Month: August 2019

The first all-electric excavators from JCB have rolled off the production line and been delivered to customers.

The 19C-1E, which JCB says is the construction industry’s first fully-electric mini excavator, is produced in Cheadle, Staffordshire, for customers across Europe and North America.

It’s said to be five times quieter than an equivalent diesel model and can be fully charged in under two hours. It should also cost about 50 per cent less to charge than if it was running on diesel, while servicing expenses are expected to be 70 per cent lower.

JCB hopes the model will be particularly popular with companies working inside buildings and on inner-city construction sites, where emissions constraints and noise sensitivity are more important.

It uses similar batteries to leading electric vehicles and provides the same level of performance as the firm’s 1.9-tonne diesel-powered excavator.

Tim Burnhope, JCB chief innovation officer, said: “In urban environments in particular, contractors are understandably very keen to operate zero emissions equipment whenever possible, including outdoors.

“I’m delighted that the model is now in full production after successful feedback from customers in many key markets during the evaluation stage.”

The spoken word is awash with phrases and pronunciation that will twist your tongue at will, or make you question quite how a certain spelling was agreed upon in the first place. And while it is often the names of people and places that can be the hardest of all to say correctly, motoring is certainly not free from names that will trip you up. 

From brands to badges, these are the motoring pronunciations that commonly trip up everyone from Top Gear to Thomas from the pub.

Koenigsegg (Cone-iggs-egg)

This Swedish supercar marque is named for its founder, and while it has built plenty of truly impressive cars in its increasingly rich history, ultimately all conversations about the brand come back to its name. 

However, so long as you’re spelling Koenigsegg correctly, it is said as it is written, but for some it can be very easy to add an extra letter; if we had a pound for every time we were at a car show and heard some declare the One:1 a ‘Koeningsegg’, we’d have enough to buy our own by now.

Porsche (Porsch-er)

Contrary to what appears to be popular belief, the ‘E’ at the end of Porsche is not silent. However, this doesn’t stop many dropping a syllable from the iconic sports car firm’s name when they see a ‘Porsch’ on the road. 

This mis-pronunciation is so common that even Porsche itself has taken action, publishing videos online to assist those who struggle. Perhaps this battle will prove fruitless though, given the year’s biggest song rhymes the brand name with ‘Horse’.

Ssangyong (sang-yong)

This Korean brand’s first two letters should be pronounced as one, but try telling that to an overwhelming majority of English speakers, and it doesn’t quite command the following of Porsche to correct everyone en masse.

The name itself is rather interesting for reasons beyond how it’s said, as it translates back to Korean as ‘double dragons’. 

Huayra (her-why-ra)

Have you ever dreamt of being so rich that you can buy a hypercar with a name most people can’t even say? If so, the successor to the Zonda is the vehicle for you.

Pronounced ‘Her-why-ra’, but often said in a face-bending mash of smashed together sounds, the car takes its name from Peruvian wind God Huayra-tata. 

Alpine (al-peen)

The recently-revived French sports car outfit is another firm that could run an entire advertising campaign based solely on teaching people to say its name properly.

While it is tempting to go with the pronunciation you’d expect for a word ending in ‘-pine’, it is actually pronounced ‘Al-peen’. And it is not the only Renault-owned manufacturer with a name that catches some out…

Dacia (datch-yer)

The blame for this common error can be placed firmly on the doorstep of one James May, whose long-term obsession with the cheap and cheerful ‘Day-see-a’ Sandero introduced Top Gear’s massive audience to Renault’s Romanian budget brand. 

While this free publicity was no doubt welcome, it did come at a price for the marketing team; when the Sandero arrived on British shores in 2013, Dacia had to set about correcting the entire population on how the brand’s name is pronounced. 

It’s actually “Datch-yer”, despite the common belief to the contrary.

If you’ve ever looked at a car, you will know what a licence plate is. They exist for each individual car on the road to have a unique identity, allowing information on the car to be pulled up for a huge number of reasons.

To the untrained eye, a licence plate may seem like nothing more than a random combination of characters — but there is in fact logic and reasoning to its format. Looking to learn what the meaning behind a UK plate is? Read on…

How is a licence plate formatted?

Here, we’ll be focusing on the licence plate format introduced in 2001. Made up of seven characters split into two sections (except for NI), the UK licence plate is pretty simple. Two letters start the registration, immediately followed by two numbers with a space separating this sequence from the final three characters.

What do the first two letters mean?

Though the two letters at the start of the licence plate may seem a bit like gibberish, there’s actually a method to them. These indicate where in the UK a car is first registered. The very first letter indicates the region — for example, Y represents Yorkshire, L represents London and S represents Scotland. Following that, the second letter indicates which DVLA office within the region the registration is made.

As for the numbers?

Up next, the numbers on a licence plate indicate when a car is first registered — with this identifier changing every six months.

Cars registered between March and August use the last two digits of the year itself. For example, a 17 plate car will have first come onto UK roads in that period in 2017. When it comes to new cars registered between September and February, 50 is added to that value preceding it — meaning a car coming onto the roads in that period for 2017/18 would be designated with a 67 plate.

What about the final three letters?

So we’ve established the first four characters on a licence plate are more than just gibberish, but what about the final three? Well, those are in fact random.

This is to distinguish cars from those registered in the same time period at the same DVLA office and can be any combination of letters from 24 of the alphabet’s 26 — with I and Q excluded. Some combinations are also manually prevented from circulation in order to prevent any that may appear as offensive.

With the onslaught of electric vehicles that will hit the market in the next few years, you might think that they are the answer to all pollution problems.

However, it’s not that simple. Electric vehicles produce no emissions, which is great for local air quality, but producing them is energy intensive — and there’s actually a more environmentally friendly alternative.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles might not get much press today, but they could be the future. They’re essentially electric vehicles, but with smaller batteries that are constantly replenished by hydrogen stored in a tank in the car, just like petrol and diesel today.

By using smaller batteries, they’re more environmentally-friendly to produce and put less stress on the world’s lithium stores. Toyota, for example, imagines a future where hydrogen-powered and pure electric vehicles make up the vast majority of the world’s cars.

However, with a limited number of refuelling stations, few manufacturers are currently putting their weight behind this alternative fuel — though most have small teams working on the technology just in case it does take off.

It’s a chicken and egg situation – infrastructure won’t increase until more cars are sold, but people won’t buy them until infrastructure improves. That’s why manufacturers, business and government are working together to find solutions.

Interested in taking the plunge? We’ve highlighted the few hydrogen-powered cars on the market today…

Toyota Mirai

Toyota says it put more than 20 years of development into the Mirai, which became the first modern hydrogen-powered vehicle to go on sale in 2018.

Much of its focus has been put into making the hydrogen storage safe, such as storing it in leak-proof tanks and shutting off the hydrogen supply in a crash.

Toyota says there are “many reasons why hydrogen fuel represents the future of motoring”, such as the fact it is the most abundant resource in the universe, and the fact there are so many different ways to produce it.

Honda Clarity

The Honda Clarity, like the Mirai, combines a futuristic powertrain with a quirky-looking exterior and large, practical body shape, the idea being that a car powered by the fuel of the future shouldn’t require any compromises to practicality.

We were present at the launch of the new model in 2017, and much like Toyota, Honda were keen to press home the importance of safety in the event of a crash. And behind the wheel, it felt like any other electric vehicle. With the promise of quiet motoring and quick refuelling, it seems like the best of both worlds.

Hyundai Nexo

The Hyundai Nexo perhaps does the best job of blending into its surroundings — from the outside you wouldn’t think it was anything other than a normal SUV.

However, under the bonnet sits Hyundai’s second-generation hydrogen fuel cell powertrain, which it says produces “best-in-class performance”. It also claims a five-minute fill-up time that provides 414 miles of range, meaning that on a typical commute you’d rarely have to find yourself a refuelling station.

The South Korean car maker also says its system is the most efficient on the market, consuming just 1kg of hydrogen per 62 miles.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Fuel Cell

Mercedes-Benz owner Daimler has been putting a lot of money into hydrogen vehicle production, and the GLC F-Cell is the first product of that.

What makes this model unique is that owners can also plug the vehicle into electricity to top up the battery. That takes some of the stress out of ownership, because you don’t have to rely on the weak hydrogen refuelling infrastructure to keep your car running.

Private ownership is some way off, but customers can rent the vehicles in Germany, while the firm has teamed up with a number of companies that will run the F-Cells on their business fleets.

When it comes to buying a new car, boot space is one of the make-or-break deals for many buyers.

Be it swallowing the weekly shop or fitting enough equipment for a trip to the beach, the amount of stuff a car is capable of carrying can be enough to switch buyers from one car to another.

Simply want a load lugger? We’ve picked out the biggest boots available for under £30k…

Citroen Berlingo — 1,050 litres

When it comes to sheer load space, you’ll struggle to find a car more capable than the Citroen Berlingo. With a monstrous 1,050 litres available in XL guise, the French MPV puts practicality above all else. It’s capable of seating seven as well, with all three seats in the middle row featuring Isofix child seat mounting points.

Peugeot Rifter  — 1,050 litres

Sharing a platform with the Berlingo, the Peugeot Rifter matches its sibling’s load space too. This also means it retains the all-round practicality, excellent visibility and easy driving experience that makes it one of the most compelling load-luggers out there.

Ford Tourneo Connect — 1,029 litres

It’s another van-turned-MPV, but that’s not really surprising considering how affordable and incredibly practical the template is. On this occasion, Ford’s Tourneo Connect takes the compact Transit Connect and brings with it road car creature comforts and people-carrying capabilities. That’s along with an impressive 1,029 litres of load space, too.

SsangYong Turismo — 875 litres

SsangYong isn’t a household name, but those looking for affordable practicality may want to consider it when looking for their next purchase. The Turismo is simply huge — offering 875 litres with five seats in place — plus the ability to carry seven in serious comfort if you utilise the collapsable rear row. 

Hyundai i800 — 851 litres

Though Hyundai’s i800 has been on the market for a remarkable 11 years at this point (albeit with a recent facelift), it remains one of the most practical options money can buy. It offers 851 litres of boot space, or seating for eight people, making it one of the most capable vehicles on the market.

Skoda Superb Estate — 660 litres

SUVs may be the ‘in’ thing right now, but the humble estate continues to be more often than not a better option for practicality. Take the Skoda Superb Estate for example, capable of swallowing 660 litres worth of cargo. That’s more than any SUV or crossover on the market, in a stylish and very comfortable package

Peugeot 308 SW — 660 litres

On the topic of estates, the Peugeot 308 SW is more proof of how practical the formula can be. Matching the Superb’s 660 litres despite being a bit long in the tooth in its current guise, the 308 SW remains a compelling option for those after sheer space — and a very handsome one at that.

Volkswagen Passat Estate — 650 litres

Sharing a platform with the Skoda Superb, the Volkswagen Passat does lose 10 litres of capacity but arguably gains a more upmarket edge. Recently given to a facelift, the Passat is now available with cutting-edge kit such as semi-autonomous ‘Travel Assist’ and plug-in hybrid variants.

New cars can be very expensive to buy, and for those looking to simply get from A to B, the prospect of forking out thousands of pounds for a box on wheels can seem like a daunting prospect.

It doesn’t have to be that way, though. Dive into the low end of the used market and, despite numerous scrappage schemes in recent years cutting numbers down, there’s plenty of usable motors to be had on a complete bargain budget. We take a look at what’s in the classifieds for under £500…

Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has long dominated the UK’s top-selling car charts — and the result of that is there’s an absolute boatload of them on the used market.

A £500 budget will nab a well-used Mk V example of the hatchback at best. At this price, expect some bodywork dings and other aesthetic issues but there’s a good chance everything will be fairly mechanically sound. Rust is becoming an issue though, so check for any that may compromise its structure if you plan to hang on to the car for more than a few months.

Vauxhall Corsa

Much like the Fiesta, the Vauxhall Corsa has been a favourite amongst the nation’s drivers — be that those looking for a reliable runaround or a first car to modify with budget items.

Again, this means there are loads of to pick from and plenty are cheap. A Corsa ‘B’ or ‘C’ can be had here, albeit expect very high mileage and patchy service histories. There are a few mechanical issues to be wary of — most importantly cambelt issues which could easily destroy an engine if not fixed.

Ford Focus

As far as ‘normal’ car icons go, the Ford Focus is about as good as they come. Released back in 1998 as a replacement for the Escort, it was hailed for its impressive driving experience and spaciousness.

With many on the roads, there are plenty of examples to be had on a budget. £500 will secure a high-mileage early example, and fairly-well looked after cars should be mechanically sound, even at this price point. Some potentially car-destroying alternator issues are known though, and automatic versions are known to have software problems that can lead to the car cutting out — so it’s worth checking these.

Nissan Micra

First-generation Nissan Micras might well be the face of incredibly cheap motoring — and it’s not hard to see why. Though its looks may be questionable and it’s hardly going to help your street cred, these little Japanese machines are known to be reliable and very affordable to run.

This budget can easily grab a well-kept ‘K11’ Micra though, as with any Japanese-designed car from the ‘90s (though built in Sunderland), it’s worth checking for any rust that could compromise its structure and become very costly if you’re looking at keeping the car in the long run.

Renault Clio

Ok, so early 2000s French cars don’t have the best reputation for reliability in the UK, but the Renault Clio has proven serviceable enough to be a very affordable runabout.

We’d argue a facelift second-generation model would make this the best looking car on our list, and there’s plenty of high-mileage examples to be had in the price range. The list of potential issues isn’t short, though, with brake servo problems, faulty suspension, leaking sunroofs and a plethora of electrical issues all common.

Toyota Yaris

The second of three Japanese superminis on this list — and the traits are the same. The first-generation Toyota Yaris is far from a cool car (with the exception of T-Sport variants), but it is near-enough bulletproof mechanically as well as ferociously cheap to run.

It’s not entirely without problems though. The gearbox is known to have synchromesh issues but these are very cheap to replace, while rear wheel bearings failing are common though again is this a low-cost fix.

Honda Jazz

Rounding out the Far East trio is the incredibly dependable Honda Jazz. It’s the same story too — not a head-turner, but incredibly dependable. It’s not hard to find cars that have done more than 150,000 miles still look in exceptional shape.

Even at this price point, there’s very little to worry about — it might be the ultimate budget banger. Electric windows being slow to respond is a known issue and there may be some clunky CVT gearboxes out there, but otherwise, a car that’s had any kind of care will be a sweet runner.

MG ZS

So the MG ZS may now be just another crossover, but it was once a hot hatch. This beefed-up Rover 45 sports a fruity 2.5-litre engine in its most potent guise — though 1.8 cars are more common at this price — and there’s genuine fun to be had behind the wheel.

Ok, so it’s not without issues — at this budget, you are looking at a shed that’s going to need a lot of work in the long run. But if you’re looking for a fun car to fix up on the cheap, it’s a real bargain — and one that’s quickly only getting rarer. Future classic? You heard it here first…

There’s no hiding from the electric car revolution, and it’s only going to get more prominent in the UK market.

The end of 2019 will see a number of new electrified vehicles hit UK roads, with even more following in early 2020 — just in time for the new ‘69’ plate. We’ve picked out some of the best to consider…

Kia Soul EV

Kia has been one of the frontrunners in the EV arms race so far — with the success of its all-electric e-Niro so strong, demand means there’s currently a 12-month waiting list.

The good news is a new battery-powered car from the South Korean firm is joining the fray — the Soul EV. Previously offered with internal combustion engines, the new generation Soul will be electric-only in the UK and, if the e-Niro is anything to go by, demand should be very strong.

MG ZS EV

MG has seen a rapid growth in sales since introducing its ZS crossover in 2018, and the firm is aiming to build on that further with an all-electric option.

It says 163 miles between chargers is possible for the ZS EV, which utilises a 44.5kWh electric motor. It’s crossover underpinnings makes it a practical and spacious option, too.

Nissan Leaf e+

One of the more common electric cars on UK roads is the Nissan Leaf — which holds the title as Europe’s best-selling EV — and now it’s offered with a more capable powertrain in a bid to widen its appeal.

This is the Leaf e+ — featuring a 62kWh battery pack that allows for 239 miles of driving between charges. With the base car said to deliver 168 miles, it’s a genuinely impressive step up for the Sunderland-built hatchback.

Peugeot e-208

With manufacturers launching more and more news cars as EVs alongside internal combustion-powered cars rather than as bespoke models, electric variants of more mainstream models are becoming a common sight.

Peugeot’s e-208 falls right into that category — joining the ‘normal’ 208 range at launch later this year. It’s said to be able to deliver 211 miles between charging as a result of a 50kWh battery.

Renault Zoe

It may be a case of evolution rather than revolution for the design of the new Renault Zoe, but things under the skin are leaps and bounds ahead of the old car.

In its second-generation form, the Zoe utilises a 52kWh battery that allows for 242 miles of driving before having to be plugged back in. A potent 100kWh motor is said to improve performance, too.

Seat Mii Electric

It’s out with internal combustion and in with electric for the Seat Mii, which is soon to be available exclusively as an EV.

Set to hit the market later in 2019, a 36.8kWh battery is said to allow for 161 miles between charges. A comprehensive list of standard equipment is offered too — with highlights such as LED daytime running lights and cruise control featuring.

Skoda Citigo e-iV

The Skoda Citigo is another car going electric, much like the Seat Mii Electric which it shares its underpinnings with.

Capable of travelling 164 miles on a single charge thanks to a 36.8kWh battery back, it’ll also crack 0-60mph in just 12.3 seconds thanks to 81bhp and 210Nm of torque.

Tesla Model 3

We’ve waited a long time for the arrival of Tesla’s Model 3 in the UK, but finally, it appears it has arrived in time for the ‘69’ plate change.

Plenty of cutting-edge tech and an all-electric range of 348 miles mean the Tesla is one of the big-hitters in the electric car segment.

Toyota Camry

The Camry nameplate replaces the Avensis, bring back a badge last seen on UK roads back in 2004.

The Camry has long been a success story globally, the Japanese firm has solid expectations for the car’s sales performance here in the UK. Those who want a spacious, comfortable and efficient saloon could be in luck here.

Vauxhall Grandland X Hybrid4

One of the latest additions to the Vauxhall range is this – the Grandland X Hybrid4.

All in, it pushes out 296bhp, allowing it to claim the title as Vauxhall’s most powerful model. However, it’ll still return a claimed 176.5mpg while emitting just 36g/km CO2 — meaning it’s also the most efficient combustion engine-using car in the range.

What are they?

In terms of rivalries, we’ve got a pretty big one for you. In the battle for the two seater sports cars, one pair have been toe-to-toe for some time — the Porsche Cayman and the Alpine A110 — however, we’re throwing a newcomer into the mix, in the shape of the all-new Toyota Supra.

But does the new Supra, packing BMW-sourced power and technology, have what it takes to come out on top against the revered Alpine and Cayman? We’ve headed to the undulating country roads around Goodwood to find out…

What’s new?

As we mentioned, the biggest newcomer to the party here is the Supra. Sharing much of its underpinnings with the BMW Z4, it has been claimed that this latest Toyota sports car isn’t a ‘proper’ Supra, but with well over 300bhp and just rear-wheel-drive, we’d argue that it’s got more than enough on its side to wear the famous badge.

Then there’s the Porsche. The Cayman’s boxer engine has been a source of controversy for some time, given its departure from flat-sixes as usually favoured by the Stuttgart-based company. The T version adds lightness, with a stripped out feel and – as a bonus for keen drivers – a six-speed manual gearbox.

Finally, we come to the Alpine. When the A110 first arrived, there was discontent surrounding how effective it would be on the UK’s roads, and whether its Renault-sourced powertrain could do the overall package justice. It’s since become clear that the A110 is one of the most accomplished sports cars on sale today — and a real car to beat.

What’s under the bonnet?

We’ve got a myriad of powertrains to speak of here, but all share a common trait — turbocharging. The Porsche’s 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol may be a departure from Porsche engines of old, but 296bhp and 380Nm of torque means it’s got enough punch to play with the big boys. Mid-mounted, it sends power to the rear wheels through — in our test car’s case — a six-speed manual.

The Alpine, meanwhile, drops under the Cayman in terms of engine capacity — just 1.8 litres rather than the Porsche’s two — and with 249bhp and 320Nm of torque it falls under both cars here in terms of outright punch. But bear in mind that this is a car tipping the scales at just 1,103kg – so the performance figures only tell half the story.

The Supra’s 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six is a bit of a bruiser in comparison to the other engines here. Its 335bhp and 500Nm of torque, driven to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox, demolishes the figures put out by the Cayman and A110 — but it’s a heavier car, remember.

What are they like to drive?

Of course you can throw numbers around all you like, but the nuts and bolts of a sports car is the experience behind the wheel. And my, do we have a selection here.

It’s worth saying right off the bat that the Supra feels by far the quickest here, and given its claimed 0-60mph time of just around four seconds, compared to 4.3 in the A110 and 4.5 in the Cayman, that’s to be expected. Give the throttle pedal a decent prod and the softer suspension of the Supra is immediately noticeable as the whole car rears back before firing forwards. The engine note is smooth and quality-sounding, if lacking in drama.

The steering is quick, but not massively brimmed with feel – it means that even though it’s a sharp car to pilot through the bends, it can’t quite reward the driver in the same way as the other two here. However, that relatively squidgy spring rate does mean it’d be the go-to choice for longer journeys.

It’s in sharp contrast to the drive you’ll get out of the Cayman T. Boy, does Porsche know how to engineer a connection between driver and car, with the Cayman’s spot-on driving position, perfectly weighted steering and mechanically pleasing gearshift combining into a car which gives back as much as you can put in. There’s balance too, and though the Boxer engine may not have the sweet-sounding exhaust note of the old car, you can’t fault its effectiveness.

But then you get in the A110 and things go one step further. The steering feedback is the biggest boon here; it feels close to an unassisted rack, and it means that you have the confidence to exploit the chassis when corners come a-knocking. There’s a small degree of turbo lag from the engine, but keep the unit on boost and it’s effective — and you get excellent whistles from the turbocharger as you do, too. Alpine has also nailed the suspension setup for UK roads; it’s soft enough to take the edge off the surface, but not lazy enough to cause the A110’s body to loll around.

How do they look?

A car’s looks are, of course, quite subjective. However, it’s worth highlighting the cars which naturally drew people towards them during our day of testing.

In short, the Alpine was the one that people made a beeline for. Wherever it was parked, passers-by seemed to gravitate towards it. It could be because it remains a rare sight on UK roads, or that you’re unlikely to see anything else quite like it out and about. The striking blue exterior shade helps no end.

After that, most members of the public would be asking questions about the Supra. It was agreed between us that the Toyota’s design is a striking one, with its big haunches and double-bubble roof giving it plenty of presence. Even though there is the beating heart of BMW under the bonnet, the Supra disguises it well.

And the Porsche? Well despite being finished in look-at-me Miami Blue, the Cayman T didn’t get nearly as many glances sent its way as the other two in our trio. That doesn’t stop it from being a beautifully proportioned car, but against the sharp lines of the Supra and the out-there looks of the A110, it’s just not as exciting.

What are they like inside?

All three cars here follow a two-seater layout, so you’ll find a snug cabin, relatively limited storage space and a driver-focused dash shared between the three. However, the trio do go about things slightly differently elsewhere.

The Porsche’s cabin is an ergonomic wonder, with plenty of adjustment via both the steering wheel and seats. Though it’s starting to show its age somewhat, you can’t fault the cabin’s overall build quality – while the circular steering wheel (as opposed to the flat-bottomed versions favoured by most new cars today) feels great to use.

And though the exterior of the Supra may be far away from a BMW, the interior is anything but. The switchgear, heating and ventilation controls and infotainment system are all straight-through Munich, while the seating position feels a touch too high for the car. There’s also not that much room to rest your left leg when on the motorway.

The Alpine loses out immediately with its fixed-back seats which, though comfortable, can’t be adjusted for height. Luckily, they’re just low enough — though we’d maybe like an inch or two more drop. Overall cabin quality is the worst of the three here; the Renault-sourced plastics and buttons don’t feel anywhere near the same level as the Porsche or Toyota equivalents.

What’s the spec like?

Each car has been laden with tech, and even the lightweight Cayman T still has its infotainment system intact — it’s usually removed as part of the weight-saving package, but can be optioned back in at no extra cost. Luckily it’s a breeze to use, and the touchscreen itself is responsive and sharp to use.

The Supra’s system is almost as simple to operate, but then we’d expect that given its BMW origins. The graphics are clear, and there’s the option of accessing menus via either the touchscreen or a rotary controller dial. Both are user-friendly, with the dial a handier access point when you’re on the move.

In a similar vein to the cabin in general, the Alpine’s infotainment system is the weakest of the three. It simply can’t offer the same level of usability, and its graphics feel dated too. Even pairing a phone is a chore — something quickly dispatched by the other two here.

Verdict

It’s a tough call, this one. What needs to be remembered is why you’ll be buying one of the cars on the list. Planning on using your car for long journeys, but want to exploit the twisty roads at either end? For that, we’d argue that the Supra is the one for you.

Need a car which will deliver day-in, day-out come rain or shine? That’s where the Cayman T will play to its strengths, thanks to its ease of use and rock-solid build quality, But make no mistake, it’ll happily exploit a technical b-road just as easily as it’ll bowl to the local supermarket.

But want a car that’ll stick an immovable smile on your face each and every time you’re behind the wheel? That’ll be the Alpine A110. Interior foibles aside, the Alpine is the one to go for if you want an out-and-out, maybe-I’ll-stay-out-for-one-more-hour sports car. And as far as sports cars go, that’s what it’s all about.

Every year, dozens of new cars are launched to the market, and it’s inevitable that some fall to the wayside. And on other occasions, cars that were lauded get usurped and ultimately cast aside by their own replacement.

This list is dedicated to cars that – for one reason or another – have been under-appreciated by the masses….

Audi R8 V8

While it was quickly joined in the line-up by a headline-grabbing V10, it was the V8-powered R8 that brought Audi to dance in the world of supercars.

Sourcing its 4.2-litre unit from the RS4, the overall package presented by the Audi R8 was impressive from the off, serving as the most liveable supercar since the original Honda NSX.

Skoda Octavia vRS diesel

Currently, Volkswagen Group is pushing out plenty of diesel performance cars under its Audi brand, but sister firm Skoda has producing such products for years.

The Octavia vRS of today is available with either a petrol or diesel engine, and while it is the petrol with the headline-grabbing BHP figures, the torque of the diesel makes for a unique and high-tempo driving experience on twisty roads.

Volkswagen Golf R32 (MkIV)

The R32 is seen by many as the high-water mark for hot Golfs, with its 3.2-litre V6 and all-wheel drive making it one of the most visceral versions of the hatchback.

While the later MkV tends to be the one most fondly remembered thanks to its further refinements, the MkIV was a very impressive car in its own right, with the R32s go-faster bulges adding flavour to the rather dull exterior of the standard Golf.

Ford Mondeo ST220

While it holds nowhere near the prestige of some other fast Fords, the ST220 is one of the more exciting blue oval-badged cars of its era.

Featuring a 223bhp, 3.0-litre V6, it made the right noises, and much to the eternal delight of owners, it can even claim an Aston Martin connection; the 5.9-litre V12 used in the DB9 could be easily traced back to a pair of V6s taken from this car.

Kia Cee’d GT

While Hyundai’s i30 N is seen by many as the moment South Korea put its chips on the table in the hot hatch stakes, it’s Hyundai Motor Company’s other brand that arrived on the scene first.

While the Nurburgring-honed Hyundai is far more of a performance car than the 201bhp Kia, the Cee’d was not a bad car by any stretch, with well-fettled handling and little of the compromise seen in more intense hot hatches.

Porsche 968

The history books are never going to smile that fondly on Porsche’s front-engined experiments in the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. However, it can’t be denied that the cars themselves were good performers, none more so than the 968.

Particularly fetching in Clubsport spec, the 968 was the last of its bloodline, and has consistently been mooted as a refined and fun – if short-lived – front-engined sports car.

Skoda Yeti

At Skoda, the SUV boom has arrived. But, while Kodiaq and Karoq are spear-heading a new era at the Czech firm, the Yeti is the forerunner.

On the market for eight years, the Yeti was never a comprehensive sales smash, but it was relatively practical, capable off-roader with four-wheel drive, and had a quirky look not too far removed from the likes of the Panda 4X4.

Infiniti Q50

There are many words that could be thrown at the soon-to-depart Infiniti brand, Nissan’s answer to Lexus.

While the cars have been rather glued to the forecourt, some of the vehicles have been impressive. The Q50 is the answer to the BMW 3 Series, and it’s capable if unremarkable. However, if you opt for the 328bhp 3.7-litre V6 variant, with an engine from the Nissan 370Z, it becomes rather sporty, and serves as an ideal ‘sleeper’ saloon car.

September is quickly approaching, and though the month usually symbolises the start of autumn and the beginning of longer nights, colder days and browner leaves, it also means that there’s a new registration — and this time around, it’s ‘69’.

In the past few months, there’s been a big influx of new models, updates and refreshes, meaning potential buyers are inundated with choices. Here are some of the best new models to wear the new plate.

Audi A4

Though concepts and ultra-modern designs may draw the crowds, it’s cars like the humble Audi A4 that keep the motoring world turning. This latest model is by far the most complex we’ve seen, with a large infotainment screen and more assistance systems than ever before.

It still gets the bread-and-butter jobs done too though, thanks to plenty of space and a range of efficient engines.

Audi A6 Allroad

Audi’s A6 Allroad has historically been a great option for those who want the spaciousness of an estate car, with the added security that comes with all-wheel-drive. Now, there’s a new one, with better comfort levels and more interior tech.

On top of that, of course, there’s that four-wheel-drive capability too. In terms of one car for all occasions, the Allroad does well.

Audi Q7

The big, seven-seater Q7 has been a popular choice in the large SUV segment for quite some time now, and Audi has seen fit to update it. Now, with a larger infotainment screen and a plusher interior, it’s at its most luxurious.

Plus, it hasn’t lost that all-important seven-seat configuration – so it’s still a great choice for larger families.

BMW 1 Series

There was a fair amount of discontent when BMW announced that its famously rear-driven 1 Series would be switching to front-wheel-drive. However, in reality, the change hasn’t affected the overall package too much; it’s still a good car to drive, and more efficient now too.

It’s not a bad looking car either, while the interior is one of the most high-tech we’ve seen on a compact hatch.

BMW 3 Series Touring

In a similar vein to the A6 Allroad, the 3 Series Touring is a car for people who want one vehicle for all jobs. The latest model is comfortable, refined and because it’s an estate, impressively practical too.

There’s also a punchy 330d version, for those who want plenty of performance from their compact estate car.

BMW M8 Competition

BMW’s range-topping M8 had been teased for several months before it finally being revealed. Now, it’s easily one of the most anticipated performance cars yet to hit the market – and given its three-second 0-60mph time and 189mph top speed, it looks like it’s going to live up to the hype.

It’s also going to cost over £120,000 before options — making it one of the pricier cars to wear a ‘69’ plate.

BMW X1

The updated BMW X1 debuted back in May, showcasing an all-new look and a fresher, sleeker interior. It’s the car’s first major revision since 2015, so it’s a well-needed update for BMW compact crossover.

As well as the usual range of petrol and diesel options, a hybrid version will be available in 2021 but, because of that, it won’t be on a ‘69’ plate.

Ford Focus ST

The Ford Focus ST has been a favourite among the hot-hatch community ever since it was first introduced back in 2002. The latest model, introduced this year, packs more punch than ever — 276bhp.

On top of the power hike, there’s a new electronic limited-slip differential and plenty of other mechanical upgrades to make it the most driver-focused ST yet.

Ford Puma

Ford’s happy-looking Puma returned with a surprise — no longer was it a sleek, two-door compact coupe, instead of launching as a crossover instead. Some kicked up a fuss at the use of the nameplate on such a car, that’s for sure, but the end product is interesting.

It features a clever boot storage option, which can extend the load area up to an impressive 456 litres.

Kia Soul EV

Kia’s Soul EV arrives on the back of the success that the South Korean firm has had with the e-Niro. With a claimed all-electric range of 172 miles (or 280 with the larger battery model), it’s got more than enough juice for most occasions, while a practical layout should mean there’s plenty of space for passengers and luggage.

We’re adamant that these will fly off the forecourts — so get yours while you can.

Kia XCeed

Kia has expanded on its Ceed range with this – the XCeed. It’s designed to sit in between the smaller Stonic and the larger Sportage, giving people a medium-sized crossover option. A range of petrol and diesel engines are available from launch, with hybrid versions joining the line-up later on.

It takes on rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volkswagen T-Roc in the segment.

Maserati Levante GTS and Trofeo

Maserati revealed its performance Levante GTS and Trofeo models back in June, marking an entry by the Italian firm into the super-speed SUV category. With a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 under the bonnet, it’s no slouch – the Trofeo will crack 0-60mph in under four seconds.

Though the Trofeo is likely to steal the headlines when it comes to outright performance, we’d argue that drivers looking to use their performance Levante every day will opt for the more road-orientated GTS.

Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary

The MX-5 has been with us for 30 years and Mazda has, rather unsurprisingly, built a version to celebrate that. The 30th Anniversary car features a striking orange exterior colour, as well as a series of mechanical upgrades.

Just 600 units will be coming to the UK, so it could be very much the future classic – and certainly one that die-hard MX-5 fans will want to get their hands on.

Mercedes-AMG A45

When the original A45 arrived, it blew rivals out of the water thanks to its ground-breaking performance figures and sensational acceleration. Now there’s a new one, and it appears that the little AMG has pulled off the trick once again.

With over 400bhp in S layout, it’s easily the most powerful hot-hatch on sale and a host of driver modes and all-wheel-drive mean it’s one of the most capable in the bends, too.

Mercedes CLA45

The CLA45 sits on the same platform as the A45, so unsurprisingly can still deliver the same sensational levels of acceleration and performance. The CLA, however, offers a bit more in the way of practicality, with the CLA45 Shooting Brake going even further when it comes to spaciousness thanks to an estate-like rear end.

Performance remains sensational, but if you’re after a hot hatch with more spaciousness, then the CLA45 could be the way to go.

Mercedes GLB

Despite the current deluge of SUVs hitting the market, Mercedes seems to think that one more simply couldn’t hurt. It’s why the GLB will be arriving on our roads soon, slotting in between the GLA and the larger GLC in the range.

It still offers the option of seven seats, however, and all of the high levels of tech that we’ve come to expect from Mercedes vehicles.

Mercedes GLC

It’s another Mercedes SUV we’ll admit, but the latest GLC is an update on one of the firm’s most popular models. It now gets a stronger, more efficient range of engines as well as Merc’s latest MBUX infotainment system.

Exterior tweaks mean it falls closer into line with the rest of the company’s line-up, with styling cues taken from larger models like the GLS.

MG ZS EV

MG isn’t ignoring the electric revolution either, which is why it has introduced this — the ZS EV. It uses a 44.5kWh electric motor and has a claimed range of up to 163 miles. Because of its SUV layout, it’s also a practical size with decent interior space and a large boot too.

Could it be the car to revive MG’s fortunes? If initial reports are anything to go by, it certainly looks that way.

Mini Clubman

The Mini Clubman, with its split boot design, may seem like a bit of an oddity in the small estate car market – but it’s an oddity which has proved popular indeed. Now updated for 2019, it’s got sharper looks and a more refined interior.

Plus, there’s a John Cooper Works version — packing the most powerful engine ever fitted to a Mini.

Mini JCW GP

In recent times, Mini has signalled the end of a generation by introducing a no-holds-barred JCW GP variant of its hatchback — and another is on the horizon.

Full details on the car are still kept under wraps, but this hatch will be the most powerful Mini yet when it arrives early next year, while also featuring several mechanical enhancements to make a proper track monster.

Mitsubishi ASX

Though due for a full replacement in the next few years, Mitsubishi has given its ASX crossover a facelift for the 2020 model year to keep a presence in the booming market.

It sports a new face to bring it in line with the rest of the firm’s offerings, while a new 2.0-litre petrol engine replaces an outgoing 1.6-litre unit. All-wheel-drive returns to the ASX here, too.

Nissan GT-R Nismo

It’s crazy to think the R35 Nissan GT-R is still on the market considering it was first introduced in 2007, but Nissan has just introduced an upgraded version of its most hardcore variant.

The new GT-R Nismo benefits from revised aerodynamics, race car-sourced turbochargers and mechanical tweaks to make it the fastest and most capable R35 to come from the factory to date.

Nissan Leaf e+

Nissan’s new Leaf has picked up the mantle of Europe’s best-selling EV from its successful predecessor, but the Japanese firm is refusing to rest on its laurels.

The Leaf e+ takes claimed range up to an impressive 239 miles — up from the base car’s 168-mile offering. It also boasts Nissan’s ProPilot suite of semi-autonomous tech as standard.

Peugeot 208 and e-208

Peugeot has started from scratch with its new 208 supermini, bringing a dramatic and head-turning look to a new platform.

Though available with traditional combustion engines, it’s the all-electric e-208 that’s most intriguing — sporting a 50kWh battery to return a claimed 211 miles between charges.

Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Earlier this year, Porsche introduced the new ‘992’ 911 Coupe to UK roads — and it’s set to be followed by a drop-top version later in the year.

It’s mechanically-identical to the 911 Carrera S hardtop, meaning its twin-turbo six-cylinder engine spits out an impressive 444bhp.

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder

When Porsche introduced its new 718 in 2016, many enthusiasts scowled at the replacement of its silky six-cylinder engine in favour of a turbocharged four-cylinder unit.

The firm has been listening though, with it bringing the flat-six back for the special-edition Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder. Both cars feature some chassis enhancements for ultimate track performance, too.

Renault Clio

Renault’s stylish new Clio doesn’t dramatically revolutionise the look of the hatchback — after all, why fix what isn’t broken?

It does, however, bring a more luxurious cabin to the car, bags of technology and a racy new R.S. Line trim level. There’s the promise of hybridisation to come in 2020, too.

Renault Megane R.S. Trophy-R

This is the latest proper hardcore hot hatch from Renault — and it can cost as much as £72,000.

Yep, a Renault Megane for over £70,000. This is no normal version of the hatch though, featuring a whole host of performance upgrades that make it the current king of hot hatches at the famous Nurburgring race track. Just 32 examples are destined for the UK.

Renault Zoe

It may not look all that new, but the Renault Zoe is incredibly advanced in its new second-generation.

Under the skin, a 52kWh battery translates into 242 miles of range between charges while a 100kWh motor is said to improve performance dramatically. We think it looks pretty neat, too.

Seat Mii Electric

Seat has moved its Mii to electric-only, with the plug-in powertrain coming into to replace its internal combustion engine counterparts.

Set to go on sale later this year, it’s capable of 161 miles between charges and will boast a comprehensive list of standard equipment — including LED daytime running lights and cruise control.

Skoda Citigo e-iV

Much like the Seat Mii Electric it shares underpinnings with, the Skoda Citigo e-iV is going electric too.

It’s capable of 164 miles on a single charge thanks to its 36.8kWh battery pack and is capable of 0-60mph in 12.3 seconds thanks to its 81bhp and 210Nm of torque powertrain.

Skoda Superb

Skoda has given its Superb a refresh for the 2020 model year, bringing a new look to the car along with more technology.

Available from £24,655, it features full LED headlights for the first time plus ‘SKODA’ lettering in place of the emblem at the rear of the car for a classier look.

Tesla Model 3

A UK arrival of the Tesla Model 3 has long been overdue, but it seems it will be at last arriving in time for the ‘69’ plate.

Boasting cutting-edge tech, a range of up to 348 miles between charges and looks that are sure to turn heads no matter what road you’re on.

Toyota Camry

It’s out with the Avensis and in with the Camry for Toyota, as it brings back a nameplate last seen on the UK market in 2004.

Long one of the best selling cars globally, the Japanese firm is being reasonable with its expectations for UK sales of this hybrid saloon — but those looking for an efficient and comfortable A-to-B vehicle may find it a compelling option.

Toyota Supra

It’s been a long time coming, but the Toyota Supra is here and just in time to be released on the ‘69’ plate.

First customer deliveries of the reborn icon are due to arrive in September, though the UK waiting list now extends well into 2020. Though its roots lie in BMW, the Supra has been well-received by the UK motoring media and should be a hit with buyers.

Vauxhall Astra

You would be hard-pressed to notice this is a new Vauxhall Astra, but the popular hatchback has benefitted from a refresh for a new model year.

Styling tweaks are minor, but there’s a fresh line-up of engines borrowed from the French owners PSA Group plus a greater list of equipment on offer.

Vauxhall Corsa and Corsa-e

One of the most popular cars in the UK is back for a new generation, and it’s sure to continue the success of its predecessors.

The new Corsa benefits from fresh technology, a modern design and even an all-electric powertrain in Corsa-e form — making it the firm’s first EV.

Vauxhall Grandland X Hybrid4

Aiding in Vauxhall’s electric charge is this — the Grandland X Hybrid4.

An output of 296bhp makes it the most powerful car currently produced by Vauxhall, while a claimed 176.5mpg and 36g/km of CO2 output means it’s the most efficient car featuring a combustion engine in its line-up.

Volkswagen California 6.1

One of the most iconic vehicles on the road — the Volkswagen has been given a bit of a refresh for the 2020 model year.

A new digital control display has been added for greater control of the camper’s many features, while its holidaying equipment has been improved in a number of areas.

Volkswagen Passat

Another facelifted model from Volkswagen is the latest Passat, which has been treated to a tweaked look and a list of new goodies.

Perhaps a highlight feature is its new Travel Assist feature — bringing semi-autonomous functions to the car that’s available in both saloon and estate form.