Carwow stands as a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive array of content centered around the world of cars. Led by Mat Watson, this channel delves into everything from detailed reviews of new vehicles to thrilling drag races, establishing itself as a go-to source for car-related information and entertainment.
Specializing in insightful advice for purchasing new cars, transparent pricing, and expert opinions, Carwow aims to demystify the car-buying process. Viewers can expect a dynamic mix of practical guidance and high-octane automotive action, making it an essential platform for anyone passionate about automobiles.
Specializing in insightful advice for purchasing new cars, transparent pricing, and expert opinions, Carwow aims to demystify the car-buying process. Viewers can expect a dynamic mix of practical guidance and high-octane automotive action, making it an essential platform for anyone passionate about automobiles.
Koenigsegg v Tesla Plaid v Turbo Hayabusa: Drag Race
This drag race pits the Koenigsegg Agera RST, Tesla Model S Plaid, and a supercharged Suzuki Hayabusa against each other. The Koenigsegg, despite its immense power (1360hp) and light weight (1395kg), struggled with traction off the line, resulting in a slower quarter-mile time (10.4s) than expect...
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Showing 24 of 302 total titles. Page 1 of 13.
Why Do Owners Hate This Car?
The BYD Seal U presents itself as a compelling family SUV option, particularly for budget-conscious buyers, starting at £33,315. The exterior design i... mores deemed smart, with a notable full-length light bar at the rear, though opinions on its layered design vary. Inside, the cabin impresses with soft-touch materials, heated and cooled leatherette seats, and a responsive, large rotating infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The reviewer highlights the impressive standard technology, including adaptive cruise control and surround-view cameras. However, the vehicle isn't without its drawbacks. The boot capacity is considered average for its class at 425L, and the interior design, particularly around the infotainment screen, is seen as derivative. Rear passenger headroom is tight, and under-thigh support is limited due to the battery placement. Annoyances include distracting reflections from glossy trim, significant depreciation, misaligned interior elements, and ineffective regenerative braking, with no one-pedal driving option. Despite these criticisms, the Seal U offers strong value, a comfortable ride in town and on the motorway, and surprisingly brisk acceleration, outperforming its official 0-60mph time. The reviewer ultimately recommends shortlisting the Seal U as a great value family car that is decent to drive. less
Has Ford Fixed the Kuga’s Biggest Flaw?
The Ford Kuga receives a mid-life facelift, aiming to keep it competitive in the crowded crossover SUV market. While the updated design and new infota... moreinment screen are noted improvements, the reviewer finds the interior materials inconsistent, with some scratchy plastics detracting from the perceived quality. The move of climate controls to the touchscreen is criticized for being less intuitive while driving. Engine options are now limited to petrol and hybrid, with the reviewer highlighting the 2.5L plug-in hybrid and the 2.5L standard hybrid (the only AWD option). Performance is surprisingly strong, with the AWD hybrid achieving a faster 0-60 mph time than claimed and excellent braking. However, the Kuga's pricing is a significant drawback, being more expensive than key rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, with less attractive savings available. Practicality in the rear seats is adequate for two but tight for three, though the boot space is versatile, especially with the seats folded. Annoyances include a dated three-year warranty, a past recall on the PHEV, and a sill design that can dirty trousers. Positives include built-in door protectors, a convenient load cover, the ability to easily disable the speed limiter warning, and a shortcut for surround-view cameras. Driving dynamics are praised for their balance and fun factor, particularly in town due to good visibility and a smooth hybrid system. However, the ride quality is inconsistent, being too firm and fidgety on uneven surfaces, which detracts from overall comfort. Despite its flaws, the Kuga is considered a decent car, but better alternatives exist, making it a car to 'consider' rather than a definitive recommendation. less
Is This Bentley the Best Car I’ve Ever Reviewed?
The Bentley Flying Spur receives a 2025 update, with the most significant change being the discontinuation of the W12 engine in favor of V8 hybrid pow... moreertrains. Despite this, power output has increased, with the range-topping Speed edition delivering an impressive 782hp and 1,000Nm. The exterior retains its sophisticated styling, though the use of plastic for the grille is noted as a slight detraction compared to rivals like Rolls-Royce. Inside, the cabin is luxurious, featuring high-quality materials, comfortable redesigned seats, and a responsive infotainment system complemented by physical buttons. The reviewer highlights the car's impressive performance, including rapid acceleration and a surprisingly capable EV range for a hybrid. While the price point is substantial (£190,000 to £239,000 for the Speed), the updated Flying Spur is presented as a compelling, albeit expensive, luxury cruiser that rivals the Mercedes S-Class and even Rolls-Royce. less
Why Koenigsegg's New 2,300hp Hypercar Changes Everything
This video offers an exclusive, in-depth look inside the Koenigsegg factory, guided by CEO Christian von Koenigsegg himself. The tour highlights the m... moreeticulous craftsmanship and innovative engineering that goes into their hypercars, from the Jesko production line to the development of the groundbreaking Gemera. Key takeaways include Koenigsegg's commitment to in-house component manufacturing, exemplified by their own e-motors and even carbon fiber wheels. The discussion around the Gemera's powertrain reveals a shift from an initially planned three-cylinder 'free valve' engine to a more powerful 5-liter V8, a decision met with customer approval. The video also touches upon the brand's philosophy of pushing boundaries, evident in their unique 'Dark Matter' motor technology and the ambitious goal of creating the world's first full carbon fiber motor. While the focus is on hypercars, the review notes Koenigsegg's appreciation for precision engineering, even in smaller cars like the Mazda MX5. The overall impression is one of relentless innovation and a dedication to perfection, justifying the high cost and exclusivity of these vehicles. less
Why Corvette Is Lying About This Car
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray marks a significant, albeit heavy, evolution for the iconic American sports car, introducing hybrid all-wheel-drive capab... moreility. While the E-Ray boasts impressive acceleration figures, achieving 0-60 mph in a manufacturer-claimed 2.5 seconds (though real-world tests hovered around 2.9 seconds, with the discrepancy attributed to American one-foot rollout measurement), its substantial weight of 1,907 kg is a noticeable drawback. Reviewer Matt Watson highlights the car's instant torque delivery and excellent traction thanks to the hybrid system, making it easy to drive quickly, even surpassing the Z06 on unfamiliar roads. However, he criticizes the choppy suspension in softer modes, the overly heavy steering in its lightest setting, and the intrusive "spacecraft noises" from the electrification, which overshadow the V8's sound. Practicality is also a concern, with reduced boot space compared to the standard Stingray and the awkward storage of the removable roof panel. Despite its technological prowess and all-weather capability, the E-Ray's high price point and weight lead to a final verdict of "avoid," with the recommendation to consider the standard Stingray for better value. less
Why This Is VW's Baby Lamborghini Urus
The updated Volkswagen T-Roc receives a mixed but generally positive review, highlighted by its more youthful and sporty design, particularly in the R... more-Line trim, which the reviewer likens to a 'baby Lamborghini Urus'. Significant improvements are noted in the interior, with a more modern feel, a better infotainment screen (though sometimes laggy), and a more premium material quality compared to the outgoing model. The increased wheelbase and overall length translate to improved practicality and boot space. The new independent rear suspension is praised for offering a sophisticated and comfortable ride, especially with adaptive dampers, making it feel like a larger car. However, the reviewer points out that all climate controls are now screen-based, which can be annoying, and notes a slight hesitation in the automatic gearbox at lower speeds. Real-world fuel economy was slightly below Volkswagen's claims. Despite some minor cost-saving measures and a price increase, the T-Roc is recommended as a strong contender in its segment, particularly for those seeking a practical, stylish, and comfortable compact SUV. less
How Did Citroen Get So Good?
The updated Citroen C5 Aircross, particularly the electric eC5 variant, presents a compelling package for families seeking a comfortable and distincti... moreve SUV. The reviewer highlights its spacious and pleasant interior, featuring soft-touch materials and a well-integrated vertical infotainment screen. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample rear passenger room, generous boot space accommodating eight suitcases, and useful storage solutions. The electric model boasts independent rear suspension, contributing to a composed and comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces. Positives include the advanced matrix LED headlights, intuitive voice commands powered by ChatGPT, and the potential for vehicle-to-load functionality (though not yet available on this model). However, the reviewer notes some drawbacks: the infotainment system's climate controls require screen interaction, the driver display customization can be fussy, and the rear wiper is ineffective due to the window's design. The real-world range for the standard electric model is estimated at just under 230 miles, with a long-range version offering more. Despite minor annoyances, the C5 Aircross is recommended for its comfort, quirky design, and versatile powertrain options. less
Why Everyone Will Buy This Car
The Fiat Grande Panda makes a strong visual statement with its retro, blocky, and almost 'Minecraft-like' aesthetic, which the reviewer find... mores highly appealing and desirable. Inside, the retro theme continues with comfortable seats and unique design elements, though some materials feel cheap and scratch easily, a common trait in this price bracket. The infotainment system is basic but functional, with the welcome inclusion of physical climate controls. Practicality is decent for a small car, with good headroom and acceptable knee room, though the EV version's battery impacts footwell depth. The boot offers a respectable 360L capacity in the EV. On the downside, the reviewer highlights the lack of one-pedal driving, no vanity mirrors, a small rear wiper, and the absence of adaptive cruise control. The EV's real-world range is a significant concern, delivering only around 120 miles compared to the claimed 199 miles. Despite its flaws, the Grande Panda is praised for its character, value, and the availability of both petrol and electric powertrains, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing style and cost-effectiveness. less
I Almost Broke The New McLaren Artura
The McLaren Artura Spider is a compelling convertible evolution of the hybrid sports car, retaining much of the coupe's stunning design and perfo... morermance while adding the open-top experience. The reviewer highlights its impressive 700hp output, seamless power delivery with no discernible turbo lag, and exquisite hydraulic steering that provides excellent road feel. The chassis and suspension are praised for their ability to adapt, offering a smooth and stable ride in comfort mode, though the seats are noted as lacking support during spirited driving. Downsides include a laggy and low-definition infotainment screen, the absence of wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a single, poorly placed cup holder. The reviewer also experienced an issue with water pouring into the cabin when the window was lowered after rain and found the braking performance from 100 mph to be disappointing. Despite these drawbacks, the Artura Spider is deemed a highly capable and effortlessly fast machine, recommended for those seeking a supercar that is relatively easy to live with, though the reviewer personally would opt for a Porsche 911 GT3 Touring. less
Why This Chinese Car Is Carwow Car Of The Year
The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV presents a compelling value proposition, aiming to challenge established European brands with its premium looks and extensive f... moreeatures at a significantly lower price point. The reviewer highlights the car's attractive exterior design and a surprisingly well-built interior with soft-touch materials and comfortable seating, especially in the higher trims which include features like ambient lighting and ventilated seats. The infotainment system is praised for its responsiveness and ease of use. However, the driving experience is identified as the Tiggo 8's weakest area, with vague steering and a clunky feel over bumps detracting from its premium aspirations. While the hybrid powertrain offers adequate performance and a decent electric-only range, the car's overall driving dynamics remain in line with its budget-friendly pricing. Practicality is a mixed bag; while the first two rows offer ample space, the third row is tight for adults, and boot space with all seats up is very limited. Despite these drawbacks, the Tiggo 8 is lauded for its impressive standard equipment, long warranty, and the overall value it offers, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich seven-seater SUV. less
New Porsche 911 Turbo S - This Review Almost Didn't Happen!
The new Porsche 911 Turbo S (992.2 generation) presents a significant evolution, notably incorporating hybrid technology for enhanced performance. The... more reviewer highlights the car's blistering acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 2.44 seconds achieved on test, surpassing Porsche's claims and its predecessor. The hybrid system, featuring electrified turbochargers and an electric motor integrated into the gearbox, provides immediate and potent power delivery, especially at lower revs. The reviewer praises the car's improved handling and stability through corners, attributing it to chassis refinements, lowered engine mounts, and optional sport suspension, which effectively disguise its increased weight. The braking system is also commended for its power and progressive feel. However, the review points out a substantial price increase, with the tested model exceeding £225,000 with options, and notes that the top speed has been slightly reduced due to new tire specifications. The reviewer also experienced a minor technical glitch after turning off the car while moving, requiring a reboot. Despite these points, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the car's capability and the successful integration of hybrid technology. less
New Jaecoo 5 Review, Cancel Your Range Rover
The Jaecoo 5 presents a compelling value proposition, particularly in its range-topping EV configuration, which retails for £30,505. Its exterior desi... moregn draws heavy inspiration from Range Rover models, offering a premium aesthetic at a fraction of the cost. Inside, the cabin boasts soft-touch materials and a large vertical infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, contributing to a surprisingly upscale feel for its price point. The EV model features a 61kWh battery delivering an estimated 248 miles of range, though real-world testing suggests closer to 214 miles. Performance is a strong suit, with the EV version exceeding its 0-60 mph claims. However, the vehicle is not without its flaws. The reviewer notes a mismatched paint issue on the press vehicle, a slightly awkward brake pedal feel, and numb steering. Rear passenger comfort is compromised by a low seat base, and the front-wheel-drive setup can lead to wheelspin when accelerating out of corners. Despite these drawbacks, the Jaecoo 5 is recommended as a strong contender for those seeking a stylish and well-equipped SUV on a budget. less
Why My Mum Hates The New Car I Got Her!
The reviewer's mother, initially a fan of her Tesla Model 3 for its style, comfort, and performance, ultimately found its range anxiety and occas... moreional usability issues (like tire inflation) too significant. She has swapped it for a Volkswagen Golf R, appreciating its familiar petrol engine, sporty sound, and perceived 'realness'. While the Golf R's firm suspension (due to the omission of adaptive dampers to save cost) was initially a concern, she has grown to love the car, finding it more pleasurable and lively to drive. The reviewer highlights the significant cost saving achieved by opting against adaptive dampers, a decision that initially risked alienating his mother but ultimately proved worthwhile as she adapted to the firmer ride and embraced the Golf R's performance and practicality, especially the absence of range anxiety. The Tesla Model 3 was sold through CarWow for a considerably higher price than a trade-in offer, indicating a successful sale. less
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Will End European Cars Forever
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra presents a compelling, albeit controversial, proposition in the performance EV market. Its standout feature is the astonishing po... morewer output, exceeding 1500hp, which dramatically outperforms rivals like the Tesla Model S Plaid and even Bugatti Chiron in certain metrics, all at a fraction of the cost, starting around £50,000 in China. The design is striking, drawing inspiration from European exotics, and the interior boasts a high-class feel with premium materials like Alcantara and carbon fiber, complemented by advanced tech features. However, the reviewer notes some drawbacks: the infotainment is initially in Chinese, the self-driving capabilities are restricted in Europe, charging speeds are reduced with an adapter, and there are minor build quality concerns with some plastics. Performance, while immense, can be inconsistent due to battery overheating during repeated launches, affecting its drag race times. The reviewer also points out grabby and inconsistent brakes, and while the steering is praised as the best from a Chinese car yet, the handling doesn't quite match a Porsche Taycan, partly due to the car's weight and tire performance when cold. Despite these issues, the SU7 Ultra is lauded as the best Chinese car driven to date, offering exceptional value for money. less
New Brabus Rocket GTS vs Brabus AMG GT vs AMG S63: Drag Race
This video pits a range of Brabus-tuned vehicles against each other in a series of drag races, rolling races, and brake tests. The lineup includes ele... morectric Smarts, a Maybach S650-based Brabus 850, and several Mercedes-AMG S63 and GT63 E-Performance based models, culminating in the Brabus Rocket GTS. The reviewer highlights the extreme power and torque figures of the Brabus models, particularly the 1000hp+ variants. Key takeaways include the instant torque and acceleration of the electric Smarts in initial races, the surprising performance of the heavier, ICE-powered Brabus 1000 models despite their weight, and the ultimate victory of the Brabus 1000 (based on the AMG GT63 E-Performance) in the standing quarter mile against the Brabus Rocket GTS. The reviewer notes the Brabus 1000's superior performance in drag races, attributing it to its platform and gearbox, while the Rocket GTS, despite its stunning looks and similar power, was slightly slower. The video also touches on the unique challenges of launching electric cars and the distinct power delivery characteristics of ICE vs. electric powertrains at different speeds. less
I Drove These New Electric Cars (and a Petrol V8) Until They Died
This video pits six electric cars against each other in a real-world range test, driving until they die, with a V8 Audi RSQ8 thrown in for comparison.... more The Tesla Model Y Long Range emerged as the winner, achieving an impressive 307.2 miles before hitting 0% battery, and continuing for an additional 10 miles. While the Tesla's interior quality and minimalist design were praised, the reviewer disliked the gear selection via the touchscreen and the overly sensitive steering. The Kia EV3 and Xpeng G6 also performed well, with the Kia ultimately outlasting the Tesla by a small margin in terms of total distance after hitting zero, though the Tesla reached Scotland first. The Chinese contenders, BYD Sealion 7, Xpeng G6, and Leapmotor C10, showed promise but had varying degrees of refinement issues, with the Leapmotor C10 being particularly criticized for its driving dynamics and basic features despite its affordability. The Skoda Enyaq Coupe offered a more natural driving experience but fell short in rear-seat space and perceived interior quality compared to some rivals. The Audi RSQ8, while not the focus, demonstrated the significant efficiency gap with EVs. less
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra vs Tesla Model S Plaid: Drag Race
In a highly anticipated drag race, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra faced off against the Tesla Model S Plaid. Despite the Tesla's established performance cr... moreedentials and higher price point, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, boasting significantly more horsepower (1548hp vs 1020hp) and torque, proved to be a formidable competitor. The initial drag races saw the Tesla take the lead off the line, attributed to better tire warm-up and driver reaction, but the Xiaomi consistently closed the gap and ultimately won the standing quarter-mile race with a time of 9.3 seconds, compared to the Tesla's 9.5 seconds. The Xiaomi's performance was hampered in early runs by battery overheating and potential power limitations, issues that were resolved in the final deciding race. In rolling races, the Xiaomi demonstrated superior persistence and acceleration, particularly at higher speeds. The Tesla, however, showed better initial bite and a more consistent performance across multiple launches. A notable point was the Xiaomi's standard carbon ceramic brakes on a sub-£60,000 car, a feature costing significantly more on the Tesla. While the Tesla's brakes showed wear, the Xiaomi's held up well. Ultimately, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra delivered a surprisingly strong performance, challenging the notion that premium price equates to outright performance, especially in the EV segment. less
The New IX3 Is BMW’s Future: Is It Any Good?
The reviewer introduces the BMW iX3 as a pivotal vehicle, marking the debut of BMW's "Neue Klasse" architecture. The design receives mi... morexed reactions: the front is praised for its futuristic illuminated grille and lighting animations, while the side profile is deemed less striking than the concept. The interior is lauded for its futuristic aesthetic, featuring a full-width heads-up display and a responsive, sharp infotainment system with the new iDrive. Positives include the use of recycled materials, comfortable vegan leather seats, and practical storage solutions. However, the reviewer notes the elimination of physical buttons for climate control and touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons as potential drawbacks. The battery technology is highlighted, with a 108kWh capacity promising up to 500 miles of range and 400kW DC fast charging capabilities (230 miles in 10 minutes). The dual-motor setup offers a combined 470hp and 645Nm of torque. The reviewer expresses excitement to test the real-world range and driving dynamics, particularly the "heart of joy" system, which is expected to deliver a true BMW driving experience. less
How I Killed 5 Brand-New Electric Cars
This Carwow video pits five premium electric SUVs against each other in a real-world range test from Oxford to Scotland. The Genesis GV70, BMW iX, Pol... moreestar 3, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Kia EV9 are evaluated not just on their maximum distance but also on their efficiency and driving experience. The Genesis GV70, despite its luxurious interior and comfortable ride, proved to be the least efficient, running out of charge first with a total range of 279 miles. The reviewer praised its comfort and materials but noted its weight and a slight lean in corners. The BMW iX, while offering immense power and a comfortable ride thanks to optional air suspension, was criticized for its interior quality not justifying its high price point and a less intuitive infotainment system. The Audi Q6 e-tron was found to be efficient but lacked punch with its single motor and its interior quality was deemed to have declined. The Kia EV9 was highlighted for its practicality, spacious interior, and good value, though its performance was considered sluggish with the base motor. The Polestar 3, despite having the largest battery, showed impressive efficiency and a refined driving experience, ultimately winning the range test with a total of 366 miles, though it did run out of charge just shy of the destination. The reviewer found the Polestar 3 to be a strong contender, preferring its design and driving dynamics over the Audi and Kia, but noted some cost-saving measures like the toggle for rear windows. less
VW Changed Everything, Will It Pay Off? New Tayron Review
The Volkswagen Tayron, essentially a successor to the Tiguan Allspace, is presented as a spacious and practical seven-seater SUV. The R-Line trim test... moreed offers sporty exterior accents and comfortable, albeit optional, sports bucket seats. While the interior design mirrors the Tiguan, the large 15-inch infotainment system is noted for being somewhat laggy and not the most intuitive. The reviewer highlights the abundance of storage and the comfortable ride, especially when equipped with optional adaptive dampers, which are highly recommended. However, criticism is leveled at the cheap-feeling plastics in the rear and the cramped third row, making it suitable only for children. Engine options include petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrids, with AWD available only on the more powerful 2.0L petrol variants. Despite its practicality and decent handling for its size, the Tayron faces stiff competition, with the reviewer suggesting a used Audi Q7 as a compelling alternative for the same price. less
New Omoda 9 Review: Cancel Your Audi Q5!
The Omoda 9 positions itself as a compelling value proposition against established European rivals like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The reviewer highlight... mores its smart exterior design, surprisingly premium interior materials, and extensive technology features, including a 14-speaker Sony sound system and a panoramic sunroof. The standout feature is its plug-in hybrid powertrain, boasting a substantial 449hp, 700Nm of torque, and an impressive electric-only range of up to 90 miles, with a claimed total range of 700 miles. However, the driving dynamics are noted as a weakness, with criticism directed at the unengaging steering, fidgety suspension at lower speeds, and a slight delay in throttle response. The reviewer also points out minor annoyances like fake exhaust pipes, a speedo placement that can be obscured by the steering wheel, and a rain sensor for the sunroof that didn't function as expected. Despite these drawbacks, the Omoda 9 is recommended for its strong value, smart tech, and performance, particularly for buyers prioritizing these aspects over a refined driving experience. less
This Is the Problem With Cheap Cars
The BYD Dolphin Surf, positioned as one of the UK's most affordable EVs, presents a mixed bag of compromises inherent to its budget pricing. Whil... moree its exterior design, particularly in the luminous yellow, is an eye-catcher with features like flush door handles and a full-length light bar, the interior is dominated by scratchy plastics. The digital displays are small and the infotainment can be laggy, with an unintuitive interface and oddly designed rocker switches for controls. Practicality is a strong suit for rear passengers, offering good space and a flat floor, though the rear seats are strictly for two. The boot capacity is adequate but slightly compromised by an awkward shape and a high load lip. Positives include a surprisingly punchy 0-60 mph time (7.76s vs. claimed 9.1s), decent handling in sport mode, excellent maneuverability in town, and a generous 6-year warranty. However, the brakes feel unnatural, the safety systems are overly sensitive, and there's no one-pedal driving. Real-world range is around 173 miles (89% of claim), which is acceptable but not class-leading. Ultimately, the Dolphin Surf is deemed 'okay' but overshadowed by rivals like the MG4 and Renault 5, which offer a more premium feel and better overall package for a similar or slightly higher cost. less
I Expose Why Hybrids Are Pointless!
This comprehensive review pits the new BMW 5 Series in its petrol (520i), plug-in hybrid (530e), and fully electric (i5 eDrive 40) variants against ea... morech other. The reviewer, Mat Watson, aims to debunk the perceived benefits of plug-in hybrids. While the 530e offers a smooth, quiet ride and impressive electric range on paper (achieving close to its claimed 59-64 miles in ideal conditions), its real-world cost-effectiveness for private buyers is heavily questioned. The analysis reveals that even with ideal home charging, the hybrid is more expensive to run than the petrol 520i, and the premium cost over the 520i takes an impractically long time to recoup. The electric i5 is even more costly to break even. For company car drivers, however, significant tax advantages make the hybrid and EV compelling. Performance-wise, the 520i is surprisingly quick and feels more agile due to its lighter weight, while the i5 offers instant acceleration. Braking tests show the 530e performing best. Ultimately, for private buyers, the reviewer concludes that the traditional petrol 520i is the most sensible and cost-effective choice, rendering the plug-in hybrid and electric variants less appealing due to their high initial cost and long payback periods. less
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Doesn't Play By The Rules
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 presents a compelling, albeit unconventional, alternative in the large family electric SUV segment. Its striking, unique design la... morenguage, both inside and out, sets it apart from more conventional offerings. The interior boasts a premium feel with good build quality and ample storage, highlighted by a user-friendly climate control panel separate from the main infotainment screen. Practicality is a strong suit, with spacious second-row seating and a usable third row, complemented by a surprisingly accommodating boot when seats are folded. However, the Ioniq 9 is not without its drawbacks. The reviewer notes a less-than-ideal pedestrian warning sound, a lack of cooling for the wireless charging pad, and advises against the optional digital door mirrors due to poor depth perception and usability issues. Real-world range falls short of the claimed figures, averaging around 270 miles from a 370-mile claim (73% efficiency). Despite its size, it handles competently, and the ride comfort is commendable, though it doesn't quite match the refinement of air-suspended rivals. Performance is strong, especially in Sport mode, with the 427hp model achieving 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. Ultimately, the Ioniq 9 is a practical, tech-laden, and stylish option that warrants serious consideration for families seeking an EV that deviates from the norm. less