This new model will feature a 100kWh battery pack and the firm claims an electric range of up to 459 miles on a single charge.
Smart has unveiled its biggest model yet to take on the likes of the Toyota bZ4X and Kia EV6 – the #5.
This new mid-size SUV will come solely as an EV and feature a 100kWh battery pack compatible with DC rapid charging to enable a 10 per cent to 80 per cent charge rate of just 15 minutes. Furthermore, Smart claims that the #5 can also travel for up to 459 miles between trips to the plug. However, official power figures for the electric motor haven’t been revealed yet.
The front headlights and rear taillights have an oblong design. (Smart)
The #5 has familiar design elements to its smaller counterparts the #3 and #1, including a panoramic halo roof and frameless doors. In addition, the front headlights and rear tail-lights have an oblong design and there are Smart logos on the D-pillars, while the alloy wheels feature floating centre caps to keep the Smart emblem always upright.
Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, said: “We are delighted to present our first-ever mid-size premium SUV, the all-new Smart #5, to the world. With this new vehicle, we are expanding into a new market segment, reflecting our commitment to quality, innovation and addressing the evolving requirements of our customers. As we continue to broaden our product line-up, we remain focused on providing diverse mobility solutions that cater to different lifestyles and preferences in Europe and around the globe.”
The interior features two 13-inch OLED display screen. (Smart)
The interior features ambient lighting with a choice of 256 colours. There is also leather upholstery with front seats that can recline by up to 121 degrees, and there are 34 storage compartments dotted about the cabin. Furthermore, there is a 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display, a 10.3-inch instrument cluster plus two 13-inch OLED display screens.
In terms of space, there is a total of 72 litres in the frunk (front boot). Boot space with the rear seats up hasn’t been revealed, but it stands at 1,530 litres with them folded down.
Prices and specifications are yet to be revealed, but it’ll be launched in Europe later this year.
Hot EV aims to offer electrifying alternative to Golf GTI Clubsport and costs just £5,000 more
The Volkswagen ID 3 GTX Performance officially goes on sale this week, offering 322bhp and the promise of hot hatch thrills without the tailpipe emissions.
Billed as a pure-electric alternative to the Golf GTI Clubsport, often deemed the pinnacle of VW’s hot hatch prowess, the ID 3 GTX Performance is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds, making it the German marque’s fastest accelerating EV to date.
Sharing much of its underpinnings with sister company’s Cupra Born VZ, Volkswagen says the ID 3 GTX Performance offers a top speed of 124mph (somewhat down on the ICE Golf GTI Clubsport) and 369 miles of range on the WLTP combined cycle.
Maximum charging speeds are 185kW, resulting in a 10-80 per cent charge in 26 minutes from the appropriate outlets.
The new Volkswagen ID 3 GTX Performance (Volkswagen)
The racy electric hatch comes with an impressive array of standard kit, including 20-inch wheels, sports suspension, the marque’s DCC adaptive chassis control system, a Harman Kardon stereo and augmented reality head-up display.
“The ID 3 GTX Performance is, for me, the electric counterpart to the Golf GTI Clubsport,” said Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, when the new car was unveiled to the media in March this year.
“Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID 3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate.
Inside the new Volkswagen ID 3 GTX Performance (Volkswagen)
“Volkswagen is transferring the almost 50-year tradition of its compact GT models into the world of electric mobility. Driving pleasure is guaranteed.”
The Volkswagen ID 3 GTX Performance is available to order at Volkswagen UK Retailers from Thursday 29 August, priced at £46,225 (on-the-road recommended retail price, including VAT).
New ID.7 Pro S and Tourer Pro S will be the first, with more EVs and ICE cars to follow by 2025.
Volkswagen has confirmed that it will follow the likes of BMW by offering the AirConsole mobile gaming platform in select models, allowing owners to indulge in a raft of video game titles while charging or stationary.
The German marque says the app will be first available in ID.7 Pro S and ID.7 Tourer Pro S models, where both drivers and passengers can simply scan a QR code with a smartphone and then use their handheld device as a controller for games displayed on the vehicle’s 15-inch Discover Pro Max infotainment display.
Current titles include a comedic Olympic-style Smoots Summer Games, the Burnin’ Rubber 5 racing game and quizzing with Hang in There and Who Wants to be a Millionaire? on certain vehicles. New titles are being added regularly.
Who Wants to be a Millionaire? on BMW AirConsole (AirConsole)
AirConsole uses the vehicle’s onboard eSIM to stream the mobile games from the Cloud and requires an active VW Connect Plus contract to function.
Despite initially being rolled out to VW’s ID electric vehicle range in Europe by September, the company also plans to make it available in the new Passat, the new Tiguan, the new Golf and the new Golf Estate that run the latest infotainment software by 2025.
Volkswagen isn’t the first to offer the gaming platform inside its vehicles, as German automotive counterpart BMW has enjoyed a partnership with AirConsole since 2022, introducing the system to various BMW and Mini models.
Recently, BMW stated that it would be the first manufacturer to introduce an in-car version of Mattel’s famous Uno card game, which allows up to four players to get involved when charging or stationary.
In addition to this, Mercedes-Benz announced at gamescom 2024 that it has partnered with developers of the Boosteroid app to allow owners of its vehicles to stream and play some of the most recognised gaming titles in the world on its infotainment systems in the near future.
Using a Bluetooth gaming controller or a smartphone, Mercedes-Benz says that games from popular third-party platforms like Steam or Epic will be available in-car for the first time, bringing a console or PC-like gaming experience to the automotive space.
Latest version of the compact SUV will be available with two trim levels and a hybrid powertrain.
MG has taken the covers off the latest iteration of its popular compact crossover the ZS Hybrid+.
The B-segment SUV market is fiercely competitive and this new model will be competing with the likes of the Seat Arona and Citroen C3 Aircross. However, this time the ZS will come solely as a petrol-electric hybrid and its equipment levels have improved.
The range kicks off at £21,995 making it one of the most affordable SUVs on the market. (MG)
There are two trim levels on offer, with the standard SE coming in at £21,995 and featuring equipment such as LED headlights and tail-lights, a 12.3-inch infotainment display and keyless entry. For an additional £2,500 at £24,495, the Trophy model adds 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass plus a 360-degree surround-view camera.
In terms of engines, there is only one on offer – a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor that gives a total power output of 193bhp and 250Nm of torque. It takes the car from 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds, with the top speed yet to be revealed.
Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch infotainment display and keyless entry. (MG)
MG claims that the new ZS Hybrid+ can achieve a combined fuel economy figure of 55.4mpg while emitting CO2 emissions as low as 115g/km. That’s thanks to the on-board 1.83kWh high-voltage battery that is recharged by a 45kW generator.
David Allison, Head of Product and Planning for MG Motor UK, said: “The all-new MG ZS Hybrid+ delivers an exceptional driving experience and incredible value in the B SUV segment, featuring equipment and technologies that make daily life easier. The refreshed model has a more mature design with a sharper front end, and the new interior provides a comfortable and connected cabin. We’re confident about delivering the same appeal and accessibility that made its predecessor such a success.”
Order books for the new MG ZS Hybrid+ are open now, with it set to arrive in UK showrooms from October.
The firm says its flagship SUV is the first car to offer price parity for battery-powered and internal-combustion versions.
Vauxhall’s latest version of its flagship SUV the Frontera will be priced the same for its EV and petrol-hybrid versions.
The manufacturer is keeping it simple with the new Frontera with just two trim levels to choose from.
The range consists of Design and GS. (Stellantis)
The entry-level Design costs £23,495 for the EV and hybrid models, and has automatic headlights and wipers plus 16-inch black steel wheels as standard. The most expensive model, the GS, starts at £25,895 and boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, LED tail-lights and power-folding door mirrors.
The electric Frontera has a 44kWh battery pack with an electric motor that produces a total power output of 115bhp. It takes the car from 0-60mph in 11.9 seconds and has a top speed of 87mph. Meanwhile, it has a claimed range of up to 186 miles and is 100kW DC rapid charging-compatible, going from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in 26 minutes.
The hybrid features a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that comes with a choice of two power outputs. The lesser-powered version produces 101bhp and 205Nm of torque, taking the car from 0-60mph in 10.8 seconds and on to 112mph.
The electric version comes fitted with a 44kWh battery pack. (Stellantis)
Meanwhile, the higher-powered 138bhp version produces 230Nm of torque and its 0-60mph time is reduced to 8.8 seconds while its top speed increases to 118mph.
James Taylor, Managing Director of Vauxhall, said: “With the launch of the new Frontera, Vauxhall has eliminated the list price premium that often applies to electric vehicles, with both electric and petrol hybrid versions offered for an identical price list. At just £23,495, the new Frontera Electric is a significant milestone in our mission to make electric mobility accessible to everyone across the UK.”
Order books are due to open in the autumn, and customers can expect deliveries in early 2025.
Over 13,000 registrations submitted to Vauxhall on over 11,500 streets across the country during its Electric Streets of Britain campaign.
Tens of thousands of motorists have called for councils to speed up installation of on-street charging facilities for EVs, according to vehicle manufacturer Vauxhall.
The Stellantis-owned brand kick-started its campaign in 2023, dubbed ‘Electric Streets of Britain’, which quizzed scores of UK motorists about their thoughts on charging provisions across the country.
The campaign’s main aim was to support the 40 per cent of households without access to a driveway, seeing as the data gathered revealed that 80 per cent of electric vehicle charging is done at home.
As a result, Vauxhall says it will collaborate with three chargepoint operators, including Char.gy, ConnectedKerb and Surecharge to not only share its findings with local councils up and down the country, but to also find workable solutions.
This initiative comes following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request by Vauxhall, which was issued to 414 councils across the country. A total of 267 responded and the results showed that 56.5 per cent of the local governments still did not have a published on-street residential charging plan.
James Taylor, Managing Director of Vauxhall said: “On-street residential charging is critical to adoption and acceleration of electric vehicles. Thanks to the public, we already know of over 11,000 roads where we need to install on-street chargers today to make it more convenient for EV drivers and remove a barrier for those wanting to switch to electric.”
The 267 councils that responded to Vauxhall’s Freedom of Information request told the firm that they have collectively installed 15,000 on-street chargers currently on UK roads, and plan to install a further 8,000 over the next year.
The UK government is aiming to install around 300,000 public chargers by 2030. (Stellantis)
However, the UK government is aiming to have 300,000 public EV charge points installed by 2030 – and with the country’s slow progress, Vauxhall says that councils need to ensure a fast uptake in installation to meet these ambitious targets.
Results showed that some areas have been more forthcoming with EV provisions than others. London’s Boroughs of Southwark and Barnet, for example, collectively make up 20 per cent of the total on-street charge points in the country – while Coventry City Council is not far behind in third place.
In addition to putting the pressure on councils to increase on-street charging provisions, Vauxhall is also supporting those that can’t install a home charger with the announcement it made earlier this year, which saw the carmaker partner with the supermarket chain Tesco to provide its EV drivers with one-year free charging at stores.
Available in two body styles and fitted as standard with a 5.0-litre petrol V8, this model will make its debut at the Goodwood Revival in September.
Land Rover has unveiled a special-edition of its famous off-roader – the Defender V8 by its in-house commissioning service Works Bespoke.
The Classic Defender programme restores and personalises vehicles from the Land Rover line-up – with the original Defender being the first model to receive the treatment.
Available in four-seat 90, five or seven-seater 110 body styles, all versions of the Defender by Works Bespoke are hand-built by expert Land Rover Classic engineers.
Under the bonnet resides a 5.0-litre petrol V8 that produces 410bhp and 515Nm of torque. Power is transmitted via the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and all vehicles come as standard with all-wheel-drive.
Each car comes fitted with high-performance Alcon brakes, as well a revised spring rate Eibach coil suspension and anti-roll bar, as well as Bilstein dampers.
A choice of four, five and seven-seat versions are on offer. (Land Rover)
On the exterior, clients can specify a choice of unique paint schemes, as well as customise a selection of exterior details, such as bonnet scripts, front radiator grilles and door handles – which can be finished in silver or black.
A choice of 16-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels designs are available as well as side steps and accessories, such as a roof rack, expedition cage, ladder and a winch. Customers can also spec a full roof-mounted LED light bar. Meanwhile, every Defender by Works Bespoke comes with modern LED headlights as standard, too.
Paul Barritt, Director of Land Rover Classic, said: “With Works Bespoke, we are giving clients the opportunity to create their perfect Classic Defender V8, a vehicle that will suit their exact lifestyle. Every vehicle is lovingly crafted, with creativity the only limit when it comes to personalising each vehicle to the owner’s desired specification.
“From start to finish, clients of Works Bespoke will be given an experience like no other, creating their ultimate Classic Defender V8.”
Inside, there is a 3.5-inch infotainment touchscreen that includes DAB radio and satellite navigation. (Land Rover)
Inside, an array of leather can be found on the seats, side trim, doors, roof lining and dashboard. The centre console is finished off in piano black and there is an infotainment system that features a 3.5-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, Bluetooth and satellite navigation.
The Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke will make its debut at Goodwood Revival, which takes place from September 6 to 8, 2024.
Prices start at £190,000 plus VAT for the four-seat 90 version, while the five-seat 110 comes in at £199,000 plus VAT and the seven-seat model is priced at £204,000 plus VAT.
Available with seven seats as standard and efficient hybrid powertrains, is Hyundai’s flagship SUV the one to beat? Cameron Richards finds out.
What is it?
(Hyundai)
The Santa Fe has become one of the most recognisable models in Hyundai’s range and that’s because it’s been around since 2001 here in the UK.
It was the first premium SUV for the brand and in the last two decades, it has improved its driving dynamics, equipment levels and drivetrains. But, does this latest fifth-generation car set a new benchmark? Let’s find out.
What’s new?
(Hyundai)
This new Santa Fe not only debuts a wild and wacky exterior but has also been given some healthy increases in space to help deliver more interior room than before.
Its cabin materials have improved and there is the option of a six-seater variant to help out when you’ve got more people to take along for the ride.
Also, while a lot of car manufacturers are pushing for EVs in this sector of the market, Hyundai has decided to go the other direction and offer this big family bus with either plug-in or hybrid powertrains only.
What’s under the bonnet?
(Hyundai)
There’s a choice of two engines, a standard hybrid or a plug-in hybrid. We are driving the former which comes fitted with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor that produces 158bhp, 265Nm of torque and can enable 0-60mph in 9.5 seconds.
The latter is fitted with the same engine, but there is an added benefit of a 13.8kWh battery pack which boosts power up to 250bhp and reduces the Santa Fe’s 0-60mph time to 9.1 seconds. It also can do a claimed 33.6 miles on electric power alone which should help reduce emissions and fuel costs even further.
What’s it like to drive?
Been out driving and camping in the new Hyundai Santa Fe. Can’t say what it’s like to drive yet, but all will be revealed next Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/h2UGLEbdod
Make no mistake, the Santa Fe is a big car, but to drive, it’s all surprisingly intuitive. Around the bends, it handles really well with sufficient amounts of grip and a decent level of steering feel – there is also not as much body roll as you’d think for such a tall and boxy vehicle, either. The ride is smooth, with the car only being shaken by the biggest of bumps, but overall, the ride and handling are impressive.
There is plenty of visibility, thanks to a lot of glass area and the view out the back is aided even further on our top-spec model as it’s fitted with a rear-view mirror that can be switched to a camera.
The only downsides to its driving experience are the petrol engine sounds a little strangled under hard acceleration and the steering wheel itself is fairly large which doesn’t feel natural to the touch.
How does it look?
(Hyundai)
The styling of the Santa Fe is bold, to say the least with lots of angular and flat design cues. The front end features a honeycomb-style front grille as well as ‘H’ shaped front headlights that integrate LED daytime running lights.
Its side profile features rectangular wheel arch covers and gloss black roof rails, while at the back the angular body theme continues with a completely flat back and the ‘H’ styled pattern from the front headlights finds its way on the rear lights, too. Also, there is model-specific lettering and our test car featured a gloss black lower bumper that continues around to the rear wheel arches. But, overall the Hyundai Santa Fe stands out in all areas when it comes to exterior design.
What’s it like inside?
(Hyundai)
The cabin has an upmarket feel, with a lot of high-end materials used throughout and our test car even has Alcantara A, B and C pillar panels. The dashboard itself features two 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment and instrument cluster which make the design look decluttered and modern with confusing form over function.
Storage is plentiful with a large cut-out in the centre console, big enough to fit an umbrella in. There are large door pockets and you’ll find an additional storage area under the front armrest, too. The glovebox is of average size, but there is an added benefit of a longer and narrower compartment that sits above and fits flush in the dashboard.
Interior space is impressive with loads of room in the second row, with tonnes of head, knee and legroom as well as a completely flat floor. In the third row, although space will be acceptable for short journeys, the high floor means that taller passengers will find their knees are almost around their elbows – however they do get their own air-conditioning controls, USB-C ports and 12v sockets.
Boot space is where the Santa Fe shines. Our test car came with seven seats and with all the seats in place, the total capacity stands at 413 litres. However, fold the third row down and that extends to an impressive 628 litres. If you continue to fold the second row down to turn your car into a van, that space almost triples to 1,949 litres – making the Hyundai one of the most practical cars in its class.
What’s the spec like?
(Hyundai)
The Santa Fe spec levels are generous no matter what version you go for. There are three trim levels to choose from including Premium, Ultimate and Calligraphy.
The range kicks off at £46,775 for the Premium and features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, heated front seats and an electric tailgate.
We are driving the top-of-the-line Calligraphy which starts at £52,775 and adds touches like nappa leather interior and 20-inch black alloy wheels.
All plug-in hybrid models come with four-wheel-drive as standard, while hybrid cars have the choice of a two-wheel-drive option as well.
Verdict
Hyundai has taken a risk with the new Santa Fe and it has certainly paid off. Its looks will not be to everyone’s liking but, scratch behind its marmite exterior and what lies beneath is a car that is excellent to drive, has a very well-thought-out cabin and is incredibly versatile and flexible in its seating arrangements. Added to that is an efficient array of hybrid powertrains and you’ve got a car that will suit your family’s needs without breaking the bank to run.
The new Santa Fe is a tough act to follow and other car manufacturers should be worried as Hyundai has just upped the game even further.
Facts at a glance
Model as tested: Hyundai Santa Fe 1.6T Hybrid Calligraphy
The bZ4X is a new breed for the Japanese firm and is built in conjunction with Subaru, but is it any good? Cameron Richards finds out.
What is it?
(Toyota)
The acronym bZ4X stands for ‘Beyond Zero four X (Crossover) and it’s Toyota’s first swing into the global battery electric car market.
Underneath its skin, you’ll find the same platform and mechanicals as the Subaru Solterra SUV.
This new model is competing in the forever-expanding world of electric crossovers, but is the firm too late to join the overcrowded party? Let’s find out.
What’s new?
(Toyota)
It’s not an uncommon site these days for a car manufacturer to introduce an EV into the SUV market. However, the bZ4X is a completely new model to join the Toyota line-up.
Its chassis, body, interior, drivetrain and electric platform are new, with the car being the first chapter into the Japanese giant’s route into its decarbonisation plan with electric, hybrid and hydrogen technology.
It may be the first global electric car for Toyota, but, rewind back to the late 90s and early 2010s, and the firm produced electric versions of the first and third generations of RAV4 that were sold exclusively in California – so it isn’t entirely new territory.
What’s under the bonnet?
(Toyota)
We’re testing the entry-level Pure model which features a 71.4kWh battery pack and is front-wheel-drive.
The electric motor produces a total of 207bhp and 266Nm of torque. In terms of acceleration, this big SUV can do 0-60mph in 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 99mph.
With the electric range, our test car can do a claimed 270 miles between trips to the plug and DC rapid charging is compatible, taking around half an hour to go from 10 to 80 per cent when you’re connected to a suitably rapid charger. Slower AC charging from a wallbox at home will take around 9.5 hours to 100 per cent fully charge the bZ4X.
What’s it like to drive?
(Toyota)
Out on the road, the Toyota doesn’t do anything special. In fact, the bZ4X is more of a car to just do the basics of carrying people around with no frills or perks.
Driver engagement is not the car’s ethos, but at least it’s not trying to be something that it’s not. As it weighs nearly two tonnes it feels heavy when behind the wheel, and while the steering is adequate enough, its numb feel and lack of communication don’t inspire confidence around the twisty bits of road.
At higher speeds, there is a lot of wind and road noise that enters the cabin and the visibility out of the back isn’t great due to the thick rear pillars and the lack of a rear windscreen wiper which makes it especially hard to see out of when the rear hatch is covered in rainwater.
On a more positive note, our test car has been achieving an impressive 5.3 miles per kilowatt and the ride isn’t too uncomfortable, which makes the car more relaxing over longer distances. However, rivals like the Renault Scenic E-Tech do drive better and are better sound insulated.
How does it look?
(Toyota)
At first glance, the bZ4X looks just like its twin sister, the Solterra. Its plastic wheel arches and swooping back window make it look bold and different, to say the least.
The smoothed-off front grille and LED headlights make the car look modern and clean without being too brash and offensive. However, our test car’s Dark blue paintwork is a little conservative.
What’s it like inside?
(Toyota)
The first thing that captures your eye is the aeronautical-styled instrument binnacle, which looks great on the face of it, but depending on your height and seat position, it can be obscured by the steering wheel.
Materials used throughout the interior let the bZ4X down by being cheap and nasty to the touch, and don’t reflect in the £43,000 asking price either.
Storage throughout is good, but what is particularly odd is that there is no glove compartment. Instead, it’s replaced by a large cut-out located under the centre console which means that all your personal belongings will be on show. Large door bins and a very deep storage bin located under the centre armrest though make up for this.
However, step in the back and things improve. The space is vast with tonnes of leg and knee room and an almost flat floor makes it easier for three to sit abreast in the back – it’s just a shame that you can’t slide your feet underneath the front seats to really stretch out, but there’s no denying it’s one of the best in class for rear seat passengers.
Boot space is decent enough at 452 litres, but it trails behind rivals such as the Skoda Enyaq’s 585 litres. Thankfully, there is virtually no load lip and the Toyota’s rear seats fold almost completely flat which makes it a doodle to slide those longer items to the back and the space itself is very square-shaped and usable, too.
What’s the spec like?
(Toyota)
You can get the bZ4X in three flavours, Pure, Motion and Vision – and no matter what version you opt for, they’re all well-equipped.
Our test car is the entry-level, front-wheel-drive Pure model and is priced at £42,860. It comes as standard with an efficiency-boosting heat pump, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, keyless entry and start as well as 18-inch alloy wheels.
The flagship Vision comes in at £48,810 and features 20-inch alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
Both mid-spec and top-spec models are available with an all-wheel-drive option as well.
Verdict
Toyota may be late to the party with its BEVs but it’s certainly not with its electrified powertrains.
The bZ4X is one of those cars that doesn’t stand out in any particular area, but it does the job as a car and it doesn’t pretend or try to be something that it’s not. There are rivals that have a more engaging driving experience, have a higher quality feeling interior and look prettier.
However, the Toyota’s excellent interior space and usable boot mean it’s one of the more practical electric SUVs on the market, and with a standard heat pump and a decent electric range of nearly 300 miles on a single charge, that could easily tempt buyers away from its European rivals.
Last week saw me jump behind the wheel of two mud-plugging SUVs, the Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Defender.
Up until last week, I had never been off-roading before. But, Land Rover UK invited me up to its Eastnor driving experience centre to test out some of the go-anywhere technology fitted to its vehicles to see just what it’s like to tackle difficult conditions in a four-wheel-drive.
When you’re offered to go mud-plugging in some of the world’s most capable off-road vehicles you never turn the opportunity down, and for me, it would be a first-time experience too.
Land Rover was showing off its latest collection of driving modes when it comes to the wet, rough and wild stuff. This included Wade control and Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control or AOCC.
For the first stint, I got behind the wheel of a Range Rover Sport P510e First Edition. I would be driving through the rutted and narrow forest route first. It consisted of steep grass slopes, bumpy terrains and muddy tracks. As we entered the wilderness, I was a little nervous as it was all new territory for me.
As I drove onto the gravel track with a steep incline, the Sport was in its gravel terrain response setting. The system maximises the traction control, increases the suspension to improve ground clearance and improves the throttle response. The car performed faultlessly as though it was born to do this type of driving with everything feeling very composed, quiet and effortlessly achieved.
The first course consisted of rough terrain and muddy tracks. (Martin Domeney)
My instructor, Clarky, was sitting in the front passenger seat and was there to give us a guide on how the latest technology worked. The first of the new additions was the car’s rear-wheel steering, which essentially means the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front ones enabling a turning circle of 11 metres – the same as the Volkswagen Golf. This improves manoeuvrability for on and off-road use and takes the strain out of any awkward encounters a big vehicle such as a Range Rover may find.
AOCC stands for Adaptive Off-road Cruise Control. (Martin Domeney)
As I drove onto the grass hills and fields, it was the perfect opportunity to see how the AOCC worked. Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control is engaged via the steering wheel controls. The system senses ground conditions and automatically fine-tunes the speed of the vehicle to maintain stability, control and comfort – depending on which of the comfort levels has been selected. It uses multiple algorithms to sense and detect the terrain and vehicle movements such as body tilt, roll and pitch. The comfort levels are selected by using the same buttons on the steering wheel that operate the Adaptive Cruise Control. Once you’ve selected the speed of the vehicle and comfort level, the driver can focus on steering the vehicle, with the cruise control consistently monitoring the terrain and gradients.
If the vehicle is put into its highest comfort mode, the car will go slower to maintain a smooth and composed off-road experience. However, lower the comfort and the system will increase the speed closer to the set preference the driver has made on the AOCC.
The Defender can wade through water of up to 900mm when fitted with air suspension. (PA)
I then jumped into a Land Rover Defender with another instructor, Meg. We drove over to the other side of the course for some wading in water. This was to test the firm’s latest Wade mode and sensing technology that was first introduced in 2020. I started off driving through a river that turned out to be a fairly deep stream, but thanks to air suspension fitted to my particular Defender – enabling a maximum wading depth of up to 900mm – this didn’t prove an issue in the slightest.
How the system works is by softening the throttle response and setting the heating and ventilation to recirculate air. It also turns off the start-stop function, locks the driveline and adjusts the ride height. The Wade sensing can be activated and deactivated using terrain response. The exterior heating vents are closed off to prevent water ingress and our car fitted with air suspension automatically lifts the ride height to its off-road setting.
As I drive into the water, I can hear a slight trickling surrounding the car making me even more cautious and slowing my speed down. As I gingerly manoeuvre the Defender around the tight river, there were moments where I thought the water was going to make its way into the cabin, but the car behaved brilliantly and with the technology you also get a warning chime a bit like a parking sensor to tell you when the wading depth is getting too high – which is good to know from my point of view.
After I de-select the system it gently applies and wipes the brakes to make sure the stopping power is still at its best for the next application.
Both cars I drove were plug-in hybrids that have battery packs on board, however, what I wanted to know is if there were any additional changes between Land Rover’s of yesteryear and the modern counterparts of today with the firm’s latest off-road technology.
The PA news agency spoke to Mike Smith, project manager for JLR off-road development and he said: “Predominantly the technology across the two is the same. The advantage you have with a PHEV is you have the option of going with the machine only, so you can drive just on the electric motor that’s in the transmission. What that ultimately gives is when we think about Range Rover as it stands at the moment, the vast majority can be done with the engine off – which is a really nice thing to do as it’s really quiet and relaxing.”
Additionally, he spoke about the development of these new technologies and what goes into them to make the Land Rover brand top of the class when it comes to off-roading, he said: “There is a huge amount of people at JLR who will be involved in how all the technology comes together. We would start off with the concept, then look at the enhancement we would like to offer the customer and then that has to go through a proof of concept. Is it feasible? What does it offer the customer and what is the benefit?”
He added: “Once all that’s done we then have to look at how do we get that into a car? What technology do we need, what sensors and what feedback from the car to be able to make it effective? And then we start talking about the product of where it is going to work, but in that process, there could be anything from 10 to 100 people all having to play a part on where the technology needs to be.”
Overall, my first time driving on the rough stuff has been an enjoyable and memorable experience. The engineers at Land Rover really know how to develop a car that can cope with any abuse that is thrown at it, and with its latest AOCC and Wade Technology, I’m looking forward to the future of what the brand has to offer next.
