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 Genesis Electrified G80 2023 Review | Is This The Ultimate Electric Saloon?
The Genesis Electrified G80 is presented as a compelling alternative in the premium electric saloon segment, challenging established German rivals. Th... moree reviewer highlights its exceptional refinement, quiet cabin, and smooth, powerful acceleration, noting the dual motors provide brisk performance (0-60 mph in under five seconds). The interior is praised for its luxurious materials, high-quality construction, and elegant design, with particular emphasis on comfortable, well-appointed seats and advanced tech features like the Lexicon audio system and ambient lighting. The unique solar roof, capable of adding significant range annually, is a standout feature. Practicality is addressed, with the reviewer acknowledging the boot space is compromised by the battery but sufficient for daily needs. While the exterior styling is described as subtle and elegant, the reviewer notes the charging port is discreetly integrated into the grille. The driving experience is deemed engaging yet comfortable, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The vehicle's efficiency is also noted, with potential for higher range in city driving. The reviewer concludes that for its starting price and the level of luxury, technology, and refinement offered, the Electrified G80 represents excellent value. less
New Kia Niro EV Review
The latest Kia Niro EV, now in its third generation, builds significantly on its predecessor, offering a redesigned exterior and a more modern, minima... morelist interior inspired by Kia's EV6 and Sportage. The reviewer highlights the improved space, technology, and driving dynamics, noting a more direct and linear steering feel. Key features praised include the dual-screen setup, advanced driver assistance systems, and the comfortable, sustainable interior materials. The reviewer found the real-world range to be excellent, delivering mile-for-mile efficiency on motorways and effectively eliminating range anxiety. While the reviewer generally praises the vehicle, a minor point of contention was the standard sunroof size. Overall, the Niro EV is presented as a highly competent and appealing electric SUV, offering a compelling package for families and those seeking practicality and efficiency. less
VW ID Buzz Review | The Legendary Microbus Electrified
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz successfully electrifies the legendary Microbus, blending retro aesthetics with modern electric vehicle technology. Reviewers ... morepraise its spacious and comfortable interior, excellent visibility, and refined driving experience, highlighting its suitability for both daily commutes and adventurous trips. The MEB platform contributes to a planted and stable ride, with regenerative braking effectively managing speed and conserving range. While acknowledging its considerable size and resulting body roll, the handling is deemed competent for its class. The "Style" trim, priced around £62,000, is noted for its comprehensive features. Criticisms include the use of hard plastics in some areas and the tray table's construction. The claimed range of around 300 miles is realistically expected to be closer to 260 in British weather. Charging options are discussed, with a 7.4kW wall box taking approximately 12 hours for a full charge, while rapid charging can achieve 80% in 30 minutes. The ID. Buzz is presented as a practical, versatile, and stylish electric vehicle, with future variants like the California and long-wheelbase models anticipated. less
Kia Niro EV Road Trip Part 2
The Kia Niro EV proves itself a capable and comfortable electric SUV for long-distance travel, effectively dispelling range anxiety for the reviewer. ... moreThe vehicle demonstrates impressive real-world range, often achieving mile-for-mile efficiency at motorway speeds. Charging is highlighted as straightforward, with the relocated charging port being a practical improvement. Inside, the cabin is praised for its modern, EV6-inspired design, comfortable seating even after extended periods, and good visibility. The reviewer notes the car's responsive driving modes, quick acceleration (especially in sport mode), and advanced driver assistance systems. While build quality is consistently high, the reviewer points out minor areas for improvement, such as a lack of inserts on some plastic panels. The infotainment system is functional, and the car offers practical features like heated rear seats and USB ports. Overall, the Niro EV is presented as a refined, practical, and enjoyable electric SUV that offers significant value for its price, especially considering its seven-year warranty. less
Kia Niro EV Road Trip Part 1 Cardiff Here We Come
The Kia Niro EV's second generation is put to the test on a road trip from an unspecified starting point to Cardiff. The reviewer highlights the ... morevehicle's improved interior and exterior design, along with advanced tech features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. A key focus is the real-world range, with the reviewer noting that the Niro EV largely delivers on its promised range, offering a "mile for mile" experience, which significantly reduces range anxiety. The car's efficiency is praised, particularly its ability to maintain range even at motorway speeds. The "4" trim level is noted for its comprehensive features, including a heads-up display and heated rear seats. Charging experiences at public stations are also discussed, with advice to charge to 80% for optimal speed. Overall, the reviewer finds the new Niro EV to be a refined, comfortable, and practical electric SUV that successfully addresses potential range concerns. less
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid Review | The Ultimate SUV?
The Bentley Bentayga Hybrid is presented as the ultimate SUV, blending Bentley's signature luxury with the practicality of an SUV. The reviewer h... moreighlights its sleek styling, extensive technology, and impressive towing capacity. The hybrid powertrain, combining a V6 petrol engine with an electric motor, is noted for its smooth transition and decent performance, though it's acknowledged that it won't match the outright speed of the V8 models. The interior is praised for its luxurious finishes, comfortable and supportive seats, and intuitive controls, with ample space for families. Practicality is a key theme, with the spacious boot and versatile cabin making it suitable for various needs, from family holidays to carrying sports equipment. While the price point is exclusive, the Bentayga Hybrid is deemed a highly competent and desirable vehicle for those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and utility. less
New Subaru Solterra 2023 Review | A Fully Electric SUV with Offroading Calibre?
The Subaru Solterra marks a significant entry into the EV market for the brand, built on a new e-Global Platform. The reviewer highlights the Touring ... moretrim, priced around £53,000, as a well-equipped option, though the Limited trim offers a slightly longer range. The permanent AWD system, a Subaru hallmark, is praised for its off-roading capabilities, living up to the brand's reputation. Positives include a comfortable and engaging driving experience, good visibility, and a well-executed interior with a mix of premium and recycled materials. The infotainment system is responsive and user-friendly, and the comprehensive suite of safety features, an evolution of Subaru's EyeSight system now called Safety Sense, is a major plus. The reviewer notes that while real-world range might be slightly less than the advertised 257 miles (especially in colder conditions or with heavy use of heating), it remains respectable and predictable. The vehicle's handling is described as planted and agile, with a comfortable ride despite the 19-inch wheels. Criticisms are minimal, with a slight disappointment over the lack of a front trunk (frunk) and the bonnet not having struts. less
How Capable Is The Maxus T90EV Electric Pickup? Load Vs Economy & Offroad
The Maxus T90EV enters the UK market as the first all-electric pickup truck, offering a compelling blend of utility and electric powertrain benefits. ... moreThe reviewer highlights its capability in various scenarios, from carrying a 350kg load of gravel with minimal impact on range to tackling challenging off-road terrain. Despite being rear-wheel drive, the T90EV demonstrates surprising off-road prowess, particularly when climbing obstacles, thanks to the instant torque of its electric motor. The reviewer notes a real-world range that, while initially variable, settles into a more accurate prediction after a few miles, with Eco mode proving most efficient. Positives include its robust build, comfortable ride, good visibility, and the potential for low Benefit in Kind tax for business users. However, the lack of all-wheel drive is a notable omission for a pickup, and the reviewer points out missing features like a DAB radio and reach adjustment for the steering wheel. Charging costs are also mentioned as not being cheap. Overall, the T90EV is presented as a capable and versatile electric pickup, especially for those who don't strictly require 4x4 capabilities. less
Honda CR-V Hybrid Road Trip
The Honda CR-V Hybrid is presented as a practical and comfortable SUV ideal for long road trips, as demonstrated by a 600-mile journey to Goodwood Rev... moreival. The reviewer highlights the spacious interior, modern cabin features like wireless charging, and the convenience of the power tailgate. While the EX trim is noted as top-of-the-range, the reviewer found the hybrid powertrain's economy to be a key focus. Initial motorway driving yielded around 35.6 MPG, with expectations of higher figures on mixed driving. The reviewer appreciated the smooth ride, good feedback from the steering, and comfortable suspension, making it suitable for extended periods. A notable drawback was the cross-traffic monitoring system's sensitivity in narrow roadworks, causing unnecessary interventions. Despite some initial skepticism about achieving better fuel economy, especially with a "lead foot," the CR-V Hybrid ultimately surprised by maintaining around 37-40 MPG on mixed driving and even showing impressive range management, suggesting it economizes effectively even in sport mode. The reviewer concludes it's a solid choice for commuting and road trips, offering a quiet and surprisingly efficient hybrid experience. less
Maxus T90EV Review: The UK's First Fully Electric Pickup T90 EV
The Maxus T90EV marks a significant entry into the UK market as the nation's first all-electric pickup truck. While built on a familiar diesel pl... moreatform, it offers a compelling electric powertrain with 201 horsepower and an 88.5kWh battery, delivering a WLTP range of 220 miles. The reviewer highlights its robust build quality, capable off-road performance (despite being RWD, with an AWD version anticipated), and practical features like a 1000kg payload capacity and a 1500kg towing capacity (TBC). Positives include its competitive pricing (around £50k plus VAT, eligible for grants and 0% BiK), comfortable faux-leather seats, responsive infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and vehicle-to-load capability. Criticisms are minor, focusing on the lack of DAB radio, no reach adjustment for the steering wheel, and the absence of a driver's grab handle. Overall, the T90EV is presented as a strong, versatile, and well-executed electric workhorse poised for success. less
New Hyundai Bayon Hybrid Review
The Hyundai Bayon Hybrid is presented as a versatile and practical new SUV option, built on the i-20 platform. The reviewer highlights its competitive... more starting price, positioning it as excellent value for money. Key positives include the 48-volt mild-hybrid system contributing to good fuel economy (around 50 mpg), a choice of 100 PS or 120 PS power outputs, and the availability of both a seven-speed DCT and a six-speed manual transmission. The interior is noted for its decent build quality, comfortable seats, and the inclusion of a full digital cluster and heated steering wheel across all trims. The driving experience is described as agile and nimble, with a pleasing engine note and minimal vibration, despite the three-cylinder setup. The reviewer also praises the responsive acceleration, direct steering, and comfortable ride, even on 17-inch wheels. Negatives are minimal, with the reviewer noting the absence of soft-touch materials in some areas and the lack of an all-wheel-drive option. The reviewer concludes that the Bayon offers substantial safety features and a compelling package for its price point, making it a strong contender in its segment. less
Honda Civic eHEV Hybrid Road Trip Part 2
The Honda Civic e:HEV Hybrid Sport proves to be a remarkably refined and engaging vehicle, particularly on longer journeys. Reviewers highlight its se... moreamless transition between electric and petrol power, noting that it's often imperceptible to the driver. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems are praised for their responsiveness and non-invasive nature, significantly enhancing the driving experience, especially on motorways. Comfort is a standout feature, with spacious seating and well-tuned suspension that effectively absorbs road imperfections, even on lower-profile tires. The interior boasts a premium feel with ample soft-touch materials and thoughtful design elements. While the reviewer struggles to find significant faults, the car's ability to consistently deliver strong performance and economy, even at higher speeds, is a key takeaway. The reviewer notes that the Sport trim offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin, though the Advance trim adds further premium features like a heated steering wheel and a premium sound system. less
Nissan Leaf EV Review | The Perfect Family Electric Car - Now Better Than Ever?
The Nissan Leaf, a pioneer in the mainstream EV market, receives a comprehensive review in this "Planet Auto" episode, focusing on the 2022 ... morefacelift e+ Tekna model. The reviewer highlights its evolution from the first generation, praising the second-gen facelift's sportier, more modern aesthetics and improved platform. Key strengths identified include its surprisingly brisk acceleration (0-60 in around 7 seconds), comfortable ride, composed handling, and quiet cabin, making it suitable for both engaging drives and comfortable family journeys. The e+ Tekna trim, with its 59kWh battery, offers a claimed range of up to 240 miles. Practicality is also a strong point, with ample interior space, a decent boot, and useful features like Pro Pilot and Pro Pilot Park. Minor criticisms are few, including the lack of a footrest and a small infotainment screen, but overall build quality and design are lauded. The reviewer concludes that the Leaf remains an impressive and practical electric hatchback, despite its impending discontinuation in its current form. less
New MG4 800 Mile Scottish Road Trip Part 2
This video documents an 800-mile road trip in the new MG4, focusing on its performance and practicality across varied Scottish landscapes. The reviewe... morer highlights the car's composed handling, even in challenging windy conditions, and praises its refined ride quality, which balances comfort with an engaging driving experience. The steering is noted as direct and feedback-rich, particularly in 'Sport' mode. The reviewer also commends the efficient powertrain, the 50/50 weight distribution, and rear-wheel drive, drawing parallels to classic MG models. Practical aspects like adaptive regen, Apple CarPlay, and the iSmart app are discussed, alongside the absence of oil leaks, a concern addressed multiple times. While the reviewer enjoyed the car's agility and engaging drive, they noted that aggressive driving impacts range, and the adaptive cruise control requires careful management in varied traffic. The video concludes that the MG4 offers exceptional value, a smart style, and a seamless electric driving experience, making it a perfect companion for long journeys. less
Volkswagen ID 4 Review | The Perfect Electric SUV?
The Volkswagen ID.4 is presented as a strong contender in the electric SUV market, built on the versatile MEB platform. The reviewer highlights its sm... moreooth, powerful electric powertrain, comfortable ride, and stable handling, noting that it feels 'welded to the road.' The minimalist, futuristic interior is praised for its clean design and premium feel, with ample space for passengers, particularly in the rear. The large panoramic roof and supportive, vegan-friendly seats enhance the cabin experience. However, a significant drawback mentioned is the lack of physical rotary controls and buttons, with the reviewer expressing a preference for more tactile controls. The real-world range is stated to be around 315 miles, with charging capabilities up to 135 kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in approximately 40 minutes. While the ID.4 is deemed a very pleasant and capable SUV, the reviewer's main criticism revolves around the over-reliance on touchscreen controls. less
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 re... moreviewer highlights the MG4's rear-wheel-drive configuration as a significant departure and a positive attribute, contributing to a balanced and agile feel. The "Trophy" trim, equipped with all the bells and whistles, is praised for its responsive infotainment system, clear digital cluster, and advanced driver-assistance features like blind-spot detection. The reviewer notes the car's quiet cabin and comfortable ride, making it suitable for long journeys. However, the charging experience is mixed, with some chargers being out of service or not updated, necessitating reliance on apps like Zap Map. The real-world range is estimated to be around 230-240 miles at motorway speeds (65-70 mph), with potential for more at lower speeds or in Eco mode. The reviewer is impressed by the car's design, especially the LED lighting and aggressive front end, and finds the iSmart app to be a user-friendly tool for monitoring the vehicle. Overall, the MG4 is presented as a compelling and refined electric hatchback. less
New Kia Niro EV Road Trip Live and Channel Update
This live road trip update features the Kia Niro EV, highlighting its suitability for long-distance travel. The reviewer emphasizes the car's com... morefort and ease of handling on extended journeys, noting a positive real-world range experience with "no range anxiety." The video touches upon the car's interior features, including comfortable seats, ample legroom, and multi-level heated rear seats, as well as front heated and ventilated seats. A key point of discussion is the infotainment system's lack of physical volume controls, which the reviewer found unintuitive. Despite some minor gripes about traffic and lane closures, the overall sentiment towards the Niro EV's practicality for road trips is positive. The review also includes a channel update regarding upcoming content and a temporary break for the creators. less
MG4 Live on the Forecourt: 750 Mile Road Trip Update
After an extensive 750-mile road trip, the reviewer expresses significant satisfaction with the MG4, particularly the Trophy trim. The vehicle is prai... moresed for its engaging driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and surprisingly spacious interior, even for taller passengers. The reviewer highlights its ability to put power down effectively, its refined motorway refinement, and impressive real-world range, especially when driven economically, noting it can exceed the official figures. Charging performance is deemed adequate, with a 10-80% charge taking around 30 minutes. Positives include the infotainment system, 360 camera, and overall build quality. Criticisms are minimal, focusing on the surprising lack of grab handles and the absence of a rear wiper, though these did not detract from the overall positive experience. The reviewer concludes that the MG4 is a strong contender in the EV market, offering excellent value and performance, and eagerly anticipates future variants like the all-wheel-drive 'Triumph'. less
MG4 Scotland Road Trip Live 3rd Leg to Aviemore - Part Two
This video documents the third leg of a road trip in the MG4, traveling from Inverness to Aviemore. The reviewer highlights the car's responsive ... moreinfotainment system, noting improvements in screen clarity and speed, and praises its handling on various road types, including challenging mountain passes. The "Trophy" trim is mentioned, and the reviewer expresses satisfaction with the car's performance, particularly its acceleration on hills and its ability to maintain composure through spirited driving. While the navigation system's tendency to direct them to an obscure cycle track is a minor frustration, the overall impression of the MG4 is positive, emphasizing its fun-to-drive nature and decent range management even under demanding conditions. The video also touches upon the car's quiet ride and comfortable seats, making it a compelling option for electric vehicle buyers. less
MG4 Scotland Road Trip Live 1st Leg Aberdeen
The EVChannels team embarks on a 700-mile Scottish road trip in the MG4, specifically the Trophy trim. The review highlights the vehicle's comfor... moretable ride and spacious interior, making it suitable for long distances. The adaptive cruise control and other MG Pilot features are noted for their responsiveness and ease of use, particularly the simplified button layout and the elevated rotary dial, which is praised for its ergonomics compared to lower-mounted controls. The car's agile handling, balanced 50/50 weight distribution, and rear-wheel-drive dynamics are commended, with comparisons drawn to racing games. While the reviewer appreciates the car's performance and the potential for good range (achieving 3.2 miles/kWh, with a delivery driver reportedly getting 4.1), they also note the high cost of rapid charging (66-67 pence per kWh). The lack of rotary dials is mentioned as a minor drawback, but the shortcut buttons are deemed effective. Overall, the MG4 is presented as a strong contender in the electric family car market, shaking up the industry with its performance and value. less
New Suzuki Vitara Hybrid Review
The new Suzuki Vitara Hybrid, specifically the SZ5 Allgrip 4WD model, is presented as a practical and value-oriented SUV. The reviewer highlights its ... morehybrid powertrain, which combines a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine with an electric motor, offering a smoother driving experience and improved torque. While official figures suggest around 53 MPG, real-world testing yielded approximately 45 MPG in normal driving, climbing closer to 60 MPG on eco runs. The reviewer praises the comfortable ride, agile handling for an SUV, and the improved interior build quality, noting the use of robust, easy-to-clean materials. Positives include the standard safety suite, intuitive infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the functional Allgrip system with selectable modes. Criticisms are minor, focusing on the prevalence of hard plastics in the rear, the lack of rear seat recline, and the boot space being slightly compromised by the hybrid system. Despite a modest 0-60 time of 13.5 seconds, the reviewer feels it performs quicker in real-world scenarios, making it a competent and economical family vehicle. less
Audi Q4 E-Tron 533 Miles - How Many Charges?
The Audi Q4 e-tron 40 is put to the test on an extensive road trip from the Lake District to Goodwood and back, covering approximately 800 miles on ju... morest two charges. The reviewer highlights the car's impressive real-world range, managing to reach Goodwood on a single charge initially, a feat that surprised them. The Q4 e-tron is praised for its intuitive driving experience, futuristic interior design with sequential indicators, and composed handling, especially in adverse weather conditions. The reviewer notes the effectiveness of the driving modes, particularly Dynamic mode for spirited driving and Efficiency mode for maximizing range. While the charging infrastructure and speed at some locations presented minor challenges, the car's navigation and charging system generally made the process stress-free. The reviewer concludes that the Q4 e-tron performed exceptionally well, offering a comfortable and capable driving experience for long journeys, effectively mitigating range anxiety. less
MG HS PHEV 500 Mile Eco Run
The MG HS PHEV is presented as a capable and comfortable long-distance cruiser, particularly excelling on motorways where it can achieve impressive fu... moreel economy figures. The reviewer highlights its smooth ride, responsive acceleration, and the seamless transition between electric and petrol power. The adaptive cruise control and MG Pilot system are praised for making driving relaxing, especially in traffic. While the boot space is deemed adequate rather than expansive, the interior comfort, supportive seats, and panoramic sunroof contribute to a pleasant experience, even on extended journeys. A notable point is the real-world economy, with the reviewer suggesting that while 100 MPG is unrealistic on motorways, figures between 40-50 MPG are easily achievable, and even higher with more economical driving. Minor criticisms include the lack of front parking sensors and a peculiar issue with the integrated headrests for passengers with buns or ponytails. Overall, the HS PHEV is considered a strong value proposition, offering a compelling package for its price point. less
Audi Q4 E-Tron Goodwood On One Charge? 300 Miles
The Audi Q4 e-tron 40 is put to the test in a real-world 300-mile road trip from Silverdale to Goodwood, aiming to see if it can achieve its claimed r... moreange on a single charge. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's impressive regenerative braking capabilities, particularly in 'B' mode, which significantly recoups energy on descents and undulating terrain. The adaptive cruise control and predictive efficiency assist are praised for their integration, helping to maintain efficiency by coasting or braking proactively. While the reviewer notes the lack of adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring as a drawback for a vehicle in this price bracket, they are ultimately "gobsmacked" by the Q4 e-tron's real-world range performance, achieving nearly 300 miles with 23 miles of range remaining, exceeding expectations, especially given the predominantly motorway driving. The cabin comfort and refined driving experience are also positive takeaways, making it a suitable choice for long journeys. less