What Car? stands as the UK's premier automotive authority, boasting over four decades of dedicated service in guiding consumers through their vehicle purchasing journeys. Renowned for its rigorous testing methodologies, the brand is widely recognized as the most dependable source for new car evaluations and expert advice, solidifying its reputation among car enthusiasts and buyers alike.
This channel serves as a comprehensive resource, delivering in-depth reviews of the latest automotive models, exclusive first drives, reader testimonials, and invaluable car-buying guidance. Expanding its offerings, What Car? now facilitates new car acquisitions directly, providing a seamless transition from research to purchase. All content is accessible in full on Whatcar.com, the UK's leading car-buying platform, which also features extensive data, leasing information, and deals on new and used vehicles.
This channel serves as a comprehensive resource, delivering in-depth reviews of the latest automotive models, exclusive first drives, reader testimonials, and invaluable car-buying guidance. Expanding its offerings, What Car? now facilitates new car acquisitions directly, providing a seamless transition from research to purchase. All content is accessible in full on Whatcar.com, the UK's leading car-buying platform, which also features extensive data, leasing information, and deals on new and used vehicles.
Drag Race: Citroen Ami vs Renault Twizy & More – Mini Electric Car Battle
This video pits four electric quadricycles – the Citroen Ami, Renault Twizy, Reva G-Wiz, and Micro Electric (ME) – against each other in a drag race to determine the fastest. The Micro Electric surprisingly takes the win, completing the 400m in 25.5 seconds, followed closely by the Renault Twizy....
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Showing 20 of 68 total titles. Page 3 of 3.
New Volvo EX30 Review – Best New EV? | What Car?
The Volvo EX30 is presented as a strong contender for the best new electric car of the year, offering rapid performance and a competitive starting pri... morece. The review highlights its refined interior, co-developed with Google, featuring a crisp 12.3-inch touchscreen with integrated Google Maps and Assistant. However, the reviewer notes the small, fiddly icons on the screen and the lack of physical buttons as drawbacks, along with the absence of a driver's display, which is relocated to the top of the infotainment screen. Material quality in the interior is described as feeling industrial and not particularly premium, especially in lower trims, though build quality is solid. Practicality is addressed with decent rear headroom but less impressive legroom, and a boot space that is smaller than many rivals, though it includes clever storage solutions. The EX30 offers two battery options: a 49 kWh LFP unit with a 200-mile range and a 64 kWh NMC unit with a 275-mile range. Driving impressions are positive, with the car praised for its refined ride, comfortable handling, and well-weighted steering, making it effortless to drive. The Twin Motor Performance variant delivers exhilarating acceleration, rivaling much more expensive sports cars. Pricing is a key strength, with the EX30 starting under £34,000, making it very competitive, although higher trims can become expensive. The reviewer concludes that the EX30 is a hugely appealing and impressive electric SUV for a broad market, despite some interior material compromises. less
New MG4 Extended Range vs Tesla Model 3 Review! Is Tesla Really Best?
The "What Car?" review pits the new MG4 Extended Range against the Tesla Model 3, focusing on their suitability for long journeys. While the... more MG4 boasts a lower purchase price and a longer official range, the Tesla Model 3 ultimately proves to be the superior choice for extensive travel. The reviewer highlights the Tesla's significantly more reliable and user-friendly Supercharger network, its superior efficiency (3.8 miles/kWh vs. MG4's 3.4 miles/kWh), and a more comfortable driving experience with a better interior and infotainment system. Despite the MG4's appeal as a budget-friendly EV, its charging experience was fraught with issues, including slow charging speeds and payment problems, making it a more stressful option. The review concludes that while the MG4 is a strong contender in the lower-priced EV segment, the Model 3 remains the benchmark for long-distance electric motoring due to its overall performance, charging infrastructure, and efficiency. less
Electric vs Petrol vs Plug-in Hybrid Car – Which Is Really Cheaper?
This "What Car?" video pits the Kia Niro's hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants against each other in a series of real-w... moreorld tests to determine which is truly cheaper to run. The tests included a 280-mile round trip primarily on motorways and a 25-mile urban journey in London. The results revealed that for the motorway test, the electric Niro was the most expensive to run at £48.98, primarily due to public charging costs and the need for a charging stop. The plug-in hybrid followed at £32.65, and the standard hybrid was the cheapest at £31.38. However, if the EV was charged solely at home, its cost would drop to £25.80, making it the cheapest. In the urban test, the electric Niro was again the cheapest at £3.15 (home charging), narrowly beating the standard hybrid at £3.27, while the plug-in hybrid cost £4.31. Crucially, the EV was exempt from London's congestion charge, unlike the other two. The review highlights that while EVs can be cheaper to run, especially in urban environments and when charged at home, the high upfront cost and the expense of public charging remain significant barriers. The presenters suggest that for frequent long-distance motorway journeys, other efficient fuel-powered cars might still be more economical than a fully electric vehicle currently. less
Tesla Model S Plaid Review – The Best Electric Car Ever?
The Tesla Model S Plaid is reviewed as an evolution of an already established electric car, now boasting enhanced performance, range, and interior ref... moreinements. While it doesn't achieve Tesla's claimed sub-two-second 0-60 mph time (achieving 2.4 seconds in the review's test), its acceleration remains astonishingly brutal, significantly surpassing previous iterations. The updated battery offers a claimed 373 miles of range, supported by Tesla's reliable Supercharger network. Interior changes include a cleaner dashboard, a more practical center console, and an improved, albeit touchscreen-dominated, infotainment system. However, the reviewer notes that build quality and material choices, while improved, don't quite match premium rivals like the BMW i7 or Porsche Taycan at this price point. The lack of physical controls for essential functions and the absence of right-hand drive versions for the UK market are significant drawbacks. Despite not being the most engaging driver's car, its straight-line speed, practicality, and advanced features solidify its position as a formidable, albeit expensive, electric luxury sedan. less
Is the Tesla Model Y Really the Best Self-Driving Car? What Car?
This video from What Car? thoroughly tests the driving assistance systems of ten different vehicles, with a particular focus on the Tesla Model Y. The... more reviewer emphasizes that no current mainstream car offers true self-driving capabilities, but rather advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The Model Y emerges as the top performer, excelling in the S-bend and emergency stop tests, notably stopping safely at 42 mph when others failed. Its ease of use is also praised. However, the Model Y's 'all-or-nothing' approach in the pothole test, where it immediately disengages steering assistance when the driver intervenes, is noted as a potential drawback for some users, though others might prefer this clear delineation of control. The Kia EV6 is highlighted for its smooth performance in the pothole test and ease of use but is criticized for cancelling steering assistance while maintaining adaptive cruise control at speed. Other vehicles showed varying degrees of competence, with some struggling significantly in the tests. The review concludes that while fully autonomous vehicles are still a distant prospect, current ADAS technology offers impressive, albeit varied, capabilities. less
New Lexus RZ 450e Review – Better Than a BMW iX3?
The Lexus RZ 450e presents a compelling package with a focus on comfort, refinement, and practicality, though its electric range falls short of key co... morempetitors like the BMW iX3 and Tesla Model Y. The interior is praised for its high-quality materials, intuitive layout inspired by equestrian control, and innovative features such as infrared radiant heaters which significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional climate control. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample rear seat space and a generous, well-shaped boot. However, the RZ's 64kWh battery offers a modest official range of up to 273 miles (18-inch wheels) or 245 miles (20-inch wheels), which is further impacted by cold weather and driving style, with real-world testing yielding around 200 miles. Charging capability is adequate at 150kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes, but rivals offer faster charging. The driving experience is composed and comfortable, though not sporty, with predictable controls. A notable, albeit controversial, feature is the steer-by-wire system with a yoke-like steering wheel, which offers extreme maneuverability at low speeds but requires a significant adjustment period and its overall benefit is questioned. Despite range limitations, the RZ's lower starting price than rivals, predicted slower depreciation, and a potential 10-year warranty make it a strong contender for those prioritizing comfort and quality over outright range. less
Drag Race: Range Rover vs G-Class vs BMW iX
This comparison review pits the Range Rover, Mercedes G-Class, and BMW iX against each other in a multifaceted test including interior quality, off-ro... moread capability, and a drag race. The G-Class impresses with its robust, high-quality interior and physical controls, though its on-road manners are deemed outdated and harsh. The BMW iX offers a futuristic, minimalist interior with good build quality, though some materials feel less premium. Its electric powertrain delivers freakishly quick acceleration, making it the winner of the uphill drag race, and it provides a comfortable, refined, and dynamically competent driving experience. The Range Rover, while featuring a visually appealing interior, suffers from inconsistent build quality and less premium materials in places. On the road, it offers a comfortable, floaty ride, but its handling is less precise than the iX, and steering feels overly light at speed. Off-road, both the Range Rover and G-Class prove highly capable, significantly outperforming the iX. Ultimately, the Range Rover is crowned the winner, praised for its blend of luxury, impressive off-road prowess, and practicality, narrowly edging out the highly competent but less versatile iX. less
How to Drive Across Europe in an Electric Car
This video documents an ambitious 24-hour road trip across 14 European countries in a Porsche Taycan, aiming to set an unofficial EV record. The revie... morewer highlights the Taycan's capability as a modern electric grand tourer, praising its comfortable ride, luxury, and surprisingly accurate range prediction. Despite initial skepticism about EV long-distance travel and public charging infrastructure, the journey was largely successful, covering nearly 1200 miles. Key challenges included traffic delays and slower-than-expected charging speeds at a supermarket location. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of the optional 'Performance Battery Plus' for extended range and faster charging. While the base Taycan is rear-wheel drive and has a smaller battery, the optional upgrade is highly recommended. The trip ultimately proved that long-distance EV travel is feasible with careful planning and the right vehicle, though it's not yet as seamless as traditional petrol/diesel journeys. The cost of charging via Ionity for Taycan owners with a discounted rate was noted as £117 for the trip. less
Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review – A New EV Champion?
The What Car? review pits the Hyundai Ioniq 5 against the Tesla Model 3, seeking a new EV champion. While the Ioniq 5 impresses with its striking retr... moreo-futuristic design, comfortable ride, and practical, spacious interior, it falls short in material quality and infotainment usability compared to the Model 3. The Model 3, despite its minimalist interior and lack of a driver display, offers superior infotainment, better interior quality, and a more engaging driving experience with sharper handling. Although the Ioniq 5 boasts faster theoretical charging speeds, the scarcity of 350kW chargers in the UK limits this advantage. In real-world efficiency tests, the Model 3 proved more economical. Ultimately, the Tesla Model 3 is declared the winner due to its superior driving dynamics, performance, and overall refinement, though the Ioniq 5 remains a strong contender, particularly for those prioritizing style and comfort. less
New Tesla Model Y Review – Overrated or Brilliant Electric SUV?
The Tesla Model Y arrives in the UK as a compelling, albeit slightly compromised, electric SUV. Building on the Model 3's success, it offers sign... moreificantly improved practicality with its hatchback design, more rear passenger space, and a larger boot, including a useful frunk. The panoramic glass roof enhances the sense of space, and the interior, while minimalist, feels well-assembled, surpassing rivals like the Mustang Mach-E in perceived quality. Performance is strong, with the Long Range model achieving 0-60 mph in 5.03 seconds. However, ride comfort is a notable weakness; the Model Y can be firm and noisy over imperfect surfaces, especially with optional 20-inch wheels, falling short of the refinement offered by the BMW iX3. Real-world range is estimated around 230 miles on an 80% charge in cooler conditions, less than the Model 3 due to its larger size and less aerodynamic profile, though charging remains a strong point with Tesla's Supercharger network. While not as dynamically engaging as the Model 3, the Model Y presents a practical, tech-laden, and well-priced electric SUV alternative, particularly for those prioritizing space and charging infrastructure over ultimate driving refinement. less
Drag Race: Citroen Ami vs Renault Twizy & More – Mini Electric Car Battle
This video pits four electric quadricycles – the Citroen Ami, Renault Twizy, Reva G-Wiz, and Micro Electric (ME) – against each other in a drag race t... moreo determine the fastest. The Micro Electric surprisingly takes the win, completing the 400m in 25.5 seconds, followed closely by the Renault Twizy. The Reva G-Wiz finishes third, and the Citroen Ami comes in last. While the Ami boasts a strong initial acceleration, its low top speed of 28 mph hinders its overall performance. The reviewer highlights the Ami's tidy steering and agile feel for city use, despite its basic interior and limited speed. The Twizy is noted for being nippy and capable of keeping up with town traffic, though it suffers from significant noise, a harsh ride, and optional windows. The Micro Electric, despite its luxury features and longest range (95 miles), exhibits considerable body roll and uninspiring steering at speed. The G-Wiz, the oldest and heaviest, is deemed the least refined and least safe. Ultimately, the review cautions against considering these quadricycles as true cars due to their lack of safety standards, recommending them only as a safer, rainproof alternative to motorbikes for city travel. If the Ami were to go on sale in the UK at a competitive price, it would be the recommended choice for cheap city transport. less
2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review – Best New EV? | What Car?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is presented as a strong contender in the EV market, praised for its distinctive, futuristic styling and surprisingly spacious int... moreerior, which rivals larger SUVs. The reviewer highlights the impressive passenger room and a practical 540-liter boot. Driving dynamics are described as quick, especially in the all-wheel-drive, 302 bhp version tested, with acceleration comparable to a Tesla Model 3. The 800-volt architecture enabling ultra-fast charging (10-80% in 18 minutes) is a significant advantage, though the scarcity of 350kW chargers in the UK is noted. However, the interior materials, while visually appealing, are criticized for not being class-leading, with some plastics feeling flimsy and touch-sensitive climate controls deemed distracting. The ride quality at low speeds is described as thumpy, and body control during spirited cornering could be improved, though these aspects are attributed to it being a pre-production model. The driving position offers excellent visibility, but the steering wheel can obstruct the digital display. Despite these minor drawbacks and a high initial price for the Project 45 special edition, the Ioniq 5 is considered a very promising EV with significant potential to challenge established rivals. less
New Jaguar I-Pace 2022 In-Depth EV Review – Do These Updates Make It Better Than Ever?
The 2022 Jaguar I-Pace receives a facelift that brings welcome updates, though it faces stiff competition. The reviewer highlights the improved infota... moreinment system with the Pivi Pro, enhanced charging capabilities with an 11kW onboard charger, and the standard 360-degree camera. While the interior materials and design remain impressive, offering a special feel, the infotainment can still be laggy and complex. The driving dynamics are praised for their agility and a low center of gravity, making it feel less like a high-riding SUV, though the BMW iX3 is noted as being even more engaging. Real-world range is a strong point, with the reviewer achieving 253 miles in independent testing, exceeding its official 292-mile claim and outperforming key rivals. However, the charging speed is capped at 100kW, which is becoming less competitive. Despite its age and increased competition, the I-Pace remains a highly recommendable premium electric SUV, particularly for those prioritizing driving pleasure and a distinctive interior. less
Mercedes EQA Electric SUV Review – Should The Tesla Model Y Be Worried?
The Mercedes EQA presents a compelling proposition as a premium electric SUV, aiming to offer scaled-down luxury compared to pricier rivals like the A... moreudi e-tron and Jaguar I-Pace. Its standout feature is undoubtedly its interior, which boasts a first-rate design, excellent build quality, and impressive technology, rivaling more expensive EVs. However, the EQA falters in key areas. The ride quality is criticized for being firm and unsettled, with significant noise intrusion over imperfections, a notable drawback for a Mercedes. Dynamically, it exhibits considerable body lean and numb steering, lacking handling prowess. While its official range of 249-263 miles (WLTP) is adequate, it's unremarkable compared to newer EVs exceeding 300 miles. Charging speed also caps out at a respectable but not class-leading 100kW. The EQA is positioned as a premium offering, but its starting price of around £40,000 makes it expensive compared to mainstream alternatives like the Kia e-Niro, and less practical and engaging to drive than the Volvo XC40 Recharge. Ultimately, while the interior is a strong point, the EQA struggles to justify its price tag against more rounded, capable, and often cheaper electric vehicles, including the Tesla Model 3. less
2020 Tesla Model 3 vs BMW 3 Series Review – Can You Really Choose Electric Over Petrol?
In a head-to-head comparison between the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus and the BMW 3 Series 320i, the Tesla emerges as the victor, primarily ... moredue to its significantly lower running costs and superior practicality. While the BMW boasts a more premium interior, superior handling, and a more engaging driving experience, its higher purchase price, company car tax, and fuel costs make it a less compelling choice for most buyers. The Model 3, despite some interior build quality quibbles and a less refined driving dynamic compared to the BMW, offers a more spacious and practical cabin and boot, excellent standard safety features, and the undeniable financial advantages of electric ownership. The reviewer highlights the Tesla's impressive standard equipment, including Autopilot and Sentry Mode, and its lower total cost of ownership, especially for company car drivers and private cash buyers. Although the BMW is deemed the more fundamentally enjoyable car to drive for enthusiasts, the economic and practical benefits of the Model 3 ultimately tip the scales in its favor for this comparison. less
2021 Peugeot 208 & Electric E-208 Review – Game-Changing Small Car? | What Car?
The Peugeot 208 and its electric counterpart, the e-208, are reviewed as distinctive contenders in the small car segment. The exterior styling is high... morelighted as a major strength, setting it apart from competitors. Inside, the cabin impresses with striking design and good build quality, featuring a visually arresting dashboard and a 10-inch infotainment system (with a 7-inch option available). The innovative 3D i-Cockpit with digital dials is noted as a futuristic and interesting addition, though its practical use is questioned. However, the infotainment system's touch-sensitive shortcut buttons and the placement of climate controls within the touchscreen are identified as drawbacks. The compact steering wheel and its potential to obscure the driver display are also mentioned, with a recommendation to test for personal fit. Rear seat headroom is compromised, particularly with the sunroof, leading to a somewhat hemmed-in feeling. The boot capacity is competitive but not class-leading. On the road, the petrol and diesel engines are praised for refinement and responsiveness, with the 1.2 PureTech 100 with a manual gearbox being the recommended choice for a balance of performance and value. The steering is accurate but lacks natural self-centering. The major weakness identified for the standard 208 is its ride quality at lower speeds, which can feel harsh and unsettled. The electric e-208, despite its impressive on-paper specifications and charging capabilities, suffers from the added weight of the battery, resulting in a fidgety and crashing ride at low speeds, making it less comfortable than rivals like the Renault Zoe. Overall, while the 208 boasts strong styling and interior tech, its ride comfort and the e-208's compromised ride due to battery weight are significant drawbacks. less
Tesla Model 3 vs Jaguar I-Pace SUV Review – Which Is Best?
The Tesla Model 3 is lauded as a game-changer, living up to its considerable hype. While the Jaguar I-Pace remains an excellent premium electric SUV w... moreith a strong real-world range, the Model 3 emerges as the superior choice, particularly for its price point. The Model 3 excels in performance, offering supercar-level acceleration and impressive handling. Its interior, though minimalist, boasts excellent build quality and a highly responsive, integrated infotainment system, despite the lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample storage and boot space. The ride quality is a highlight, balancing sporty control with surprising comfort on UK roads, especially at higher speeds. While the I-Pace offers a softer low-speed ride and a more traditional interior, its infotainment is less refined, and its driving dynamics are less engaging. The Model 3's real-world range, though less than WLTP, is still competitive, and its access to Tesla's Supercharger network is a significant advantage. The reviewer concludes that the Model 3 is an incredible achievement, making it their favorite premium electric car. less
2021 Audi E-Tron Review – Is Audi's First Electric Car Any Good?
The Audi e-tron is presented as a significant entry into the competitive premium electric SUV segment. Reviewers highlight its exceptional build quali... morety and luxurious interior, featuring high-quality materials and Audi's familiar, albeit dated, MMI infotainment system. While the interior technology is robust, the reliance on touchscreens over physical controls is noted as a potential drawback for usability on the move. Space and comfort are strong points, with ample room for passengers and a comfortable ride thanks to standard air suspension. However, the e-tron falls slightly short of rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model X in terms of handling agility and outright performance, particularly as the full 402 bhp is only available in short bursts. Real-world range is respectable at 196 miles, but trails key competitors. Practicality is good, with generous boot space, though a slight boot lip and a small front trunk are minor negatives. Despite its high price point and some optional extras being costly, the e-tron's refinement, comfort, and build quality make it a compelling, albeit not class-leading, option for those prioritizing luxury and a serene driving experience. less
2020 Tesla Model 3 Review – The World's Best Electric Car?
The 2020 Tesla Model 3, specifically the Performance variant tested, is lauded for its exhilarating acceleration, capable handling, and impressive tec... morehnology integration, particularly the Autopilot features. The reviewer highlights the car's stability at speed and precise steering. However, criticisms include significant wind and road noise, especially with the 20-inch wheels, and a firm ride in the Performance model, suggesting the Long Range variant might be more comfortable. Interior quality is deemed improved but not class-leading. Practicality is good, with ample boot space and a flat floor in the rear, though rear legroom is tight for taller adults. A key drawback is the uncertainty surrounding UK pricing and delivery timelines, which could hinder its market competitiveness against upcoming rivals. The real-world range achieved was approximately 235 miles under mixed motorway conditions, falling short of official figures but still considered very good. less
2020 Tesla Model X Electric SUV In-Depth 4K Review
The 2020 Tesla Model X is presented as a highly desirable, tech-focused electric SUV with impressive performance and range. The reviewer highlights th... moree groundbreaking Autopilot system, noting its ease of use and effectiveness in controlling steering and speed on highways. Acceleration is described as 'ridiculous,' even in the 100D model, with the P100D achieving supercar-like 0-60 times. The Model X offers a smooth, quiet ride, though some road and wind noise can be detected at higher speeds. Interior quality is a mixed bag, with a minimalist design centered around a large touchscreen, but some plastics feel cheap and seat cushioning could be better. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample space, a large boot, and a front trunk, though the headline-grabbing Falcon Wing doors, while practical in tight spaces, are a unique feature. The reviewer recommends the 100D for its balance of range and performance, acknowledging its high price point, potential reliability concerns, and build quality that doesn't quite match premium rivals, but ultimately positioning it as a compelling electric option for those with the budget. less