustic glass helping keep in top-spec Rivoli + trim. This includes built- wind and road noise out. Up to the car’s in nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. DS is a brand with a successful electric 87mph top speed in electric mode it’s very racing team that has won the Formula E quiet. When the petrol engine kicks, in this is Heated, ventilated and massaging seats, championship twice, and now it’s translating quite subdued, too, unless you really rev it. plus wireless phone charging, an upgraded its track learnings to the road with this new stereo, dual-zone climate control, full DS 9 E-Tense 4x4 360 flagship. Do so and the DS 9 feels fast enough, keyless go, a 360-degree camera with all- It has an 11.9kWh battery that feeds a the instantly available electric assistance round parking sensors, lots of advanced pair of electric motors: one inside the eight- delivering a boost of torque that easily aids safety tech and LED headlights are all speed automatic gearbox that drives the performance, exactly what’s required from standard, too; and you’d expect so given front axle either independently or alongside a premium machine majoring on luxury. the 4x4 360 Rivoli + costs £57,200. the 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, and one on the rear axle. The powertrain occasionally stutters At this price point the car is a little harder It means a total of 355bhp and 520Nm of when the battery is depleted as it manages to justify given the opposition it’s facing, torque, and with four-wheel drive it helps to the sources of propulsion, but on the whole, even if the quality of much of the leather- deliver a 5.6-second 0-62mph time. Yet CO2 integration of the hybrid system is sound. lined cabin, complete with cool metal emissions of 41g/km and a claimed electric detailing, feels high, but a little fussy in its range of 38 miles mean a company-car tax With Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, the design. There’s a good level of legroom in rate of 12 per cent for the 2022-23 tax year. steering is surprisingly precise and there’s a the DS 9’s rear (although space is a little There’s an upgraded brake set-up with good level of grip to draw on; even if you’d tighter when you tuck your feet under the four-piston calipers clamping 380mm not call the DS 9 a particularly engaging car seat in front) and average headroom. ventilated discs at the front, while the to drive, the platform’s range of abilities chassis has been bolstered with wider front has been widened with this new model. But herein lies the DS 9’s appeal in and rear tracks and a lowered ride height. some ways, as an alternative to the usual The calibration of the springs, dampers The infotainment is a known quantity, premium machines from the usual brands. and anti-roll bars is unique to the 4x4 360, which means the graphics could be a little while this range-topping car also has DS’s Active Scan suspension as standard. This The quality of cabin materials is high, but the design isn’t the most logical in places uses a camera to monitor the road ahead, adjusting the dampers to suit for a softer ride and therefore more comfort when you hit a bump. “This is a GT, not a sports car,” DS 9 product manager Jean-Philippe Delaire says. It’s a shame then that Active Scan system works inconsistently, sometimes seemingly missing road imperfections and reacting slightly harshly to the occasional bump. On smooth French roads and on big 20-inch wheels the ride is acceptable, but as the surface deteriorates so does the car’s composure. We’ve tried this system on DS models in the UK before and found the tech disappointing, so we’ll have to see if it fares 24 Special Issue
28 CITROEN C4 PT155 30 AUDI S8 We put range-topping Facelift is last hurrah for petrol model’s extra A8 limo and its range- firepower to the test topping S8 edition EQUIPMENT Top-spec DS 9 comes COMFORT Sumptuous leather seats PRACTICALITY Saloon tailgate Verdict loaded with kit, but some tech could feature heating and ventilation, and reveals 510-litre boot, which is a THE 4x4 360 adds performance to be more responsive and intuitive to use, massaging functionality in the front. fair size; charging cable is stored the DS 9 line-up, but it also has a such as the new DS Energy Coach App, Room in the rear is good, although the in a case. A powered tailgate is price tag that puts it in the firing which is distracting when you’re driving Active Scan suspension could be better available as a £400 option line of impressive machinery, which might be hard to swallow for some. Yet its dynamic ability seems sound, with strong enough performance and handling. We’d like to try the bespoke chassis on UK roads, but the car’s refinement is impressive and it offers something different. Special Issue 25
NEW CARS Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Essentials Ford Mustang Mach-E GT COMFORT Space in the rear is good, with PRACTICALITY Boot space stands at 402 EQUIPMENT GT is distinguished by Price: £66,280 Batt./motor: 98.7kWh/2x e-motors decent legroom, thanks to flat floor. Optional litres, which is on the more compact side for its big Brembo brakes and large 20-inch Power/torque: 480bhp/860Nm panoramic roof lets more light in for an open a family SUV. However, there’s also an 81-litre alloys, which help to balance the extra Transmission: Single-speed automatic, feel. Ride is firm, but far from uncomfortable front storage area for the car’s charging cables performance. Interior tech is strong, too four-wheel drive 0-62mph: 3.7 seconds Top speed: 124mph Range: 310 miles (WLTP) Charging: 150kW DC (10-80% 45mins) ONSALE Now INTERIOR Cabin feels modern and sporty, thanks to upgraded seats. Mustang Mach-E’s central touchscreen is huge and tech works well Alastair Crooks corners and the chassis struggles to keep roads the Mach-E still copes well. The up. For a big, electric SUV, the steering has a stiffer chassis and 20-inch wheels mean Alastair_crooks@autovia.co.uk nice weight to it and it’s responsive enough, that even in its softest Whisper setting, but it can feel a little vague at times. potholes and bumps can still unsettle THE Mustang Mach-E has the hard task the ride, but it’s far from uncomfortable. of introducing Ford into the world of The driving modes cover Whisper, electric SUVs while also carrying the weight Active, Untamed and Untamed Plus. Each At £66,280, the GT costs £23,750 of expectation that comes with the famous one slightly changes the car’s focus, from more than the entry-level, rear-wheel- Pony badge. But this new GT model is the “calm and quiet” in Whisper to “exhilarating” drive, small-battery model and there are fastest yet, and if any Mach-E will do the in Untamed, says Ford. Even in Untamed some enhancements to reflect the extra Mustang name justice, it should be this one. mode you’ll get the sense the Mach-E GT is outlay. Body-coloured wheelarches, We’ve already seen the rear-wheel-drive, on your side. You can use its instantaneous GT-branded sill plates, redesigned entry-level version take a shock win against torque to highlight its sportier bias, while bumpers with a new grille and larger our former Car of the Year, the Tesla Model 3, Ford has made sure the traction control 20-inch wheels are all standard. so we know the Mach-E is a strong EV. On isn’t too intrusive either. There’s been a paper this new GT model looks even better. clear attempt to make the Mach-E GT Inside, there are sports seats and all the It receives a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive entertaining, and while it’s still a way off kit from the AWD Extended Range model powertrain, with 480bhp and 860Nm for a its internal combustion-engined Mustang – including wireless charging, adaptive 0-62mph time of 3.7 seconds – which is cousin, it’s one of the more fun EVs on sale. cruise and a 360-degree camera. enough to challenge the Tesla Model Y Performance. As with most electric cars, The huge Brembo brakes have excellent An impressive 15.5-inch touchscreen there’s impressive traction from a standstill stopping power and there’s decent feel, runs Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment. and virtually no delay in the power delivery. but in town they can be quite sharp, making The tech is responsive and easy to use, Even at motorway speeds, the GT offers the Mach-E tough to drive smoothly at low more than enough power to make overtaking speeds. Fortunately, the GT comes with a doddle, but press on and you’ll find the ‘one-pedal’ regenerative braking, which car’s initial punch begins to fade away. uses the motors to slow down, recouping A 98.2kWh battery powers this supercar- range and helping to eliminate the problem. baiting straight-line acceleration, and despite the hefty kerbweight of 2,273kg, When we first drove the GT on a smooth the GT is a genuinely fun car to drive. Croatian test route, we had no complaints Ford’s MagneRide 2 adaptive suspension about the ride quality, and on rougher UK set-up manages to disguise some of that weight in bends, with decent control of the “Even at motorway speeds, the GT offers body roll, but try to attack a sequence of enough power to make overtaking a doddle” 26 Special Issue
NEW CARSFord Mustang Mach-E GT Ford Mustang Mach-E GT FIRST DRIVE Does most powerful Mach-E live up to promise of iconic Mustang name? NTOEEKDNOW and there’s also a smaller 10.2-inch driver Ortis Clay display behind the steering wheel. Flagship version Verdict of Mach-E comes The GT is trimmed in leather and soft- with adaptive touch plastics and, with the optional WHEN we first drove the Mustang suspension and panoramic sunroof (£995), a flat rear floor Mach-E in 2020, we thought the pick four driving modes (which helps boost rear passenger room) of the bunch might be the entry-level and plenty of storage areas, the Mach-E is RWD model, and after driving the a pleasant car to spend time in. But boot new range-topping GT, our opinion space is slightly disappointing, with just hasn’t changed. The hottest Mach-E 402 litres in the rear and an 81-litre ‘frunk’. is an impressive electric car with acceleration to rival many fast Teslas, The larger battery in the GT translates but the driving experience doesn’t into a claimed 310-mile range, but you’ll quite honour the Mustang badge, plus struggle to get near that figure if you decide it’s expensive and looks a little short to tap into the car’s full performance. on practicality compared with rivals. However, the Mustang Mach-E GT does at least have 150kW rapid charging; a 10- Special Issue 27 to-80-per-cent top-up takes 45 minutes. Elsewhere, incoming upgrades to the rest of the Mach-E line-up will see the Standard Range RWD model gain as much as 17 miles of range, possibly bumping it up to 293 miles. And given the price difference, it’s difficult to recommend the GT over that car, even with the scorching performance.
NEW CARS CitroenC4 Citroen C4 PT155 Running costs FIRST DRIVE Range-topping petrol family hatch gets extra firepower 47.1mpg (official) £74 fill-up Performance 0-62mph/top speed 8.5 seconds/129mph Alex Ingram on the move, the automatic transmission engine’s extra shove. Accelerate hard – fundamental calibration flaws concerning shuffles through the ratios sweetly. made easier by switching to Sport mode, the relationship between gearbox and Alex_Ingram@autovia.co.uk which noticeably sharpens the throttle – brakes. The former practically stalls the @AxleIngram It has a little more enthusiasm than the and the C4’s nose pitches up. engine before cutting the torque from the PT 130 motor. Squeeze the throttle while wheels, and the latter bite inconsistently, THE Citroen C4 has a unique standing cruising in a high gear, and after a brief Just like before, there’s also quite often sharply when manoeuvring. Factor in in the family hatchback class, and we’re pause before the turbo spools up, there’s pronounced dive under braking and an over-zealous start/stop system and it not talking about those striking looks. It’s a more muscular feel from low down, yet it plenty of body roll through the corners, means that bringing the car to a smooth what’s under the bonnet that really sets it feels more lively the higher the revs build. which encourages you to settle into the halt is tricky. The soft suspension set-up apart from rivals like the Ford Focus and comfortable seat and employ a rather here only amplifies the sensation. Volkswagen Golf, because it’s available with The suspension set-up remains the same more relaxed driving style. petrol, diesel and fully electric powertrains. as in other combustion C4 models, which It’s a shame, because there’s plenty And now there’s a new range-topping petrol means it’s very soft by the standards of the Saying that, there are a few irritants that to like. Although the cabin isn’t quite as model with the most firepower of the bunch. class. In general, this is great; the C4 soaks might leave you a little more tense then spacious as an Octavia’s, the back seats rank Called PureTech 155, it’s a variation of up bumps well, and does a pretty good job you’d like. The steering, for instance, is very above the class average for kneeroom, plus the 1.2-litre three-cylinder unit already used of isolating the crashing noises of harsher light and quite vague, and the infotainment our car averaged around 45mpg; and that’s in the C4, producing 153bhp here. There’s jolts and potholes, too. Road rumble is also system is a little fiddly; much of the 10-inch not the only way that the C4 will help offer 10Nm more torque, too, while the PureTech fairly well suppressed, even if a little wind infotainment screen is occupied by time value, because standard kit is generous. 155 is eight-speed auto only. noise disturbs the peace at speed. and temperature information. It’s a significant addition to the range, not The PureTech 155 is only available in least because Citroen now has an engine to However, the one downside of that soft But what frustrates most of all about the C4’s top-of-the-range Shine Plus trim. take on the VW Group’s 148bhp 1.5 TSI unit suspension is exaggerated by the new the Citroen C4 is a result of some pretty LED headlights, a digital dashboard and found in the Golf and the Skoda Octavia. leather seats are all fitted as standard. Citroen’s new engine is familiar. Prod the “There’s a more muscular feel from low down, dash-mounted starter button and it wakes yet it feels more lively the higher the revs build” Weigh up the finance payments, and into a very quiet – if vibrating – idle, while beside its rivals the C4 makes reasonable sense. Place a £3,000 deposit on a three- 28 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
CitroenC4 NEW CARS Essentials Citroen C4 PureTech 155 Shine Plus Price: £28,490 Engine: 1.2-litre 3cyl turbo petrol Power/torque: 153bhp/240Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, front-wheel drive 0-62mph: 8.5 seconds Top speed: 129mph Economy: 47.1mpg CO2: 135g/km ONSALE Now PRACTICALITY Boot space is unchanged over other petrol C4s, with a VW Golf-rivalling 380 litres on offer behind the large tailgate Otis clay EQUIPMENT Infotainment is a C4 weak point; the graphics could be sharper and the system more responsive, but there’s lots of kit INTERIOR Quirky crossover style means you PASSENGER SPACE The Citroen’s sit slightly higher than in other conventional rear seats serve up more room than the family hatchbacks, helping visibility when on average for this class of car, which helps the move. The C4’s cabin is also comfortable to boost the C4’s usability year PCP agreement with a 10,000-mile Verdict annual limit, and the PureTech 155 comes to just under £420 per month, a figure WHILE the e-C4 grabs headlines, this helped by Citroen’s current £950 discount new petrol unit shows there’s lots of across the C4 range. On matching terms, appeal in the ICE options, too. The the Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI DSG automatic power boost makes the C4 a lively in Style trim comes to £422 per month. option that gives a little flexibility to those looking for a comfortable If anything, it’s the other models in the family hatchback. It’s just a shame C4 range that makes it a little harder to that one or two negatives take the justify. The PureTech 130 in Shine Plus trim shine off the overall package. is £23 per month cheaper, and when that engine is paired with the mid-spec Sense ___`b Plus specification we’d recommend, it only costs £352 per month. You might lose that Special Issue 29 degree of oomph as well as some of the poshest equipment add-ons, but that’s still quite a significant saving. PAGE 84: Citroen C4 spends week on fleet www.autoexpress.co.uk
NEW CARS Essentials Audi S8 Price: £102,610 Engine: 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 Power/torque: 563bhp/800Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, four-wheel drive 0-62mph: 3.8 seconds Top speed: 155mph Economy: 24.6mpg CO2: 262g/km ONSALE Now Stuart Gallagher Audi S8 WITH only a few years left before it’s FIRST DRIVE Flagship is a last hurrah replaced by an all-electric version, this facelift for high-performance ICE limousines is the last hurrah for the Audi A8 luxury limo and the range-topping S8 edition. details that don’t always come together in it’s not immediately detectable unless after the shove becomes more of a nudge as lesser Audis flow as one. Despite the Virtual you consciously look for it. It makes the power can’t overcome the Audi’s mass. As a concept, the performance limo isn’t Cockpit display being isolated from the car’s motorway slip roads less of a hazard one that has set the world alight, rather it’s central MMI system screens, the design when the cup-holders are full. Cars such as the S8 are hard to justify, flickered away with BMW and Mercedes- that links them is cohesive and perfectly because lesser models are equal in terms AMG. BMW’s M760iL is less extroverted blended. Quality is great as well. It’s the motorway that the S8 still of quality, refinement and luxury. Yet 20 than AMG’s S 63, with the S8 sat feels designed for, because it’s rock solid per cent of all A8s sold in the UK are S8s, somewhere between the two – and this You sit a little too high, but this isn’t a at speed, although the car’s design can so for many, status still rules. 2022 makeover is unlikely to push it driver’s car. From behind its steering wheel make crosswinds more noticeable than in a direction closer to either. there’s not a great deal of feel to be had, you were perhaps expecting. The 4.0-litre less so with winter tyres fitted, which means twin-turbo V8 is unchanged from the car It’s more of a nip and tuck than an the S8 is at its best when being encouraged it replaces, with the inclusion of a 48-volt engineering overhaul. There’s a chrome to flow along your chosen road, rather than system providing some mild-hybrid finish for the S8’s new ‘singleframe’ grille, thrown down it. Its standard four-wheel assistance to help with fuel saving. while the front and rear bumpers and side steering works away in the background, sills are all new and more defined. There are and it’s hard to detect beyond the Overall, the S8’s pace is swift rather fresh LED-matrix laser headlights at the front, low-speed manoeuvring benefits. than explosive as its 2.2-tonne kerbweight OLED units at the rear, and there’s a quartet blunts its 563bhp and 800Nm of torque. of exhausts poking through the rear valance. Included on all new S8s is not only a Once you’ve surged off the line and quattro sport differential, but also Audi’s reached 62mph in 3.8 seconds, soon It’s a clean-cut facelift, playing to the A8’s predictive active suspension, designed to strengths of understated presence rather counteract body roll by keeping the car as flat “Predictive active suspension counteracts than in-your-face obnoxiousness, even when as possible while cornering. It’s a very subtle body roll and keeps the S8 flat while cornering” fitted with new 21-inch wheels (with larger system, with three degrees of counter-roll carbon-ceramic brakes fixed behind) and possible, and perhaps its triumph is that wearing its trademark aluminium mirrors. Approach the S8 and open the door, and the car gently rises by 50mm on its air suspension to aid your entry. It sounds gimmicky, but in practice you ask why it’s not standard on all air-sprung cars. Once inside, you’re in top-of-the-tree Audi territory. It’s where the design ethos and 30 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
AudiS8 NEW CARS EQUIPMENT S8 retains its predecessor’s TECH Air suspension with anti-roll tech can COMFORT Despite chunky wheels the S8’s tech, with a 12.3-inch digital dash, a 10.1-inch also raise the car when parked to help entry chassis offers good comfort at high speed central touchscreen and an 8.6-inch panel for the and exit. Rear-wheel steering helps the big on the motorway, but occasionally it does climate control. Everything is super-responsive saloon’s low-speed manoeuvrability, too feel out of its depth on bumpier surfaces INTERIOR S8 only comes in standard- wheelbase form, but there’s still a great level of room in the rear, while it felt comfortable on the smooth German roads of our test route Verdict Special Issue 31 AUDI’S flagship has performance to impress and vice-like reassurance when it comes to traction and control. The S8 still leads with quality and refinement that cars costing half as much again struggle to match, but it remains expensive to buy and run. www.autoexpress.co.uk
FEATURE MikeCross Pete Gibson EDNRGIVININEGERFINUGN We join Mike Cross as he signs off on a 37-year career creating some of the best-handling Jaguars and Land Rovers ever John McIlroy amount of influence” over the great-driving Jags and Land “This has been my dream job. Rovers that thousands of customers have enjoyed over the I’ve always been into driving, John_McIlroy@autovia.co.uk years. “Designers get a lot of the kudos,” he admits, “but and the ability to mix that with @johnmcilroy there’s been real satisfaction in polishing the attributes engineering was just perfect” of the car, making sure it lives up to the DNA of the brand. THERE are only a few hours left before Mike Cross has I don’t honestly think there are any truly bad cars any MIKE CROSS Director of Vehicle Sign-off, JLR to hand in his Jaguar Land Rover ID card and laptop. more; but lifting a car to greatness is about making sure But the outgoing director of Vehicle Targets and Sign-off just that all of its elements actually work together.” www.autoexpress.co.uk can’t quite switch off. “It rides well, doesn’t it?” he says of the Jaguar Heritage S-Type R that he’s driving through the That joined-up feeling is the known unknown – the Warwickshire countryside. Then he flashes a wry smile. subjective veneer that sits on top of whatever engineering “Probably ought to have remembered that...” targets have been set and (usually) delivered. “A lot of We’ll forgive him on this one, for Crossy, as he’s become those fixed goals can be achieved – and measured, of known, is calling time after a 37-year career at JLR. And while course – at the test track,” Cross says. “So things like nobody has kept records of precisely how many vehicles acceleration, braking, cruising refinement, elements of he’s signed off, this fast Jag must be just one of hundreds. noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). It’s when we take the He started out as an engineer with Land Rover prototypes out on the road that we try to ensure the overall Development back in 1978, but even in those early days, feeling fits with what the customer would expect. Mike’s goal was to blend dynamic activity with the number- crunching. “This has been my dream job,” he recalls. “I’ve “In fact, I think the biggest thing I’ve had to keep in focus always been into driving, and the ability to mix that with over the years has been the DNA of the brands concerned,” engineering was just perfect.” That melting pot of interests Mike adds. “Luckily for me, they’re fairly distinct – Jaguar is has sustained him for most of his career. Marketing, product about connected steering, agility, involvement. Land Rover and design departments come up with the big picture; is about off-road ability, and Range Rover builds on that engineering delivers a base line, then Cross and his team with luxury, comfort and refinement.” of evaluation experts provide the final five-per cent flourish. JLR has laid on a few choice hits from Mike’s back The S-Type R is impressing us both with its relaxed gait and, catalogue for his official farewell bash, but it’s the S-Type R yes, the aforementioned ride quality. And even when we jump he made the initial beeline for. “I think there was a year into a modern F-Type convertible, Mike admits that while when we shifted about 260 of these in the UK,” he says. signing off pure sports cars has been fun (he can drift with “And three of them were my company cars!” As he threads the best of them, believe us), he’s taken greater satisfaction the supercharged V8 saloon through the lanes, he thinks from other models, such as fast saloons or off-roaders. its steering feels a little heavy (“I wonder if they’ve checked the tyre pressures recently,” he murmurs) but is pleased by “People often think a sports car is the hardest to do; but how the car shrinks around the driver. That’s clearly been a for me, a more mainstream vehicle is actually the hardest. Jaguar attribute that he’s tried to dial into his sign-offs. It has to do a wider variety of stuff, and it’s at a budget. He chuckles as he says that he considers his position “junior” and says he thinks he’s had a “disproportionate “Then with something like the new Defender, there was an element of the car having to drive like it looks; it couldn’t be too polished, too refined, so it had to deliver those qualities in the right places, but still tap into the legacy of that model 32 Special Issue
MikeCross FEATURE PROGRESS Cross has seen a lot of changes in 37 years, but F-Type and S-Type were career highlights www.autoexpress.co.uk “There are things you can do with software now that would have been frankly impossible 20 years ago” and how it had been reimagined in design terms. That was a really tough project, but I’m proud of how it turned out.” Later, as we take the F-Type over some of the same roads as the S-Type, Mike reflects on the changes that he’s seen over the years. “The single biggest thing has been electronics,” he summarises. “Traction control, stability control, active anti-roll bars; all of those technologies have made it easier for us to get to a base line quickly. There are things you can do with the laptop and software now that would have been frankly impossible 20 years ago. Or at the very least, they’d have taken you far longer to achieve.” Where, we ask, will Mike miss driving the most? It’s not at JLR’s proving ground at Gaydon, nor the scorching Nevada desert or the icy tundra of the Arctic Circle. “I think it’s hard to beat the roads of north Wales,” he says. “There’s a great mix of surfaces, great undulations, cambers – they’re a good ‘3D’ test of a car. I’ve always preferred getting out on public roads for evaluation, even when it can be tricky with prototypes.” That work is likely to continue in some form, even in retirement. Recent shake-ups in Jaguar Land Rover’s management team (notably the departure of Executive Director of Product Engineering Nick Rogers) mean that some continuity is needed to maintain the DNA. “I might have been asked to help out, a bit,” Crossy admits. “I’ve always said that this job has been like a hobby anyway. So if they still want me to do a bit of driving, I can be there.” Special Issue 33
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109 NBREIWLLCIAANRTS Despite facing huge challenges, manufacturers have plenty of exciting new models for us to look forward to in the next 12 months, and beyond Sean Carson sean_carson@autovia.co.uk THE global automotive industry has weathered plenty of storms over the past two years, and with Covid delaying the launch of many products, we’re in for a bumper few years in the near future, as brands bring new technologies to the market in exciting new models. We’ve lined up 109 of the best new cars for 2022 and beyond over the next 30 pages. Some will be vehicles that have just gone on sale, pushing the boundaries in their respective classes, while others will be undergoing development for launch in a few years, spied in testing camouflage or previewed by our exclusive images. Inevitably, electric vehicles feature heavily in our rundown, but the industry isn’t turning its back on the combustion engine just yet, and there are plenty of exciting new models coming our way over the next few years, from city cars to supercars and everything in between. One thing is for certain: with vehicles like the ones we’ve featured here in the pipeline, the future is bright. www.autoexpress.co.uk Special Issue 35
1N0E9WBRICLLAIARNST 1 MCLEERCCEADBERSIO Price: TBC IEMXACGLUESIVE On sale: 2023 EIMXACGLUESIVE Avarvarii Radovan Varicak EXCILMUSAIGVEE 4 DASBTXO70N7MARTIN 5 sAmLFaAll ReO-SMUVEO 6 RA5LPINE Price: From £200,000 (est) Price: From £30,000 (est) On sale: Late 2024 Price: From £32,000 (est) On sale: 2025 On sale: Summer 2022 ALFA is late to the EV party, but is hoping its first FANS of fast French hatchbacks are in for a treat HOW do you make one of the best luxury SUVs battery-powered model will charge to the top of in 2025, when Alpine reveals a go-faster version even better? If you’re Aston Martin, you add more the class when it arrives. The small all-electric SUV of the forthcoming all-electric Renault 5. It’s power to make one of the fastest off-roaders is the first model to be developed using know- been almost five decades since the sportscar around. Packing 697bhp from its heavily reworked how from parent firm Stellantis, meaning it’s brand first worked its magic on a souped-up twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8, the bruising Brit claims likely to use the same e-CMP platform as cars version of Renault’s original supermini, but this 0-62mph in a supercar-slaying 3.3 seconds. such as the Vauxhall Corsa-e and Peugeot e-2008. all-new model is ready to roll back the years. The three-chamber air-suspension and active Expect more power from the 134bhp motor, an Featuring a 215bhp electric motor that drives anti-roll system have been tweaked to enhance enhanced range and a chassis tuned to deliver the front wheels, it should cover 0-62mph in less agility, while carbon-ceramic brakes are standard. more driver fun and greater refinement. While than six seconds. There will also be a wider track, There’s also a new, faster-acting nine-speed auto this Alfa will be able to make near-silent progress, with lowered and stiffened suspension for agile gearbox. Finally, the car has a bespoke front grille, distinctive design cues heavily influenced by the handling, while the exterior will pay homage to bonnet vents and the option of 23-inch wheels. larger Tonale mean it should still turn heads. the mid-engined Renault 5 Turbo of the eighties. 36 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond 3 MBM3WTouring A TOTALLY new badge will take its place in the 2 VIDO.LLifKeSWAGEN Automedia Mercedes line-up in 2023 with the arrival of the CLE. Avarvarii The car, previewed in our exclusive image, will in Price: £20,000 (est) On sale: 2025 Price: From £78,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 effect replace both the C and E-Class coupés and convertibles, giving Mercedes the chance to reduce VOLKSWAGEN is gearing up to launch an KEEN drivers wanting space and pace should look the complexity of its product portfolio with a new affordable electric car, a feat that manufacturers no further than the M3 Touring. Designed to cash purpose-made rival for the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5. have chased since the EV revolution began. The in on the success of go-faster estates such as the newcomer is expected to make its debut in three Audi RS 4, the BMW will pack the same 503bhp This four-seater will make use of the brand’s MRA2 years’ time, and will be based on a stripped-back turbocharged 3.0-litre as the M3 saloon, as well architecture and will be offered with turbocharged electric platform called MEB Entry. When it the option of xDrive four-wheel drive. four-cylinder petrol engines, although six-cylinder arrives, it’ll probably be called the ID.1 or ID.2. power would be compatible with the platform for No official figures have been released yet, but high-power AMG applications. A four-door coupé The ID.Life concept (below) previewed the car’s expect the Touring to blast from 0-62mph in less version of the CLE is not expected. look, and its boxy styling and minimalist interior than four seconds, while the boot should be able are likely to be carried over to the production to handle up to 500 litres of luggage. There will model, although its powertrain almost certainly also be subtle tweaks to the suspension to won’t. We expect the 231bhp electric motor will compensate for the Touring body’s extra weight, be dialled back to a more reasonable level, to while ensuring it drives with the same precision make the most of the car’s 54kWh battery pack. and engagement as the four-door. SPYSHOT 7 AAU6DEI-TRON WITH 20 new all-electric models due over the next three Price: From £50,000 (est) years, Audi is charging ahead with its EV future. Next in line On sale: Early 2023 after the Q6 e-tron is the A6 e-tron, which was previewed in concept form at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show. Featuring a sleek Sportback coupé-inspired design, the A6’s 100kWh battery and slippery 0.22Cd aerodynamics promise a range of up to 430 miles. There will be rear-wheel and quattro four-wheel drive versions, while the performance flagship is said to cover 0-62mph in less than three seconds. xxSXpxexcxiaxlxIxsxsu2e0138737
N10E9WBRICLLAIARNST Avarvarii EXCLUSIVE IMAGE 8 MCrIoNsIsover 9 B8MSEWRIES/M8 IT’S all change for the 8 Series, with BMW’s luxury Price: From £72,225 flagship being treated to a mid-life update. The Price: From £28,000 (est) On sale: 2024 On sale: Now Coupé, Convertible and more versatile Gran Coupé models all get a subtly reprofiled nose and rear TIPPED to occupy the space in the company’s diffuser, while the M Sport bodykit is now standard. line-up once filled by the short-lived three-door Paceman, a new compact MINI crossover (almost There’s the same 328bhp 3.0-litre straight-six certainly with five doors) will be revealed in 2023 for the 840i and 523bhp 4.4-litre V8 for the M850i, – and it will be a fully electric model. but the diesel-powered 840d is no more. Inside, there’s a wider range of high-grade materials, plus a Borrowing its platform from the pure-electric larger infotainment screen. The M8 flagship gets the version of the next-generation Hatch, it will also same upgrades, but its 616bhp V8 is unchanged. be produced in China for global export, but no petrol-powered option is thought to be in the pipeline. The new MINI crossover will rival models such as the Peugeot e-2008 and the Vauxhall Mokka-e, taking advantage of the gap in the British firm’s range left behind by the next Countryman, which will grow in size. Automedia SPYSHOT 13 RFOanRgDer 14 ATOygYOoTXA 12 MGrAeScEaRlAeTI Price: From £14,749 On sale: Now Price: From £50,000 (est) On sale: Summer 2022 Price: From £25,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 IN some ways, the Grecale is a ‘nearly’ car, WHEN it comes to working hard and playing hard, LARGER, more mature and with a pumped-up because it’s been on the cusp of launch for a few rivals can match the Ranger – and this all- design, the Aygo X is Toyota’s attempt to blend while. But we’ll finally get to see Maserati’s new new model is only going to enhance its appeal. SUV-inspired looks with a city car. And it works Porsche Macan rival in full later this month. Like Sporting a bold look inspired by Ford’s American – this baby crossover stands out in a class with the Grand Tourer, it’ll come with combustion F-150 pick-up, the new Ranger features a bigger an ever-dwindling selection of rivals. engines and should also feature electrification. A load bay that packs neat additions like an integral full EV is part of the plan, too, and will rival future tape measure and a 400V inverter for power tools. The city car is a dying breed, with Peugeot, all-electric models such as the next-generation Skoda and Citroen axing their smallest models, Porsche Macan EV and Audi’s Q6 e-tron. Inside, there’s the brand’s latest SYNC 4 but Toyota hopes that a new platform (taken from infotainment, a digital instrument cluster and a the latest Yaris), more boot space and modern We’ve already seen from Maserati’s official surprisingly upmarket finish. Under the bonnet tech will attract buyers. On the road, the Aygo X teaser shots that the oversized trident badge will a 3.0-litre V6 TDI joins the existing 2.0-litre four- has more presence and feels more sophisticated sit in pride of place on the gaping grille. Expect cylinder diesel and 2.3-litre petrol, plus there’s than the old Aygo, and an optional canvas roof strong performance and sharp handling. even an EV version in the pipeline. enables bite-sized open-air motoring. 38 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond 10 11RE-ETNeAchULETleMcétrgicane HCOivNicDA Price: £35,000 (est) On sale: Now Price: From £24,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 THE first fruit of the ‘Renaulution’ strategy, the WHEN it comes to a rich family-hatch heritage, few Mégane E-Tech Electric is a radically styled rival to can match the Civic. The Japanese car is celebrating the Volkswagen ID.3 and Nissan Leaf. It will offer its 50th birthday with this 11th-generation model. a choice of 40kWh or 60kWh batteries, with Bigger and more premium than its predecessor, ranges of up to 186 and 292 miles respectively. the Honda has a roomy interior that’s dripping in And it’ll accept rapid charging at up to 130kW DC. upmarket appeal and packed with the latest tech. Renault has focussed on cutting weight, and The brand has said that in the UK, the full range says the Mégane is 80-100kg lighter than rivals. will be hybrid-powered, with 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre Its motor is 10 per cent lighter than the Zoe’s, and self-charging units likely. We’ve already sampled the battery is 20 per cent more energy-dense. a US-specification non-hybrid four-door saloon, which delivered surprisingly engaging handling, We’ve already driven an early car and were plus comfort and refinement to match the class impressed with its sporty feel. It also has a much leaders. The only downside is that this will be the better infotainment system than other Renaults, first Civic in nearly four decades not built in the UK. but the limited space in the rear is a drawback. FAST FACT IF you’re quick, you could bag one of the 99 ‘comic strip livery’ Gran Coupés based on the 850i and designed by artist Jeff Koons. 15 KIA EV4 ANYONE doubting Kia’s ambitions should similar bold headlights, full-width LED Avarvarii take a closer look at the brand’s EV plan. tail-lights and heavily sculpted body Price: From £40,000 (est) Its next model in the ‘EV’ series is slated panels. It’s based on the E-GMP platform, On sale: Late 2022 to be called the EV4, with the rakish which means a choice of single or double- machine promising a range of more than motor layouts, with the latter delivering 300 miles to rival premium cars such as four-wheel drive and as much as 321bhp. the Volvo C40 and Mercedes EQA. Also expect a choice of 58 or 77.4kWh batteries, while the advanced 800V The newcomer is expected to be heavily architecture means an 80 per cent charge influenced by the larger EV6, and will get can be achieved in just 18 minutes. coupé-inspired looks plus EXCLUSIVE IMAGE Special Issue 39
1N0E9WBRICLLAIARNST 16 RRE5NAULT Price: From £17,500 On sale: 2024 Avarvarii Automedia Avarvarii EXCILMUSAIGVEE EIMXACGLUESIVE SPYSHOT 19 AQU6DeI-tron 20 21GMTERCEDES-AMG BMM2W Price: From £60,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 Price: From £115,000 (est) On sale: 2023 Price: From £60,000 (est) On sale: Summer 2022 FEW car makers have embraced the EV revolution DELIVERING a second-generation AMG GT is next FEW high-performance cars will be as hotly as fully as Audi. Slotting above the Q4 e-tron and up for Mercedes’s performance division, and the anticipated as the new M2. The spiritual successor below the e-tron, the Q6 promises to combine new car is likely to be revealed towards the end of to the iconic E30 M3 of the 1980s, this baby M head-turning style – as previewed by our image – the year. Spy shots suggest that an evolutionary squeezes sports car performance and handling and refined luxury with unrivalled performance. approach is being taken with the design of the into the compact yet surprisingly spacious body newcomer, but we know that under the metal of the recently revealed 2 Series Coupé. Sources suggest that entry-level models will a total revolution is on the cards. have at least 470bhp, while you can expect in However, as our image previews, with a wider excess of 600bhp from the RS flagship. The Audi The AMG GT will adopt a new platform, which it track and more muscular bodywork, the M2 is is underpinned by the same Premium Platform will share with the new SL. Called MSA, standing expected to look much more purposeful. Under Electric as the electrified Porsche Macan, so it for Modular Sports Architecture, the new chassis its bulging bonnet will be a detuned version of should have excellent driving dynamics. will house the familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 the M3’s turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six, Elsewhere, there will be 800V architecture for ultra- engine, with the possibility of a plug-in hybrid although with an expected 425bhp in top rapid changing, and a range of around 380 miles. version and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, too. Competition guise, it won’t be short of firepower. 40 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond ONE of Renault’s most famous names will 17 4DS 18 IHOYNUINQD7AI be revived for a new retro-themed EV in 2024. The new 5 will be based on the Renault-Nissan Price: From £26,350 On sale: Now Price: From £60,000 (est) On sale: Early 2024 CMF-BEV small electric-car platform, which will be key to producing small, affordable EVs FRENCH luxury firm DS has struggled to make an BUYERS looking for a large premium all-electric from both firms. Indeed, Renault chiefs say impact since its arrival in 2015, but the new DS 4 SUV will be in seventh heaven with Hyundai’s the 5 could cost around a third less than the proves that bosses still have faith in the brand. forthcoming flagship. Designed to sit above the current Zoe, and have a price tag that’s The sharply styled family hatch looks good, while current Santa Fe, the imposing Ioniq 7 is slated to roughly comparable with a combustion- the slick, well finished interior oozes premium arrive in 2024. It combines seven-seat versatility powered Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo. appeal. It’s packed with tech too, including an with a lavishly luxurious feel that’ll offer the same intuitive touchscreen and the latest connectivity. relaxing lounge-like experience as the Ioniq 5. A 134bhp motor that will be common across all of the firm’s small EVs will help, but while There’s a range of tried-and-tested petrols and The vast SUV will certainly stand out, with its the 5 won’t feature the same 130kW charging diesels, but it’s the 222bhp E-Tense plug-in that’s distinctive LED lights and slab-sided styling, while capability as the Mégane E-Tech Electric, it will the pick of the bunch. With its smooth delivery, its E-GMP underpinnings ensure the latest tech. be close, and the 52kWh battery (the larger of decent refinement and 38-mile EV range, it suits Advances in battery development mean a 100kWh two options) is set to provide a 249-mile range. the DS’s relaxed driving dynamics. Drivers pack is likely, which will give a range of up to wanting a distinctive and classy family hatch 400 miles. Also included will be a standard twin- that stands out should look no further. motor set-up for four-wheel-drive security. EXCILMUSAIGVEE Avarvarii EXCILMUSAIGVEE Avarvarii 22 ADSBTXOCNOMUAPERTIN GIVEN the success of the DBX, it’s no surprise more purposeful rear. Under the skin it’s Price: From £180,000 (est) that Aston Martin is planning an even likely to get a more focused suspension On sale: Late 2023 sleeker coupé version. Inspired by its arch- set-up that offers sharper handling rival, the Porsche Cayenne, the low-profile without sacrificing comfort. www.autoexpress.co.uk Aston off-roader promises to be even more invigorating to drive than the standard car. A plug-in hybrid engine is on the cards, as is the 697bhp V8 from the DBX707. In As you can see from our image, the Coupé combination with the Coupé’s more slippery shares its front end with the SUV, but it gets aerodynamics, this high-performance a lower roof that flows down into a wider, flagship could crack 200mph. Special Issue 41
N10E9WBRICLLAIARNST 24 FIAT PANDA Price: From £22,000 (est) On sale: Late 2023 23 FFOieRstDa facelift THE next-generation Giulia has some big Giulia promises a range of around 500 miles shoes to fill, because the current car is and up to 80 per cent charge in as little as Price: From £16,620 On sale: Now one of the most desirable compact execs 20 minutes. A twin-motor, four-wheel-drive available. Yet Alfa is going bold for its Quadrifoglio version could deliver as much AFTER decades of domination, the Fiesta has replacement, with an all-electric saloon as 900bhp and blast from 0-62mph in less slipped from the top of the UK sales charts. But to rival models such as the Tesla Model 3. than 2.0 seconds. Factor in sleek looks and Ford is hoping this mid-life refresh will revive engaging driving dynamics and it will be a its supermini’s fortunes. There’s a larger front Based on the forthcoming STLA Large shock if this Alfa isn’t a class contender. grille featuring a prominent Ford badge, sharper EV platform with an 800V architecture, the LED headlights and reprofiled bumpers. EXCLUSIVE IMAGE However, it’s inside where the biggest updates appear, with the option of a new 12.3-inch Avarvarii instrument cluster and the use of more upmarket materials. The mechanicals are untouched, which means you get the same eager EcoBoost petrol engines and a chassis that blends entertaining handling with a plush ride. The top of the range is still the fast-and-fun 197bhp ST hot hatch. 27 AGLIUFALIAROEVMEO Price: TBC On sale: 2025 42 Special Issue
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond TOUGH emissions regulations mean that city cars are 25 KEVIA9 26 TGORY8O6TA becoming an endangered species, but Fiat is fighting back with its all-new Panda. Loosely based on the Price: From £50,000 (est) On sale: Late 2024 Price: £29,000 (est.) On sale: 2022 Centoventi concept from 2019, the all-electric newcomer will have a rugged and utilitarian character inspired by IF size really does matter, then the forthcoming THE Toyota GR86 might be all new, but it sticks to the original 1980 Panda, as our exclusive image shows. EV9 could prove to be the king of large SUVs. a tried-and-tested formula: a naturally aspirated Slated to be the flagship of Kia’s line-up, the engine at the front, a manual gearbox in the Designed to be affordable to buy and cost-effective vast seven-seater will take its inspiration from middle, and drive sent to the rear wheels. We to produce, the Panda will be a practical stablemate to the Concept EV9 (pictured below) that made its loved its predecessor, the GT86, for its pared-back, the stylish and upmarket 500. The Italian brand is also debut at the 2021 Los Angeles Motor Show. organic driving thrills, and the GR86 is a refinement planning a larger EV SUV version of the Panda based of the original recipe, rather than a reinvention. on the same platform as the Vauxhall Corsa. Angular lines and a bold LED light signature feature outside, while the minimalist cabin mixes It’s powered by a larger 2.4-litre flat-four motor EXCILMUSAIGVEE luxurious materials with state-of-the-art tech. Also with 234bhp. The Subaru-sourced motor isn’t likely is the show car’s 27-inch-wide display for much more potent than before – or turbocharged Avarvarii the infotainment and instruments. Underpinning – but stirring the gears and using all the engine’s the Kia will be the extended E-GMP platform, power are part of the fun in a car like this. Our early while twin-motor four-wheel drive is possible, impressions of a GR86 prototype indicate that it’s plus a 100kWh battery for 400 miles of range. lost none of its appetite for rear-driven fun. SPYSHOT Automedia 28 iB7M/7WSeries 29 IVDO.5LK&SIWDA.5GGENTX 30 EMQEERCEDES Price: From £75,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 Price: From £50,550 (est) On sale: Now Price: From £65,000 (est) On sale: Summer 2022 IF you believe bigger is better, then look no further NICHE-BUSTING once again, Volkswagen has THE EQE is an all-electric saloon the size of the than the new 7 Series. Now entering its seventh launched a coupé version of the ID.4 SUV, called E-Class, and Mercedes hopes it will reignite generation, BMW’s luxury limo promises to be one the ID.5. It’s mechanically (and technologically) interest in a segment that’s losing more and of the most state-of-the-art saloons when it arrives identical to the ID.4, but aimed at a more more sales to SUVs. The sleek EQE taps into later this year. For starters, there will be an all- premium market. Key rivals include the Audi the style of the larger EQS, as well as borrowing electric i7 version that is likely to borrow the iX Q4 e-tron Sportback and the Kia EV6. its platform, interior design and equipment, SUV’s 516bhp twin-motor set-up, a 105kWh along with its battery and motor technology. battery and a 400-mile range. It’s only available with Volkswagen’s larger 77kWh battery pack, which offers a maximum The EQE 350’s 90kWh battery enables a range Emissions legislation has killed off the old V12, range of 313 miles when linked to the entry- of up to 410 miles on a full charge. Hot AMG but there will be six-cylinder and V8 petrol editions, level 171bhp electric motor. However, buyers versions have been confirmed, too, with the plus plug-in and 48V mild-hybrid tech. Engineers can also have the ID.5 in the brand’s sporty GTX range-topping EQE 53 delivering an all-wheel- say it will combine BMW’s trademark engaging specification, which adds an extra electric motor drive electric set-up that serves up a maximum driving experience with comfort and refinement. up front to boost the EV’s output to 294bhp. of 677bhp, with 0-62mph taking 3.3 seconds. www.autoexpress.co.uk Special Issue 43
1N0E9WBRICLLAIARNST EXCLUSIVE Larson IMAGE 31 RRE4NAULT EXCILMUSAIGVEE Price: £17,500 (est) On sale: 2024 RENAULT is looking to its past for future small models, and among the first will be a car that harks back to the utilitarian Renault 4. As our exclusive image shows, it will reference the original car’s boxy shape. Like the iconic 1961 car, the new model will remain small, cheap and practical, and could spawn a van variant. It’s likely the 4 will share the same 40kWh and 52kWh batteries as the forthcoming Renault 5, and will definitely use the same 134bhp motor driving the front wheels. 32 TPaOyRcSaCnHSEport Turismo Price: £73,650-£140,080 On sale: Now FOLLOWING the formula set by the Panamera, the all-electric Taycan range has gained an estate-car body, improving space for rear-seat passengers and luggage. The Sport Turismo’s powertrains are the same as the regular car’s, ranging from the standard 322bhp, rear-drive model to the dual-motor Turbo S, which boasts a 2.8-second 0-62mph time. It can be specified with a panoramic sunroof with Variable Light Control, allowing the user to switch between clear and opaque glass. The long-roof model also features revisions recently made to the saloon, including Android Auto and an optional Remote Park Assist system. Avarvarii 34 COaRAt 35 BiXM1/WX1 Price: From £25,000 (est) On sale: Spring 2022 Price: From £32,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 IT’S not often that we welcome an all-new brand THE X1 is big business for BMW, so the all-new 36 CCI5TRXOEN to market, but that’s exactly what we’ll get when version will need to hit the ground running when Price: From £26,490 the Ora Cat makes its debut as a more affordable it appears later this year. Electrification is at the On sale: Now alternative to the Volkswagen ID.3. Ora is a spin- compact crossover’s heart, with the iX1 likely to www.autoexpress.co.uk off of the Chinese brand Great Wall, but instead of use a detuned version of the larger iX3’s 282bhp the rugged pick-ups we’ve seen from that maker motor and deliver more than 200 miles on a charge. in the past, the Cat is more focused on style. There will also be a new version of the 25e The curvy lines clothe some very competitive PHEV, while the petrol and diesel units will get electric tech, given the circa-£25k estimated a 48V mild-hybrid boost. Our exclusive image starting price; a 169bhp motor drives the front shows that, on the outside, the X1 takes its cues wheels, and will be paired with a 48kWh or from the larger X3, while underneath will be a 63kWh battery. The bigger unit is claimed to development of the current car’s UKL2 platform, return up to 261 miles between charges. so it should be more fun to drive than most rivals. 44 Special Issue
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond 33 AVASTLOHANLMLAARTIN IF the V12 Vantage (p59) is Aston’s final nod its carbon-fibre construction, double-wishbone Price: From £400,000 to the past, then the Valhalla represents the pushrod front suspension and brake-by-wire On sale: Late 2022 brand’s exciting vision of the future. The firm’s set-up, the Valhalla also uses technology from first mid-engined series production car also Aston’s Formula One team. However, with a packs a plug-in electric powerplant. luxury interior and nine miles of EV range, the Valhalla will be as comfortable on the high street The combination of a twin-turbo V8 and two as it is on a race track. You’ll need deep pockets, electric motors pumps out 937bhp, while the but few hypercars are likely to be as heavenly. 0-62mph sprint takes just 2.5 seconds. With CITROEN is hoping its latest arrival has the also packed with the latest tech, including 37 bTOZ4YXOTA ‘X’ factor that’ll make it a hit with buyers. a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Combining quirky crossover style with real Price: £41,950 On sale: Now premium appeal, the C5 X is designed to be The engine range includes a pair of a relaxing long-distance executive express petrols (1.2 and 1.6-litre) and a 222bhp TOYOTA was a trailblazer for hybrid cars with with a difference. Not only is it luxuriously plug-in hybrid with a 31-mile electric range. the original Prius, but the brand has been much appointed inside, Citroen also claims rear- This version will also be available with more tentative when it comes to EVs. The bZ4X seat passengers get more room to stretch out Citroen’s Advanced Comfort adaptive (which we’ve driven on p22) combines a radical than in rivals such as the Peugeot 508. It’s suspension, which promises to offer the SUV body with Toyota’s new e-TNGA architecture. firm’s trademark supple ride quality. The entry-level version is front-wheel drive, www.autoexpress.co.uk while the dual-motor flagship sends 215bhp to all four wheels. The bZ4X is also equipped with Toyota’s XMode system, with tailored powertrain calibrations for off-road conditions. The claimed range stands at a respectable 280 miles, and Toyota even teased a hot GR Sport variant with a concept at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon. Special Issue 45
N10E9WBRICLLAIARNST 38 FFOORCDUS LIKE its Fiesta sibling, the Focus has been given that features a vast 12.3-inch dash and a Price: From £22,965 a nip and tuck in an effort to boost its showroom touchscreen with all the latest connectivity. On sale: Now appeal. On the outside you’ll notice the new Ford Elsewhere, there are higher-grade trim materials, ‘face’, consisting of a gaping grille and large Blue more advanced driver aids and new spec levels. Oval badge, plus the sharp LED light signature and subtly tweaked bumper design. Mechanically the Focus is unchanged, meaning the engine line-up includes various 48V mild- The most significant change inside is the hybrid options. It also means the Ford will remain availability of Ford’s new SYNC 4 infotainment one of the best family hatches for keen drivers. 43 NKIIARO Price: From £26,000 (est) On sale: Spring 2022 41 HCOivNicDTAype R 42 TCOoYroOllTaACross Price: From £32,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 Price: From £29,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 FOLLOWING the standard Civic (p39) will be the TOYOTA already has the C-HR and the RAV4 in its all-new Type R flagship. Our spies have caught line-up, yet the brand still thinks there’s space for the high-performance Honda testing at the expansion. The Corolla Cross will plug the gap fearsome Nürburgring circuit in Germany. between the two, acting as a more practical alternative to the C-HR and a direct competitor Details are still thin on the ground, but get past for the likes of the Nissan Qashqai. the Type R’s disguise and it’s clear it won’t look as wild as its predecessor, with a smaller rear It will be fitted with a 198bhp 2.0-litre hybrid wing and less-aggressive bodykit. It’s expected powertrain and will be offered with a choice of to pack the same 316bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine, front and four-wheel drive, thanks to the addition driving the front wheels through the trademark of an extra electric motor on the rear axle. The slick six-speed manual gearbox. Careful tuning Corolla Cross will also be bristling with tech, with of its suspension should mean few rivals will be a digital gauge cluster, 10.5-inch infotainment as agile and engaging on road and track. system and over-the-air updates all available. 46 Special Issue
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond 39 40B3MSeWries facelift MMACS2E0RATI Price: From £34,000 (est) On sale: Late 2022 Price: From £190,275 On sale: Now BMW is putting its big-selling 3 Series under the MASERATI is back with the MC20. It’s a knife, as the compact exec model prepares to thoroughbred sports car that uses an all-new battle arch-rivals such as the all-new Mercedes 621bhp twin-turbo V6 in the middle of a brand- C-Class and forthcoming Audi A4 replacement. It’s new carbon-fibre chassis. It steers superbly, offers essentially a light makeover, and both the four- the level of driver focus you want from a low-slung door saloon and versatile Touring estate versions model and even rides comfortably. get a reprofiled nose and revised tail-lamps. It’s pricey, at £190,000, but the MC20 has real They will also feature BMW’s latest iDrive 8 pedigree and competes on an equal footing with infotainment. This comprises a curved 14.9-inch McLaren and Lamborghini. It feels authentic, a touchscreen and 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster. key factor in this market, and it’ll have exclusivity The petrol and diesel engines will get 48V mild- on its side, too. Given how much it costs, the cabin hybrid tech, while the PHEV 330e is set for a longer might be a little spartan for some, but at least the EV range. The demise of the i3 means the badge tech works and it’s functional, so you can get on is likely to be revived for an all-electric 3 Series. with what the MC20 is all about: having fun. SPYSHOT Avarvarii Automedia FAST FACT THE Focus ST receives similar styling updates, but retains its 2.3-litre turbo engine and sharp chassis, so fast Ford fans will be pleased. THE Niro has been a smash hit for Kia, so the brand hasn’t messed IEMXACGLUESIVE with a winning formula for the Mk2 machine. That said, with styling inspired by the latest Sportage, it has more kerb appeal than before. 44 RScENénAiUcLSTUV A sweeping dash design, enhanced quality, more space and better Price: From £40,000 (est) On sale: 2024 tech make it feel a lot more upmarket inside. Under the bold new exterior is a revised version of the old car’s architecture, which means RENAULT will reinvent its Scénic as an all-electric a similar choice of hybrid, PHEV and pure-electric power. Only details SUV to sit above the Mégane E-Tech Electric. The of the 139bhp self-charging hybrid have been released, but expect new car will be based on the brand’s CMF-EV the plug-in and electric versions to benefit from improved ranges. platform, maximising space for passengers and luggage, and batteries of up to 87kWh could be possible for a range of more than 300 miles. There’ll be cheaper 60kWh and 40kWh models too, but all will have 130kW rapid-charging tech. Expect bold styling, as our image shows, with slim LED headlights and signature running lights. And inside, the Scénic is set to use Renault’s latest infotainment, with a 12.3-inch digital dash and a 12-inch screen powered by Google. Special Issue 47
N10E9WBRICLLAIARNST 45 CCI5TRAOIRECNROSS THE C5 X isn’t the only big Citroen with upmarket and wireless phone charging. There’s also the Price: From £25,515 ambitions, because the recently revised C5 option of materials such as Nappa leather. On sale: Now Aircross has also been given a premium push. Yet the Citroen’s family-friendly feel remains, There’s a restyled nose with distinctive LED with a handy sliding rear bench and up to 720 running lights, plus new tail-lights and revised litres of boot space available. There are also no alloy wheel designs. Climb aboard and you’ll find mechanical changes, with the same range of a classier-looking dashboard, featuring the slick petrol and diesel engines on offer, plus the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment from the C4 222bhp PHEV with its 31-mile electric range. Avarvarii 50 ASULVPINE Automedia Price: From £45,000 (est) EIMXACGLUESIVE On sale: 2026 SPYSHOT 48 GMrAaSnERTuArTisImo 49 HElOecNtDricA SUV Price: From £100,000 (est) On sale: Early 2023 Price: From £30,000 (est) On sale: Late 2023 LOOK through Maserati’s back catalogue and it’s THE tiny Honda E has been a big hit for the brand, littered with grand tourers, so an all-new iteration so it’s no surprise to find Honda is expanding its of its GT is a logical addition. There’ll be the all-electric range with a new SUV. Bosses are option of petrol power (a detuned version of the remaining tight-lipped, but have revealed that MC20’s V6 will probably feature) and later, the the rugged EV’s compact dimensions place it range will expand with an EV as Maserati moves between the Jazz supermini and HR-V crossover. with the times and adopts full electrification. Also hinted at is a range of around 200 miles. Our spy photographers caught the new car In terms of looks, the e-SUV is likely to take its testing and we can see the GT’s proportions are cues from the smaller Honda E, with its smooth elegant, with a long bonnet and a passenger and simple exterior lines and upmarket, hi-tech compartment set towards the rear. Expect styling interior. That means it’s likely to feature the same cues from the MC20 flagship, too, with slim tail- widescreen dash made up of a pair of 12.3-inch lights, but vertically arranged LED headlights. screens and clever ‘virtual’ door mirrors. 48 Special Issue
109 BRILLIANT NEWCARS Fantastic new cars for 2022 and beyond 46 FBlEyNinTgLESYpur Hybrid Price: From £165,000 (est) On sale: Spring 2022 BENTLEY has been slow to embrace battery power, but that’s changing with its latest line-up. The Bentayga was the first model to be electrified, with a plug-in hybrid version arriving in 2019. This was replaced last year by the second-generation car that combined a V6 engine and an electric motor. This has been joined by a PHEV version of the Flying Spur saloon. With a more driver-focused experience, the fast but frugal four-door uses the petrol-electric 2.9-litre V6 plug-in powertrain from the Porsche Panamera for 536bhp and 0-60mph in 4.1 seconds. It can travel up to 25 miles on electricity, making it one of the most soothing luxury saloons on sale. 47 Bi5M/5WSeries Automedia Avarvarii Price: From £42,000 (est) On sale: Mid 2023 BMW’S all-new 5 Series will be available in ICE, PHEV and full-EV guises. SPYSHOT Due to arrive in 2023, the eighth generation of the large executive saloon will be the most advanced and ambitious yet. In fully electric guise the newcomer will be badged i5 and is likely to use battery and motor tech from other EVs in BMW’s line-up for an estimated range of 300 miles. As before, the plug-in versions will have a choice of 2.0-litre (530e) or 3.0-litre straight-six (545e) petrol engines, each with enhanced EV range. Pure-petrol and diesel cars will get 48V mild-hybrid tech to deliver efficiency and performance gains. You can expect M versions of the ICE and EV models. ALPINE has big plans for its future, and you performance, engaging handling and a don’t need to look any further than the GT kerb weight that’s lighter than its rivals’. X-Over (working title) SUV for proof. The firm made its name with the light and lithe Spearheading the company’s promise to A110 sports car, but to get ahead in the be all-electric by the middle of the decade, sales charts it needs a crossover model. the GT X-Over is likely to use a triple-motor layout with up to 450bhp and active torque However, the high-riding newcomer vectoring capability. Its styling will draw promises to be faithful to the brand’s heavily on the iconic A110, with a low- values, with strong slung roofline and quad-headlight layout. EXCLUSIVE 51 HMaINtcI h IMAGE Price: From £30,000 (est) On sale: 2023 MINI is already warming us up for the arrival of the next-generation Hatch. The brand has confirmed the model’s debut will take place in 2023, and has whetted our appetite by issuing some official images of a prototype, keeping most of the styling details under cover. The next car will employ a new split-platform approach, with a fully electric version built in China on a platform jointly developed with Great Wall, and ICE versions continuing to run down the production line in Cowley, Oxon. The car will shrink slightly compared with the current- generation model, going back to MINI’s roots. Special Issue 49
1N0E9WBRICLLAIARNST 52 TAOLFNAARLOE MEO IT’S been a tough few years recently for Alfa, Jeep Renegade, and will offer 48V mild-hybrid Price: From £35,000 (est) with slumping sales and an increasingly limited petrol and 271bhp plug-in powertrains. But On sale: April 2022 line-up. Yet with its all-new Tonale SUV, the bespoke tuning of the suspension means it Italian brand is ready to fight back. should drive with the brio we expect from Alfa. Boasting head-turning looks and a range of Inside, the interior mixes luxury and tech, electrified engines, the classy compact crossover with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Amazon will rival the likes of the Audi Q3 and Mercedes Alexa voice assistant and Level 2 autonomous GLA. The Alfa sits on the same platform as the driver aids. Form an orderly queue here. EIMXACGLUESIVE Larson 55 SFaKObiDaA 56 P5OLESTAR 57 MEQEERCSUEDVES Price: £14,905 On sale: Now Price: From £95,000 (est) On sale: 2024 Price: From £75,000 (est) On sale: 2023 WITH the new Fabia, Skoda threatens to dethrone DESPITE its next two releases, Polestar’s future MERCEDES will move its electric SUVs into the our favourite supermini – the Renault Clio – isn’t just filled with SUVs. The 5 takes inspiration next generation with the EQE. Unlike the EQA, thanks to strong build quality, a comfortable ride from the Precept concept – a dramatic-looking EQB and EQC, this model won’t use a converted and modern tech in a sharply styled, practical saloon that should put up a fascinating contest combustion-engine platform, and its dedicated body. Believe it or not, the boot is identical in size with the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S. EV architecture should lead to more interior space. to the Volkswagen Golf from the class above. Details are scarce, but we expect the Polestar 5 It also means that Mercedes should make The Fabia is powered by a 1.0-litre three- to ride on the second generation of Volvo’s SPA developments in range and charging tech, cylinder petrol motor in either turbocharged or architecture, with development of the car’s inheriting much from the EQE saloon. That means naturally aspirated forms, and it’s impressively chassis being conducted at Polestar’s UK R&D 170kW charging, although that is still behind hushed and frugal. A larger 1.5-litre turbo unit base. A range of more than 310 miles has been what already established rivals offer. The SUV is also on the way, in a new Monte Carlo model. suggested, while the cabin will make extensive should borrow the best of the EQE in terms of There will be no vRS hot hatch this time, with the use of recycled and plant-sourced materials to battery and motor tech, though, and a range 148bhp Monte Carlo warm hatch as the flagship. further increase its environmental credentials. of well over 300 miles should be possible. 50 Special Issue www.autoexpress.co.uk
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