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 4 of 6.

New 2025 MINI Cooper SE | The Hot Hatch of the Future?

New 2025 MINI Cooper SE | The Hot Hatch of the Future?

Jasper from Buckle Up delivers a comprehensive review of the 2024 MINI Cooper SE, assessing its evolution into a future-ready hot hatch. He praises th... e updated, sportier styling and the significantly improved interior, highlighting the innovative circular OLED display and the use of recycled materials. The driving dynamics are a strong point, retaining MINI's signature engaging handling and fun factor, especially in 'Go-Kart' mode, though a slight torque steer is noted. Practicality sees a compromise in boot space (200L) but offers surprisingly good rear passenger room. The real-world range is a major improvement, estimated around 200 miles in mixed driving, making it far more usable than its predecessor. Despite a premium price point (around £42,500 for the loaded model), the reviewer concludes that MINI has successfully created a compelling electric hot hatch that balances performance, technology, and driving fun for the modern era. less
New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Review

New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Review

The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, reviewed here in the Summit trim, presents a compelling, luxurious, and highly capable package, positioning itself a... s a serious contender against rivals like the Range Rover Sport. The reviewer highlights its impressive off-road prowess, easily keeping pace with Wranglers thanks to its advanced terrain response system, air suspension, and respectable approach/departure angles. On-road, the Grand Cherokee offers a comfortable ride, luxurious appointments including premium leather, real wood, and multiple screens, along with a potent 380 horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain. However, the review notes a few drawbacks: the gearbox can be hesitant and change sharply at low speeds, the brake feel is firm, and some interior trim pieces felt less premium or were already showing signs of wear. Despite these minor niggles, the reviewer concludes that the Grand Cherokee 4xe is a strong, luxurious, and capable alternative in its segment, particularly for those prioritizing off-road ability alongside on-road comfort. less
New 2025 Peugeot E-208 | I Drove This Car The Length Of The Country To See If It's Good

New 2025 Peugeot E-208 | I Drove This Car The Length Of The Country To See If It's Good

Jasper Bruce Wright of Buckle Up provides a comprehensive review of the facelifted Peugeot E-208, driving it the length of the country to assess its r... eal-world usability. He praises the car's refreshed styling, particularly the new front-end design with its 'claw mark' lights and the vibrant 'Agra Yellow' paint. Inside, the GT trim impresses with comfortable seats, a massage function for the driver, and a well-integrated infotainment system with physical shortcut buttons. The reviewer highlights the surprisingly good material quality and the practical, albeit compact, boot space. Dynamically, the E-208 is commended for disguising its weight effectively, offering a comfortable ride and engaging handling, especially in Sport mode. The 156 PS GT model delivers brisk acceleration, and the reviewer achieved a real-world range of approximately 230 miles in mixed driving, with rapid charging capabilities (30 minutes to 80% at 100kW). Key criticisms include the limited rear-seat space for taller passengers and the clunky placement of cruise control buttons. Despite these minor drawbacks, the reviewer offers a wholehearted recommendation, deeming the E-208 a highly usable and enjoyable electric supermini. less
New 2025 Kia EV9 GT-Line S Review: Why This Three Row SUV Is Actually A Bargain

New 2025 Kia EV9 GT-Line S Review: Why This Three Row SUV Is Actually A Bargain

Rob Wilson concludes his week-long test of the Kia EV9 GT-Line S, deeming it a "bargain" and a worthy recipient of its World Car of the Year... award. He praises its striking, futuristic design, particularly the "sharp blade lights" and "tiger nose squashed face" front end, and notes its impressive practicality, offering over 800 liters of boot space with the third row down and a cavernous 2,000+ liters with all seats folded. The reviewer highlights the comfortable and spacious interior, especially the middle row with ample legroom and features like heated/cooled seats and built-in blinds. Even the third row is deemed "doable for shorter journeys" with surprising amenities. On the road, the EV9's 380 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque deliver "addictive power" and a surprisingly agile handling for its size, feeling "unstoppable" and "relaxing" to drive, drawing comparisons to the Land Rover Discovery. While Wilson finds the abundance of "bongs and beeps" from driver assistance systems slightly intrusive, he ultimately concludes that the EV9 offers exceptional value, practicality, and style, suggesting it's "what the Discovery should have been." less
New 2025 Honda E:Ny1 Review | Here's Why Journalists Are Wrong About This Car

New 2025 Honda E:Ny1 Review | Here's Why Journalists Are Wrong About This Car

Jasper reviews the Honda e:Ny1, challenging the negative press it has received. While acknowledging its safe styling and a less-than-stellar real-worl... d range of approximately 165-170 miles (significantly less than the claimed 258 miles WLTP, especially with climate control use), he highlights its strengths. The interior is praised for its spaciousness, comfortable seating, and good quality materials, particularly for a family crossover. The driving experience is described as comfortable and refined for urban environments, with responsive steering and good ride quality over smooth surfaces, though it can feel choppy on rougher roads. A key point is the significant price reduction since launch; at around £300 per month with current offers, the e:Ny1 becomes a compelling proposition for urban-focused families seeking a practical and well-equipped EV, despite its range limitations and a tendency for its safety systems to be overly eager on country roads. less
New 2025 Mercedes Benz ECitan Review | Is It Worth The Money?

New 2025 Mercedes Benz ECitan Review | Is It Worth The Money?

Harry King reviews the 2025 Mercedes-Benz eCitan, a compact electric van built on Renault Kangoo underpinnings. He highlights the Premium trim's ... features, including unique yellow paint and 10-spoke alloys, while noting the base Progressive trim offers substantial standard equipment for its £34,000 starting price. The eCitan boasts 2.9 cubic meters of cargo space, expandable to 3 meters with a folding bulkhead, though its 424kg payload capacity is noted as relatively low. The 45kWh battery offers a WLTP range of 174 miles, but real-world testing in cold weather yielded around 140 miles, significantly less than claimed. The reviewer praises the van's nippy acceleration, surprisingly agile handling, and quiet, comfortable ride, making it suitable for city driving. However, he points out the extensive use of hard plastics and the reliance on Renault switchgear. The reviewer concludes that while the eCitan is a competent and premium-feeling electric van, its higher price point and lower real-world range compared to rivals like the Ford Transit Courier and Renault Kangoo make it a niche choice, best suited for businesses prioritizing brand image and specific use cases within urban environments. less
MG4 Extended Range Review | More Smiles For More Miles?

MG4 Extended Range Review | More Smiles For More Miles?

Rob Wilson reviews the 2024 MG4 Extended Range, highlighting its significant improvements in range and performance over previous models. He praises th... e car's attractive pricing, starting at £36,500, and its impressive WLTP range of 323 miles, achieved through a larger 77 kWh battery. The reviewer notes the increased power output, delivering 245 PS and a 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, placing it in hot hatch territory, and confirms its rear-wheel-drive setup contributes to a fun chassis. Positives include the car's styling, value for money, and the addition of a rear wiper. However, criticisms are leveled at the interior, particularly the infotainment system's reliance on the touchscreen for essential functions like climate control, and the odd steering wheel shape. While the real-world range at 5°C was around 270 miles, Wilson is confident it can exceed 300 miles in warmer conditions. Despite some interior drawbacks, the MG4 Extended Range is presented as a compelling option for those seeking maximum miles for the least amount of money. less
BYD Dolphin First Drive Review

BYD Dolphin First Drive Review

The BYD Dolphin emerges as a compelling contender in the small electric car segment, offering a strong value proposition with a starting price around ... £26,000. Reviewers Harry and Rob were impressed by its sprightly performance, noting the 204 horsepower and 0-60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. The claimed range of 265 miles was found to be accurate in real-world testing, with the 60.4 kWh blade battery (LFP chemistry) offering good density and longevity. The interior design was a highlight, described as more interesting and visually appealing than rivals like the MG4 and VW ID.3, featuring a unique "ocean-themed" aesthetic and a functional, albeit complex, swiveling central screen. Practicality is also a strong suit, with ample storage solutions and good passenger space, particularly legroom, despite its compact exterior footprint. While the steering lacks significant feedback and the door handles were deemed an odd design choice, these are minor criticisms against an otherwise well-rounded package. The inclusion of a heat pump and battery preconditioning as standard across all trims, including the entry-level "Active" model, further enhances its appeal in colder climates. The reviewers concluded that the Dolphin is a very good, comfortable, and well-built small EV that warrants a test drive, especially when compared to competitors like the Peugeot e-208 or Vauxhall Corsa-e. less
Nissan Qashqai E-Power Review | Why So Popular?

Nissan Qashqai E-Power Review | Why So Popular?

The Nissan Qashqai, a long-standing favorite in the UK crossover market, is reviewed here in its third generation with the e-POWER powertrain. The rev... iewer highlights its significantly improved styling compared to previous generations, noting positive reactions to its modern appearance. Inside, the cabin offers a mix of materials, with a soft-touch blue area providing a pleasant contrast, though the primary seat material is not favored. Practicality is decent, with USB ports and a wireless charging tray, but the boot space is considered average and hampered by a dual-floor design. The rear seating is noted as more child-friendly than adult-friendly due to limited legroom. Driving dynamics are described as competent, with the e-POWER system providing instant torque and brisk acceleration, making it the fastest Qashqai to date. However, the reviewer finds the steering assist system underwhelming and the ride somewhat stiff. Ultimately, the Qashqai is praised for being a "jack of all trades," excelling at being "fine" in every category, which explains its popularity. Despite its well-rounded nature, the reviewer concludes there's no "wow moment," making it a practical but not particularly exciting choice. less
Tesla Model X P90D Review

Tesla Model X P90D Review

The Tesla Model X P90D is presented as a vehicle of stark contrasts, excelling in technological prowess and performance while faltering significantly ... in build quality and practicality for the UK market. Rob Wilson highlights the "ridiculous" acceleration, capable of 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, and praises the "incredible" Autopilot system for its detailed environmental awareness, surpassing competitors. However, the review is heavily critical of the "plain bad" build quality, citing constant rattles and poor shut lines, particularly on the "falcon" doors, which are deemed "massively compromised" in the UK. Practicality is also questioned, with the middle row not folding flat and third-row headroom being insufficient for adults. Despite these significant flaws, the reviewer suggests that at its current used market price (around £40,000), it becomes a "compelling" proposition, offering performance unmatched at that price point, though he would be "disappointed" if purchased new at its original higher price. less
Dacia Jogger Hybrid Review | Have They Perfected The Formula?

Dacia Jogger Hybrid Review | Have They Perfected The Formula?

The Dacia Jogger Hybrid is presented as a significant improvement over its standard counterpart, addressing key criticisms and enhancing the overall d... riving experience. The reviewer, a current Jogger owner, highlights the hybrid powertrain as a worthwhile upgrade, offering a smoother, more relaxed, and more powerful drive with 140 bhp. While the exterior and interior largely remain the same, the hybrid model introduces a digital gauge cluster, an automatic shifter, and updated infotainment styling. Practicality is maintained, with boot space and seating arrangements unaffected. The reviewer praises the car's value, spaciousness, and ease of driving, particularly noting the improved brake feel and excellent fuel economy, achieving high 40s MPG even on the motorway. The primary drawback identified is the engine noise under acceleration and a perceived "yany gap" during full-throttle shifts, though this is deemed a minor issue for most driving scenarios. The reviewer concludes that the hybrid version is a "damn good car" and a sensible choice for those seeking a practical, affordable, and efficient family vehicle, especially for those who found the standard model's clutch pedal and power lacking. less
Kia EV9 Review | Electric Korean Range Rover Rival?

Kia EV9 Review | Electric Korean Range Rover Rival?

The Kia EV9 GT-Line is hailed as an excellent and exceptionally well-rounded electric SUV, effectively disguising its substantial size and weight. Rev... iewers praise its quiet, comfortable ride, sophisticated suspension, and spacious, tech-filled interior, particularly highlighting the premium features like heated/cooled seats and the versatile seating arrangements for up to seven passengers. The car's performance is noted as surprisingly brisk for its size, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds and strong, positive brake feel, a common challenge in EVs. Practicality is a strong suit, offering ample boot space (over 300L with all seats up, over 2000L with seats folded) and useful features like Vehicle-to-Load. While the steering lacks significant feedback, the overall driving experience is smooth and composed. A key advantage is its pricing, significantly undercutting rivals at £73,375 on the road for this AWD, 7-seat configuration. The only minor drawbacks mentioned are the steering's lack of feel and the potential for range reduction in cold weather, though Kia claims up to 400 miles in city driving. The verdict is a resounding thumbs-up, positioning the EV9 as the go-to choice for a full-size family electric car. less
BMW i4 M50 | Best EV for Petrolheads?

BMW i4 M50 | Best EV for Petrolheads?

Jasper reviews the BMW i4 M50, positioning it as a strong contender for petrolheads transitioning to electric vehicles. He highlights its potent perfo... rmance, with over 500 bhp and nearly 800 Nm of torque, enabling a sub-4-second 0-62 mph sprint. Crucially, the reviewer finds the i4 M50 offers a level of driving engagement and feedback typically missing in EVs, making it feel like a traditional ICE car. The chassis is praised for its communication, and the steering, while noted as potentially heavier, provides actual feedback. Practicality is also a plus, with a hatchback design offering superior boot space (490L, expandable to 1,270L) compared to rivals like the Model 3 or BYD Seal. Interior quality is deemed excellent, featuring premium materials and comfortable seating. However, the reviewer points out the high floor in the rear seats and the extensive integration of climate controls into the iDrive system as minor drawbacks. Real-world range is reported around 310-315 miles, which is considered respectable given the performance on offer. Despite a high list price of £72,000, the i4 M50 is recommended for those prioritizing driving dynamics and engagement in an EV. less
Honda CR-V e:PHEV Review | Honda's First Plug-in Hybrid

Honda CR-V e:PHEV Review | Honda's First Plug-in Hybrid

Harry King reviews the new Honda CR-V e:PHEV, highlighting its significant styling evolution and spacious interior, which he believes rivals larger se... gments. He praises the comfortable, armchair-like seats, the intuitive infotainment system (despite a slightly small screen), and the practical storage solutions, including ample boot space and clever cable storage. The reviewer commends Honda's focus on comfort over sportiness, noting the exceptionally smooth ride quality and quiet cabin, even when the hybrid system is engaged. The advanced safety features and the clever e:HEV system, which optimizes engine and electric motor use for efficiency and towing, are also points of praise. While acknowledging its premium price point, King recommends the CR-V e:PHEV for its comfort, space, technology, and overall well-rounded package, encouraging viewers to test drive it. less
KGM Korando E-Motion Review | Best Value Family EV?

KGM Korando E-Motion Review | Best Value Family EV?

Jasper reviews the KGM (formerly SsangYong) Korando e-Motion, positioning it as a strong contender for the best value family EV crossover. He highligh... ts its unique styling, particularly the front light clusters and rear design, though notes the rear is his least favorite angle. The e-Motion variant receives praise for its distinct EV styling compared to the ICE version. Practicality is a strong suit, with an impressive 511L boot space, a clever false floor, and an automatic opening tailgate. The rear seats offer ample space for adults, even those up to 6ft tall, with comfortable, adjustable leather seats and good amenities like heated outer seats. The interior, while practical with good storage and a clear 12.3-inch digital driver display, is criticized for its overly plasticky materials and cheap-feeling switchgear, despite the 'Ultimate' trim level. The reviewer commends the physical climate controls and the inclusion of a heat pump for efficient cabin heating, contributing to a real-world range of approximately 200 miles. Driving dynamics are described as nippy rather than fast, with good acceleration from a standstill. Ride comfort is generally good on smooth surfaces but can be a bit choppy on poorer roads due to a firmer suspension setup aimed at controlling body roll. Steering feel lacks engagement, but pedal feel for both accelerator and brake is excellent, with well-managed regenerative braking adjustable via steering wheel paddles. Driver assist systems are comprehensive, and visibility is good, making urban driving easy. The reviewer concludes that the Korando e-Motion offers excellent value, especially considering its space, practicality, range, and comfort, particularly when found at prices in the low £30,000s. less
MG HS PHEV Review | Best Value Family Hybrid?

MG HS PHEV Review | Best Value Family Hybrid?

The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid is presented as a compelling value proposition in the family SUV segment, significantly undercutting its rivals on price. The... reviewer highlights the facelifted model's modernized front-end styling and the continuation of a strong 7-year warranty. Inside, the 'Trophy' trim impresses with quality materials, comfortable seating, and ample space, even for taller passengers. However, the driving experience is where criticisms emerge: the 10-speed automatic gearbox in the hybrid variant exhibits hesitant and mushy power delivery, and the steering rack is noted as being slow. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that these issues are unlikely to deter the average buyer, given the car's exceptionally low price point and comprehensive standard safety features (MG Pilot). The consensus is that while not a driver's car, the HS PHEV offers excellent practicality and technology for the money, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious families. less
Nissan X-Trail E-Power | Better Than A Skoda Kodiaq?

Nissan X-Trail E-Power | Better Than A Skoda Kodiaq?

Jasper from Buckle Up reviews the Nissan X-Trail E-Power, positioning it as Nissan's largest UK SUV. He highlights its stylish front end, reminis... cent of its smaller siblings, and the practical 90-degree opening rear doors. The interior is praised for its quality materials, spaciousness, and comfortable seating, particularly in the rear. The E-Power system, a series hybrid where the petrol engine acts as a generator, is described as providing a smooth, quiet, and electric-like driving experience, though not the most fuel-efficient compared to PHEVs. Performance is deemed acceptable rather than exhilarating, with a 0-62mph time of around 8 seconds for the 204 BHP model. The reviewer commends the comfortable ride, compliant suspension, and excellent driver assistance systems. While the X-Trail is a competent all-rounder, especially for those needing occasional seven seats, the reviewer suggests alternatives like the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento for those who regularly use all seven seats due to interior space limitations in the X-Trail's rearmost row. less
Petrol vs EV - What Makes the Ultimate Hot Hatch? FL5 Honda Civic Type-R Vs MG4 X Power Shootout

Petrol vs EV - What Makes the Ultimate Hot Hatch? FL5 Honda Civic Type-R Vs MG4 X Power Shootout

In this head-to-head, Buckle Up pits the traditional ICE hot hatch champion, the FL5 Honda Civic Type-R, against the new electric contender, the MG4 X... POWER. The review highlights the Type-R's exceptional VTEC turbocharged engine, best-in-class manual gearbox, and traditional front-wheel-drive purity, praising its driving dynamics and driver engagement. Conversely, the MG4 X POWER is acknowledged for its impressive 100 extra horsepower, lower price point, and the promise of an electric future. However, the reviewers find the MG's interior less exciting, its steering wheel shape irritating during spirited driving, and its overall character more akin to a muscle car than a nimble hot hatch. Despite the MG's speed and comfort, the Civic Type-R ultimately wins for its superior handling, driver involvement, and the sheer joy it provides, solidifying its status as a potentially the best front-wheel-drive hatchback ever made, though the MG4 X POWER is recognized as a genuinely fun electric performance car. less
BYD Seal Review | The Next EV Disruptor?

BYD Seal Review | The Next EV Disruptor?

The BYD Seal emerges as a strong contender in the electric executive saloon segment, impressing with its striking design, particularly the unique rear... light clusters and aerodynamic front. Inside, the cabin offers a premium feel with good quality materials, a spacious and comfortable rear seating area, and a standout 15.6-inch rotating infotainment screen that rivals the best in the business for usability and responsiveness. Dynamically, the Seal, especially in the all-wheel-drive Excellence trim, delivers a composed and engaging driving experience. The adaptive damping effectively soaks up road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride that rivals or even surpasses competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 6. The intelligent torque adaption control (iTAC) system provides exceptional grip and stability, making it feel planted and sporty. While the boot space is on the smaller side for the segment, the overall package, including its competitive pricing and impressive performance figures (0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds for the AWD model), makes the BYD Seal a highly recommended option for those considering an electric saloon. less
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review | Enough To Take On The Tesla Model 3?

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review | Enough To Take On The Tesla Model 3?

Rob Wilson reviews the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6, finding it a compelling, albeit not perfect, electric sedan. He praises its striking, aerodynamic styling... , particularly the rear design reminiscent of an 80s Porsche, and the high-quality, premium interior featuring recycled materials. The car's efficiency is a strong point, being the most aerodynamic in its class. Positives include the excellent infotainment and driver assistance tech, such as the blind-spot camera display. However, Wilson is critical of the optional camera mirrors, deeming them inferior to traditional mirrors due to a smaller field of view and awkward placement. Rear passenger headroom is compromised by the sloping roofline, and the boot space is smaller than some rivals. While the driving dynamics are sporty and engaging, especially with AWD, he ultimately prefers the more comfortable and practical Ioniq 5 for his personal lifestyle, concluding that the Ioniq 6 is a good car but not his ideal electric vehicle. less
MG4 Xpower Review | Can This Electric Hot Hatch Convince a Sceptic That EVs Can Be Fun? Feat. My Mum

MG4 Xpower Review | Can This Electric Hot Hatch Convince a Sceptic That EVs Can Be Fun? Feat. My Mum

The MG4 XPOWER is put to the test by Harry and his mother, Jo, a self-proclaimed electric car skeptic. The XPOWER variant boasts impressive performanc... e figures, with 435 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds, capable of embarrassing more expensive machinery. The reviewer highlights the car's strong acceleration and surprisingly capable handling, noting the chassis's sturdiness and the active differential's contribution. However, Jo's initial skepticism about EVs lacking driver engagement persists, particularly due to the absence of engine noise and the reliance on a touchscreen interface with too few physical buttons. While the performance is undeniable, the real-world range is significantly lower than WLTP estimates when driven enthusiastically, a common trade-off for performance EVs. The interior is functional with decent materials, but the lack of buttons and the inability to properly turn the car off are noted drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, both reviewers ultimately agree that the MG4 XPOWER is fun to drive, successfully challenging the notion that EVs cannot be engaging, especially considering its exceptional value proposition compared to performance rivals. less
Hyundai Kona Hev Review | Better Than A VW T-Roc?

Hyundai Kona Hev Review | Better Than A VW T-Roc?

Jasper from Buckle Up delivers a comprehensive review of the 2024 Hyundai Kona HEV, highlighting its significant improvements over the previous genera... tion. He praises the striking, modern styling, particularly the front light bar and sculpted N Line trim details, noting its unique appeal in a crowded segment. Practicality is a major win, with a larger footprint translating to an impressive 466L boot space and ample room for rear passengers, even for taller individuals. The interior is lauded for its user-friendly infotainment system, physical climate controls, and generous storage solutions. On the road, the Kona HEV excels with a supremely smooth and composed ride, attributed partly to its multi-link rear suspension. The hybrid powertrain, while not fast (0-62mph in 11.2s), offers impressive fuel economy, with the reviewer achieving around 43 mpg in mixed driving. However, Jasper identifies two drawbacks: the steering is criticized for being light and lacking in feel, and the brake pedal feel is compromised by the transition from regenerative to friction braking. Despite these points, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, deeming the Kona HEV an excellent, comfortable, and well-equipped family car that represents a significant upgrade. less
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Review | Making Minivans Cool

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Review | Making Minivans Cool

Harry King of Buckle Up reviews the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a retro-inspired electric minivan. He praises its distinctive, modern-retro styling, which he... finds more appealing than other family MPVs and vans, including the Multivan. The interior is highlighted for its spaciousness, practicality, and pleasant two-tone design, though King notes the presence of hard plastics indicative of VW's post-dieselgate cost-cutting. He appreciates the ample boot space and passenger room, including features like picnic tables and USB-C charging. On the road, the ID. Buzz offers a comfortable, quiet, and refined ride, with good visibility and surprisingly manageable dimensions despite its size. The electric powertrain provides brisk acceleration, especially in sport mode. However, King is critical of the infotainment system and touch-sensitive controls, finding them unintuitive and frustrating, particularly after dark. While the vehicle is praised for its overall competence, comfort, and suitability as a family vehicle, the lack of a seven-seat option in the reviewed configuration and the aforementioned control issues are noted drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, the ID. Buzz is deemed the best-looking, most usable, and a very enticing electric van option, especially when compared to other electric vans, though its price point is considered high for a five-seater. less
MG5 EV Review | Finally, An Electric Estate That Doesn't Cost The Earth

MG5 EV Review | Finally, An Electric Estate That Doesn't Cost The Earth

Jasper reviews the 2024 MG5 SW EV, highlighting its practicality and value as an electric estate car. He praises its spacious interior, comfortable se... ats, and premium-feeling cabin, noting ample legroom and a flat floor in the rear, making it ideal for families. The boot space is also commended for its generous capacity and usability. Dynamically, the car is described as competent and comfortable, particularly around town, though the suspension could benefit from firmer damping. The reviewer notes the car's nippy acceleration from a standstill due to instant torque and a quiet driving experience. Positives include the modern, clean front-end design (facelift version), convenient charging flap location, and the overall stylish proportions. Minor criticisms include the slightly offset boot release button and the transition between regenerative and friction braking. The reviewer concludes that the MG5 EV offers excellent space, style, and practicality for its price point, making it a highly recommendable option for those seeking an affordable electric estate. less