AutoEV

AutoEV Awards 2021

The AutoEV Awards 2021 celebrates the year's best electric vehicles across various categories. The Honda e takes the top spot for Best Supermini ... moreunder £30,000, praised for its future-forward design. The Citroen e-C4 is lauded as the Best Compact Family Car for its quirky styling, comfort, and practicality. In the highly competitive Mid-sized Family Crossover/SUV segment, the Kia EV6 emerges victorious, impressing with its stylish design, driving dynamics, and all-around family practicality, outshining strong contenders like the Skoda Enyaq and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Tesla Model 3, while a strong performer, is surpassed by the Polestar 2 for Best Sports Saloon, with the Polestar 2 being commended for its cooler design and Volvo-like interior comfort. The Volvo XC40 Recharge wins Best Premium SUV for its potent performance and traditional Volvo qualities, despite its price. The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is crowned the Money-no-Object award winner for its exceptional versatility and driving pleasure. However, the year wasn't without its disappointments, with the Tesla Model Y singled out as the Most Disappointing Car due to its poor ride quality and dated feel, despite its sales potential. The BMW iX3 surprisingly impressed as the Most Surprising Car. Ultimately, the Kia EV6 is declared AutoEV's overall Electric Car of the Year 2021, lauded for exceeding expectations with its blend of style, performance, range, and charging capability, rivaling premium brands and Tesla. less

Citroen E-Berlingo - King of the EV Space Race?

The Citroen e-Berlingo is presented as a practical and utilitarian family EV, aiming to revive the MPV segment against the SUV onslaught. The reviewer... more highlights its immense practicality, spaciousness, and a surprisingly refined driving experience for its boxy shape, noting it effectively disguises its van-like origins. The Flare XTR trim is praised for its dashboard finish, digital cluster, and overall equipment. However, significant drawbacks include a disappointing range (up to 174 miles WLTP), woeful brakes with a difficult pedal feel, and rear seats that lack the flexibility of some non-EV rivals. The reviewer also points out that the lack of a plug-in car grant makes it a less compelling value proposition compared to its petrol/diesel counterparts. Despite its flaws, the e-Berlingo is ultimately deemed a car that people *need* for its practicality, rather than one they necessarily *want* for excitement, offering a utilitarian charm that feels like a proper car, not a van. less

BMW iX - The Ugly Truth

The BMW iX presents a stark dichotomy between its polarizing exterior design and its exceptional interior and driving experience. While the styling is... more described as distinctive and individualistic, it remains a significant point of contention, with the reviewer admitting it's not a looker and may only grow on people over time. However, beneath the controversial skin lies a highly accomplished vehicle. The interior is lauded as stunning, futuristic, and a comfortable place to spend time, reminiscent of the i3's innovative design with its curved display, crystal controls, and premium materials. Practicality is also a strong suit, offering ample space for passengers and a decent boot capacity. On the road, the iX 50 M Sport impresses with its dynamic driving capabilities, composure, and remarkable refinement, feeling like a true BMW despite its size and weight. The reviewer highlights excellent ride comfort, responsive steering, and strong brakes. While the price can escalate with options and some exterior plastics feel less premium, the overall verdict is that the iX is an impressive piece of machinery that excels in comfort, technology, and driving dynamics, even if its aesthetics remain a challenge. less

BMW i4 M50 - Is This Really an M Car?

The BMW i4 M50 is presented as the brand's first electric M car, aiming to blend traditional M performance with EV technology. The reviewer finds... more the styling divisive, too closely resembling the petrol 4 Series Gran Coupe, and notes the blue accents as a questionable design choice for an EV. Practicality is deemed adequate, with a 470-liter boot and reasonable rear legroom, though headroom can be tight for taller passengers. The interior is praised for its familiar BMW layout and excellent build quality, though the reviewer desired a more radical departure. Performance is undeniably strong, with the M50 boasting 544 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds. However, the core question remains: is it a true M car? The reviewer feels it lacks the raw, engaging interaction and 'pent-up' character of traditional M vehicles, describing it as "good, not great" and perhaps better suited to an 'M Sport' badge. While it offers immense grip, compliance, and refinement, it falls short of the specialness expected from a full M car, feeling somewhat sanitized. The pricing, starting at £64,000, is also noted as a significant factor, especially when options are added. less

MG ZS EV - Now Better... Or Is It?

The revised MG ZS EV aims to build on its predecessor's value proposition with a larger battery, improved range, and updated infotainment. The re... moreviewer notes significant improvements in the infotainment system, now a 10.1-inch landscape display, and the addition of physical climate controls, which are a welcome upgrade. The larger 72 kWh battery offers a substantial increase in WLTP range to 270 miles, a key improvement. However, the reviewer highlights persistent drawbacks, including limited steering wheel and seat adjustment, which compromise the driving position, and chassis dynamics that are far from class-leading, with noticeable understeer. While the styling is slightly more distinctive, it remains somewhat nondescript. The main concern is the increased price, especially for higher trims, which, combined with changes to the UK's plug-in car grant, places the ZS EV in direct competition with more accomplished rivals like the Kia Niro and Skoda Enyaq, potentially eroding its value-for-money appeal. The advice for new buyers is to opt for lower trim levels or the standard battery version for better pricing, or to consider the more established competition. less

Kia EV6 - This Changes Everything

The Kia EV6 is lauded as a significant leap forward for the brand, potentially changing perceptions of what a Kia can be. Reviewer Bryan highlights it... mores sensational, class-leading design, comparing it favorably to premium rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace and Porsche Taycan. The interior is praised for its modern, driver-focused dual-screen setup and excellent ergonomics, though headroom for taller drivers is noted as a limitation. Practicality is a mixed bag: boot space is decent but lacks dedicated cable storage, and the front trunk is small on AWD models. Performance is a strong suit, especially in Sport mode, with the dual-motor AWD version offering exhilarating acceleration and impressive refinement that surpasses even the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The reviewer emphasizes the car's excellent handling, grip, and well-engineered chassis, making it a joy to drive. Range is competitive, with the tested 20-inch wheel model achieving around 300 miles WLTP, and charging speeds are exceptionally fast (10-80% in 18 minutes on 350kW chargers). Despite minor criticisms like optional heat pumps and some fiddly touch controls, the EV6 is presented as a standout electric crossover, offering a premium experience and driving dynamics that justify its price point and earn it a top spot in its segment. less

Mercedes Benz EQB - The 7 Seat Electric SUV That Takes The Fight To The Tesla Model Y

The Mercedes-Benz EQB is presented as a unique offering in the electric SUV market, primarily due to its standard seven-seat capacity, a feature large... morely absent from its direct EV competitors like the Tesla Model Y (which is expected to offer it later). The reviewer highlights its "chunky mini G-Wagen styling" and "refined drivetrain" as significant positives, along with a comfortable and spacious interior that feels more premium than rivals like the Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y. However, the EQB is not without its drawbacks. The real-world range is noted as potentially less than the WLTP figures, especially in colder conditions, and its charging speeds are slower than some competitors. The reviewer also points out a spongy brake pedal feel and expresses disappointment that the driver assistance package is an optional extra on a car of this price point. Despite being based on an internal combustion engine platform, the reviewer concludes that Mercedes-Benz has done an admirable job converting it into a competent EV with few compromises, making it a strong contender for families needing seven seats in an electric SUV. less

Sneak Peek - Mercedes-Benz EQS. Will This Be As Significant As The S-Class?

This 'sneak peek' of the Mercedes-Benz EQS highlights its significance as the brand's first dedicated EV platform, potentially succeedi... moreng the S-Class as the technology flagship. The reviewer praises its aerodynamic efficiency (0.20 Cd) and the practicality offered by its hatchback design, boasting 610 liters of cargo space. Inside, the cabin is described as vast and comfortable, with particular attention paid to the standard dashboard setup (featuring dual screens) as an alternative to the optional 'Hyperscreen'. While the reviewer finds the exterior styling somewhat lacking in visual impact compared to the S-Class, especially in the tested AMG Line specification, they commend the car's advanced features like the intelligent navigation system that optimizes charging stops. The EQS offers impressive battery capacity (over 107 kWh) and WLTP range up to 453 miles, with rapid charging capabilities adding 186 miles in just 15 minutes. Performance variants, including the AMG EQS 53 with 761 hp, are mentioned. The reviewer notes the high starting price of £100,000, with the Hyperscreen being a £7,500 option. Ultimately, the EQS is presented as a highly refined and technologically advanced luxury EV, though its design might not appeal to everyone. less

Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo - The Ultimate, Do Everything EV?

The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo is presented as a highly practical and stylish "do-it-all" EV, building on the already admired Taycan pl... moreatform. The reviewer highlights its enhanced practicality over the standard Taycan, particularly the increased boot space and headroom, making it suitable for family use and country pursuits. Styling is a strong point, with the Cross Turismo variant considered by the reviewer to be Porsche's best-looking Taycan, especially with the optional off-road design package and distinctive wheels. The interior, while typically Porsche in quality, is noted for its extensive use of screens, which the reviewer finds potentially excessive and questions in light of new UK regulations regarding driver distraction. Performance is lauded, with the 4S model offering a strong balance of power (571 PS with overboost) and handling, though a slight reduction in steering feel compared to the RWD model is acknowledged. The added ride height and gravel mode provide genuine, albeit niche, off-road capability. The main drawback identified is the significant price, especially when optioned up, with the reviewed car costing over £112,000. Despite the high cost and a minor compromise in steering engagement, the Cross Turismo is ultimately praised for its blend of performance, practicality, and unique styling, earning it the title of the reviewer's ultimate EV, surpassing the Jaguar I-Pace. less

Tesla Model Y - Are Tesla Being Left Behind?

The Tesla Model Y, while praised for its impressive range, efficiency, vast practicality, and blistering acceleration, ultimately falls short of expec... moretations in a highly competitive compact SUV market. The reviewer criticizes its uninspired styling and notes that build quality, while improved, still lags behind premium rivals. The most significant drawback identified is the unacceptably firm and harsh ride quality, attributed to stiffened suspension compensating for the higher center of gravity. This makes the car uncomfortable on anything but perfect roads, a major flaw for a family vehicle. Despite its strong performance and access to Tesla's charging network, the Model Y is deemed a mediocre product that fails to bring anything new, with several competitors offering better dynamics and a more comfortable experience for less money. The reviewer concludes that while it will undoubtedly sell well, it is outclassed by rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Skoda Enyaq. less

Sneak Peek - Will 2022 Be The Year of the Cat?

The ORA Cat marks a significant entry into the UK market for Chinese EVs, offering a distinctive design and a tech-rich interior at a competitive pric... moree point. While specific trim levels for the UK are yet to be finalized, the "GT" designation will offer a sportier aesthetic without performance upgrades. The car's styling, though drawing inspiration from various iconic models, creates a unique and eye-catching presence. Inside, the dual 10.25-inch screens and art deco-inspired touches provide a premium feel, reminiscent of higher-end EVs. Practicality is adequate, with a 228-liter boot, though it falls short of some competitors. Rear passenger space is surprisingly generous. Battery options include a 48 kWh (209 miles WLTP) and a 63 kWh (261 miles WLTP), with CCS charging and an 11 kW onboard charger. Performance figures are respectable for its class, with 0-60 mph in around 8.5 seconds. While a full driving impression is pending, early observations highlight its well-thought-out design and quality interior, making it a promising contender in the growing EV market. less

Electric Company Cars: Should You Make the Switch? Polestar 2 vs. Volvo S60

This comprehensive twin-test evaluates the financial and practical implications of choosing an electric company car, pitting the Polestar 2 Single Mot... moreor Long Range against the Volvo S60 B5 mild-hybrid. The review highlights significant advantages for electric vehicles in company car tax, with the Polestar 2 incurring minimal annual tax for both 20% and 40% taxpayers, a stark contrast to the Volvo S60. While the Volvo excels in styling and offers a more comfortable ride, particularly for motorway cruising, the Polestar 2 impresses with its minimalist interior, Google-based infotainment system, and superior driving dynamics for an EV. Practicality is a mixed bag: the Volvo has a larger boot, but the Polestar's hatchback design and front trunk offer more versatility. Real-world range for the Polestar 2 was noted to be under 240 miles in cold November conditions during motorway driving, falling short of its 336-mile WLTP figure, necessitating a charge on a return trip. The reviewer concludes that while the Volvo S60 is a competent and comfortable saloon, the Polestar 2, particularly this single-motor variant, represents a compelling and financially astute choice for company car drivers looking to embrace electric mobility, offering a better driving experience and significant tax savings. less

A New Mazda MX-30 or a Used BMW i3S - Where Should You Put Your Money?

This head-to-head comparison between a new Mazda MX-30 and a used BMW i3s highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each electric vehicle. The review... moreer praises the BMW i3s for its timeless, innovative design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior crafted from sustainable materials, deeming it a future design classic. However, its drawbacks include a firm ride on the 's' model, limited boot space, and slower charging speeds. The Mazda MX-30 impresses with its stylish crossover design, well-appointed interior featuring unique sustainable materials, and a more practical boot. Its main Achilles' heel is its significantly limited range (around 100 miles in reality) and less potent performance compared to the i3s. Despite the Mazda's lower price point for a new vehicle, the reviewer ultimately leans towards the used BMW i3s for its superior driving experience, innovative spirit, and perceived long-term appeal, while acknowledging the Mazda as a strong contender for those prioritizing a new car feel and a more practical, albeit limited-range, option. less

Electric Icons Ep.1 - The Electric Citroen 2CV

This episode of 'Electric Icons' explores the electric conversion of the classic Citroen 2CV, dubbed the '2CEV', by The 2CV Shop. ... moreThe reviewer, initially not a fan of the original 2CV, finds himself won over by the electric conversion. Key highlights include the surprisingly adequate performance from the 20kW motor, a 10kWh battery offering around 65 miles of range (deemed sufficient for the car's intended use), and a characterful driving experience with good ride quality. The conversion removes the original clunky gearbox and noisy engine, replacing them with a smoother, quieter electric powertrain. While acknowledging the high cost of conversion (ranging from £16,500 for a kit to £45,000 for a bespoke build), the reviewer suggests it offers a unique and characterful alternative to modern EVs, especially for city driving or as a stylish classic. The electric van conversion is also briefly showcased as a sustainable option for small businesses. Ultimately, the electric 2CV is presented as a joyful, smile-inducing vehicle that successfully future-proofs a classic icon. less

Hyundai Ioniq 5 - Is This the Tesla Killer Everyone Says It Is?

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is lauded for its sensational, distinctive styling and surprisingly large physical dimensions, defying its C-sector hatchback appe... morearance. The interior is praised for its sense of space and thoughtful layout, though some minor criticisms include the feel of certain plastic controls and the lack of a rear wiper. The reviewer highlights the comfortable seats and the innovative sliding center console. Performance is deemed more than adequate, particularly in the rear-wheel-drive, 73kWh battery configuration, which is identified as the sweet spot in the range, offering excellent efficiency and real-world range close to its WLTP figures. Charging is exceptionally fast thanks to the 800-volt system. The primary drawback identified is a slightly firm low-speed ride, which can feel a bit 'jiggly' around town, contrasting with its pleasant motorway refinement. Despite this, the Ioniq 5 is considered a brilliant and standout addition to the EV market, representing a significant achievement for Hyundai. less

BMW iX3 - Have BMW Got This EV All Wrong?

The BMW iX3 is presented as a safe, conventional choice in the premium electric SUV segment, contrasting with BMW's more radical EV offerings lik... moree the i3 and iX. While its styling is considered unadventurous and it lacks the 'wow factor' of rivals like the Audi e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQC, the iX3 excels in its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement. The reviewer highlights its traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW driving feel, precise steering, and comfortable yet supportive ride. Practicality is decent, with good rear-seat space and a usable boot, though slightly less than the combustion engine X3. The interior, while not groundbreaking, is well-built and ergonomic, featuring physical controls alongside a good infotainment system. Real-world range is estimated around 240-250 miles, which is respectable. Despite some unnecessary design details and its two-wheel-drive nature, the iX3 is praised for its relative value for money and its ability to drive like a true BMW, making it a compelling, albeit conservative, option for those who prioritize driving experience over avant-garde design. less

Mini Versus Fiat 500 Versus Honda E: Electric Superminis Go Head-to-Head

This head-to-head comparison of the MINI Electric, Fiat 500e, and Honda e reveals distinct strengths and weaknesses. The MINI Electric, despite being ... morea converted ICE platform, excels in driving dynamics and performance, earning it the title of the best driver's car. However, its limited range, tight rear seats, and somewhat dated interior styling are notable drawbacks. The Honda e is lauded for its futuristic design, advanced technology, and premium feel, positioning it as a potential future design classic. Its main compromises are its limited range and small boot. The Fiat 500e impresses with its stylish retro-modern design, good range, fast charging, and value, especially with the convertible option. However, it falls short in interior space, steering feel, and outright performance compared to its rivals. Ultimately, while the MINI is the driver's choice and the Fiat offers strong value and style, the Honda e is crowned the overall winner for its blend of innovative design, technology, and overall EV experience. less

Audi E-tron S - Is This The Best E-tron Audi Makes?

The Audi e-tron S is presented as the performance flagship of Audi's electric SUV lineup, boasting a triple-motor setup and enhanced dynamics. Wh... moreile the reviewer acknowledges the car's impressive build quality, distinctive styling, and significant chassis improvements over the standard e-tron, these positives are overshadowed by critical drawbacks. The steering is described as numb and unengaging, a stark contrast to the otherwise capable handling. More significantly, the e-tron S suffers from a "ludicrously high price" and a "poor range" from its 95 kWh battery, achieving only around 221 miles, which is deemed disappointing. Despite its performance credentials, the reviewer concludes that the e-tron S fails to justify its cost and limitations when compared to more compelling alternatives like the Jaguar I-Pace and Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, which offer similar capabilities with better range and value. less

Porsche Taycan Versus Harley Davidson Livewire With Charley Boorman

This episode pits the Porsche Taycan (rear-wheel drive) against the Harley-Davidson Livewire, aiming to dispel the myth that EVs lack soul for enthusi... moreasts. Guest presenter Charley Boorman, experienced with the Livewire from 'Long Way Up', joins Bryan. The Taycan, in its purer RWD form, is praised for its direct steering, chassis fluidity, and balanced feel, making it feel like a true Porsche first and an EV second. While not as accelerative as the Livewire, its performance is deemed sufficient and enjoyable. The Livewire is highlighted for its incredible speed, rapid acceleration, and track-day capability, despite its limited range and less ideal performance in wet conditions. Both vehicles are seen as strong offerings from legacy manufacturers embracing electrification, signaling a positive future for EV enthusiasts. The review concludes that the Taycan RWD is the pick of the Taycan range and a compelling, well-engineered machine. less

Mercedes-Benz EQA250 - Should You Buy This Electric Mercedes-Benz?

The Mercedes-Benz EQA250 is reviewed as a competent, if somewhat compromised, electric SUV. While not a ground-up EV design, it excels in interior qua... morelity, refinement, and standard equipment, arguably surpassing rivals like the Audi Q4 e-tron and Ford Mustang Mach-E in these areas. The reviewer praises its comfortable ride, excellent build quality, and user-friendly tech interface, highlighting the intuitive controls and attractive dashboard. However, criticisms are leveled at its smaller boot capacity (340 liters) and less spacious rear seating compared to competitors, stemming from its GLA-based platform. The styling is described as restrained and conservative. Performance is adequate for the '250' model, with options for more powerful AWD variants available. Despite its compromises, the EQA250's strong value proposition, particularly its competitive pricing, makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing comfort, interior luxury, and a refined driving experience over outright practicality or cutting-edge EV architecture. less

Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. Audi Q4 e-tron: Can German Cool Tame the Electric Wild Horse?

This twin test pits the Ford Mustang Mach-E against the Audi Q4 e-tron, evaluating their styling, practicality, interior, performance, and value. The ... morereviewer finds the Audi to be a safe, well-built, and refined choice, excelling in interior space and build quality, though it can become expensive with options and its handling is somewhat vague. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, while controversial for its badge, impresses with its sporty styling and a more engaging, albeit flawed, character. Its low-speed ride and steering are noted as weaknesses, and some interior design elements and build quality are questioned for the price point. Ultimately, the reviewer leans towards the Mustang for its character and interest, despite the Audi being the more sensible, albeit less exciting, option. The Q4 e-tron is praised for being a superb, efficient, and well-built car, even surpassing the larger e-tron, but its mechanical similarity and better value proposition to the Skoda Enyaq is also highlighted. less

Skoda Enyaq IV - Is This the Best Family EV?

The Skoda Enyaq iV is presented as a strong contender in the family EV crossover market, aiming to surpass its Volkswagen ID.4 sibling. The reviewer p... moreraises its distinctive and bold styling, a significant improvement over the ID.4's more conservative design. The interior is highlighted as a triumph, boasting superior fit and finish, materials, and overall design compared to the ID.4, reaching Audi levels of quality. Practicality is a key strength, with ample boot space, clever storage solutions, and generous rear passenger room, including features like integrated sun blinds and optional sleep packs. The real-world range is deemed credible, with the 82 kWh battery version achieving over 330 miles. However, the review notes some drawbacks: the car can become expensive with options, certain desirable features like 125kW charging are optional and costly, and the brakes are described as spongy and lacking initial bite. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer concludes the Enyaq iV is a "real winner" and potentially the best family EV under £35,000, outperforming the Kia Niro in that bracket and significantly outshining the ID.4 in build quality, design, and value. less

Audi E tron GT - Better Than a Porsche Taycan?

The Audi E-tron GT is presented as a serious contender in the electric GT segment, sharing its platform with the Porsche Taycan but forging its own di... morestinct character. The reviewer praises its stunning exterior design, calling it the best-looking Audi since the original TT, and highlights its impressive performance, with 530 bhp capable of 0-60 mph in under four seconds. The chassis dynamics are lauded as the best the reviewer has experienced in a performance Audi, offering a superb blend of open-road manners and agility, though it's noted as being less sharp than the Taycan, prioritizing comfort slightly more. Practicality is also a strong point, with ample storage space and good rear-seat room, though the reviewer points out the lack of rear USB ports as a minor drawback. The interior, while impeccably built with high-quality materials, is criticized for lacking the futuristic flair seen in the Taycan, feeling more akin to other Audi models. Charging is rapid thanks to the 800-volt system, capable of 5-80% in 23 minutes. Ultimately, the E-tron GT is hailed as a sensational car and a true thoroughbred, a worthy addition to Audi's performance lineage, offering immense driving pleasure that stands comparison with high-end internal combustion engine rivals. less

Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric - Excellent Swede, or Expensive Turnip?

The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is lauded for its striking styling, impressive performance with 400 bhp, and exceptional refinement, making it a... more quiet and comfortable cabin experience. The interior is praised for its quality, spaciousness, and user-friendly Google-based infotainment system. Practicality is also a strong point, with good boot space and clever storage solutions. However, the reviewer notes a high starting price, a somewhat choppy low-speed ride, and a range that could be better for its segment. The regenerative braking system is highlighted as having a steep learning curve, with only an 'on' or 'off' setting requiring screen interaction. Despite these drawbacks, the XC40 Recharge is considered a strong contender, particularly a lower-powered, more affordable variant that is anticipated to offer better value. less

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