Ford has brought back one of its most iconic nameplates in its history and stuck it on its latest SUV.
When Ford took the covers off its latest electric Capri, it sparked controversy through its use of a classic nameplate which has remained well thought-of among motoring enthusiasts since the original car’s introduction in the late 1960s.
SUVs are now one of the most profitable sectors in the automotive industry, and Ford is focusing on bringing back some of its iconic names and modernising them into the electrified era.
Its design is new with a coupe-esque rear end and blacked-out A-pillars. It rivals cars such as the Swedish Polestar 2 EV, which also has a similar rakish back-end and is an electric SUV.
But, with more and more SUVs dominating the new car market, is it a case that car designers are finding it harder to make their cars stand out from an already overcrowded market?
The Capri badge was last seen on a Ford in 1987. (Ford)
The PA news agency sat down with Murat Gueler, chief designer of the new Ford Capri about the car, he said: “Every designer wants to make something special, with this Polestar connection I think it mainly comes from the fact that it has a black A-pillar like the Polestar and we have this little bustle back at the rear that might remind certain people.’
“But, when we were designing it we didn’t have the Polestar in mind. Basically, it was all functional, for example the bustle back design of the Capri resulted purely from aerodynamic requirements and the black A-pillar design complements the graphics of this C-shape really nicely.
“These two things, I can understand why people can see these similarities, but at the same time in terms of proportions it’s a very different vehicle. For example, there is almost a 10cm difference in the roof height, and the Polestar is a very compressed package whereas our car is a lot bigger and higher. If there are any similarities, they are driven by function and aerodynamics.”
The new Capri sits on the same Volkswagen MEB platform as the Ford Explorer and features a variety of different battery packs including 77kWh or 79kWh units. Next year, there will be an entry-level 52kWh that joins the range as well.
Prices start at £42,075 for the base model and rise to £46,175 for the top-of-the-line version.
Order books for the hot Veloce electric model are now open with the firm adding to the mix with a petrol-electric version, too.
Alfa Romeo has revealed that its petrol-electric version of the Junior will be coming to the UK, alongside order books opening for the hot Veloce electric model.
Badged Junior ‘Ibrida’, the hybrid car will come fitted with a 48V 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine – the same you’ll find in the Vauxhall Mokka, Peugeot 2008 and Jeep Avenger.
In terms of power and performance, it produces a total of 134bhp and 345Nm of torque, while 0-60mph takes 8.7 seconds. The power is sent through to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Veloce is priced at £42,295. (Alfa Romeo)
Meanwhile, the hot Veloce Junior EV has gone on sale here in the UK, which features a 54kWh battery pack and a 276bhp electric motor that gives out the same torque figures as the hybrid model at 345Nm. The Italian firm claims the car has a range of up to 215 miles and it can be topped up using a 100kW DC rapid charger from 20 to 80 per cent in less than half an hour.
Prices start at £42,295 for the Veloce and the car will join the £33,895 Elettrica and £35,695 Speciale in the range. Meanwhile the hybrid ‘Ibrida’ will go on sale in the UK in 2025 – with prices and specifications to be revealed at a later date.
The concept will make its debut at the LA Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November and shows what the next Nexo SUV could look like.
Hyundai has revealed its latest concept car, the Initium, which could become the next Nexo hydrogen SUV.
The concept previews a new hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle that Hyundai plans to unveil in the first half of next year. The Initium uses the firm’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language which Hyundai says gives a more sturdy and sophisticated appearance.
Its exterior design incorporates 21-inch alloy wheels, camera door mirrors, flush door handles, a triangular rear quarter light and a very large roof rack. Meanwhile, the back features a full-length light bar and square LED brake lights.
The car incorporates Hyundai’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language. (Hyundai)
In terms of range, Hyundai claims that the Initium can do up to 403 miles between fill-ups, and that the electric motor produces 201bhp. Furthermore, the battery on-board features vehicle-to-load – or ‘V2L’ – to allow various household appliances and personal devices to be charged via the car’s battery.
Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said: “Hyundai Motor’s clear, unwavering commitment to hydrogen over the past 27 years is rooted in our belief in its potential as a clean, accessible and therefore a fair energy source for everyone. We are dedicated to pioneering a future where hydrogen is used by everyone, in everything, and everywhere. We invite you to join us on this journey.”
The Initium will make its debut at the LA Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November.
It’s unclear at this stage whether Hyundai will bring the production version of the Initium to the UK, however with the country’s limited hydrogen infrastructure and very low Nexo sales, it seems unlikely.
The Swedish firm’s flagship combustion SUV has received some heavy updates to keep it looking fresh.
Volvo has announced pricing and specifications for its updated XC90 seven-seat SUV.
Under the bonnet, there is a choice of two different powertrains. The first is an all-wheel-drive T8 petrol-electric plug-in hybrid that Volvo claims can do up to 44 miles on battery power alone – while the battery can be charged from empty to full in three hours. The engine produces 314bhp alongside a 147bhp electric motor to give a total power output of 449bhp. Acceleration stands at 0-60mph in 5.2 seconds. The second option is a mild-hybrid petrol engine that offers 253bhp and does 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds.
Prices start at £63,790. (Volvo)
In terms of trim levels, Volvo is offering the new XC90 in three different guises. The entry-level Core comes equipped with four-zone climate control, heated front, middle and outer-rear seats, 20-inch alloy wheels and an 11.2-inch touchscreen system with Google Built-in.
Move up to the Plus and it boasts adaptive dampers with electronic air suspension and a 13-speaker 600w Harman Kardon premium sound system.
The new XC90 will be available in three different trim levels. (Volvo)
The flagship Ultra adds features such as 21-inch alloy wheels, laminated glass, a 1400w Bowers and Wilkins 18-speaker audio system, rear privacy glass and massaging front seats.
Prices start at £63,790 for the mild-hybrid Core version and rise to £84,150 for the Ultra T8 plug-in hybrid with all-wheel-drive. Order books are open now with the first customers receiving their cars early next year.
The team at Callum design and engineering has done thousands of modifications to allow the supercar to finally hit the road 9 years after its debut.
The ill-fated Jaguar C-X75 which once played a starring role in the James Bond movie Spectre but failed to make it to public sale has been reinvented as a new road-going model.
Originally created in 2010, the C-X75 was driven by Bond’s nemesis Hinx – played by Dave Bautista – in the hit movie. However, though the Jaguar was slated to head on to general sale, it was cancelled in a later stage of creation.
Now though, it has now been brought back to life by its original creator. Designer Ian Callum – creator of the self-named design and engineering business and the person behind the original C-X75 – has reinvented the Jaguar supercar in road-ready form.
The exterior is now finished off in Willow green. (Callum)
Using thousands of modifications to allow for individual vehicle certification, the car numbered 001 has undergone a re-engineered drivetrain, active aero and a new interior which improves the driving experience.
Under the bonnet is a supercharged V8 petrol engine that now is linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The gear changes have been made more responsive and the exhaust system has been tuned for a better soundtrack.
Its exterior design looks almost identical to the car used in the James Bond movie, but if you look closer you’ll find that the panel alignments have been improved and the car is now finished off in Willow green paintwork. There are brushed aluminium window surrounds, carbon fibre quarter lights, intakes and diffuser, too.
The interior has been enhanced with a new digital instrument cluster and centre console. (Callum)
Inside is where there are more visual changes compared to the stunt car. There is a blend of dark green and cream materials, as well as a digital instrument cluster and a roof-mounted console which includes the starter button. Also, there is a new centre console with three rotary controls all angled towards the driver – each with integrated touchscreens. Plus, there is a digital rear-view mirror, and an electronic parking brake integrated with the transmission.
Callum said: “The C-X75 was the one that got away – a car brimming with unfulfilled potential. We’ve combined the customer’s wishes with carefully engineered solutions to bring C-X75 to the thoroughly satisfying conclusion it always deserved.”
Unfortunately, this commission is only a one-off and there is no indication of any price at this stage, either.
The B-Segment SUV market is booming, and Mini has just launched its Aceman out into the wild to rival the likes of the Volvo EX30. Cameron Richards finds out more.
What is it?
The Aceman is the first Mini to be sold as a pure EV. (Mini)
Ever since the original BMW Mini was launched back in 2001, the firm has grown into a premium sub-brand of the German car manufacturer and produces some of the most entertaining and quirky cars on sale today.
The new electric-only Aceman arrives to sit between the Cooper hatchback and Countryman, rivalling the likes Volvo’s EX30 and the Jeep Avenger in the fiercely competitive B-segment SUV class. But, does this new Mini have what it takes to climb to the top of the class? We’ve been finding out.
What’s new?
Sustainability is the key focus with the new Aceman. (Mini)
Mini is focusing on an electric future and it has an ambitious target to become an EV-only vehicle manufacturer by 2030. The Aceman is the first model in the firm’s lineup to be sold exclusively as an electric vehicle with no hybrid or piston-powered version on offer.
It features an eco-conscious interior with a lot of recycled materials used throughout as well as using Mini’s latest 9.5-inch OLED display screen. Furthermore, new features such as the Mini app allow you to lock or unlock, charging progress and electric range all controlled by your smartphone.
What’s under the bonnet?
There are two battery packs available. (Mini)
There is a choice of two powertrains for the new Mini Aceman, held underneath slightly different badging to make differentiating between the pair easier.
The base ‘E’ comes with a 42.8kWh battery pack and brings an electric motor that produces a combined 186bhp and 290Nm of torque. It also has a claimed electric range of 192 miles and a top speed of 99mph.
We’re driving the more powerful ‘SE’ version that incorporates a larger 54.2kWh battery pack – lifting range to 252 miles as a result – while 221bhp and 330Nm of torque means 0-60mph takes 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 105mph.
What’s it like to drive?
Been out driving the new Mini Aceman in Copenhagen today. Driving impressions will be revealed on October 29th. pic.twitter.com/HDR85ZQjqJ
The cliche from Minis of yesteryear that ‘it handles like a go-kart’ may have been pushed to extremes recently, but nevertheless, this Aceman is a great car to drive. Its steering is neat and precise and it holds onto the road very well. Our test car has larger 18-inch alloy wheels, but even so, the ride is not compromised at all – with only the larger imperfections being noticed when driving. It’s also refined and sits on the motorway very comfortably, too.
Visibility is excellent thanks to the large C-pillar cut-out windows, and driving around town is a doddle thanks to its smaller proportions.
The most irritating thing on the move is the odd spaceship-esque noise that sounds through the cabin – but at least you can turn that off. Furthermore, the infotainment screen is a little fiddly to operate on the move with its clumsy interface and small shortcut buttons.
There are seven different driving modes, but our favourite is ‘go-kart’ mode which sharpens the throttle and steering response to make the driving experience even more engaging.
How does it look?
The Aceman doesn’t look too dissimilar to its smaller and larger siblings. (Mini)
From any angle, the Aceman is distinctively a Mini. The front incorporates the traditional hexagonal front grille and the side profile features flush door handles and rugged looking wheel arch covers and lower body mouldings. At the back, there are the Union Jack-wearing rear tail lights, though drivers can customise these in up to three different light designs that can be controlled by the car’s infotainment screen.
Overall, the design looks between a Cooper hatch that’s been to the gym and the bigger Countryman that’s lost some weight, and even though that might sound like an odd combination, the design works. The Aceman is a great-looking small family SUV – to our eyes, at least.
What’s it like inside?
The interior features a 2D knitted dashboard, which is also made from recyclable materials. (Mini)
Inside, it’s business as usual for Mini. Sustainability is what the brand is focusing on with a 2D knitted fabric effect on the dashboard and door cards, and this material even finds its way into certain cubby holes, too. The standard 9.5-inch OLED circular touchscreen is clear and gives the interior that distinct identity, and there are plenty of storage areas such as cupholders, door bins and an average-sized glove box to keep personal belongings.
The quality of the interior does feel cheap in some places, but thankfully the knitted fabric masks that to make the cabin feel more premium. Step in the back and there is sufficient room for occupants, however, our test car has the optional glass panoramic roof which does eat into headspace somewhat.
The boot space stands at 300 litres with the seats in place but that extends to 1,005 litres with them folded down – which is slightly smaller than a Volvo EX30 and even more so than a Jeep Avenger. The rear seats also don’t lie flat – however, there is some underfloor storage for hiding your charging cables, though.
What’s the spec like?
The toggle switches remain the same with seven different drive modes. (Mini)
Mini likes to keep things simple when it comes to customers specifying what they want, so it comes as no surprise that the Aceman is available in just three different flavours – Classic, Exclusive and Sport.
We’re driving the mid-range Exclusive with the higher-powered SE powertrain and it comes in at £39,600 and boasts features such as LED headlights, automatic climate control, DAB radio and ambient lighting.
Higher specced Sport models add equipment such as John Cooper Work front and rear bumpers, as well as side skirts and a rear roof spoiler, too.
Verdict
Minis has gained a reputation for being quirky, fun and unique – and the Aceman follows in these footsteps. Not only is it modern and fresh, but the funky interior, clever design cues and great driving dynamics give all the benefits of the standard Mini hatch, in a more practical and easier to live with package without being too large for most.
Also, with plenty of combinations for its exterior and interior, there will be a version to suit all. It’s just a shame that the infotainment system is still fiddly to use and interior quality doesn’t match our car’s £36,000 asking price, because otherwise, the Aceman is a great all-round compact crossover EV that should be given a second glance.
A legendary nameplate has made a comeback, but it’s not on a two-door coupe. So, what has Ford done? Cameron Richards finds out.
What is it?
The Capri use to be a two-door coupe. (Ford)
It feels odd in a modern era that you can buy a brand-new Ford Capri. However, it’s not arriving as quite the same model as the classic wedge-shaped muscle car that first arrived in the early 1970s.
However, this new model has ditched the two-door coupe market entirely and instead headed down the electric SUV route with the Skoda Enyaq Coupe and Cupra Tavascan set in its sights.
Although that might upset a lot of the Blue Oval enthusiasts – to others it simply won’t matter. What we want to know is – is it any good?
What’s new?
The Capri shares the same Volkswagen MEB Platform as in the Explorer. (Ford)
Underneath its skin, you’ll find the same underpinnings as on the larger Ford Explorer which sits on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform and even uses batteries from the German giant as well.
It means the Capri is the same car underneath as some of its main rivals, the Skoda Enyaq Coupe, Audi Q6 e-tron and Volkswagen ID.5.
However, if you take a closer look at the car, you’ll notice some borrowed parts from its larger brother – the Explorer. Both cars share the same bonnet, doors and front wings, but the rest of the car is a bespoke design.
What’s under the bonnet?
There is a 77kWh or 79kWh battery pack on offer from launch. (Ford)
There will be a choice of three different battery packs from launch. The standard range will be launched next year and comes equipped with a 52kWh unit with power being sent to the rear via a single motor. Ford hasn’t revealed an exact electric range but it’s expected to be around 250 miles, but the electric motor on board produces 168bhp.
Then there’s the option of either an extended range 77kWh battery version with a single motor and a 79kWh unit with all-wheel-drive.
The former comes with an electric motor that produces 282bhp and 545Nm of torque. Ford claims this version can do up to 390 miles between charge-ups. It has a charging speed of up to 135kW – taking the car from 20 to 80 per cent in 37 minutes.
The latter has a slightly smaller range of up to 348 miles but power increases to 335bhp and 679Nm of torque. Meanwhile this version can also charge at a speed of 185kW – taking the car from a 10 to 80 per cent top up in 26 minutes.
What’s it like to drive?
Been out in Marseille driving the new Ford Capri. Can’t reveal what it’s like until October 29th. pic.twitter.com/m1fya9Uaox
It’s always very challenging for a car manufacturer to make a high-riding SUV that also is engaging and composed. The Capri won’t feel as special or dynamic as the model from yesteryear, but if you forget the legacy behind its name and look at it from a completely different perspective, the Capri isn’t bad at all.
To drive, the car corners well with not too much body roll and the steering doesn’t have too much artificial assistance. It’s also very quiet and refined at speeds, plus the drivetrain is smooth and has decent performance. We’re testing both the rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models and the former has a superb turning circle – due to the lack of motors on the front axle, but the latter has more power and extra grip when cornering hard.
However, the brake pedal does feel spongy and doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence, and the thick A-pillars and narrow back window restricts visibility both when reversing and driving forward.
How does it look?
The Capri looks from some angles like a Polestar 2. (Ford)
Compared to the Capri of the 60s, 70s and 80s this new car couldn’t be any more different. From some angles, you could mistake it for a Polestar 2 and while some might see that as a bad thing, the Swedish EV isn’t exactly an ugly car.
This new Ford features blacked-out A-pillars and a kick-up rear window and quarter light. Meanwhile, at the front, the headlights include quad LED daytime running lights and engraved model-specific lettering on the front bumper.
At the rear, there is more of a coupe saloon look with a booted tailgate and lack of rear windscreen wiper. Plus, the lower bumper is finished off in gloss black and here the model-specific lettering continues. Overall, the new Capri will be one of those cars that divides opinion when it comes to looks.
What’s it like inside?
The interior is almost identical to the Explorer. (Ford)
It’s no surprise that when you take a first glance at the interior of the Capri, you’ll find it vastly similar to the Explorer. That means it features the same 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen which also adjusts to reveal a nifty storage compartment, and there is what Ford calls the ‘Mega Box’ which is a 17-litre storage area under the centre armrest. Furthermore, there is a cut-out tucked under the centre console, as well. The standard Soundbar mounted on top of the dash is a nice touch.
But, take a closer look and like its sibling, you’ll find Volkswagen Group buttons on the steering wheel as well as on the doors. They’re fiddly to use on the move. Plus, the interior quality isn’t the best with a lot of hard plastics and the door cards feature a light grey material which looks like it will age badly and stain relatively easily.
Space in the back is relatively impressive for a car with a rather swooping roofline. Leg room and knee room are excellent. However, sit up straight and average-sized adults will hit their heads on the roof of the tailgate.
Open the boot and you’ll be greeted with 572 litres of space, plus there is underfloor storage. Fold the back seats down – which lie flat, and it transforms into 1,510 litres. That means the Capri is on par with its rivals Skoda and Volkswagen and has a much more usable room than a Polestar 2 and Peugeot e-3008.
What’s the spec like?
All cars come with a Soundbar located on the dashboard. (Ford)
The UK will be getting just two different flavours of Capri – Select and Premium.
The range kicks off at £42,075 for the base model, but the equipment is generous, to say the least with all cars coming with keyless entry and start, a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors and a seven-speaker sound system including a Soundbar.
We’re driving the Premium at £46,175 and its specification is enhanced through the fitment of 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, LED ambient lighting, a powered tailgate and a 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. This makes it better value for money than some of its rivals such as the Skoda Enyaq Coupe.
Verdict
The people who are going to buy the Ford Capri will have no connection to the old classic coupe. It’s only the die-hard Ford fans that will show any kind of concern as to whether this car should be labelled with the iconic name.
Despite that, if you take into account its decent equipment levels and pleasant driving dynamics then the Capri is a more than acceptable choice. But, with its cheap-feeling interior, fiddly buttons and its closeness to the Explorer, we can’t help but think it’s just another electric SUV that doesn’t really have any USP.
The firm launched its first hybrid car, the Insight, back in 1999 and ever since has been perfecting the technology in its latest road cars.
Honda is celebrating 25 years of hybrid technology by creating a one-off Civic in the world’s ‘most silver’ paint.
The paint job was specially made by colour artist and colour champion, Stuart Semple. He’s the inventor of the world’s silveriest silver, pinkest pink, goldest gold and blackest black.
To make the unique colour for the Civic, a total of 64 per cent real silver flakes and pigments are blended together. Then, the paint can be smoothly applied to any surface and gives off an appearance of solid gold or silver metals. After the paint was made up, it was taken to Syrup Room in Bournemouth, Dorset, where the Civic began its hybrid jubilee makeover.
The original Insight was launched in September 1999. (Honda)
Nik Pearson, from Honda Motor Europe, said: “Honda’s hybrid know-how is unmatched in the industry. In 1999 we set about building the world’s most fuel-efficient car, the revolutionary Insight, which was the first petrol-electric hybrid car in Europe.
“Today we offer a fully electrified model range, the majority of which feature our innovative e:HEV powertrain. It’s for these reasons we’ve marked 25 years of hybrid technology with the ultimate silver anniversary gift, the Silveriest Civic.”
Honda not only offers a full range of hybrid vehicles in its range but new models such as the sporty Prelude coupe are set to return next year with a petrol-electric powertrain. But, driver enjoyment won’t be lost as it’s said to be offered with a manual gearbox – showing that the Japanese firm will offer an eclectic mix of old-school and cutting-edge technology.
As we approach the colder months and ice and snow come into effect, four-wheel-drive SUVs begin to make perfect sense.
The clocks have changed and the shorter days and longer nights are firmly with us. Though temperatures have remained quite mild up until this point, things will likely get significantly colder as we move towards the end of the year.
That means more ice on the roads and the chance of snow in certain areas. Both of these situations can be helped by a proper four-wheel-drive SUV, which brings improved traction and can travel over difficult surfaces more easily than a ‘normal’ car.
If you’re on a budget, and you live in an area where winter months can make it difficult for you to commute or simply drive around, we’ve picked the best winter-ready SUVs on the used market.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser is one of the most toughest and dependable off-roaders in the world. (Toyota)
One of the most reliable, dependable and strongest cars ever to drive on this earth is the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser.
For £10,000, you’ll be looking at an example with just under 100,000 miles – which for a Land Cruiser is still in its running-in period and will be a 120 series, which ran from 2002 to 2009.
It comes with a 3.0-litre diesel or 4.6-litre V6 petrol engine, while in terms of reliability, these engines were built to last and suffer from very few mechanical issues.
The Land Cruiser is also excellent off-road and can seat up to seven people with loads of room inside, too. There is no wonder that drivers in uninhabitable places like the Australian outback and the deserts of the Middle East use Toyota Land Cruisers as the number one transportation choice.
Range Rover
The Range Rover is still seen as the benchmark of all the off-roaders. (Land Rover)
Just like the Land Cruiser, the Range Rover has a proven reputation over the years as a go-anywhere off-roader. The British alternative does it with more toys, comfort and refinement, however. At this price point, you can fetch yourself a late facelifted L322 model that ran from 2009 to 2012. However, we’d avoid early cars as they suffer from poor reliability. You can buy either the older 3.6 TD V8 diesel or the 4.4 TD V8 diesel which is borrowed from BMW. These later cars come with more modern technology and have a fresher, more modern look.
Off-road, the Range Rover is in a class of its own with all versions being able to climb any mountain or wade through any stream. However, what lets the Range Rover down is its reliability. When buying, check that it’s got a full service history and that all the tyres match as these are indications of how the car has been looked after. Unfortunately, electrical, mechanical and air suspension issues are common with the car and will cost a lot to rectify. So, if you want one of the best off-roaders, just make sure you can afford not just the running costs, but the repair bills, too.
Porsche Cayenne
The Cayenne was Porsche’s first SUV. (Porsche)
What is seen as the 911 of SUVs is Porsche’s Cayenne. For our budget, you’ll get a later first-generation car which ran from 2003 to 2007. Unfortunately, you’ll have to forget about the Turbo model at this price point and focus on the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel of 4.5-litre V8 petrol.
The diesel makes more economic sense as it’s a lot more frugal and cheaper to run than the V8. The Cayenne’s looks are very divisive, meaning you’re going to have to love the way it looks in order to buy one. But, if you want a fast, great-to-drive four-wheel-drive SUV with a lot of pedigree, then the Cayenne is certainly worth a look.
Volvo XC90
The XC90 has been around since 2002. (Volvo)
A much more sensible choice is the family-friendly seven-seat XC90 from Volvo. For £10,000, this will get you a first generation car which ran from 2002 all the way up until 2015.
You can find yourself a clean R-Design version with between 90,000 and 100,000 miles on the clock which comes with larger alloy wheels and a sportier overall appearance within this budget.
Plus, the XC90 comes with space for seven, four-wheel drive, a classy cabin and some of the most comfortable seats ever fitted to a car. The only issues that crop up with the XC90 of this generation are that the 2.4-litre D5 diesel is a little noisy, while this big Volvo isn’t really very engaging to drive.
Plus, injectors can fail on the diesel and gearboxes can tend to play up. But, other than those niggles, the XC90 is a very likeable and capable off-roader.
BMW X5
The X5 is one of BMW’s best SUVs. (BMW)
Still regarded as one of the best SUVs BMW has produced was its first – the X5. Not only does it drive really well, but it also has that sporty pedigree found in other models in the BMW range – just like the Porsche Cayenne. Considering the £10,000 budget, you can pick up a decent second-generation car in M Sport guise and run the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel unit, with mileage ranging from 70,000 to 100,000 miles.
The X5 isn’t the most practical car in this list, nor is it the cheapest to run, but with its more car-like nature and impressive performance and driving dynamics, it’s no wonder the X5 is still one of the benchmark SUVs. A number of recalls were issued for the second-generation car, so make sure before you buy that they have been sorted. Recalls included power steering pulleys coming loose, seat belts becoming detached, problems with the brake servo and brake discs cracking and failing.
Dacia Duster
The Duster is one of the best budget off-roaders on the market. (Dacia)
If you think that these big four-wheel-drive SUVs are a little old, then the Dacia Duster may be the answer to all your prayers. Plenty on the used market sit beneath the £10,000 threshold. Not only can you get the Duster with four-wheel-drive, but you can get a relatively highly-specced 2019 Comfort model that gives you all the toys that you need.
For sure, it doesn’t carry the prestige or pedigree as some of the cars on this list, but it certainly is one of the most sensible choices. The interior isn’t the most luxurious and the driving experience is only average – but if you want value for money, then the Duster should certainly be taken seriously. Kitted out with a set of winter tyres, the Duster will give all the others on this list a run for their money off-road, too.
The sporty variant of the practical five-door hatchback will be the firm’s most powerful model yet and will sit alongside the smaller 500e.
Abarth has announced prices and specifications for its upcoming 600e.
There will be two versions on offer, 600e and Scorpionissma. Both come with the same 54kWh battery pack. The former, however, gets an electric motor that produces a total power output of 235bhp and 345Nm of torque – while 0-60mph is dispatched in six seconds. The latter comes with a more powerful electric motor that produces 277bhp, but torque figures are the same as the standard car, while its 0-60mph is reduced to 5.7 seconds. Both cars have a top speed of 124mph.
In terms of range, both versions can do a claimed 207 miles between charge-ups, although Abarth hasn’t revealed charging speeds and compatibility at this stage.
The exterior includes 20-inch alloy wheels and lowered sports suspension. (Abarth)
The exterior design utilises models from the past with the squared-off front radiator grille design taken from the old 850 TC. Also, at the front, the ‘shark nose’ improves aerodynamics and the suspension has been lowered by 30mm at the front and 25mm at the back to improve cornering and give the whole car a lower centre of gravity.
The rear features a roof spoiler and squared-off rear bumper which incorporates an engraved Abarth logo. There are 20-inch alloy wheels and Abarth graphics plastered down the side profile.
The Scorpionissima variant will be limited to just 1,949 units. (Abarth)
Inside, there is a sports steering wheel with leather and Alcantara inserts, plus a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Also, there are aluminium pedals, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and Abarth kick plates. Meanwhile, the seats differ depending on which model you choose with the standard car featuring a Scorpionflage – a distinct seat pattern with the scorpion logo. But, the limited Scorpionissima gets sportier Sabelt seats with Alcantara and integrated headrests.
Prices start at £36,965 for the standard 600e and rise to £41,975 for the Scorpionissima version – which will be limited to just 1,949 units. Order books will open in mid-November.
