Buckle Up

Buckle Up

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Buckle Up is a dedicated channel for automotive enthusiasts, curated by individuals with a profound passion for everything on wheels. The channel chronicles the journeys of three British presenters as they explore the world of motoring, sharing their insights and experiences in a style that is both informative and engaging, often with a humorous and spirited dynamic.

Specializing in in-depth reviews, comparisons, and award-winning analyses, Buckle Up covers a wide spectrum of vehicles, from cutting-edge electric saloons and hybrid superminis to the highly anticipated models of the year. Their content delves into real-world performance, range tests, and head-to-head shootouts, providing viewers with a comprehensive guide to the automotive landscape.

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Showing 24 of 129 total titles. Page 2 of 6.

New 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review | Is It Still Our Favourite Electric Crossover?

New 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review | Is It Still Our Favourite Electric Crossover?

Rob Wilson reaffirms the Hyundai Ioniq 5 as his favorite electric crossover following an in-depth review of the updated model. He highlights the new N... Line and N Line S trims, which add sporty styling cues and improved practicality, such as the addition of a rear wiper and deeper spoiler. Inside, the reviewer praises the continued spaciousness, comfortable and highly adjustable seats, and the improved physical controls for climate and seat functions, noting that Hyundai has directly addressed previous criticisms. The driving experience is described as comfortable and quiet, suitable for long distances, with the reviewer recommending the larger battery, rear-wheel-drive, lower-powered version for optimal range. Real-world efficiency is noted as strong, with figures around 3.5 miles per kWh achievable. The reviewer concludes that the updates have resolved previous minor issues, solidifying the Ioniq 5's position as a top choice in the electric crossover segment. less
New 2025 Xpeng G6 Review | Can It Really Compete With The Skoda Enyaq?

New 2025 Xpeng G6 Review | Can It Really Compete With The Skoda Enyaq?

The XPeng G6 presents a compelling value proposition in the EV crossover market, particularly for its price point. Rob Wilson highlights its spacious ... interior, particularly rear legroom, and impressive charging capabilities, capable of 0-80% in just 12 minutes thanks to its 280 kW charging speed. However, the review points out significant drawbacks. The interior design is criticized for its over-reliance on the central touchscreen, with essential functions like climate control and even light controls being relegated to menus, which is deemed impractical. The steering wheel's unusual rectangular shape and the lack of tactile controls for critical functions are also noted as odd choices. Driving dynamics are described as "floaty" with vague steering, lacking the calibration found in European and Korean rivals. While the car's technology, including its adaptive cruise control and self-driving features, is on par with Tesla, its overall efficiency (2.7 miles/kWh vs. a claimed 3.5 miles/kWh) and a curb weight of 2.1 tons, which is heavier than some competitors that offer better performance with smaller batteries, are concerning. The reviewer concludes that while the G6 is a very cheap option, especially the top-spec Long Range model at £45,000, it's not yet at the level of its rivals in terms of refinement and driving dynamics, though a future UK version is expected to improve on these aspects. less
GWM Ora 03 GT Review | Should You Buy One?

GWM Ora 03 GT Review | Should You Buy One?

Rob Wilson reviews the GWM ORA 03 GT, a car he notes has transitioned from the 'Funky Cat' moniker. While acknowledging its peculiar and �... 39;cutesy' design, Wilson finds the GT trim's sporty additions to be largely 'style over substance.' He highlights a lack of driving sophistication compared to rivals, with vague steering and unsupportive seats, despite the GT's visual enhancements. Practical drawbacks include a high boot lip, limited boot opening height, and the absence of a rear wiper, a significant oversight for UK driving conditions. On the positive side, the interior offers reasonable rear passenger space for its class, and the car boasts a strong Euro NCAP safety rating. However, the reviewer criticizes the small, fiddly controls for climate and other functions, and the infotainment system, while functional with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, is not class-leading. Real-world range is estimated at around 109 miles from just under half a battery. Ultimately, Wilson concludes that while the ORA 03 GT is visually distinctive and offers some practical interior space, its driving dynamics and minor usability issues prevent it from being a top recommendation against competitors like the Renault 5 or Hyundai Inster, unless aesthetics are the absolute priority. less
New 2025 BYD Sealion 7 Review | Is This Ford Capri Rival a Hit or a Miss?

New 2025 BYD Sealion 7 Review | Is This Ford Capri Rival a Hit or a Miss?

The BYD Sealion 7 presents a compelling, yet flawed, package. Its standout features are its striking, sensible styling and a feature-rich, high-qualit... y interior that rivals suggest. The reviewer praises the design language, particularly the lighting elements and the sleek coupe silhouette, and highlights the spaciousness of the rear seats and the premium feel of the materials. However, the driving dynamics are a significant letdown, with the chassis struggling to cope with the powerful drivetrain, leading to disconnected steering and a lack of engagement. Real-world range and efficiency also fall short of key competitors, with the reviewer noting a substantial deficit compared to rivals like the Ford Capri. Despite its technological prowess and attractive interior, the Sealion 7's high price point, especially for the Design trim, makes it difficult to recommend without significant discounts, positioning it as a car that looks good and is packed with tech, but ultimately misses the mark on driving pleasure and value compared to its segment peers. less
New 2025 Alfa Romeo Junior Review Can an EV Crossover Really Be a Proper Alfa?

New 2025 Alfa Romeo Junior Review Can an EV Crossover Really Be a Proper Alfa?

The 2025 Alfa Romeo Junior Speciale Electric is reviewed, questioning its ability to embody the traditional Alfa Romeo spirit. While it boasts an attr... active design with classic Alfa cues and impressive efficiency, achieving its claimed 254-mile WLTP range and 4.1 miles/kWh consumption in real-world testing, its driving dynamics fall short. The reviewer notes a soft suspension leading to wallowing in corners and vague steering, feeling more akin to its Stellantis platform siblings (Peugeot, Fiat, Jeep) than a sporty Alfa. Practicality is also a mixed bag, with limited rear legroom for taller passengers and a somewhat compromised boot due to storage solutions. Despite the disappointment in driving feel, the car's efficiency and styling are highlighted as its key strengths, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing these aspects over traditional Alfa Romeo driving engagement. less
Abarth 500e Convertible Review | A Proper Hot Hatch?

Abarth 500e Convertible Review | A Proper Hot Hatch?

The Abarth 500e Convertible is presented as a "proper hot hatch" in electric form, building upon the Fiat 500e with enhanced performance and... distinctive styling. The reviewer praises its striking retro design, vivid color options, and excellent front interior space, highlighting the comfortable, sporty seats. However, practicality is a significant drawback, with a tiny boot (155 liters) and virtually unusable rear seats, making it unsuitable for families or those needing cargo space. The convertible roof, while adding to the style, further compromises practicality. Driving dynamics are a strong point; the car is described as agile, rewarding, and fun to drive, encouraging spirited driving with its instant torque and well-judged, stiff suspension that remains comfortable around town. The reviewer dislikes the artificial engine sound generator, preferring to keep it off. Real-world range is a concern, with a projected 120 miles on the motorway, though it's more efficient on A-roads and in urban environments. While the driving experience is compelling, the high starting price, especially compared to rivals with more power, is a significant con, making leasing a more attractive option. Ultimately, it proves the electric hot hatch concept works but is best suited for city driving or as a second car, especially for those with home charging. less
New 2025 Hyundai Inster Review: A Love Letter to the City-Sized EV

New 2025 Hyundai Inster Review: A Love Letter to the City-Sized EV

Jasper from Buckle Up delivers an enthusiastic review of the 2025 Hyundai Inster, praising its "city-sized" EV credentials. He highlights it... s "cute chunky face," stylish exterior details, and practical, spacious interior, particularly noting the impressive rear legroom and headroom for its size. The reviewer is impressed by the "big car styling" in a small footprint, the flexible boot space with sliding seats, and the comfortable, well-equipped cabin featuring physical climate controls and a tech pack with V2L capability. On the driving front, the Inster is described as "nippy" in urban settings, with a "dependable" chassis and "solid" steering, though not as engaging as rivals like the Renault 5. The real-world range achieved was around 190 miles from the 49 kWh battery, slightly below the WLTP 229 miles but still impressive given the hilly test conditions. The reviewer concludes that the Inster is "incredibly well equipped," "competitively priced," and offers "incredible" space and versatility, making it a "brilliant little vehicle" that he "loves." less
New 2025 Leapmotor T03 Review China’s Answer to the Dacia Spring

New 2025 Leapmotor T03 Review China’s Answer to the Dacia Spring

The Leapmotor T03 is presented as a compellingly priced city EV, aiming to challenge rivals like the Dacia Spring. While its exterior styling is polar... izing and some interior tech integration, particularly the infotainment system's placement and lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, is criticized, the T03 offers surprising maturity in its driving dynamics. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride, planted feel, and nippy performance around town, exceeding expectations for its size and price point. The 37.3 kWh battery delivers a real-world range of approximately 145 miles, outperforming the Dacia Spring, and it comes with a generous standard equipment list including 15-inch alloys and a panoramic sunroof. Despite its flaws, the T03 is ultimately recommended as excellent value for money, offering a more substantial and capable driving experience than its closest competitors. less
New 2025 MINI JCW Electric Review | Can a John Cooper Works be an EV?

New 2025 MINI JCW Electric Review | Can a John Cooper Works be an EV?

Rob Wilson of Buckle Up tests the new 2025 MINI JCW Electric, a performance-oriented electric hot hatch. He finds that MINI has successfully retained ... the brand's signature fun-to-drive character, even with the added weight of a battery. The JCW Electric boasts exclusive styling elements like red stripes, a unique diffuser, and 18-inch wheels, along with a well-appointed interior featuring diverse materials and sporty accents. While the rear seats offer limited space for taller adults and the boot capacity is modest, the cabin provides a premium feel. On the road, the JCW Electric delivers engaging performance, with quick acceleration and agile handling, particularly on twisty roads, though the ride can be firm. The reviewer notes the car's unique "go-kart mode" and distinctive electric driving sounds. Despite lacking the auditory feedback of a petrol engine, the JCW Electric is praised for its fun factor, occupying a sweet spot for spirited driving without immediately exceeding speed limits. Ultimately, Wilson concludes that MINI has captured the essence of its brand in this electric iteration, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts. less
New 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Review

New 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Review

Harry King reviews the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate Plug-in Hybrid, finding it to be an excellent and highly practical large 7-seater, potentially h... is favorite in the mainstream segment. He praises its boxy, distinctive design, spacious and luxurious interior with numerous thoughtful touches like ample cupholders, clever storage solutions, and comfortable, feature-rich seats. The reviewer highlights the impressive boot space and the versatility of the third row, though notes it's best suited for children. On the road, the Santa Fe PHEV offers a refined and comfortable ride, with the plug-in hybrid system providing good real-world fuel economy around 39.5 MPG, even when not fully charged. The powertrain is quiet and smooth, complemented by a responsive 1.6L engine. While not a performance vehicle, its handling is competent for everyday driving, and its upright design makes it surprisingly maneuverable. Minor gripes include the lack of dedicated charging cable storage and the parcel shelf not fitting with all seats up. The reviewer also notes the distraction monitor can be overly sensitive. Overall, the Santa Fe PHEV is lauded for its competence, comfort, and family-oriented features, making it a strong recommendation. less
New 2025 Polestar 2 Long Range AWD Review

New 2025 Polestar 2 Long Range AWD Review

Harry King reviews the Polestar 2 Long Range AWD, praising its discreet styling, practical hatchback design, and impressive real-world range potential... , especially on the larger battery models. He highlights the car's strong performance, with 416 bhp and rapid acceleration, making it a capable motorway cruiser. However, the review points out significant drawbacks in rear passenger space, particularly headroom, and the central floor hump, making it less ideal for families or frequent five-person journeys. The interior, while visually appealing, suffers from inconsistent material quality, with hard plastics in lower areas and an unlined glove box and door bins. The reviewer also expresses a dislike for the touchscreen-reliant climate controls and the wired-only Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Despite these criticisms, the Polestar 2 is recommended as a great value, long-distance EV, particularly on the smaller 19-inch wheels, offering a compelling alternative to rivals like the Tesla Model 3, especially for those prioritizing range and value over rear-seat practicality or a more tactile interior. less
New 2025 Vauxhall Astra E Review | This Car Is Incredible Value For Money

New 2025 Vauxhall Astra E Review | This Car Is Incredible Value For Money

The Vauxhall Astra Electric is presented as an incredible value proposition, particularly when purchased at current market prices, which are significa... ntly lower than its list price. The reviewer highlights its stylish exterior, featuring Vauxhall's corporate 'visor' design and attractive 18-inch black alloy wheels. While the interior materials are noted as being on the more affordable side, the infotainment system receives praise for its user-friendly physical shortcut buttons for climate control and heated seats, a significant improvement over other Stellantis models. Practicality is adequate with a 352L boot, though charging cables lack dedicated storage. Rear seat space is tight for adults, making it better suited for children or shorter journeys. The driving experience is described as solid and well-composed, with light steering, good body control, and decent acceleration for its class, though the suspension is a touch stiff. Real-world range is around 200 miles from its 54 kWh battery, which is deemed sufficient for commuting and local journeys, especially as a second car. The reviewer's main takeaway is the exceptional value, with new models available for around £22,000, undercutting many rivals and making it a compelling option for budget-conscious electric car buyers. less
New 2025 Vauxhall Grandland Electric Review The Best Value EV SUV

New 2025 Vauxhall Grandland Electric Review The Best Value EV SUV

The 2025 Vauxhall Grandland Electric is presented as a compelling value proposition, particularly highlighted by its attractive lease deals starting a... t £190 per month. The reviewer praises the vehicle's significantly improved styling, featuring a modern light bar design and illuminated Griffin badge, and notes its increased practicality due to a larger size compared to the outgoing model. The interior offers ample space, especially for rear passengers, and a generous 550-liter boot with a 40/20/40 split. However, the reviewer points out drawbacks such as the infotainment system's reliance on touchscreen controls for essential functions like heated seats, and a ride quality that can feel slightly fidgety and harsher than some rivals. Real-world range is estimated at around 250 miles, falling short of the claimed 325 miles for the 73 kWh battery version, though a larger battery with a 435-mile range is expected later. Despite these criticisms, the Grandland Electric's affordability and practicality make it a strong contender for family SUV buyers seeking an EV. less
New 2025 Toyota Yaris Hybrid | The Perfect Hybrid?

New 2025 Toyota Yaris Hybrid | The Perfect Hybrid?

Jasper reviews the 2025 Toyota Yaris Hybrid Premiere Edition, highlighting its stylish design, premium interior features, and impressive hybrid powert... rain. He praises the car's sharp looks, particularly the front grille and 17-inch alloy wheels, and commends the top-spec Premiere Edition's new 10.3-inch infotainment system and digital driver's cluster for their crisp graphics and user-friendliness. The hybrid system is lauded as one of the best on the market, delivering excellent efficiency (over 60 MPG easily achievable) and a brisk 9.2-second 0-62 mph time with the 130 PS output. However, the review points out significant drawbacks: cramped rear seating and limited headroom, making it best suited for children or shorter journeys. The firm suspension, while aiding handling, leads to noticeable road and wind noise at speed. A key disappointment for Jasper is the lack of heated seats, especially on a top-spec model nearing £30,000. While acknowledging the Yaris's dependability and advanced safety tech, he questions the value proposition of the high-spec trims compared to lower-spec models or competitors like the MG3 Hybrid Plus, suggesting that the base models offer better value for money. less
New 2025 Dacia Spring Review | Is The Cheapest EV You Can Buy Actually Any Good?

New 2025 Dacia Spring Review | Is The Cheapest EV You Can Buy Actually Any Good?

The Dacia Spring is presented as Britain's most affordable electric car, and the review confirms it largely delivers on its promise for city-cent... ric use. The "Extreme" trim, while the top spec, highlights Dacia's cost-saving approach with features like a single windscreen wiper and plastic body panels, offset by stylish "cityscape" graphics. The interior, though basic, is made more interesting with colorful accents and topographical floor mats. Practicality is a mixed bag: the boot space is surprisingly generous, especially with seats folded or in its cargo van configuration, but rear legroom is extremely limited. Driving dynamics are described as "old-school" and "light," reminiscent of early 2000s superminis, with slow steering and a softly sprung, slightly bouncy ride that leans in corners. The 65 PS version is recommended over the 45 PS for better performance. Range is adequate for city driving (around 47 miles with 38% battery remaining), and charging is slow, reinforcing its urban focus. The reviewers conclude that for its price point, it's an excellent value proposition as a second car for local journeys, offering a no-frills, affordable entry into EV ownership. less
New 2025 MGS5 EV Review: The ZS EV Replacement Is MG's Best EV Yet!

New 2025 MGS5 EV Review: The ZS EV Replacement Is MG's Best EV Yet!

Jasper from Buckle Up delivers a highly positive review of the new 2025 MG MGS5 EV, positioning it as MG's best EV to date and a strong contender... in the crossover SUV segment. He highlights its competitive pricing, starting from £28,495, and praises the generous interior space, particularly in the rear seats and a practical 435-liter boot that expands to 1,441 liters. The cabin receives commendation for its modern design, quality materials, and user-friendly layout, especially the inclusion of physical climate controls and a responsive 12.3-inch infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On the driving front, the MGS5 EV, based on the MG4 platform, offers an engaging experience with a refined, quiet ride and brisk acceleration (0-62 mph in 6.3 seconds for the 231 PS model). The reviewer notes a slight lack of steering feel but appreciates the comfortable ride quality, even with the larger wheels. While the SE Long Range offers excellent value, the Trophy trim is recommended for those seeking additional comfort features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, despite a minor range sacrifice. Real-world efficiency is estimated around 220 miles on a 90% charge. The reviewer concludes that the MGS5 EV is an easy recommendation due to its exceptional value, styling, technology, and practicality. less
New 2025 BYD Seal U DM-i Review | Silly Name For a Brilliant Car?

New 2025 BYD Seal U DM-i Review | Silly Name For a Brilliant Car?

Harry King delivers a highly positive review of the BYD Seal U DM-i, praising its exceptional value, extensive specification, and comfortable ride. He... highlights the car's impressive efficiency, particularly its ability to achieve around 40 MPG even when holding charge, and suggests even better economy when fully utilizing the plug-in system. The interior is commended for its premium feel, spaciousness, and the innovative rotating infotainment screen, though the lack of physical climate controls is noted as a minor drawback. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the advanced driver assistance systems, deeming them outstanding for the price point. While acknowledging the awkward exterior styling and the overly long model name, King concludes that the Seal U DM-i is an excellent family crossover offering significant advantages over more expensive rivals, making it a strong recommendation. less
New 2025 Kia EV3 Review | Best Small Family EV?

New 2025 Kia EV3 Review | Best Small Family EV?

The Kia EV3 is presented as a compelling compact family EV, successfully scaling down the larger EV6 and EV9 formula. The reviewer highlights its uniq... ue exterior design, practical features like a 460L electric boot, and a spacious interior for its class, even for taller passengers. The cabin is praised for its modern yet functional layout, featuring a dual-screen setup, physical controls for climate and volume, and ample storage, including a practical three-pin plug socket. The top-spec GT-Line S model, with an 81 kWh battery, offers a WLTP range of up to 361 miles, though real-world winter driving indicates closer to 285-290 miles, averaging 3.1-3.5 miles/kWh. Despite this discrepancy, the reviewer finds the range and charging capabilities (up to 127.5 kW) more than adequate for daily use. Driving dynamics are described as comfortable and refined, akin to its larger siblings, with helpful features like blind-spot cameras. The overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, with the reviewer struggling to find significant criticisms and concluding it's a "really good car" that happens to be electric, making it a strong contender in the small family EV segment. less
New 2025 Kia EV6 Review | Can The Facelifted SUV Keep Up With Rivals?

New 2025 Kia EV6 Review | Can The Facelifted SUV Keep Up With Rivals?

Jasper delivers a comprehensive review of the facelifted 2025 Kia EV6, highlighting its continued strengths and addressing minor drawbacks. He praises... the updated exterior styling, particularly the GT-Line S trim's sporty enhancements and the modern Starlight headlamps. The interior is lauded for its spaciousness, comfortable seating with a mix of faux leather and Alcantara, and advanced tech, including dual 12.3-inch screens and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Practicality is a strong point, with ample boot space and a flat floor in the cabin. However, Jasper notes that the optional heat pump, crucial for efficiency, is not standard even on higher trims, which he considers a miss for a 2025 EV. On the road, the rear-wheel-drive model offers adequate performance (0-62 mph in 7.7 seconds) and a comfortable, quiet ride, though the 20-inch wheels can make it feel firm on rough surfaces. Real-world range is estimated around 235-240 miles in cold, motorway conditions, falling short of the WLTP figure but deemed usable for long journeys with necessary stops. Despite the heat pump omission, Jasper gives the EV6 a hearty recommendation as a stylish, practical, and well-equipped family EV. less
The Car of the Year (No One Else's Opinion Matters) | Buckle Up Awards 2024

The Car of the Year (No One Else's Opinion Matters) | Buckle Up Awards 2024

The Buckle Up Awards 2024 celebrates the best cars of the year, with the Hyundai Ioniq 5N crowned the overall winner. The Ioniq 5N is lauded as a game... -changer, praised for its incredible driving dynamics, performance, and driver engagement, all while being an electric vehicle. It successfully mimics an internal combustion engine experience with its simulated engine noises and gear shifts, making it a "step change" for enthusiast EVs. Other notable mentions include the MG Cyberster for its striking design and GT capabilities, the Kia EV9 as a spacious and comfortable seven-seater electric SUV, the Mazda MX-5 for its pure driving enjoyment with a manual gearbox, and the Skoda Octavia vRS for its blend of hot hatch performance and practicality. While the Ioniq 5N is the ultimate winner, each car is recognized for excelling in specific categories, highlighting a diverse range of automotive excellence. less
New 2025 MG Cyberster Review

New 2025 MG Cyberster Review

Harry King reviews the new MG Cyberster, a two-seater electric sports convertible aiming to capture the spirit of classic MGs with modern performance.... He highlights its striking supercar-like styling, featuring scissor doors and distinctive lighting, and praises the well-appointed interior with its multiple screens and premium materials, noting its GT-like comfort. While the Cyberster offers a comfortable and quiet cruising experience with a respectable 300+ mile WLTP range in the RWD Trophy trim, its dynamic performance on rough surfaces is criticized due to unsettled damping and a lack of effective torque vectoring, leading to wheelspin in tight corners. Despite these dynamic shortcomings, King finds the car engaging and enjoyable, particularly appreciating its aesthetic appeal and the overall driving experience, ultimately expressing a strong personal desire to own one. less
New 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5N Review

New 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5N Review

Rob Wilson of Buckle Up declares the Hyundai Ioniq 5N the "best EV bar none," praising its groundbreaking approach to making electric cars e... ngaging for driving enthusiasts. He highlights the car's immense power, with up to 640 PS and 740 Nm of torque, and the innovative "NGB" boost function. The standout feature is the simulated 8-speed gearbox and engine sound, which convincingly mimics a petrol car experience, complete with gear shifts and pops and bangs, effectively tricking the brain into believing it's driving a traditional performance vehicle. The reviewer commends Hyundai for prioritizing driver engagement, noting that this feature is not a gimmick but a genuinely groundbreaking addition. While acknowledging the car's impressive handling, drift mode, and overall competence on the road, Wilson points out the real-world range is significantly less than advertised (200 miles vs. 278 miles) due to winter conditions and the 84 kWh battery. Despite the high price point of around £65,000, he concludes that the Ioniq 5N offers a lot of car for the money and is a highly desirable, practical, and fun electric vehicle that could convert even petrolheads. less
New 2025 Cupra Born VZ

New 2025 Cupra Born VZ

Jasper from Buckle Up reviews the 2025 Cupra Born VZ, positioning it as the most engaging and stylish EV on the VW Group's MEB platform. He prais... es its purposeful and aggressive styling, particularly the VZ trim's exclusive Dark Forest matte green paint. The interior receives commendation for its sporty design, quality materials like Alcantara and contrast stitching, and comfortable, supportive seats, though the capacitive/haptic steering wheel buttons are noted as a dislike. The VZ trim boasts 326 PS and 545 Nm of torque, delivering brisk acceleration (0-62 mph in 5.6 seconds) and a genuinely fun, rear-wheel-drive driving experience with excellent road-holding and positive turn-in, surpassing other MEB platform vehicles in driver engagement. However, this performance comes at the cost of efficiency; real-world range is estimated at 220-230 miles from the 79 kWh battery, significantly less than the 349-mile WLTP claim. The reviewer highlights the excellent integrated augmented reality head-up display and navigation as standout tech features. Despite the efficiency concerns and the optional heat pump, Jasper concludes the Cupra Born VZ is the best-styled and best-driving EV from VW Group on this platform, offering a hearty recommendation for its sporty character and overall package. less
New 2025 Omoda E5 Review | A Good Buy?

New 2025 Omoda E5 Review | A Good Buy?

The Omoda E5 presents a compelling value proposition as a family EV, offering a substantial package for its price point, especially considering its 25... 0-mile range. The reviewer highlights the attractive interior, particularly the Comfort trim's materials and design, and finds the driving dynamics to be perfectly adequate for its segment. However, the review points out significant drawbacks, including the lack of physical climate controls in favor of a fiddly touchscreen interface and an overly intrusive lane departure warning system that requires manual deactivation on each startup. While the E5's ride quality is praised for being composed and planted, the reviewer suggests that the ICE version of the Omoda 5, starting at a considerably lower price with similar tech and performance, might be a more sensible purchase for now, recommending potential buyers to wait for future software improvements on the EV. Overall, it's a lot of car for the money, but with notable usability compromises. less