Planetauto is a dedicated automotive channel established in 2005, which expanded into video reviews in 2017. This distributor specializes in comprehensive coverage of the automotive world, offering insights into the latest new car reviews, automotive product and service evaluations, supercars, classic vehicles, ongoing projects, and major event coverage. Planetauto provides in-depth reviews of new models from a diverse array of manufacturers, including but not limited to Subaru, Honda, Kia, Hyundai, Ford, BMW, MG, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volvo, Fiat, Skoda, and Tesla.
The channel's expertise extends to covering significant automotive events such as Goodwood, Silverstone, SMMT Events, and Concours of Elegance. Whether you're seeking reviews on specific automotive products, looking for information on hybrid SUVs, or interested in road trip experiences with new models like the MG4 or Suzuki Ignis Hybrid, Planetauto serves as a reliable source for automotive enthusiasts.
The channel's expertise extends to covering significant automotive events such as Goodwood, Silverstone, SMMT Events, and Concours of Elegance. Whether you're seeking reviews on specific automotive products, looking for information on hybrid SUVs, or interested in road trip experiences with new models like the MG4 or Suzuki Ignis Hybrid, Planetauto serves as a reliable source for automotive enthusiasts.
New MG4 800 Mile Scottish Road Trip Part 1
The Planetauto team embarks on an ambitious 800-mile road trip to Scotland in the new MG4, focusing on its practicality and driving experience. The reviewer highlights the MG4's rear-wheel-drive configuration as a significant departure and a positive attribute, contributing to a balanced and agil...
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New Lexus RX 450h+ Review | The Ultimate Hybrid SUV?
The Lexus RX 450h+ is presented as a sophisticated and capable plug-in hybrid SUV, blending luxury with eco-conscious innovation. The reviewer highlig... morehts its refined driving experience, noting the seamless transition between electric and petrol power, and the surprisingly agile handling for its size, with minimal body roll. The interior is praised for its luxurious materials, comfortable seating, and user-friendly infotainment system that retains physical controls for essential functions. Practicality is also a strong point, with ample space for passengers and cargo, and a versatile powertrain offering a quoted electric range of 30-40 miles and impressive real-world fuel economy when operating in hybrid mode (over 40 MPG without hybrid use, and up to 250 MPG with). While acknowledging the premium price tag, the reviewer concludes that the RX 450h+ offers excellent value, particularly regarding its comprehensive safety features and overall build quality, making it a compelling choice for families seeking a refined, executive-level SUV. less
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Road Trip: The Perfect Electric Companion for Fully Charged North?
This video chronicles a road trip to the Fully Charged Show in Harrogate, using the Hyundai Ioniq 5 as the primary vehicle. The reviewer highlights th... moree Ioniq 5's striking retro-modern design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, noting its refinement and quiet cabin. The car's performance is discussed, with the reviewer experimenting with different driving modes (Eco and Sport) and their impact on acceleration and 'regen' (regenerative braking). While the reviewer praises the car's ability to maintain range and its smooth power delivery, they also note the significant drop in range when engaging Sport mode. The video touches upon the car's technology, including the minimalist interior and driver assistance systems like lane keep assist. Overall, the Ioniq 5 is presented as a capable and enjoyable electric companion for long journeys, offering a good balance of comfort, technology, and distinctive styling, though its efficiency is noticeably impacted by aggressive driving. less
MG4 XPower Road Trip Pt2: Planetauto Lake District EV Trail
This road trip review of the MG4 XPower through the Lake District highlights its potent performance and surprising practicality. The reviewer praises ... morethe car's acceleration, handling, and all-wheel-drive capability, particularly on challenging B-roads and dual carriageways. The "super car slayer" moniker is deemed accurate, with the XPower's torque vectoring and minimal body roll contributing to an engaging driving experience. Practical features like heated seats and steering wheel, along with the adaptive cruise control and one-pedal driving, are noted as beneficial for longer journeys. While the reviewer acknowledges the car's power might be overwhelming for some passengers, they conclude that the MG4 XPower offers exceptional value for money, especially considering its performance and features. The review also touches upon the increasing EV infrastructure in the Lake District, making it a viable destination for EV road trips. less
MG4 XPower Road Trip: The Planetauto Lake District EV Trail Pt 1
The MG4 XPower is presented as a "supercar slayer" and a significant step up from standard MG4 models, primarily due to its 430 bhp, all-whe... moreel-drive, and torque-vectoring capabilities, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds. The reviewer highlights its impressive acceleration and handling, noting the stiffer suspension (around 20% stiffer springs) which enhances engagement on B-roads without being overly harsh, striking a balance for comfort and performance. While not an "eco run" vehicle, the XPower offers a claimed range of around 214-225 miles, with real-world figures closer to 210 miles, which is deemed acceptable given its performance focus. The reviewer praises the responsive infotainment, the comprehensive safety features (MG Pilot), and the ability to customize driving modes and regen braking via steering wheel buttons, a significant improvement over screen-based controls. Downsides mentioned include the desire for a physical button for driving modes (though this is mitigated by custom mapping) and the ride being less pliable than the standard MG4. Overall, the XPower is lauded for its thrilling performance, capable handling, and impressive value for money at around £37,000. less
MG4 XPower Review: The Ultimate Super Car Slayer
The MG4 XPower is presented as a "super car slayer" and a significant evolution for MG, moving beyond SUVs into performance-oriented vehicle... mores. The reviewer highlights its dual motors, 430 BHP, and rapid 3.8-second 0-62mph time, attributing the enhanced performance to stiffer suspension (20% stiffer springs) and torque vectoring, which significantly improves grip, especially on B-roads. Despite its performance focus, the ride is described as comfortable and pliable. Real-world range is estimated at around 210-220 miles, with the reviewer noting that while extended range models exist, the XPower is primarily for "fun" rather than economy. Key positives include its aggressive styling, improved grip over standard MG4 models, responsive steering, and a surprisingly premium interior feel for its price point (starting around £37,000). Criticisms are minimal, with a mention of some hard plastics and the infotainment screen being sluggish in cold weather. The reviewer strongly recommends the XPower over other MG4 trims, emphasizing that the AWD transforms the driving experience. less
New BYD Seal Review | Is It Really That Good?
The BYD Seal emerges as a groundbreaking electric saloon, impressing with its in-house developed technology and competitive pricing. The reviewer high... morelights the innovative Cell-to-Body (CTB) battery integration, which enhances chassis strength and safety, and praises the Blade battery technology for its robustness and space efficiency. Performance is a key strength, with the Excellence AWD model achieving 0-62mph in a remarkable 3.8 seconds, rivaling supercar figures. Despite this power, the Seal offers substantial real-world range, with the AWD variant delivering around 320 miles, aided by an efficient heat pump system. Interior quality and technology are also commended, featuring a responsive infotainment system, premium materials, and comfortable seating, including heated and ventilated front seats. While the car is noted as being wide and potentially challenging in tight parking situations, the overall driving experience is described as a brilliant mix of exhilarating performance and comfortable refinement, making it a strong contender in the EV market. less
GWM Ora Funky Cat 03 | Yorkshire Road Trip
The GWM Ora Funky Cat 03, recently renamed in the UK, is presented as a compelling option in the electric vehicle market, particularly for its sub-£30... more,000 price point. The reviewer highlights its surprising agility and engaging driving dynamics, noting its planted feel despite a weight of around 1.5 tons. The steering is described as direct and well-balanced, offering good feedback. A significant positive is the vehicle's thermal management; unlike many EVs, the Funky Cat 03 demonstrates minimal range loss (20-30 miles) even with heaters on in cold weather, providing a more realistic range closer to its claimed 200 miles. The interior is praised for its refinement, with no squeaks or rattles, contributing to a smooth and quiet ride. Advanced safety features, including collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and a responsive blind-spot detection system, are noted as being highly capable and integrated without being overly intrusive. The adaptive regenerative braking system is particularly impressive, intelligently slowing the car without driver intervention. While the 'Sport' mode consumes range faster, 'Auto' and 'Eco' modes offer a good balance of performance and efficiency, with the reviewer achieving a real-world range close to the stated mileage even after spirited driving. The car's retro-modern design is a head-turner, and the five-year unlimited mileage warranty underscores GWM's confidence in the product. Overall, the Funky Cat 03 is deemed a practical, versatile, and captivating EV that offers significant value. less
Stormy Lake District Wrynose Road Trip | MG5 Electric Estate and Mk2 Golf Petrol Hot Hatch
This video chronicles an adventurous road trip through the Lake District in the MG5 Electric Estate, contrasting it with a Mk2 Golf GTI. The reviewer ... morehighlights the MG5's practicality as the UK's sole electric estate car, praising its ability to handle challenging terrain like Wrynose Pass with surprising ease. Key positives include its price point, suitability for carrying items, and comfortable ride, even in adverse weather. Criticisms are minimal, with a desire for heated rear seats and a more comfortable middle rear seat mentioned. The car demonstrated respectable range management during the demanding journey, recouping significant mileage on descents. Overall, the MG5 is presented as a capable, agile, and rapid all-rounder, proving its worth on scenic but demanding routes. less
MG5 Electric Road Trip Part 2 Coniston Bound EV
The MG5 Electric Estate proves itself a capable and versatile companion for road trips, particularly excelling in its efficiency and handling on varie... mored terrain. Reviewers highlight its impressive range retention, even when pushed, and its agile, nimble performance on country lanes and through challenging corners. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are noted as significant safety and convenience enhancements, making motorway driving refined and stable. While the car offers great value for money and practicality, a minor point of contention is its tendency for wheel spin, which could be improved. The infotainment system is straightforward, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a brief GPS lag was encountered. Overall, the MG5 is presented as a cost-effective, enjoyable, and competent electric vehicle suitable for diverse adventures. less
MG5 Electric Estate Car Road Trip
The MG5 Electric Estate Car receives a positive review following a road trip through the Yorkshire Dales. The reviewer highlights the "facelift&q... moreuot; model's significant improvements, noting that while the powertrain remains the same, the updates have made it "10 times better." Key strengths include its comfortable ride, nice direct steering, and engaging handling, particularly for an estate car, with the chassis offering a good balance between comfort and road holding. The reviewer praises the infotainment system for being straightforward and mentions the availability of navigation like Waze. Real-world range is discussed, with figures around 230 miles for the Trophy trim (compared to 250 for SE) being achievable, though colder weather impacts this. The car's quietness and refinement are noted, though some road and wind noise are present on certain surfaces. The reviewer also touches on the practicality and versatility of the MG5, suggesting it's suitable for various uses from daily commuting to longer road trips. The car's ability to utilize regenerative braking effectively, especially on hilly terrain, is a significant plus, contributing to range efficiency and reducing the need for physical braking. Minor criticisms include the absence of a sunroof and the lack of one-pedal driving, though the available regen is deemed sufficient for most driving scenarios. Overall, the MG5 is presented as a compelling and well-rounded electric estate car, offering good value for money. less
New Honda ZR-V Hybrid Review | The Best Premium SUV?
The Honda ZR-V Hybrid is presented as a premium compact SUV, sharing its 2.0L e:HEV powertrain with the Civic. The reviewer highlights its attractive ... morestyling, comfortable and well-appointed interior, and a refined driving experience that belies its SUV stature, often comparing it favorably to a "jacked-up Civic." The Advance trim, specifically reviewed, offers a premium feel with features like electric seats, a panoramic roof, and a Bose sound system. The hybrid system provides seamless transitions between power sources and delivers good economy, with the reviewer achieving around 40 mpg on a 500-mile road trip. Positives include the smooth eCVT, responsive acceleration, Honda Sensing suite of safety features, and the quality of interior materials. Criticisms are the lack of an all-wheel-drive option and a desire for more boot space and potentially reclining rear seats. Despite these minor drawbacks, the ZR-V is lauded as a practical, safe, and engaging option for families, offering a compelling package for its price point. less
Subaru Forester Eboxer Hybrid Road Trip
The Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid proves to be a surprisingly capable and economical companion for extended road trips, handling diverse weather cond... moreitions with aplomb. Reviewers highlight its agility and ease of maneuverability despite its size, noting minimal body roll even on twisty roads. The hybrid system is praised for its seamless integration, particularly its ability to maximize EV mode usage during coasting and gentle acceleration, significantly contributing to impressive real-world economy and mitigating range anxiety. While the transition between electric and petrol power isn't always the smoothest, especially with stop-start engaged, the overall driving experience is described as stable, planted, and comfortable. The vehicle's all-wheel-drive capability and terrain modes are commended for their effectiveness in challenging conditions, making it a strong contender for those seeking a practical, all-weather family vehicle. less
Nissan Ariya 2023 Review | A Traditional JDM Electric SUV. Is There Such a Thing?
This video provides a brief overview of the Nissan Ariya, highlighting its presence at the Silverstone Festival and an opportunity for a test drive at... more SMMT. However, the transcript is empty, offering no specific details about the vehicle's performance, features, or the reviewer's verdict. Without any content from the transcript, it's impossible to provide a detailed editorial review or assess the vehicle's pros and cons. less
New BYD Dolphin Review | The Ultimate Bargain Electric Car?
The BYD Dolphin is presented as a compelling value proposition in the electric vehicle market, starting at an attractive £26,195. The reviewer highlig... morehts its "blade battery" technology as a key safety and space-saving feature, enabling a claimed range of up to 260 miles with the extended battery. The "Design" trim, specifically the model tested, is praised for its distinctive "ocean aesthetics," unique interior touches, and generous equipment levels, including LED lighting, two-tone paint, and multi-link rear suspension. Positives include agile handling, responsive acceleration, and a comfortable ride, making it fun to drive, especially on back roads. The interior is noted for its spaciousness and premium feel for the segment, with features like a large infotainment screen, vegan leather seats, and ample storage. Criticisms are minimal, with the reviewer mentioning some tire and wind noise in the cabin, and a slightly odd ridge in the rear headliner. Overall, the Dolphin is lauded as an innovative, safe, and surprisingly practical electric hatchback that offers exceptional value. less
Nissan X Trail Review 2023 | E-Power To The People
The Nissan X-Trail 2023, particularly the e-POWER e-4orce Tekna+ variant, is presented as a compelling family SUV with a focus on its innovative power... moretrain. The reviewer highlights the seamless transition and instant power delivery of the e-POWER system, emphasizing that it operates as a series hybrid where the engine acts as a generator, eliminating the need for external charging. This is a key selling point, offering efficiency (around 47 mpg mentioned) and a smooth, quiet driving experience akin to a pure EV. The vehicle is praised for its practicality, spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom, comfortable seating, and a well-appointed cabin featuring a large infotainment screen, digital cluster, and quality materials. The e-4orce all-wheel-drive system is noted for its capability in various terrains and its contribution to the vehicle's planted and agile feel, despite its size. The reviewer also commends the responsive steering, comfortable suspension, and the array of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and a clear heads-up display. The optional seven-seat configuration and towing capacity are also seen as significant advantages for families. While the reviewer doesn't explicitly state dislikes, the mention of synthetic leather seats and the slightly raised rear seat could be minor points. Overall, the X-Trail is positioned as a versatile, fun, and technologically advanced SUV, likely to be the last combustion-engined X-Trail, making it a significant offering for the market. less
New Hyundai Kona Road Trip Part One | Better Than Ever?
This video documents the initial leg of a road trip in the new Hyundai Kona Hybrid, specifically the N Line S HEV 1.6-litre model. The reviewer highli... moreghts the vehicle's refined interior and exterior styling, noting it retains the Kona's recognizable look while feeling sleeker. Key improvements mentioned include increased cabin space, a more comfortable and modern interior with a driver-angled dashboard, and a comprehensive safety suite. The hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, is praised for its smooth transitions, quiet operation, and impressive fuel economy, with the reviewer achieving around 57-58 MPG on A-roads and anticipating exceeding the claimed 60 MPG. The driving experience is described as agile and engaging, with minimal body roll and responsive steering, making it suitable for various road types. While the reviewer notes the power output isn't exceptionally high, they emphasize that the instant torque from the electric motor and the overall refinement make it more than adequate for everyday driving and surprising in its performance. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the ride comfort, finding it well-balanced for a B-segment SUV, and appreciates the retention of physical buttons alongside larger screens for ease of use. The overall verdict is positive, suggesting the new Kona Hybrid is a significant improvement over the previous generation and a strong contender in its segment. less
BMW i4 Review | Electric Old School?
The BMW i4 is presented as a significant step in the brand's electrification journey, aiming to deliver classic BMW driving dynamics in an electr... moreic package. The reviewer highlights its rear-wheel-drive setup, low center of gravity, and chassis rigidity as key contributors to a balanced and engaging driving experience, reminiscent of older BMWs. The eDrive40 model, while not as rapid as the M50, offers strong acceleration and a unique power delivery that stands out among EVs. Real-world range is estimated around 290 miles from its 88 kWh battery, which is considered respectable. Positives include the spacious and futuristic interior with the latest iDrive system, a comfortable ride with M adaptive suspension, and practical features like a towbar and ample boot space. Criticisms are minimal, with the reviewer noting the absence of a grab handle and manual seat belt adjustment as minor drawbacks. Overall, the i4 is praised for its blend of performance, practicality, and traditional BMW driving feel, making it a compelling option for those seeking an electric car with a driver-focused character. less
New Honda ZR-V - The Civic Based SUV | Road Trip to Silverstone Part 1
The Honda ZR-V e:HEV, particularly in the Advance trim, is presented as a refined and practical compact SUV that leverages the powertrain from the pop... moreular Civic. Reviewers highlight its smooth transition between electric and petrol power, impressive fuel economy (achieving around 40 MPG on the motorway, with potential for higher figures), and a comfortable, quiet cabin. The handling is praised for feeling akin to the Civic, with well-mitigated body roll and responsive steering, making it agile and nimble. Interior features like the spacious infotainment screen, physical climate controls, a large sunroof, and a premium 12-speaker sound system are noted as positives. The advanced safety suite, Honda Sensing, is also commended for its comprehensive and non-intrusive nature. While the car is well-equipped across all trims, the Advance trim offers additional luxuries like power-adjustable front seats with memory and heated rear seats. The reviewer's overall impression is highly positive, viewing the ZR-V as a well-balanced package that successfully blends SUV practicality with a dynamic driving experience, making it a strong contender for those seeking a hybrid alternative to full EVs. less
BMW i4 Road Trip - The Ultimate Electric Car?
The BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport is presented as a compelling electric Gran Coupé, particularly for those who appreciate traditional BMW driving dynamics. ... moreThe reviewer highlights its rear-wheel-drive configuration, which contributes to a balanced and engaging driving experience, feeling like a true driver's car despite its electric nature and weight. The adaptive suspension and direct steering are praised for providing excellent feedback and control, even on challenging roads. The vehicle's regenerative braking system, especially in 'B' mode, is noted for its effectiveness in extending range and reducing reliance on friction brakes, with the car intelligently adapting its regen strategy based on traffic and road conditions. While the exterior styling, particularly the grille, might be divisive, the interior is lauded for its quality materials, comfortable seats, and intuitive infotainment system, though the lack of physical buttons is a minor drawback. The reviewer also notes the car's impressive efficiency, with the range often exceeding initial estimates, even in adverse weather conditions. The i4 is positioned as a significant step forward for BMW in the electric vehicle market, successfully blending performance, efficiency, and driving pleasure. less
BYD Atto 3 Review | The Best Electric SUV Under £40K?
The BYD Atto 3 is presented as a compelling contender in the sub-£40,000 electric SUV market, offering a premium feel at an affordable price. The revi... moreewer highlights its distinctive and refreshing interior design, inspired by gymnasium aesthetics, featuring unique elements like kettlebell-shaped controls and weightlifting bar door handles. Practicality is also a strong suit, with ample space, a dual-level boot floor, and thoughtful touches like integrated guitar strings for the speakers. On the road, the Atto 3 is praised for its refined driving experience, comfortable suspension, direct steering, and surprisingly capable handling with mitigated body roll, despite its elevated stance. The reviewer notes a real-world range of around 240-300 miles, exceeding the claimed 260 miles under certain conditions. While the lack of a front trunk and the absence of paddle shifters for regenerative braking are minor drawbacks, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its excellent value, extensive standard safety features, and overall joy to drive, making it a strong family-oriented option. less
GWM Ora Funky Cat EV Review | Is This The Purrfect Electric Car?
The GWM Ora Funky Cat is presented as a stylish, retro-modern electric vehicle aiming to make a significant impact in the UK market. The reviewer high... morelights its head-turning design, described as a blend of Chinese and German influences, and praises its well-built interior with premium touches, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The car's performance is noted as adequate for its class, with around 170 bhp and a 0-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds. Real-world range in colder weather is reported to be closer to 265 miles from its 48 kWh battery, exceeding the claimed 193 miles. Positives include a competitive price point (around £30k), a comprehensive five-year unlimited mileage warranty, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation. Criticisms are minimal, with the reviewer noting the lack of a driver's grab handle and a slightly high boot lip. Overall, the Funky Cat is positioned as a practical, versatile, and value-driven option for those seeking a distinctive EV. less
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Road Trip | The Lake District EV Trail Pt 2
This video documents a road trip through the Lake District in the Hyundai Ioniq 6, highlighting its suitability for long journeys and exploring the &q... moreuot;EV Trail." The reviewer praises the Ioniq 6's comfortable ride, intuitive infotainment system, and responsive handling, particularly noting its performance in varied terrains and gradients. The "i-Pedal" mode is commended for its effective regenerative braking, allowing for minimal use of the physical brakes. The car's aesthetic appeal is also mentioned, with the reviewer stating it turned heads. While the reviewer admits to driving in "Sport" mode frequently, impacting efficiency, they suggest the "Eco" mode is sufficient for most needs and preserves range. The video also touches upon the versatility of the E-GMP platform shared with other Hyundai/Kia models. Overall, the Ioniq 6 is presented as a capable and attractive cruiser for exploring scenic routes, though the reviewer acknowledges it might be less versatile than the Ioniq 5. less
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Road Trip: The Lake District EV Trail Pt 1
This video documents the first part of an EV road trip along the Lake District EV Trail in a Hyundai Ioniq 6. The reviewer highlights the Ioniq 6'... more;s comfortable and refined driving experience, noting its quiet cabin, good visibility, and effective heads-up display. The car's spacious interior, particularly the rear legroom, and advanced safety features like cross-traffic alert and evasive steering are praised. The reviewer also touches upon the car's charging capabilities and range, mentioning a 90% battery yielding 250 miles, with a potential for 361 miles depending on driving conditions. The Lake District itself is presented as an increasingly EV-friendly destination with growing charging infrastructure. While the video focuses heavily on the scenic journey and attractions, it implicitly endorses the Ioniq 6 as a capable and comfortable companion for such adventures. less
Maxus Mifa 9 EV: The Most Luxurious MPV In The World?
The Maxus Mifa 9 is presented as a potentially luxurious, fully electric seven-seater MPV entering the UK market. The reviewer highlights its spacious... more interior, comfortable and supportive seats, and a high level of technology, comparing its executive-class passenger experience to that of an S-Class. Key features praised include the extensive sunroofs, responsive infotainment system, and advanced seating functions like heating, ventilation, and massage. The reviewer notes the minimalist design, efficient aerodynamics, and the practicality for passenger transport, such as airport runs. However, the reviewer also points out the limited boot space in its standard configuration, though a clever sliding mechanism offers some improvement. While the driver experience is deemed good, the focus is clearly on passenger comfort and luxury. The vehicle's top trim retails for just under £74,000, with other trims available. less