Petrol Ped

Petrol Ped

276K
Petrol Ped is a dedicated automotive channel renowned for its in-depth car reviews, coverage of launch events, and exclusive press drives. The channel delves into a wide array of vehicles, from high-performance electric cars to classic models with modern powerplants, offering viewers a comprehensive look at automotive innovation and driving experiences. Petrol Ped also provides engaging event coverage, bringing the excitement of gatherings like Goodwood directly to its audience.

Latest Additions

Showing 24 of 166 total titles. Page 1 of 7.

Kia EV5 2025 Review Walkaround: Full Specs, Details & First Impressions

Kia EV5 2025 Review Walkaround: Full Specs, Details & First Impressions

The Kia EV5 emerges as a compelling contender in the electric SUV market, positioned as a practical and well-equipped alternative to the Sportage. The... reviewer highlights its distinctive 'digital tiger face' design, which, while polarizing, is praised for its boldness. Key strengths include a spacious and premium interior, particularly in the top-tier GT-Line S trim, offering ample passenger room and a substantial 566-liter boot (expandable to 1650 liters). Practicality is further enhanced by vehicle-to-load capability and a useful 44-liter frunk for charging cables. The ride quality is noted as impressively smooth and composed, even on poor road surfaces, with minimal road noise. While the current RWD model offers adequate performance with 214 hp, a more powerful AWD GT version is anticipated. The reviewer estimates a real-world winter range of around 250 miles from its 81 kWh battery, falling slightly short of the 329-mile WLTP but deemed sufficient for most users, especially with ultra-rapid charging capabilities (10-80% in under 30 minutes). The reviewer's main criticisms are minor, including the infotainment screen's placement being partially obscured by the steering wheel and the occasional intrusive driver assistance warnings. Overall, the EV5 is presented as a well-engineered, value-driven electric SUV, with the base 'Air' trim at £39,000 being particularly attractive. less
Living with the Porsche Macan Turbo - No Hassle EV Ownership Is Possible!

Living with the Porsche Macan Turbo - No Hassle EV Ownership Is Possible!

The Petrol Ped channel provides an in-depth, real-world assessment of the Porsche Macan Turbo EV, focusing on its viability as a daily driver. The rev... iewer highlights the car's impressive performance, particularly its rapid acceleration and handling, describing it as a "guided missile" in spirited driving. Charging infrastructure proved to be a non-issue, with the reviewer successfully utilizing ultra-rapid charging at Porsche Silverstone and convenient destination charging at a hotel, concluding that EV ownership is indeed "hassle-free" with proper planning. Positives include the car's speed, charging convenience, and the effectiveness of its driver assistance features. However, the reviewer expresses a preference for the previous generation Macan's interior with physical buttons over the new EV's touchscreen-heavy interface. While acknowledging the Turbo trim's immense power, the reviewer suggests the base model might be sufficient for most users, questioning the necessity of the top-tier performance given the high price point (around £130,000 as tested with options). Overall, the Macan Turbo EV is deemed a highly competent and enjoyable car for long distances, but its steep price is a significant consideration. less
I Was Wrong About The Alpine A290

I Was Wrong About The Alpine A290

Despite challenging wet conditions at Prescott Hill Climb, the Alpine A290 GTS proved to be a surprisingly capable and enjoyable electric hot hatch. T... he reviewer, initially skeptical, was won over by the car's performance, particularly its exceptional braking capabilities and the confidence-inspiring grip provided by the bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires. While acknowledging the A290 is based on the Renault R5, the reviewer highlights the significant chassis upgrades and braking system derived from the A110, which clearly differentiate it. The 220 PS power output, initially thought to be a potential drawback, was deemed perfectly adequate for the conditions and the technical nature of the hill climb. The reviewer expressed a strong desire for an extended road test, indicating a significant positive shift in their opinion of the A290. less
Vauxhall Bring Back The Frontera - Is It Any Good?

Vauxhall Bring Back The Frontera - Is It Any Good?

Vauxhall's revival of the Frontera nameplate is met with pleasant surprise, offering a spacious and practical C-segment SUV with both hybrid and ... fully electric options, all priced competitively under £30,000. The reviewer highlights the modern Vauxhall Visor design language and praises the interior's ample passenger and cargo space, noting its suitability for families with wipe-clean surfaces. While the materials in the cabin are described as functional rather than premium, this is seen as a necessary compromise for affordability. The hybrid model's 1.2L turbocharged engine is surprisingly perky, though the lack of manual gear selection is a minor drawback. The electric version, particularly the smaller battery variant, is noted for its adequate performance but limited range (under 200 miles), suggesting the larger battery option is preferable. Vauxhall's 'all-in' electrification program, including home charger support and free charging offers, is commended for easing the transition to EVs. Overall, the Frontera is deemed a well-thought-out, value-driven family car that exceeds initial expectations. less
BMW X5 Xdrive50e - The Best BMW I Have Driven So Far!

BMW X5 Xdrive50e - The Best BMW I Have Driven So Far!

The reviewer expresses significant admiration for the BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport LCI, calling it one of the best BMWs they have driven. Key highlights i... nclude its surprisingly manageable size despite its dimensions, aided by rear-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability. The plug-in hybrid system is praised for its substantial electric-only range, estimated at 50-60 miles in real-world conditions, making it ideal for daily commutes and short trips. When engaging the hybrid system, the car delivers "epic performance" with 489 horsepower and rapid acceleration, feeling much faster than its size suggests. The interior is noted for its premium materials and fit-and-finish, though rear passenger space is described as "all right" rather than expansive. Criticisms are minor, including excessive piano black trim and the gear changes via paddles not being as sharp as desired. Despite its substantial price tag (approaching £100,000 with options), the reviewer finds it competitive and a "do-it-all" vehicle, particularly for those needing space, though they personally prefer a slightly smaller vehicle like the X3 for their own needs. less
New Kia Sportage - Have Kia Made Their Best Selling Car Even Better?!

New Kia Sportage - Have Kia Made Their Best Selling Car Even Better?!

The reviewer expresses a long-standing appreciation for the Kia Sportage, noting its balance of attractive styling and practicality. This facelifted m... odel, particularly the GT Line S trim, impresses with significant interior upgrades, including a more premium feel, improved materials, and the retention of tactile physical buttons for essential controls. The updated steering wheel and the dual-function central display are highlighted as key improvements. While the car offers ample passenger and boot space, the reviewer points out a potential drawback for UK buyers: the pricing strategy. The tested GT Line S petrol model, at £40,850, hovers just above the £40,000 threshold that triggers a luxury car tax, significantly impacting running costs. The reviewer suggests manufacturers should aim to keep top trims below this point. Driving dynamics are described as competent for a family SUV, with good road manners, comfortable ride, and adequate performance from the 1.6L turbo petrol engine, though it's not a performance car. The reviewer is particularly keen to experience the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. less
911 GTS T Hybrid - Is the 911 Ruined or Even Better as a Hybrid?

911 GTS T Hybrid - Is the 911 Ruined or Even Better as a Hybrid?

The Petrol Ped review of the Porsche 992.2 Carrera GTS T Hybrid explores the controversial move to electrification in the iconic 911. The reviewer emp... hasizes that this is not a typical hybrid focused on efficiency or EV-only driving, but rather a performance-enhancement tool to meet emissions regulations. Key highlights include the "E Turbo" system, which virtually eliminates turbo lag by using an electric motor to pre-spool the turbine, providing instant torque and "unreal" acceleration. The reviewer praises the car's immense speed, confidence-inspiring handling, and comfortable ride, even with the carbon bucket seats. However, criticisms are leveled at the lazy downshifts of the PDK transmission compared to the GT3 RS, the intrusive start-stop system (though programmable), and the removal of the analog rev counter in favor of a full TFT screen. The reviewer also notes the car's increased weight due to the hybrid system and advises against the fixed carbon buckets if rear seat space is desired, recommending the 18-way adjustable comfort seats instead. Despite initial skepticism about hybridization, the reviewer concludes that Porsche has masterfully integrated the system, delivering a "completely new and unique driving experience" that enhances, rather than detracts from, the 911's performance DNA, making it a "very, very impressive" and "addictive" machine. less
Porsche Pushes Back Electrification Plans to Avoid Disaster

Porsche Pushes Back Electrification Plans to Avoid Disaster

The video discusses Porsche's evolving electrification strategy, particularly concerning the 718 Boxster and Cayman. While initial plans indicate... d an all-electric replacement, recent reports suggest a continuation of combustion engine options. The presenter highlights the challenging UK ZEV mandate targets, noting that the industry is struggling to meet them. Porsche's press release indicates a pragmatic approach, delaying the development of new EV platforms and continuing combustion engine models, including the new SUV series above the Cayenne, which will initially be offered as combustion and plug-in hybrid. The 718 segment is confirmed to receive an "attractive dev offering," implying electric models, but the possibility of combustion engine variants, especially for GT models, remains a point of speculation. The reviewer praises Porsche's hybrid technology, citing the 911 GT3 Hybrid as an example of reducing emissions while maintaining performance. Ultimately, the presenter believes Porsche is pushing back electrification plans due to market conditions and consumer demand, advocating for a more balanced approach that includes hybrid and sustainable fuel technologies. less
Mini Have Gone Wild With These Two New Epic Models

Mini Have Gone Wild With These Two New Epic Models

Petrol Ped explores two unique MINI JCW concepts, a collaboration with DEUS ex Machina, based on the F66 petrol and electric JCW models. The petrol &#... 039;motorbike' concept features a rally-inspired light pod, aggressive styling, unique alloy wheels mimicking steelies, and classic-style door mirrors. Inside, it boasts a motorsport-focused interior with a hydraulic handbrake, carbon fiber accents, and a six-point harness. The electric 'surf' concept stands out with naked fiberglass body panels, a distinctive rear wing, asymmetric wheels, and a translucent fiberglass roof. Its interior mirrors the stripped-back, custom aesthetic with neoprene seat padding and exposed elements. While both are concept cars with no immediate production plans, the reviewer praises their inspirational design, pushing boundaries, and incorporating nods to MINI's heritage. He particularly highlights the potential for elements like the light pod, door mirrors, and interior details to influence future MINI designs, expressing a strong desire for these concepts to see some form of production. less
Reunited with Moggy for Epic Burnouts in his Tesla Powered Beetle

Reunited with Moggy for Epic Burnouts in his Tesla Powered Beetle

This video documents an exhilarating experience at Carfest 2025, focusing on a ride-along in Moggy's heavily modified, Tesla-powered Volkswagen B... eetle. The reviewer, Pete Greaves, highlights the car's extreme performance, boasting 600 horsepower from a Tesla P100D motor, enabling it to achieve 0-60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds. The primary draw of the segment is the spectacular tire-shredding burnouts and smoke-filled donuts performed on the track, showcasing the car's raw power and the capabilities of its Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. While the reviewer acknowledges the car's impracticality and its status as a "worst polluting electric car on the planet" due to tire consumption, he clearly relishes the sheer fun and speed. The video also touches upon the broader Carfest event, including the "Tread Shed" stand with Michelin and Protyre, and other vehicles present, but the core excitement revolves around the Beetle's electrifying performance and the reviewer's thrilling, albeit smoky, passenger experience. less
Taking the Genesis GV70 to the Best Road in Wales

Taking the Genesis GV70 to the Best Road in Wales

The Genesis GV70 electric SUV is put to the test over a 450-mile journey through Wales, showcasing its impressive capabilities on challenging roads li... ke the Black Mountain Road. The reviewer highlights the car's rapid acceleration, responsive handling despite its size, and excellent braking, particularly with maximum regen engaged. The interior is lauded as a standout feature, rivaling luxury brands with its high-quality materials and comfortable appointments, though the light interior color is noted as a potential maintenance concern. While the steering feel is described as slightly vague and overly assisted in sport mode, the overall driving experience is overwhelmingly positive. The reviewer also praises the efficient charging capabilities, noting a rapid charge from 35% to 93% in just 20 minutes, and confirms a real-world range of approximately 300 miles with an average efficiency of 3.1 miles per kWh. Priced at just over £65,000 for the middle spec, the GV70 is considered excellent value for money, offering a compelling package that impresses even when compared to more expensive internal combustion engine vehicles. less
Kia EV6 GT Facelift - As Good As A Taycan But Half The Money

Kia EV6 GT Facelift - As Good As A Taycan But Half The Money

The facelifted Kia EV6 GT is presented as a compelling alternative to the Porsche Taycan, offering comparable performance at half the price. The revie... wer highlights significant upgrades including increased power (641 bhp), torque, a larger 84 kWh battery (offering up to 279 miles WLTP range), and faster charging capabilities. A key talking point is the introduction of simulated gears, which the reviewer finds to be a "magnificent" addition that enhances driver engagement, despite acknowledging they are a gimmick. The interior has been significantly improved with better materials and a more premium feel, though the ride is noted as being firm, which may not suit all drivers. Real-world efficiency is estimated at 2-2.3 miles/kWh when driven hard, impacting range. Despite minor criticisms regarding steering vagueness at initial turn and a desire for more prominent gear change indicators, the reviewer concludes that the EV6 GT facelift is a "magnificent" and "hugely impressive" performance EV, offering exceptional value for its £60,000 price point, especially when compared to more expensive rivals like the Genesis GV60. less
Luxury Car Tax Must Change and Why I Won't Buy an EV!

Luxury Car Tax Must Change and Why I Won't Buy an EV!

The reviewer addresses a common question: why he hasn't bought an EV despite often praising them. He clarifies his love for cars in general, not ... specifically EVs. The core of the video critiques the UK's Luxury Car Tax, set at £40,000, arguing it's outdated and harms the automotive industry, particularly EV sales. The tax adds £3,100 over six years, and the reviewer highlights how standard family cars and entry-level EVs now exceed this threshold, making them seem 'luxury' unfairly. He explains his personal reasons for not owning an EV, including a preference for the engagement of petrol engines, a journey profile that favors internal combustion engines for long trips, and the availability of press cars. He also notes his wife's potential anxiety with EV charging on longer journeys. Despite these reservations, he lists five EVs he would consider buying: Genesis GV60, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce (in Veloce trim), Skoda Enyaq, Renault R5, and Porsche Taycan (Cross/Sport Turismo), emphasizing the value of used EVs. He concludes that the government's policy is contradictory, setting EV sales targets while simultaneously hindering them with the luxury car tax. less
490 PS Genesis GV60 - Is This the Best Car in Its Class?

490 PS Genesis GV60 - Is This the Best Car in Its Class?

The Genesis GV60 Sport Plus impresses with its striking exterior styling and exceptionally luxurious interior, which the reviewer considers superior t... o many established premium brands. The performance is highlighted as a strong point, with the 490PS twin-motor setup delivering rapid acceleration. However, the review points out significant drawbacks: the price, particularly for the top-spec model which can exceed £75,000 with options, and a concerningly low real-world range. While the WLTP is rated at 289 miles, the reviewer's experience suggests a more realistic figure of 200-240 miles, even in summer. The car's rapid DC charging capability (over 200 kW) is presented as a mitigating factor for the range concerns. The reviewer suggests the sweet spot for value might be in the lower-spec models, optioned with desirable interior packages. Despite these issues, the GV60 is praised for its competent ride, handling, and innovative features like the rotating gear selector and blind-spot cameras. less
Hyundai Inster - An Ultra Efficient TARDIS to Rival the Renault R5

Hyundai Inster - An Ultra Efficient TARDIS to Rival the Renault R5

The Hyundai Inster is presented as a highly efficient and surprisingly spacious A-segment EV, directly challenging rivals like the Renault R5. The rev... iewer praises its "TARDIS-like" interior, which offers exceptional legroom for rear passengers and versatile storage solutions, including a false floor and flat-folding front seats, making it practical for various needs. The exterior design, with its distinctive pixel face and round lights, is found to be quirky and appealing, reminiscent of the larger Ioniq 5. Efficiency is a major highlight, with the reviewer achieving an impressive 4.5 miles per kWh, translating to a real-world range of approximately 220 miles, even with spirited driving. The Inster also offers a mature and composed ride, feeling larger than its footprint suggests. Driving dynamics are described as fun, especially in sport mode, with responsive acceleration and competent handling, though some front-end slip is noted under hard acceleration. The reviewer highlights the well-implemented regenerative braking system, including a capable one-pedal driving mode. Minor criticisms include the use of some cheaper interior materials and a 100 kW DC charging limit, deemed acceptable for the segment. Overall, the Inster is lauded for its looks, space, efficiency, and driving fun, making it a compelling option for city dwellers and those seeking an affordable, practical EV. less
New Skoda Enyaq - Can It Be Even Better Than The Last Enyaq ?

New Skoda Enyaq - Can It Be Even Better Than The Last Enyaq ?

The Skoda Enyaq Coupe receives a facelift that significantly enhances its aesthetic appeal, adopting design cues from the smaller Enyaq. The reviewer ... praises the updated front-end styling, the improved interior materials, and the spaciousness of both the front and rear cabins, particularly noting the ample headroom even in the coupe variant thanks to the panoramic roof. While the "Edition 85" trim is well-equipped and offers a comfortable driving experience with a smooth and quiet electric drivetrain, it's not described as exciting. The reviewer highlights the practical boot space and clever "Simply Clever" touches. Real-world range is estimated to be over 300 miles, despite the larger optional wheels impacting efficiency slightly. The reviewer finds the driving dynamics competent and composed, though notes the brakes lack initial bite due to regenerative braking calibration and expresses a preference for sportier trims like the Sportline or vRS for a more engaging experience. Overall, the facelift is seen as a successful evolution, making a popular EV even more attractive, especially in higher trims. less
First Drive - Renault 4 - As Brilliant As The R5 Just Bigger ?

First Drive - Renault 4 - As Brilliant As The R5 Just Bigger ?

The Renault 4 E-Tech is presented as the larger, more practical sibling to the acclaimed R5. The reviewer praises its iconic styling, which successful... ly blends retro cues with modern crossover aesthetics, noting its edgy and quirky appeal. The interior is highlighted for its quality materials and stylish design, particularly in the top-spec Iconic trim, though rear passenger space is noted as a compromise for a B-segment car. Practicality is a strong suit, with a generous boot space and a clever flat-folding seat system accommodating long items. Driving dynamics are described as smooth, quiet, and surprisingly solid, with a playful character, though not overtly sporty. The reviewer identifies the charging rate (100 kW DC) as a drawback for longer journeys, suggesting faster charging would significantly enhance usability. Despite this, the overall verdict is highly positive, with the R4 E-Tech lauded for its personality, practicality, and successful revival of an icon, especially when optioned with the retractable canvas roof. less
Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo - Does a Bike Carrier Affect Range ?

Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo - Does a Bike Carrier Affect Range ?

The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is lauded for its striking aesthetics, particularly the Cross Turismo variant, which the reviewer finds more appealin... g than the standard Taycan. Practicality is also a strong point, with ample rear passenger space for dogs and a surprisingly capacious boot. The reviewer highlights the 'old man entry mode' which raises the ride height for easier ingress/egress, and the secure, well-integrated Porsche rear-mounted bike carrier system, ideal for e-bikes. While the car offers immense performance and a quiet, comfortable ride, the primary focus of the video is its impact on range. The reviewer conducted an unscientific test comparing efficiency with and without a rear bike carrier loaded with two e-bikes. The results showed a decrease in efficiency from approximately 3 miles/kWh (21 kWh/100km) without the carrier to about 2.5 miles/kWh (24 kWh/100km) with it, a noticeable but not drastic impact. The reviewer concludes that the Taycan Cross Turismo is a highly impressive EV, enjoyable for both daily driving and longer journeys, especially when equipped with destination charging, and is a strong contender in the EV market. less
Kia EV3 - Practicality and Range Make This EV Hard to Beat

Kia EV3 - Practicality and Range Make This EV Hard to Beat

The Kia EV3 is presented as a highly practical and capable electric SUV, with the reviewer dedicating a week to assess its real-world usability. While... initial impressions from a press drive were hampered by poor weather, this extended test aimed to provide a deeper understanding. The reviewer praises the EV3's striking and distinctive design, which divides opinion but is favored by the presenter. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample space for dogs in the boot and the ability to fit a bicycle inside with the seats folded. The interior is lauded for its quality materials, user-friendly screens, and physical climate controls, although the placement of the climate control screen is criticized for being obscured by the steering wheel. The reviewer also notes an issue with the large central storage bin, where items tend to slide around. Driving dynamics are described as comfortable and relaxing, with a good ride quality that handles bumps well, though it can feel a bit floaty. The sport mode offers a more engaging throttle response. A key highlight is the projected real-world range, estimated to exceed 300 miles on a full charge, significantly alleviating range anxiety and making the car highly usable. Efficiency figures averaged 3.3 miles per kWh, with potential to exceed 4 miles per kWh. The EV3 is deemed an excellent car for town and city use, feeling surprisingly compact on the road despite its spacious interior. Overall, the reviewer finds the EV3 to be a compelling package, with few significant drawbacks, positioning it as a strong contender in the EV market. less
First Drive - Hyundai Ioniq 9 - The Perfect Big Family Car ?

First Drive - Hyundai Ioniq 9 - The Perfect Big Family Car ?

The Hyundai IONIQ 9 presents a compelling case as a large family electric SUV, drawing clear parallels with the Kia EV9 but offering a sleeker design.... The reviewer highlights its spacious and luxurious interior, particularly the 'business class' middle row seats with extensive recline and footrest functions. Practicality is a strong suit, with a substantial boot space (1323L with the third row down) and vehicle-to-load capabilities. Performance figures are impressive, with the all-wheel-drive version achieving 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds. WLTP range is quoted at up to 386 miles for the RWD variant, with the reviewer estimating a real-world range of 330-340 miles, making it a viable option for long journeys. However, the reviewer expresses a strong dislike for the optional digital wing mirrors, citing usability issues and high replacement costs. The ride quality is praised for being smooth and quiet at highway speeds, despite the lack of air suspension. Overall, the IONIQ 9 is positioned as a strong contender against premium SUVs like the Range Rover, especially for those seeking an all-electric option. less
Living With The Skoda Elroq - Could It Be The Perfect Family Car?

Living With The Skoda Elroq - Could It Be The Perfect Family Car?

This video documents a unique press trip experience with the all-new Škoda Elroq, focusing on a family-friendly weekend getaway to a luxury treehouse.... The reviewer highlights the Elroq's practicality and thoughtful features, particularly its pup-friendly amenities like a protective liner and safety harnesses, making it an excellent choice for dog owners. While the primary focus is on the event and the experience rather than a deep dive into the car's technical specifications, the reviewer and his partner found the Elroq comfortable, spacious, and well-suited for cruising through the New Forest. They noted a real-world range of approximately 240 miles from a full charge, which they deemed adequate for general use. The Škoda Elroq is praised for its 'simply clever' approach, with numerous small touches enhancing usability, especially for families and pet owners. The event itself was highly organized and well-executed, adding to the positive impression of the brand. less
All New Hyundai Nexo - A Game Changing Hydrogen Fuel Cell SUV!

All New Hyundai Nexo - A Game Changing Hydrogen Fuel Cell SUV!

The Hyundai Nexo, in its second generation, is presented as a significant contender in the hydrogen fuel cell SUV market. The reviewer highlights its ... striking design, particularly the front end styling and bold side creases, noting elements reminiscent of other Hyundai EVs like the Ioniq 5 and 6. Key performance and usability improvements are emphasized, including a substantial power increase from 135 kW to 190 kW (255 hp), a doubled battery output, and an increased hydrogen tank size to 6.69 kg. The claimed 700 km range and a rapid 5-minute refueling time are presented as major advantages, making a strong case for hydrogen infrastructure investment. The vehicle's practicality is further enhanced by its vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability and a new infotainment system with a hydrogen station route planner. While acknowledging the ongoing challenges with hydrogen infrastructure, especially in the UK, the reviewer notes Hyundai's strategy of developing multiple powertrains in parallel and their intention to bring the Nexo to the UK, likely for fleet sales to businesses with existing hydrogen infrastructure. The reviewer expresses excitement about driving the Nexo, considering it a "really interesting car" that, while not a "game changer" yet due to the long-term nature of hydrogen technology, represents a "groundswell of capability" for the future of transportation. less
The Truth About WLTP Range and Why You Should Ignore It

The Truth About WLTP Range and Why You Should Ignore It

This video critically examines the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), arguing that while useful for comparing vehicles within a man... ufacturer's lineup or against competitors, it is largely unrealistic for predicting real-world fuel efficiency and range. The presenter highlights that WLTP tests are conducted in a controlled laboratory environment at 23°C for approximately 30 minutes over 14 miles, using four speed ranges. This procedure, originating from the need to address discrepancies revealed by 'Dieselgate', is found to be particularly misleading for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs). For PHEVs, the quoted MPG figures can be astronomically high and unachievable in practice, failing to account for the reliance on electric power. For EVs, the WLTP range is often unattainable, especially in colder temperatures (which significantly reduce efficiency by 20-40%) or at higher motorway speeds where aerodynamic drag is a major factor. The presenter suggests a more conservative real-world efficiency estimate for EVs (e.g., 2.5 miles per kWh) as a more reliable benchmark than WLTP figures. The core message is that WLTP should be treated as a comparative tool, not a definitive real-world predictor, and manufacturers' reliance on it creates customer disappointment. less
VW Golf R 8.5 - Can Four Wheel Drive Be Fun and Not Boring?

VW Golf R 8.5 - Can Four Wheel Drive Be Fun and Not Boring?

The reviewer explores the capabilities of Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, contrasting its application in the Golf R (internal combus... tion engine) and the ID.7 GTX (electric). Driving on a frozen Swedish lake with studded tires, the Golf R, boasting nearly 330 horsepower, demonstrated impressive agility and fun, particularly with its torque-vectoring capabilities allowing for controlled drifts and playful handling. The reviewer found it easier to balance and manage slides compared to rear-wheel-drive setups, praising its ability to use front-end grip for cornering. In contrast, the ID.7 GTX, while also featuring 4Motion, proved more challenging. Its dual-motor electric setup, combined with less aggressive tires and a larger size, made it more difficult to provoke and control slides, requiring significant patience and precise inputs. The lack of audible cues in the EV also added to the difficulty. Ultimately, the Golf R's 4Motion system was highlighted for its ability to deliver both confidence and driving enjoyment, while the ID.7's system showcased the distinct challenges and characteristics of applying AWD to an electric platform. less