Planetauto is a dedicated automotive channel established in 2005, which expanded into video reviews in 2017. This distributor specializes in comprehensive coverage of the automotive world, offering insights into the latest new car reviews, automotive product and service evaluations, supercars, classic vehicles, ongoing projects, and major event coverage. Planetauto provides in-depth reviews of new models from a diverse array of manufacturers, including but not limited to Subaru, Honda, Kia, Hyundai, Ford, BMW, MG, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volvo, Fiat, Skoda, and Tesla.
The channel's expertise extends to covering significant automotive events such as Goodwood, Silverstone, SMMT Events, and Concours of Elegance. Whether you're seeking reviews on specific automotive products, looking for information on hybrid SUVs, or interested in road trip experiences with new models like the MG4 or Suzuki Ignis Hybrid, Planetauto serves as a reliable source for automotive enthusiasts.
The channel's expertise extends to covering significant automotive events such as Goodwood, Silverstone, SMMT Events, and Concours of Elegance. Whether you're seeking reviews on specific automotive products, looking for information on hybrid SUVs, or interested in road trip experiences with new models like the MG4 or Suzuki Ignis Hybrid, Planetauto serves as a reliable source for automotive enthusiasts.
New MG4 800 Mile Scottish Road Trip Part 1
The Planetauto team embarks on an ambitious 800-mile road trip to Scotland in the new MG4, focusing on its practicality and driving experience. The reviewer highlights the MG4's rear-wheel-drive configuration as a significant departure and a positive attribute, contributing to a balanced and agil...
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Showing 24 of 154 total titles. Page 2 of 7.
New Nissan Juke: The Best Urban Crossover?
The 2024 Nissan Juke facelift receives a positive review, particularly for its enhanced hybrid powertrain and updated interior technology. The reviewe... morer highlights the striking new yellow paint option and the sporty N-Sport trim, noting that while exterior changes are subtle, the interior boasts a significantly larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital cockpit, and improved tech. The hybrid system, capable of electric-only propulsion, offers impressive economy (around 50 mpg). The Juke's distinctive styling, a love-it-or-hate-it feature, is praised for its dynamic evolution and practical crossover appeal for young families or active individuals. While the rear seating space is noted as 'doable' rather than expansive, the overall driving experience is described as agile, dynamic, and fun, with excellent handling and a comfortable ride. The reviewer commends the build quality, extensive safety features, and user-friendly controls, concluding that the Juke remains a strong contender in the urban crossover segment, especially with its blend of style, versatility, and innovation. less
Maxus T90 EV Pickup £25k A Month With An Electric Pickup
After a month-long review, the Maxus T90EV proves to be a surprisingly capable and versatile electric pickup, particularly for its price point, with u... moresed models available for around £25,000. The reviewer highlights its suitability as a workhorse, easily handling tasks like tip runs and carrying bikes, with a usable range that holds up well even when loaded. While acknowledging its limitations, such as the lack of four-wheel drive, a park button, and advanced safety features, the T90EV is praised for its straightforward operation, comfortable interior for a pickup, and the significant cost savings on charging with a home Type 2 charger. The reviewer notes its robust, body-on-frame construction, suggesting it's a solid foundation for future iterations, especially the anticipated all-wheel-drive version. Despite some minor wear and tear observed on a long-term test vehicle, the T90EV is deemed a joy to drive and a smart choice for those prioritizing practicality and electric running costs over luxury or towing heavy loads. less
New KGM Torres: Petrol & Electric... Really? Yes
The KGM Torres presents a compelling package, offering both petrol and electric variants with a strong emphasis on value, technology, and distinctive ... morestyling. The reviewer highlights the SUV's rugged aesthetics, impressive ride height, and surprisingly capable off-road potential, all at competitive price points starting from £35,000 for the petrol and just under £50,000 for the EV. Key strengths include a spacious and well-equipped interior featuring dual screens, mood lighting, and heated seats, along with a comprehensive suite of safety and convenience features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The EV variant boasts a respectable range of around 280 miles, with rapid charging capabilities. While the petrol version offers a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and enjoyable driving dynamics, the EV is noted for its instant torque and quiet operation. Minor drawbacks mentioned include the petrol's economy figures and the EV's lack of all-wheel-drive availability. Overall, the Torres is praised for its practicality, versatility, and class-leading boot space, making it a strong contender in its segment. less
New Ford Explorer Electric 2025 | The Ultimate SUV?
The new Ford Explorer Electric SUV, built on VW's MEB platform, impresses with its blend of American design heritage and European engineering. Th... moree reviewer highlights its spacious, tech-filled interior, and a competitive range of up to 370 miles for around £45,000. Positives include its quick acceleration (0-60 in around 5 seconds), intelligent adaptive systems that anticipate bends and slow down, and a comfortable ride. The Premium trim offers desirable features like Matrix headlamps and a heads-up display. While the interior features some hard plastics, the overall build quality and design are praised. Negatives are minimal, with a mention of manual lumbar support and the lack of a frunk. The reviewer concludes that the Explorer is a practical, versatile, and fun-to-drive electric SUV that offers excellent value, making it a strong contender for families and driving enthusiasts alike. less
New Omoda 5 E5 2025 | Petrol or Electric?
The Omoda 5 and E5 present a compelling value proposition in the UK market, offering C-segment SUV space at B-segment pricing. The reviewer highlights... more the surprisingly low starting price for the petrol model (£25,000) and a competitive price for the electric E5 (starting around £33,000). Both models are praised for their attractive design, comprehensive standard equipment including LED lighting and advanced safety features, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior with premium touches like a Sony sound system and supportive seats. The E5 offers a respectable 257-mile range and rapid charging capabilities (30-80% in 26 minutes). While both powertrains are deemed competent and enjoyable to drive, with the petrol offering 180hp and the electric around 200hp, the reviewer notes the E5 feels slightly stiffer due to battery weight. The driving experience is described as grounded and well-balanced, with good steering feedback and minimal body roll, suggesting effective German tuning for UK roads. The main differentiator appears to be the powertrain and associated price point, with the reviewer concluding that the choice between petrol and electric is largely down to budget and personal preference, with both offering a fun and practical experience. less
New BYD Dolphin 2025 Active & Boost: Is This Really Base Trim?
The BYD Dolphin Active and Boost trims for 2025 are presented as compelling entry-level options in the electric vehicle market, particularly for city ... moredriving. The reviewer highlights the surprising amount of standard equipment and interior space for the price, noting the "aquatic theme" design language. The Active trim, with its 70 kW motor and 40 kWh battery, is described as adequate for city use, while the Boost trim significantly ups the performance with a 130 kW motor and a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds, justifying its slightly higher price and multi-link suspension. Key advantages noted include a comfortable ride, good refinement for its class, and a practical, well-equipped interior with soft-touch materials even on base trims. The reviewer's verdict leans towards the Boost trim as the "sweet spot" for those who value the extra performance without a drastic range penalty, praising the overall value proposition and fun driving dynamics. less
Mercedes Benz ECitan 2024 A Small Electric Van With Big Ideas
The Mercedes-Benz eCitan is presented as a significant step forward in the small electric van segment, offering a car-like interior experience with a ... morefocus on technology and safety. While it shares its platform and powertrain with the Renault Kangoo, Mercedes-Benz has applied its distinct styling and refinement touches. The reviewer highlights the van's agile handling, comfortable ride, and impressive visibility, noting that it feels more like a car than a traditional van. Positives include a well-equipped cabin with features like heated seats, a digital display, and comprehensive safety systems. The range is stated as approximately 170 miles, with real-world testing showing it uses about 10-11 miles of range for a 22-mile round trip when empty, suggesting good efficiency. However, the reviewer points out that the price, starting around £35,000, is a significant consideration, especially compared to diesel alternatives. The firm, supportive seats are noted as comfortable for long journeys, though the hard plastics are acknowledged as a necessity for a commercial vehicle. Overall, the eCitan is praised for its refinement, practicality, and safety, making it a compelling, albeit premium, option in the electric van market. less
New MG ZS 2025 | The Ultimate Hybrid SUV HEV?
The new MG ZS Hybrid+ marks a significant evolution for the model, offering a compelling non-plug-in hybrid powertrain that the reviewer finds "v... moreery good." The 1.5L non-turbocharged engine paired with a 1.83kWh battery and electric motor delivers nearly 200 horsepower, a substantial upgrade from the previous generation. The vehicle boasts improved practicality, a more spacious interior, and a refined driving experience with better suspension and reduced noise. Key highlights include the intuitive infotainment system, comprehensive MG Pilot safety suite, and an impressive estimated fuel economy of 50-55 MPG without the need for charging. While the reviewer notes the loss of a panoramic roof and the slightly reduced boot space due to the hybrid system, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise highly praised package. The SE and Trophy trims are both considered well-equipped for their price points, making the ZS Hybrid+ a strong contender in the SUV market. less
New Tesla Model Y Review: The Ultimate Electric SUV?
The Tesla Model Y is presented as a highly practical and desirable electric SUV, excelling in performance, technology, and overall driving experience.... more The reviewer highlights its quick acceleration, agile handling despite its height, and a surprisingly comfortable ride, attributing this to a slightly softer suspension without compromising dynamics. The minimalist interior, dominated by a responsive 15-inch touchscreen, is praised for its futuristic feel and ease of use, though the lack of physical buttons and grab handles are noted drawbacks. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the infotainment system's speed and functionality, including features like Sentry Mode and the Toybox entertainment options. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample interior space, a large boot, and efficient energy consumption, especially on motorways. While the standard Model Y offers plenty of performance, the reviewer suggests the Long Range AWD trim, reviewed here, provides a compelling balance of speed, range (claimed 330 miles), and cost, making the more expensive Performance variant potentially unnecessary for most buyers. The reviewer concludes that the Model Y is a sophisticated, well-built, and cost-effective electric vehicle, ticking many boxes for a modern SUV. less
New MG3 Review 2024 | The Best Small Car?
The new MG3 Hybrid+ marks a significant departure from its predecessor, transforming from a fun but thirsty city car into a highly efficient and surpr... moreisingly powerful supermini. Reviewers praise its "immense fun" and "quick" acceleration, attributing it to the new hybrid powertrain that seamlessly blends a 1.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering impressive performance and economy figures (claimed 70 mpg). The driving experience is noted as more family-oriented than the previous generation's "hot hatch" feel, with electronic power steering and a less firm suspension, though it retains some "chuckable" character. Interior improvements include a roomier cabin, better build quality, comfortable seats, and modern tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some hard plastics remain. The reviewer highlights its suitability for longer journeys, citing a 900-mile road trip without issue. Key drawbacks mentioned are the lack of a sunroof and a traditional handbrake, and the absence of a split-folding rear seat. Overall, the MG3 Hybrid+ is seen as a substantial upgrade, offering a compelling package of efficiency, performance, and comfort at its price point. less
The Perfect Electric Bike? DYU C3 EBike Review
The DYU C3 eBike is presented as a highly practical and affordable solution for urban commuting. The reviewer highlights its compact, foldable design ... moreas a major advantage, easily fitting into the boot of a saloon car, a significant improvement over larger electric bikes. Key positives include its robust construction, effective disc brakes, and intuitive controls, including a clear battery readout and an optional cruise control feature. While acknowledging its 20kg weight, the reviewer finds it manageable, especially given its intended use. The bike performs well on various terrains, including gravel tracks, though the lack of suspension means it's not suited for jumps or rough trails. Real-world range is estimated at around 22-25 miles, depending on conditions and riding style. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the bike's performance on hills, exceeding expectations for its 250W motor and 10 Nm of torque. The pricing is a standout feature, with the bike being a "heck of a bargain" at under £500, especially with current offers and discounts. The reviewer concludes that for commuting and light trail use, the DYU C3 is an excellent value proposition. less
New MG5 Review: The Perfect Estate Car? And Yes It's Electric
The MG5 EV receives a significant facelift, enhancing its appeal as one of the few electric estate cars available in the UK. The reviewer highlights t... morehe improved exterior styling, now more in line with MG's modern design language, and a significantly refreshed, more futuristic interior packed with tech like vehicle-to-load capability and MG Pilot. While the powertrain (single motor, 115kW, 61kWh battery) and chassis remain largely the same as the pre-facelift model, the driving experience is described as comfortable and engaging, with direct steering and responsive acceleration. Practicality remains a strong suit, offering ample space for cargo and passengers. The reviewer notes the combined range of approximately 235 miles for the Trophy trim and 250 miles for the SE trim, with real-world efficiency proving impressive even in adverse conditions. Key criticisms are the continued use of hard plastics in some areas, the lack of a driver's side grab handle, and the absence of a sunroof. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MG5 is praised for its value proposition and its unique position in the market. less
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review | The Best Electric Car?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is presented as a standout electric vehicle, blending modern and retro design cues with impressive practicality. The reviewer high... morelights its spacious interior, comparable to D-segment vehicles, and its engaging driving dynamics, noting the "cavernous" cabin space thanks to the dedicated EV platform. Positives include the striking "pixel" lighting design, the premium feel of the interior materials (many recycled), comfortable and supportive seats, and the intuitive infotainment system. The 800-volt architecture enabling rapid charging (80% in 18 minutes) and the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability are significant advantages. Downsides are minimal, with a mention of the interior color potentially being hard to keep clean and the absence of a massage function for the seats. The reviewer confirms an all-wheel-drive setup and suggests the "Ultimate" trim offers all necessary features, while acknowledging the "Namsan Edition" as the top-tier option. Real-world range is estimated around 268 miles on a full charge in Eco mode, with a slight reduction when using Sport mode. less
Genesis GV70 Electrified Review | The Perfect Electric SUV?
The Genesis GV70 Electrified is presented as a potent and luxurious electric SUV, boasting 435 horsepower and dual-motor all-wheel drive, capable of a... more 0-60 mph sprint in just over 4 seconds. The reviewer highlights its refined driving experience, quiet operation, and impressive structural rigidity, noting a 24% increase over petrol variants. Practicality is also a strong suit, with ample space for luggage and a comfortable interior featuring premium materials, Ergo motion seats with massage, and a well-integrated infotainment system with physical controls. The design is praised for its elegant, classic lines and commanding presence. While the official range is stated around 280 miles, the reviewer's 1,000-mile road trip indicated a real-world range closer to 227 miles, influenced by factors like cold weather, heating, and infotainment usage. The 800v architecture allows for rapid charging, adding to its long-distance viability. The reviewer's verdict leans positive, emphasizing its performance, comfort, and sophisticated design, making it a compelling option in the luxury electric SUV segment, particularly the 'Sport' trim which is the sole offering. less
New Suzuki Swift 2024 Road Trip
The new Suzuki Swift Hybrid is presented as a compelling evolution of the popular supermini, particularly praised for its engaging driving dynamics an... mored practicality. Reviewers highlight its agile handling, responsive steering, and a surprisingly sporty feel, often drawing comparisons to the Swift Sport. The 1.2-litre three-cylinder hybrid powertrain is noted for mitigating typical three-cylinder lag with electric assistance, offering smooth acceleration and impressive fuel economy, with real-world figures exceeding 50 MPG even during spirited driving. The suspension strikes a commendable balance between comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections well, making it suitable for long distances. While the interior features hard plastics, this is deemed acceptable given the price point and contributes to robustness. The availability of a manual transmission and AllGrip (on manual) are seen as significant advantages for enthusiasts. The primary critique is a slight vibration at idle, though it disappears when driving. Overall, the Swift Hybrid is lauded as a fun, efficient, and well-rounded package that offers significant value. less
New Suzuki Swift Review
The new Suzuki Swift Hybrid is presented as a compelling evolution of the beloved supermini, retaining its core appeal of spirited performance and an ... moreattractive price point while integrating mild-hybrid technology. Reviewers highlight the "peppy acceleration" and "raspy Three Pot" engine, especially when paired with the available manual transmission and AllGrip AWD system, which is lauded as a "perfect combo." The "Ultra" trim is noted for its comprehensive standard features, including parking sensors, a reversing camera, heated seats, and adaptive cruise control, all offered at a price point under £20,000. While the interior utilizes "hard plastics" and a functional rather than lavish design, the driver-focused layout, responsive touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and comfortable seating are appreciated. Practicality is also a strong suit, with surprisingly spacious cabin and boot, though the lack of a rear light is a minor drawback. The real-world fuel economy of 52 mpg, even when driven enthusiastically, is impressive, exceeding the claimed 65 mpg. Overall, the Swift Hybrid is deemed "Swift but better," successfully blending its iconic character with modern advancements and efficiency. less
New MG HS Review
The MG HS PHEV is presented as a compelling option for families seeking an affordable yet well-equipped hybrid SUV. The reviewer highlights its striki... moreng design, both inside and out, with particular praise for the plush interior materials and comfortable, supportive seats (especially in the Trophy trim). Performance is noted as strong, with a combined output of 258 horsepower, and the transition between electric and petrol power is described as seamless. The vehicle's efficiency is a key selling point, with impressive real-world MPG figures reported, even on longer journeys. While the reviewer finds the infotainment system functional, they note it's not the most responsive. A minor drawback mentioned is the lack of a rear interior light. Overall, the MG HS PHEV is recommended for its value, style, and practicality, making it a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market. less
Kia EV9 St Bees via Ulverston Coastal Road Trip Part 1
This video documents the first part of a road trip in the Kia EV9, focusing on its performance and comfort on varied UK coastal roads. The reviewer hi... moreghlights the EV9's surprisingly agile handling and comfortable ride, despite its considerable size and weight (around 3 tons). The all-wheel-drive system and 100 kWh battery are noted for providing strong acceleration and a refined driving experience. Practicality is also praised, with mentions of spaciousness, advanced safety features, and the utility of terrain modes for challenging conditions. While the reviewer acknowledges the vehicle's size, they emphasize that it doesn't feel cumbersome, offering excellent visibility and a smooth, effortless drive. The video touches upon range estimations, noting that real-world figures can vary significantly based on driving conditions, with city driving potentially yielding much higher range than motorway use. Overall, the EV9 is presented as a capable, luxurious, and surprisingly nimble large electric SUV. less
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review
The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is presented as a compelling electric saloon, challenging conventions with its "electric Streamliner" design and aerodyn... moreamic efficiency (0.25 drag coefficient). The "emotional efficiency" concept aims to evoke feelings, a goal seemingly achieved through its futuristic "lounge-like" interior crafted from sustainable materials and its advanced technology suite. Performance is highlighted, with the all-wheel-drive dual-motor version boasting 325 horsepower, capable of 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds, offering linear acceleration and agile handling, though some rear-wheel spin was noted under hard acceleration. The 800-volt architecture allows for rapid charging, achieving 80% in approximately 18 minutes. Practicality is addressed with ample cabin space thanks to the E-GMP platform, a comfortable ride despite 20-inch wheels, and a well-thought-out interior with intuitive controls and premium materials. The reviewer found the blind-spot detection and camera integration particularly impressive safety features. While the design is polarizing, it's praised for its uniqueness and sporty, Porsche-esque rear. The "Ultimate" trim is noted at just under £56,000, with prices starting under £50,000 for the "Premium" trim, offering significant value for the technology and features included. The reviewer concludes that the IONIQ 6 engages the senses and represents a significant step forward in electric vehicle design and performance. less
New Kia EV9 Review The Ultimate SUV?
The Kia EV9 is presented as a significant leap forward for electric SUVs, praised for its futuristic design, practicality, and spaciousness, particula... morerly its true seven-seater capability. The reviewer highlights the GT-Line trim, priced around £73,000, as offering phenomenal tech and convenience, though the entry-level 'Air' trim starts at £65,000. Key positives include the comfortable ride, impressive range (around 315 miles for the GT-Line, closer to 350 for the 'Air'), and the cost-effectiveness of home charging versus public chargers. The interior is lauded for its premium materials, spaciousness, and user-friendly screens, with special mention of the Ergo motion massaging seats and tri-zone climate control. The AWD GT-Line boasts nearly 400 bhp and a sub-four-second 0-60 time, feeling substantial and glued to the road. Criticisms are minor, including occasional issues with rain-sensing wipers and the lack of a bonnet release on the key fob. Overall, the EV9 is positioned as a compelling, versatile, and well-designed family SUV that significantly undercuts rivals like the Range Rover in price while offering a full electric experience. less
BYD Atto 3 Road Trip Part 2: An Illuminating Adventure
This video documents a road trip in the BYD Atto 3, focusing on its performance and practicality across diverse driving conditions from city streets t... moreo scenic coastal routes. The reviewer highlights the Atto 3's "sprightly acceleration" and "smooth and responsive handling," noting its adeptness on motorways and winding country lanes. A key takeaway is the vehicle's efficiency and range, which proved sufficient for the journey without inducing "range anxiety," even with climate control and heated seats active in cold weather. The reviewer praises the "silent operation" and "technological prowess," including an "intuitive infotainment system" and "advanced safety features." Practicality is also emphasized, with ample space for luggage and a comfortable interior. While the reviewer appreciates the "tasteful additions" and "pleasing silhouette," they note a desire for physical buttons and difficulty in identifying the "Park" position during daylight. The vehicle's ability to handle rougher surfaces with its suspension is also commended. Overall, the Atto 3 is presented as an "energized little SUV" that "breaks the norm" and offers a compelling package of design, technology, and performance, making it a strong contender in the EV market. less
Mercedes Benz Vito & eVito | Diesel or Electric Van?
The Mercedes-Benz Vito and eVito are put head-to-head, with the reviewer highlighting the significant improvements in the latest eVito generation. Key... more upgrades include a substantial range increase to 168 miles (up from 93) and a drastically reduced charging time, now capable of 10-80% in approximately 40 minutes compared to the previous 4 hours. The reviewer notes the eVito's smooth, silent operation and immediate torque, making it ideal for urban deliveries and lifestyle adventures, though it lacks V2L capability. The diesel Vito is praised for its versatility, payload (around 900kg), towing capacity, and lower initial cost (£36k vs £46k for the eVito). Both vans share a robust, practical interior with Mercedes-Benz's signature quality, though the reviewer consistently points out the absence of grab handles as a notable omission. Ultimately, the choice depends on usage: diesel for heavy loads and long distances, electric for urban efficiency and potentially lower running costs, with the reviewer suggesting the eVito's improvements make it a far better proposition than before. less
BYD Atto 3 Road Trip Pt 1 | Mancunian Exploration Powered by Electric
The BYD Atto 3 is presented as a compelling option for those seeking a distinctive electric SUV. The reviewer highlights its unique, quirky interior d... moreesign, inspired by gym equipment, and its spaciousness, making it suitable for families. The E-platform 3.0 with blade battery technology is praised for its efficiency and integration into the vehicle's structure. Driving dynamics are described as refined, with direct steering and good feedback, even at higher speeds. The infotainment system, though functional, requires some navigation through menus. While the reviewer notes the absence of an all-wheel-drive option, they emphasize the car's strong value proposition, with the top-spec model costing around £40,000. Real-world range appears adequate for typical journeys, with the car demonstrating efficiency on motorways, though this can dip with aggressive driving or inclines. The Atto 3 is recommended for buyers wanting an EV that stands out from the crowd. less
New Lexus RX Road Trip | On The Road Again
The Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid SUV is presented as a luxurious and efficient option for road trips, particularly highlighted by its comfortable int... moreerior, refined driving experience, and advanced technology. Reviewers praised its smooth ride, responsive handling, and the seamless transition between electric and hybrid power, noting its impressive acceleration despite its size, achieving 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. The interior is lauded for its quality materials, spaciousness, and user-friendly features like rotary dials on the infotainment system. While acknowledging the premium price point, the review suggests it offers good value for its luxury and practicality. The vehicle's hybrid system delivers commendable fuel economy, with real-world figures around 50+ MPG, especially when utilizing the electric powertrain. Minor quirks, such as the gear selector's reverse-forward operation, were noted but did not detract significantly from the overall positive impression. The Lexus RX 450h+ is positioned as a capable, stylish, and comfortable SUV ideal for long journeys. less