Chasing Cars is a leading distributor specializing in independent automotive reviews, with a particular focus on the Australian market. Their content covers a comprehensive range of vehicles, from family SUVs and hot hatches to sedans, coupes, and wagons, ensuring that if a car is built, it's likely to be reviewed. The channel delves into the complexities of modern vehicles and the rapidly evolving automotive industry, including crucial advancements in electrification and automation.
With a commitment to providing clear, entertaining, and expert advice, Chasing Cars aims to guide consumers in making informed decisions about their next vehicle purchase. They offer in-depth analysis and news, helping viewers navigate the choices and avoid potential pitfalls, making them a trusted resource for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
With a commitment to providing clear, entertaining, and expert advice, Chasing Cars aims to guide consumers in making informed decisions about their next vehicle purchase. They offer in-depth analysis and news, helping viewers navigate the choices and avoid potential pitfalls, making them a trusted resource for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Best Small SUV: Ultimate Comparison of 18 Crossovers Under $50K
This comprehensive comparison of 18 small SUVs under $50,000 crowns the Skoda Kamiq as the best for 2023. The review highlights the Kamiq's exceptional packaging, premium interior materials that rival luxury brands, incredible value for money, and low cost of ownership, including an affordable se...
Latest Additions
Showing 24 of 217 total titles. Page 4 of 10.
Smart 8-Seater Goes Electric! Ford Tourneo 2024 Review
The Ford Tourneo, presented as a people-mover variant of the Transit Custom, enters the Australian market as a potential challenger to the dominant Ki... morea Carnival. The review highlights both the confirmed diesel and a considered fully electric version. While the diesel is noted as a competent, albeit uninspiring, powertrain, the electric variant emerges as the more compelling option, offering superior dynamics due to its RWD configuration and a quieter, more refined driving experience. The interior is praised for its practicality and the large 13-inch infotainment system, though van-like hard plastics are present. Practicality is a strong suit, with flexible seating arrangements and a cavernous boot. However, the ride quality is criticized for being too firm and unrefined, particularly on rougher roads, and the lack of a powered tailgate is a notable omission. The electric model's 325km WLTP range is deemed sufficient for daily duties but perhaps restrictive for grand touring. Overall, the Tourneo is seen as a capable, safe, and potentially strong contender, especially the electric version, if priced competitively. less
Electrified 535kW/1000Nm M Car Deep Dive (BMW M5 Sedan 2024 Review)
The 2025 BMW M5 (G90 series) marks a significant shift with its "M Hybrid" plug-in V8 powertrain, combining a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with an ele... morectric motor to produce a formidable 535kW and 1000Nm. While the added weight is a concern, the M5 promises blistering performance with a 0-100km/h time under 4 seconds and a top speed of 305km/h. The exterior boasts bespoke styling, wider body panels, and staggered wheel sizes (20-inch front, 21-inch rear), though the reviewer expresses reservations about the rear diffuser design and the illuminated grille outline. Inside, the M5 offers a luxurious and comfortable cabin, eschewing aggressive carbon buckets for plush Merino leather seats, a large 15-inch iDrive 8.5 screen, and extensive customization options via BMW Individual. The reviewer highlights BMW's "Power of Choice" strategy, offering a wide range of powertrains across the 5 Series range, with the M5 being the pinnacle plug-in hybrid. A notable surprise is the confirmation of an M5 Touring (station wagon) for Australia, positioning it as a competitor to the Audi RS6. The plug-in hybrid system offers up to 69km of electric range, with charging via a Type 2 socket. Overall, the M5 is presented as an impressive, albeit very expensive, performance sedan that successfully blends V8 power with electrification, though the ultimate verdict awaits a driving impression. less
Nissan X-Trail Ti E-Power Long-Term: The Good And Bad After 5 Months Of Testing
After a five-month, 10,000km test, the Nissan X-Trail Ti E-Power proves to be a competent and practical family SUV, though not without its quirks. The... more reviewer praises the E-Power hybrid system for its refinement and quiet operation compared to traditional hybrids, though its real-world fuel economy, averaging 7.4L/100km, falls short of expectations, particularly on the highway where it's less efficient than in urban settings. Positives include a logical and user-friendly interior with ample storage, excellent rear-seat space accommodating child seats easily, and impressive durability with minimal wear observed. The boot offers good flexibility thanks to sliding rear seats, and safety is a strong point with a 5-star ANCAP rating. However, the lack of a spare tire is a significant drawback for Australia's long distances, and the six-speaker stereo is disappointing. A notable issue is the "throttle pulsing" experienced at highway speeds, which detracts from the otherwise refined driving experience. Despite these points, the reviewer concludes that the X-Trail E-Power is a worthwhile upgrade over the petrol variant and a good car to live with, recommending it for its practicality and refinement, though it doesn't quite match the fuel efficiency of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. less
Our Fastest 0-100km/h Time Yet! Tesla Model 3 Performance 2024 Review
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance, in its facelifted Highland guise, sets a new benchmark for acceleration, achieving a blistering 3.16-second 0-100k... morem/h time, making it the quickest car tested by Chasing Cars. Beyond its record-breaking speed, the Performance model offers a significantly improved overall package. The interior is refined with supportive, ventilated seats and a premium audio system, though the in-screen shifter and lack of physical buttons may divide opinion. Real-world range is respectable, with the urban test yielding 490km and highway testing at 463km, supported by Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. While the chassis is highly capable, offering adaptive dampers and immense grip, the reviewer notes a lack of driver connection and steering feel, describing the experience as clinical rather than engaging. Despite minor build quality niggles like a dashboard rattle, the Model 3 Performance is lauded as exceptional value, offering sports-car-slaying performance and a competent driving experience at a price point significantly lower than comparable performance EVs and ICE vehicles. less
The Future of Hard Work? Ford Transit Custom 2024 Review
The 2024 Ford Transit Custom review highlights significant advancements, particularly the shift to independent rear suspension, which greatly improves... more ride comfort without compromising payload. The reviewer praises the clever interior design, especially the steering wheel's transformation into a tray table or laptop stand, and the wider side-loading door. While the diesel offers familiar performance, the electric E-Transit Custom is presented as the most compelling option, offering a superior driving experience with its smooth, quiet operation and strong low-end torque, despite a likely higher cost. A notable drawback is the absence of a spare wheel on the electric model. The reviewer also points out the potential benefits of the plug-in hybrid for those not ready for full electric, and commends Ford's new software system for fleet management and the innovative 2-year/unlimited km service interval in Europe. Overall, the new Transit Custom is seen as a highly competent and innovative package, with the electric variant leading the charge. less
So Much Better Than The Old Model! MG3 Hybrid 2024 Review
The 2024 MG3 Hybrid+ Essence represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor, shedding its 'cheap and nasty' image for a more ref... moreined and capable package. While the exterior styling, particularly the front grille, may be divisive, the interior impresses with a functional layout, improved screens, and thoughtful touches like the inherited two-spoke steering wheel from the MG4. Positives include a comfortable ride, composed handling that can be genuinely fun, and a surprisingly punchy hybrid powertrain delivering strong acceleration. The reviewer highlights the excellent suspension tune, capable of handling rough roads with composure, and the efficient hybrid system achieving impressive real-world fuel economy (5.2L/100km on test). However, the vehicle isn't without its flaws. The steering is criticized for being heavy, a bit springy, and lacking crispness, which detracts from the driving experience, especially on country roads. The rear seat folding mechanism is deemed amateurish and a major detractor from utility, and some safety system interventions, like lane keep assist, are described as snatchy and unsubtle. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that the new MG3 Hybrid+ Essence is a likable, livable, and impressive car that justifies its increased price point, offering a unique and compelling alternative in its segment. less
Driving The Polestar 3 Genuinely Surprised Me (Polestar 3 2025 Review)
The Polestar 3 (MY25) presents a compelling package, particularly in its Long Range Dual Motor configuration, offering a genuinely engaging driving ex... moreperience that surprised the reviewer. Its strengths lie in its sporty yet comfortable driving position, high-quality and luxurious interior materials (though similar to Volvo), exceptionally comfortable seats, and a refined, supple ride thanks to standard adaptive air suspension. The handling is a standout, with communicative steering, impressive body control, and a playful chassis, especially in ESC Sport mode, making it fun and athletic. However, the Polestar 3 faces significant challenges. Its price point escalates rapidly with options, reaching nearly $180,000 AUD for an ideal spec, which may be a tough ask for a brand still associated with Volvo. Furthermore, efficiency is a notable drawback, with real-world range falling just over 400km from its 107kWh battery on a mixed test (25kWh/100km). While DC charging is fast (250kW peak), the efficiency is a concern. The interior, while premium, is only a five-seater, and the portrait touchscreen, though functional, is being ditched in the Polestar 4. Despite these issues, the reviewer considers it the company's true flagship and a more accomplished driver than the Polestar 2 and Polestar 4, rivaling premium SUVs like the BMW iX and Mercedes EQE SUV, and arguably better to drive than the latter two. less
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid 2024 Review
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is presented as a significant step forward, impressing with its practicality, premium interior feel, and surprisingly... more frugal fuel economy, achieving 6L/100km in urban driving. The reviewer highlights the controversial but functional boxy styling, spacious third row, and a large boot with a full-size spare. While the hybrid system is praised for its refinement and efficiency, especially compared to the outgoing diesel, the reviewer notes a slight increase in fuel consumption on the highway. The interior is lauded for its comfort, quality materials, and thoughtful features like dual wireless chargers and a UV sanitizer. However, criticisms include a slightly choppy ride on 20-inch wheels, a limited towing capacity of 1650kg, and the persistent, though disable-able, speed warning system. The reviewer concludes that despite minor flaws and polarizing styling, the Santa Fe Hybrid, particularly the Elite trim, represents a compelling value proposition and a strong competitor in the large SUV segment, outshining rivals like the Toyota Kluger in refinement and price. less
Quite A Few Flaws To Fix (GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid 2024 Review)
The 2024 GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid enters the Australian market as the first hybrid ute, aiming for the premium segment with an attractive price point a... morend a feature-rich interior. The reviewer praises the cabin's quality, materials, and extensive features, noting it feels a significant step up from previous GWM offerings. However, the driving experience is a major letdown. Despite a powerful-sounding hybrid system (255 kW / 648 Nm), the power delivery is described as sluggish, clunky, and unrefined, failing to live up to its specifications. The ride quality is also criticized for being firm, jittery, and uncontrolled, particularly around town, falling short of segment benchmarks like the Ford Ranger. Fuel efficiency is another concern, with real-world consumption around 11-12 L/100km, higher than expected for a hybrid. The reviewer also highlights annoying driver monitoring systems and overly intrusive safety alerts. While the GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid offers strong value and a premium feel inside, its unpolished powertrain and agricultural suspension prevent it from being a truly competitive offering in the ute segment. less
Is It Still The Best Midsize SUV? Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2024 Review
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, despite being six years into its current generation, remains a highly competent and pragmatic choice for a midsize family... more SUV. The reviewer highlights its functional and utilitarian interior, comfortable ride, and surprisingly good handling for its class. The hybrid powertrain is praised for its smoothness and efficiency, particularly in urban driving, with real-world fuel consumption closely matching the claimed figures. Key advantages include spacious rear seats, a practical boot with a low load lip, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. However, the reviewer notes that the infotainment system can be glary in direct sunlight and the CVT transmission can sound 'whiny' when pushed hard, indicating it's not a sporty option. The electric tailgate's beeping is also a minor annoyance. Despite price increases and previous wait times, the RAV4 Hybrid is still considered a strong contender, especially for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality over outright sportiness. less
One Is More Economical! Toyota Corolla Hybrid vs Hyundai i30 Hybrid 2024 Comparison Review
This video provides a comparative review of the 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid sedan and the 2024 Hyundai i30 Sedan hybrid (also known as the Elantra hybr... moreid). The primary focus is on fuel economy, with the review aiming to determine which of these two frugal sedans is more economical. While the Corolla hybrid is highlighted for its efficiency, the Hyundai i30 hybrid is noted as being slightly more well-rounded and cheaper for servicing. The review also briefly touches upon potential competitors in the market, including EVs like the MG4 and BYD Dolphin, as well as other hybrids such as the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona Hybrid. The content aims to offer an independent perspective on these vehicles. less
Cheaper Here Than Other Countries... (BMW iX2 xDrive30 2024 Review)
The 2024 BMW iX2 xDrive30 is reviewed as a stylish and refined electric coupe SUV, offering a premium interior with BMW's latest iDrive 9 system.... more While it boasts good handling and a comfortable ride, particularly in 'Personal' mode, the reviewer notes that the sportier settings can make the ride firmer on bumpy roads. Rear headroom is a concern for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline, and boot space, while adequate at 525L, has a high load lip. The reviewer highlights the dual-motor AWD system's performance, with a claimed range of up to 449 km (WLTP), though real-world efficiency is yet to be formally tested but initial figures suggest 19-21 kWh/100km. The steering is described as light and direct, and the active safety systems are well-calibrated. The reviewer anticipates the single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant will offer better range and a lower price point, making it a potential alternative for those prioritizing efficiency. less
Lexus RX vs Mazda CX-60 2024 Comparison Review: Which Luxury SUV Is Best?
The Lexus RX 350h emerges as the clear winner in this comparison against the Mazda CX-60, primarily due to its superior ride comfort, refined driving ... moredynamics, and overall finish. While the CX-60 offers a more engaging powertrain with its 6-cylinder diesel and a more traditional interior with physical controls, its ride quality is severely compromised by stiff front and sloppy rear suspension, and its transmission calibration is rough, especially when cold. The RX, on the other hand, delivers a composed and comfortable ride, even on poor Australian roads, thanks to its sensible 19-inch wheels and well-tuned suspension. Its hybrid powertrain is quiet and effective, offering good fuel economy (6.2 L/100km vs. the CX-60's 6.8 L/100km). Although the CX-60 boasts a more practical boot with a spare wheel and some amenities like heated rear seats and a household power outlet, the RX offers significantly more cargo space (612L vs. 477L) and a more modern, albeit screen-heavy, interior with exceptionally comfortable seats. The reviewer concludes that the CX-60's first-generation production model, despite its potential, is unacceptable in its current form, making the RX the easy choice for its accomplished, comfortable, and fuel-efficient execution. less
Should You Preorder a Polestar 4? Detailed Walkaround Review of The Macan EV Rival
The Polestar 4 presents a compelling, design-led alternative in the electric midsize coupe-SUV segment, positioning itself as a rival to the Porsche M... moreacan EV rather than the Tesla Model Y, primarily due to its higher starting price. The Long Range Dual Motor variant, reviewed here, boasts impressive performance figures with 400kW and a 3.8-second 0-100km/h sprint, complemented by a WLTP range of 580km. Key highlights include its striking coupe-like design, a spacious interior with innovative features like power-adjustable rear seats and a digital rearview mirror system replacing the traditional rear window. The reviewer expresses intrigue but also some skepticism regarding the effectiveness and real-world usability of the camera-based rear visibility, especially in adverse conditions. Practicality is addressed with a decent 526L boot and a 15L frunk, though the absence of a spare tire is noted. Interior materials emphasize sustainability, utilizing recycled components. While the reviewer applauds Polestar's innovation, the ultimate verdict awaits a full driving test, particularly concerning ride comfort and the unique rear visibility solution. less
Lexus LBX 2024 Review
The Lexus LBX marks Lexus's entry into the affordable, compact luxury SUV segment in Australia, sharing its TNGA-B platform with the Toyota Yaris... more Cross. The reviewer highlights Lexus's success in elevating the LBX to feel like a premium vehicle, citing a well-designed interior with comfortable seats, quality materials, and a refined digital display setup. Positives include its smooth and refined driving experience, particularly in urban environments, and a competent handling package for its class. The hybrid powertrain is noted for its seamless transition between electric and petrol power, contributing to a pleasant, albeit not performance-oriented, drive. However, the LBX falls short in rear-seat space, which is described as tight, and the boot space, while adequate for a compact SUV, is not expansive. The reviewer questions the value proposition of the AWD system over the FWD variants, finding little discernible difference on the initial drive. Despite sharing its underpinnings with the Yaris Cross and lacking significant power, the LBX is commended for offering a premium experience in a segment where other manufacturers are retreating, making it a compelling option for urban buyers seeking a more luxurious small runabout. less
Lexus RX350h Long-Term Review: The Good And The Bad After 6 Months of Testing
After a six-month, 8,000-kilometer long-term test, the Lexus RX350h Luxury, affectionately nicknamed 'Chief,' has earned high regard. The re... moreviewer praises its handsome styling, premium feel, and exceptional build quality, noting its solid, rattle-free construction even after extensive use. The cabin is lauded for its airy space and ergonomic design, with particular commendation for the comfortable and supportive seats, which are described as feeling like 'home.' A significant positive is the car's ability to permanently disable annoying active driver assistance systems, a rarity that enhances the ownership experience. The powertrain, while not the most powerful, is surprisingly quick, matching the turbo petrol F Sport in acceleration tests. The ride comfort, aided by passive suspension and 19-inch wheels, is compliant and pleasant for daily driving and long trips. Key dislikes include the sometimes rough switchover between electric and petrol power, touchy brakes, and occasional low-speed powertrain flutter, though these are deemed minor. Despite a slight shortfall in claimed fuel economy, the overall dependability and refined on-road manners make the RX350h Luxury a highly recommended, albeit base, model. less
The Best Hybrid Small SUV? Toyota C-HR 2024 Review
The second-generation Toyota C-HR hybrid SUV arrives with a significantly higher price point, aiming to justify its cost with striking styling and a m... moreore premium feel. The reviewer highlights the GR Sport trim's bespoke 19-inch wheels and aggressive 'hammerhead' front end as key design elements. Inside, the cabin is praised for its comfortable seats, ergonomic layout, and well-integrated 12.3-inch digital displays with physical controls for climate and volume. However, rear-seat passengers may find headroom limited, and the interior materials in the back are noted as being harder plastics. The reviewer found the driving experience to be pragmatic and comfortable, particularly in urban settings, with good steering and ride quality. The 1.8L FWD variants offer adequate performance for city driving, while the 2.0L AWD GR Sport provides more power and a more engaging, albeit still not overtly sporty, driving dynamic. The CVT automatic transmission is deemed adequate for urban use but can exhibit droning on more spirited drives. Fuel economy figures are impressive, with the reviewer achieving 4.9L/100km in urban conditions and 5.9L/100km on country roads. Despite its stylish exterior, the C-HR is ultimately positioned as a practical, comfortable, and easy-to-drive urban SUV, rather than a performance-oriented vehicle, with its elevated price being the main consideration. less
So Much Fun, But There's A Catch (Abarth 500e 2024 Review)
The Abarth 500e 2024 review highlights a car brimming with style, charisma, and a fun-to-drive character that honors its heritage. The reviewer praise... mores its nimble handling, sharp steering, and surprisingly airy interior, particularly in the "Turismo" trim. The retro-modern aesthetic, combined with a compliant ride, makes it an enjoyable city car. However, significant drawbacks temper the enthusiasm. The reviewer points out a substantial price premium, with the $60,000 AUD price tag being considered too high for its modest electric architecture. More critically, the limited 253 km WLTP range is a major concern, exacerbating range anxiety and forcing frequent, conservative charging. While the driving dynamics are lauded, the lack of battery density and the resulting range limitations prevent it from being a truly versatile EV, restricting its appeal primarily to urban environments. The reviewer concludes that while it's a fun machine, improvements in range and a more competitive price are crucial for its success. less
A Better Hybrid Than Corolla Cross? Nissan Qashqai E-Power 2024 Review
The Nissan Qashqai E-Power 2024, reviewed here in the flagship Ti grade, presents a unique hybrid proposition. The E-Power system, featuring a 140kW e... morelectric motor driving the front wheels and a 1.3L turbo petrol engine acting as a generator, offers a quieter and quicker driving experience compared to the standard petrol Qashqai. The reviewer praises the contemporary and practical interior, the comfortable and supportive (though firm) quilted leather seats with massage function, and the comprehensive standard safety features, including a 360° camera and rear cross-traffic alert. Real-world fuel economy is impressive, achieving around 5.5L/100km in mixed testing, significantly better than the petrol model's 8-9L/100km. However, the primary drawback is the high price point, exceeding $51,000 before on-roads, making it difficult to justify for budget-conscious buyers. While the ride quality is acceptable, it's noted as being 'busy' and less refined than some rivals, particularly with the standard 19-inch wheels. The adaptive cruise control's sensitivity and steering assistance requirements are also highlighted as minor annoyances. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests that while the E-Power system improves the Qashqai, the high cost might lead potential buyers to consider the larger X-Trail E-Power for a similar price, offering more practicality and AWD. less
Which Cupra Leon Model Is Best? 2024 Range Review
This review tests four Cupra Leon variants: the V (140kW), VZ (180kW), VZe hybrid (180kW), and VZx (221kW). The reviewer, Tom Baker, finds that more p... moreower doesn't automatically equate to more fun, emphasizing chassis dynamics and momentum. The V is praised as the "sweet spot" for cash buyers, offering a delightful driving experience with excellent ride and handling, especially with the optional leather package, making it a premium alternative to a Golf Highline. For leasing customers or salary sacrifice, the VZe plug-in hybrid is recommended as the best deal. It offers a smooth, powerful, and efficient drive, delivering approximately 45km of real-world EV range and zero FBT if registered before mid-next year. While the VZx is the most powerful and quickest, it's not necessarily the best overall. The VZ offers a sportier exhaust note and a mechanical front differential, but the reviewer notes the VZ's larger wheels reduce compliance compared to the V. less
A Major Step Forward For EVs (Hyundai Ioniq 5 N 2024 Review)
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N represents a significant leap forward for performance EVs, offering a compelling blend of track capability and daily usability. ... moreThe reviewer highlights its sophisticated interior, superior to rivals like the Kia EV6 GT, with quality materials and supportive seats, though manual adjustment is noted. Performance is exceptional, with the N variant delivering immense power and torque, capable of serious track stints without significant derating. The reviewer praises its surprisingly comfortable ride and refined road manners for daily driving, despite its substantial weight and size. The simulated DCT gearbox and engine sounds, while unconventional, are found to enhance the driving experience and technical control, particularly on track. While the battery capacity offers adequate, not overwhelming, range (437 km urban, 396 km highway), and tire wear is a consideration for aggressive driving, the Ioniq 5 N is deemed a viable and fun alternative to performance combustion vehicles and other EVs, justifying its premium price point. less
Very Likeable, But Two Big Flaws (Subaru Solterra 2024 Review)
The 2024 Subaru Solterra marks a significant entry into the EV market for the brand, sharing its platform with the Toyota BZ4X but differentiating its... moreelf with standard AWD and a focus on off-road capability. The reviewer highlights a comfortable ride, a quality and well-appointed interior with a unique driver-focused cockpit layout, and decent off-road prowess thanks to the X-Mode system and 212mm ground clearance. A substantial price cut makes it more competitive. However, the Solterra falls short with its adequate-at-best boot space, lack of a long-range variant, and the absence of a spare wheel, which detracts from its go-anywhere positioning. Performance is adequate for daily driving but lacks the punch of some rivals, and there's no high-performance variant. The real-world range test yielded 343 km, which is considered acceptable but not class-leading. Overall, it's a likeable first EV effort for Subaru, particularly for existing owners looking to transition, but its compromises prevent it from being the ultimate EV for everyone. less
Better Than A Corolla Hybrid? Hyundai I30 Sedan Hybrid / Elantra Hybrid 2024 Review
The 2024 Hyundai i30 Sedan Hybrid (also known as the Elantra Hybrid) presents a compelling, albeit budget-conscious, alternative to the Toyota Corolla... more Hybrid. Priced from $33,000 plus on-road costs in its base 'SE' trim, it offers remarkable fuel efficiency, achieving 3.6L/100km in suburban driving and a maximum of 4.9L/100km even when driven hard. The reviewer highlights its spacious interior, comfortable ride quality, and surprisingly agile handling as significant strengths, making it a practical choice for ride-share drivers or those prioritizing economy. However, the base model's austerity is evident in its hard interior plastics, basic tech features, and notably, unsupportive seats that can cause fatigue on longer drives. While the hybrid system is competent, it lacks the overall refinement of its Toyota rival. The servicing costs are also higher than the Corolla's. Despite these drawbacks, its strong supply and impressive fuel economy make it a strong contender, especially for buyers who can't wait for the higher trims arriving later. less
This Hybrid SUV Is Sporty & Efficient: Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV 2024 Review
The 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce Plug-In Hybrid Q4 represents Alfa Romeo's significant first step into electrification, blending Italian design ... morewith hybrid technology. The reviewer highlights its striking exterior, characteristic Alfa Romeo interior elements like the steering wheel and paddle shifters, and a comfortable driving position. Positives include a responsive and light steering, agile handling, and a quiet, refined EV mode offering approximately 60 km of electric range, aligning with claimed figures. However, the vehicle is criticized for its high price point, particularly the significant jump from lower trims, and a perceived lack of premium material quality in lower cabin areas, feeling plasticky for its cost. Rear headroom is also noted as tight for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline. The boot space is considerably smaller than the non-hybrid variant. The reviewer found the real-world EV range to be accurate at 60 km, but noted a discrepancy in charging readouts. The lack of a Mode 3 charging cable in the provided kit is a notable inconvenience for public charging. Despite these drawbacks, the Tonale PHEV is deemed a competent small SUV that successfully injects Alfa Romeo's dynamism, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, niche option for buyers seeking style and efficiency without fully committing to electric power. less