Author: Jack Evans

What is it?

Here it is – the all-new Ford Fiesta ST. Following on from a model which set the hot-hatch segment alight, this latest version is designed to be more grown up but just as exciting to drive as that iconic original. Based on the updated Fiesta, the ST needs to do a lot to live up to the reputation set by its forebear, while fending off competition from some serious rivals. We hit Nice’s country roads to find out if it this latest ST can regain its place at the top of the hot-hatch pecking order.

What’s new?

There’s a lot going on here to make this latest Fiesta ST as competitive as possible, yet easy to live with on a daily basis. From the outside, you’d do well to distinguish this performance model from the more mundane yet sportily-styled X-Line version. The main things to look out for are the redesigned bumpers and larger alloy wheels.

In short, it manages just what the old car did – to appear special enough, but not go overboard into the big wings and flared arches territory. Some may think that’s a shame; we think it’s well judged and makes the ST more appealing to a wider audience.

What’s under the bonnet?

The new Fiesta ST has dropped a cylinder compared to the older car, with a 1.5-litre three-banger now under the bonnet rather than a 1.6-litre four-cylinder. Economy is the name of the game, after all, and a smaller capacity engine is designed to deliver better efficiency. However, performance seekers need not despair, for the new ST still packs a pretty decent punch. The compact engine produces 197bhp and a healthy 290Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph sprint time of 6.2 seconds. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox – there’s no automatic, paddle-controlled version here.

Despite this, Ford claims that the ST will return up to 55mpg on the combined cycle, and emit just 114g/km CO2 – not bad at all for a car with this level of performance.

What’s it like to drive?

The new ST had the tricky task of living up to the reputation set by its predecessor but it has more than achieved this goal.

Though the new ST has lost a cylinder over the older car, you really don’t feel like you’re lacking in engine excitement. It revs with a keenness you don’t expect from a unit this small, and feels properly engaging at all times. The engineered exhaust pops do feel a little like overkill on occasions, but they certainly add to the drama.

The three separate driving modes do genuinely change the attitude of the car, with the steering weighting up considerably as you progress through the different settings. It takes a little getting used to, but it’s well-judged and feels more than matched to the car’s performance.

Exciting day today. Whole lot of expectation pic.twitter.com/nf17hDpmCM

— Jack Evans (@jackrober) May 10, 2018

How does it look?

The Fiesta ST is rather similar in appearance to its more conventional stablemates. Yes, there are some sportier touches to be found here and there, but overall it looks quite close to any current-generation Fiesta. However, that’s no bad thing – the regular car is sharply styled and looks fresh, so the ST is just a follow-on from this – albeit in a slightly sportier direction.

The dual-pipe exhaust at the rear does signal somewhat towards the car’s intent, while small ST badges placed in the front grille and on the boot do help to distinguish the car from the rest of the range. It’s certainly not an outrageously-styled car, but it’s just special enough to appeal to most people.

What’s it like inside?

The interior of the new ST features just enough sporty touches too, without overcooking it and making it over the top. The Recaro bucket seats are hugely supportive and have a decent level of adjustment to them. The flat-bottomed, multifunction steering wheel is just chunky enough, too.

The majority of plastics are of a good quality, and the main dashboard section looks leagues ahead of the car it replaces – this is largely down to the reduction in buttons. We might like there to be a little more emphasis put on the driving modes button (it’s mounted quite lower down and doesn’t look too different to the rest of the controls), but this really is just a minor niggle.

What’s the spec like?

Our test car came in top-spec ST-3 trim line, and this gets all the bells and whistles that you could possibly want. In this trim, you get 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, along with leather-trimmed Recaro sports seats that are heated in this instance, and you also get the all-important red brake callipers.

It’s crucial to mention that the Performance Pack can be added to ST-2 and ST-3 trim levels for £850. This adds the Quaife limited-slip differential, which is ideal for those after a slightly sharper-turn in, and more out-of-corner traction. It’s a reasonably-priced option which really does add to the capability of the car.

The Fiesta ST is also available in either three- or five-door layouts, giving customers a more practical option should the more compact version not quite fit the bill.

Yeah, it sounds pretty good too #FiestaST pic.twitter.com/AGGAdXW35g

— Jack Evans (@jackrober) May 10, 2018

Verdict

The new Fiesta ST has more than lived up to the expectations people had of it. Though it’s considerably different to the car it replaces, Ford has managed to recapture the spirit of the older model, making it just as exciting and involving to drive as the old ST. We’ll have to wait to test it out on UK soil to see how it gets on with our roads, but for the now the leading impression of this latest hot Fiesta is a wholeheartedly positive one – this is one triumphant comeback.

Facts at a glance

Model as tested: Ford Fiesta ST
Price: £18,995
Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder
Power (bhp): 197
Torque (Nm): 290
Max speed (mph): 144
0-60mph: 6.2 seconds
MPG (combined): 55
Emissions (g/km): 114

 

The British summer is just about here — the sun is coming out for its one week of the year, and now might just be the time to capitalise on that by nabbing yourself a drop-top car.

Better still, you don’t need to spend a packet in order to get that wind-in-your-hair experience, which is why we’ve picked out some of the best convertibles that you can get your hands on for under £2,000.

MG TF

This end of the market is rife with well-priced and decently specced MG TF’s. Most come with a peppy 1.8-litre engine under the bonnet, and all have a folding cloth roof. It’s still a relatively handsome looking car even now, and looks to have aged well.

We’ve found a number for well under our £2,000 budget with only (albeit tired looking) example coming in at under £500. We wouldn’t advise going for something this low priced, though if its history checks out and the car looks straight enough, then there’s no reason why it couldn’t be a decent low-cost runner.

Citroen C3 Pluriel

Okay, just bear with us on this one. The C3 Pluriel was somewhat of an oddball; designed to be five cars in one, it wasn’t hugely successful. However, this does mean that you can pick up some pretty tidy examples on the used market and though they may not have a sports car design, you still get that drop-top experience at a very low price.

Most cars get alloy wheels and air conditioning, but make sure that the folding roof is functioning correctly – this is a crucial area to check.

Mercedes SLK

We’ve stepped up a notch now. Yes, we’ll admit that buying a used Mercedes (particularly in this price bracket) can be a little bit of a minefield thanks to higher repair costs and pricier parts, but choose carefully and you can find yourself a steal.

The SLK is a case in point. You’ll likely be looking at an early 2000s model, but expect to get boatloads of equipment for the money, including electronically-adjustable seats and cruise control. However, decent servicing history is essential here – a poor maintenance record could prove costly in the future.

Toyota MR2

The little MR2 isn’t a bad idea if you’re after no-frills but involving motoring. Powered by a 1.8-litre engine it’s got plenty enough performance to excite, and its compact size makes it feel perfectly nimble out on the road.

There is a drawback, however. The MR2 lacks any real boot, so it’s not exactly the last word in practicality. That said, there are a variety of different examples available within this budget, and most are in reasonably good nick.

Mazda MX-5

It’s a bit of a no-brainer, this one. The MX-5, throughout its various incarnations, has proved to be a reliable, cheap-to-repair convertible. With fans all over the world, it’s a go-to choice for those who want a relatively involving drive coupled with compact dimensions.

Rust is an issue, particularly on early models – so keep a sharp eye out for this. However, find a clean model, and it’ll provide many miles of trouble-free motoring.

Mini Convertible

When the ‘new’ Mini first came out, it proved immensely popular – and things haven’t changed much since. When a convertible version was launched, it was snapped up consumers as a result of its cutesy styling and reasonably powerful range of engines.

These can now be picked up for well within our £2,000 budget. Make sure that the interior is straight, and listen out for strange noises from the power steering pump – these can often fail on older cars, and are costly to replace.

Saab 9-3

With Saab now a carmaker of the past, few consider its cars when looking at the used market. However, the 9-3 convertible is a great option for those wanting to go for a comfortable and spacious drop-top.

In addition, there are plenty of spare parts and components, so you should have to worry about replacing anything, despite Saab’s now defunct status.

Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet

Almost matching the Mini in the retro-styling department is this – the Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet. Most cars come comprehensively equipped, with air conditioning and alloy wheels just some of the extras you’ll find fitted to the Bug.

The arrangement of the folding cloth hood drew some criticism – mainly for the way the fabric lies strangely at the rear of the car when collapsed – but this shouldn’t put you off, as the Beetle is a decent and reliable soft-top.

BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46)

There are a lot of examples of 3 Series convertibles to be found at this budget. The most common are E46 models – though this is no bad thing, as they’re sturdy and excellent to drive. A variety of engines are available too, with even the top end straight-six models well in this price bracket.

If you’re planning on purchasing one, double check the arches as these are prone to rust. In addition, turn the steering lock to lock while travelling at low speed and listen out for any troubling knocking noises.

Audi TT Roadster

There aren’t many about in this price range, but the Audi TT Roadster is a fine option. Strong build quality, reliable engines and quirky styling mean that this soft-top still looks and feels fresh today.

Yes, at this price you’ll be looking at a high-mileage example, but providing it’s got a decent service history there’s no reason why these can’t be hassle-free convertibles.

Yes, conventional cars are all well and good, but sometimes rare, limited-edition models just tickle our fancy a little more. Ultra-sought after and therefore a little more special than ‘regular’ models these cars have consistently set the motoring world alight.

These aren’t just high-end cars, either. Some limited-edition cars have appeared at the lower end of the price range – but are still just as memorable as top-price models.

Toyota Yaris GRMN

We’re kicking things off strongly with this – the Toyota Yaris GRMN. Based on the tiny Yaris city car, the GRMN takes things in a sportier direction courtesy of beefed-up brakes, suspension and steering.

The engine is a supercharged 1.8-litre too, and this gives the little GRMN a 0-60mph time of 6.3 seconds. However, this limited-run Yaris isn’t all about power – it’s the way this thing corners which makes it quite so impressive.

Audi R8 RWS

Audi’s sports cars have traditionally utilised four-wheel-drive for the very best traction and power deployment in all manner of conditions. The RWS, however, is different. Rather than going to all corners, the V10 engine sends drive to the rear wheels only – an Audi first.

Thanks to that change, the RWS is lighter and keener to drive – and it’s restricted to just 999 units. It’s a limited-edition car, and one that really broke the mould for Audi.

BMW Z3 M Coupe

The Z3 M Coupe was a limited-edition take on BMW’s two-seater Z3. However, this breadvan-shape sports car stands out against the ‘regular’ Z3 thanks to its iconic styling and powerful engines. It first appeared with the engine from the E36 M3, before being updated with the 3.2-litre from the later E46.

It’s gone down as one of the most memorable BMWs ever made, and is a distinctly rare sight out on UK roads.

Ford Racing Puma

The Ford Racing Puma was an incredibly limited-run car, with just 500 examples produced. Underneath the bonnet is a 1.7-litre petrol with 153bhp, while the flowing bodywork featured wider arches to support larger alloys.

An impressively powerful brake system was fitted too, giving the Racing Puma a lot of stopping power – and the bright blue interior wasn’t bad, either.

BMW M3 CSL (E46)

The BMW M3 is a lightweight, more powerful version of the popular 3-Series. The E46 is easily one of the most iconic incarnations of all time, and the CSL version only builds on this reputation.

The CSL – or Coupe Sport Leichtbau or Coupe Sport Lightweight – was produced in extremely limited numbers, with just 1,400 cars rolling off the production line. It was 110kg lighter than the standard M3, thanks to its use of lightweight materials while redesigned suspension made this one of the best-handling M3s of all time.

Renault Clio Williams

The Renault Clio Williams waded into battle that was raging between hot hatches in the early Nineties, squaring up against rivals such as the Peugeot 205 GTI. Just 390 arrived in the UK, which makes the icon incredibly sought after.

The suspension borrowed components from the Clio Cup racer, and this made it as agile and corner-hungry as can be, while the bulging arches housed wider wheels wearing fatter rubber. It took the hot hatch world by storm, and remains one of the true greats.

Volkswagen Lupo GTI

The GTI moniker is one of the most recognisable in motoring, having adorned some of the all-time hot hatch greats. However, it also appeared on one slightly less-known model – the Lupo GTI. Extremely compact yet packing a 125bhp 1.6-litre engine, the Lupo GTI was, despite its small size, a fully-fledged hot hatch.

It’s now turned into somewhat of a cult classic, with prices rising each and every year. Just under 1,000 examples came to the UK – so get your hands on one while you can.

Ford Focus RS MK1

The first incarnation of the Focus proved immensely popular, offering plenty of practicality as well as a surprisingly involving drive. The RS version built on this by offering supercar-beating performance, but the base car’s decent boot and interior spaciousness.

Some 4,500 examples were produced – so it’s not the most limited car you’ll find on this list – but it’s not one you’ll see on UK roads all that often either. A turbocharged 2.0-litre engine gave the RS a 0-60mph time of 5.9 seconds, along with a top speed of 143mph.

Mercedes-AMG 300CE ‘Hammer’

What a name for a performance car – ‘Hammer’. Mercedes-AMG produced just under 30 of these V8-powered super-saloons back in the late 80s, and it went on to become one of the German manufacturer’s most iconic creations.

With around 350bhp being produced from the car’s 5.5-litre V8, the Hammer could take all four occupants in supreme comfort up to a top speed of 180mph. Incredible now, and other-worldly when it first came out.

Fiat Panda 100HP

The little Fiat Panda is best known as a reliable and nimble city car. The 100HP, however, was a more serious affair. A peppy 1.4-litre engine sent 99bhp to the front wheels, but the 100HP is more about cornering than all-out pace. Lowered suspension over the regular Panda makes this special edition incredibly good in the bends, where maintaining momentum is the name of the game.

These make for an exceptionally good used purchase but be warned – they’re being snapped up.

Ford has filed a patent for a vehicle which features an electric motorcycle integrated into it.

Referred to as a ‘multimodal transportation apparatus’ in the application to the US Patent and Trademark Office, the vehicle sees an electrically-powered motorcycle located between the driver and passenger seats.

According to the application, the ‘centre console serves to support at least one body part of a rider of the motorcycle’. In other terms, the main dashboard section of the car doubles as a handlebar for the motorcycle.

The motorcycle can then be released from the main vehicle, allowing the rider to drive away.

Ford cites that it has developed this technology to combat inner-city traffic. Drivers of these multimodal vehicles can use the car to cover the bulk of their journey, then ride the attached motorcycle when traffic becomes heavy, leaving them to cover ground in less time as a result of being able to ride through congestion.

The application also shows that the motorcycle would be accessed by lifting up the car’s bonnet and releasing the vehicle. Returning it to that position would be aided by ‘guide elements’ situated inside the car.

We’re transforming our North American lineup by 2020, going all-in on hybrids, adding more SUVs and even more standard cutting-edge tech. Learn more about what’s ahead: https://t.co/z9qOri2CZ3

— Ford Motor Company (@Ford) March 15, 2018

The American manufacturer also states that this system could be achieved by fitting the main vehicle with an engine located at the rear of the car, therefore freeing up space at the front.

One idea proposed was that the electric motor fitted to the motorcycle could be used to power the entire vehicle ‘in one operating state’. For instance, in the same way that a hybrid vehicle can run on sole electric power for a set amount of miles, so this car could use the motorcycle’s powertrain to do the same.

Of course, there is no disclosed date as to when this technology could arrive on our roads – but it gives an insight into the potential future of transportation.

Manufacturers love making special editions. Whether it’s to stir up a little bit of buzz around a single car, or simply stand out from the crowd, these weird and wonderful creations showcase what car makers can do when they let their imaginations run wild.

Here, we’ve picked out eight of the wackiest special-editions to ever have been created.

Bentley Bentayga by Mulliner Fly Fishing

The Bentley Bentayga is a decent combination of luxurious craftsmanship and go-anywhere all-wheel-drive capability. However, what if you want to take your Bentayga fly fishing, and want specific storage for rods, reels and flies?

That’s where the Fly Fishing by Mulliner edition Bentyga comes in. Fitted with bespoke rod tubes trimmed in saddle leather and a central storage station, as well as a waterproof wader stowage trunk, it’s a great option for those who want to spend time at the river, but be able to head home in the very highest luxury.

Volkswagen Golf Harlequin

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the best-selling cars of all time, and appears across the globe in a variety of different colours, specifications and bodystyles. The Harlequin, however, was something slightly out of the ordinary.

Created in 1996, the Golf Harlequin was produced for just one year. Just 264 of these colourful cars were produced, and were made as a result of the immense popularity of the smaller Polo Harlequin.

Ssangyong Korando Sports DMZ

The ‘regular’ Korando Sports proved to be somewhat of a success for South Korean-based SsangYong. The pick-up was impressive off-road, and came with a generous amount of standard equipment too.

However, the DMZ edition possessed something particularly special – camouflage paint. It either stood out from or blended into the crowd – whichever you prefer – and gave the Korando Sports a beefy, military edge. It was cleverly named, too.

Bentley Bentayga Falconry

Yes, it’s another Bentayga – but we couldn’t ignore this special edition either. Catering for what can only be a very niche pastime, the Bentayga Falconry by Mulliner features a removable ‘transportation perch’, and features a variety of trim pieces crafted from cork.

A veneer inlaid with a falcon graphic features on the car’s passenger-side trim piece, and is made up of 430 separate pieces which are painstakingly placed together by hand.

Skoda Felicia Fun

You won’t miss a Skoda Felcia Fun in a hurry. A bright yellow exterior was matched by an equally jazzy interior, with yellow accents used on the steering wheel, gearstick and even the main dials.

However, the Felicia Fun had a trick up its sleeve – the rear bulkhead could be extended to reveal two rear seats with a convertible section above, meaning four people could come along for the ride.

Rolls-Royce Wraith ‘Luminary Collection’

Rolls-Royce is certainly one for creating staggeringly impressive – and staggeringly expensive – special editions. This, the Wraith ‘Luminary Collection’, was limited to just 55 examples and uses a specially-developed ‘Sunburst Grey’ exterior paint.

Inside, the main dashboard is fitted with 176 individual LEDs, designed to resemble ‘the trailing light of a shooting star’. Which is nice, if you want stars on your dash.

DS3 Black Lezard

The DS3 is a car built on the ability to customise each and every aspect, and the Black Lezard edition is a more luxurious take on that. For instance, the Lezard design – created to mimic the look of lizard skin – is hand applied to each and every car, taking two hours per vehicle.

The interior of the car is finished in high-quality leather, and gloss black trim is used to help lift the overall look of the cabin.

Range Rover Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham

Back in 2012, Range Rover revealed a special edition version of its Evoque SUV made in partnership with Victoria Beckham. The exterior is hand-finished in matte grey paint, while the alloy wheels feature gloss black paint and rose gold detailing.

Inside, the four seats are finished in high-quality leather with contrasting white ‘baseball’ stitching. Prices at the time were almost impressively high, with the special edition coming in at a weighty £79,995.

Schoolchildren have joined forces with West Midlands Police to help launch a new range of Mercedes-Benz riot vans – with pupils from local schools giving the vehicles a range of names.

Each of the eight new Sprinter vans has been given a name – three of which are Copzilla, Optimus Crime and Zeus.

The special crime-fighting vans have been uniquely kitted out by specialist bodyshop MacNeillie. Based on the 5.0-tonne long-bodied Sprinter, the vehicles can seat up to 10 officers, and come fitted with a secure prisoner cell too.

The vehicle’s glass is reinforced, allowing it to withstand attacks, while run-flat tyres can still be driven on for over 20 miles after a puncture.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “These names are wonderful, and bring a smile to your face. When I heard all the entries I was amazed by the imagination and intelligence of our young people.

“There is a serious side to this too, though. Our new, state-of-the-art riot vans will be put to good use in helping officers to fight crime and arrest criminals.”

Each van has been fitted with uprated axles, which make them better suited to dealing with heavier cargos as a result of the additional equipment inside.

West Midlands Police ran a competition which asked local children to come up with eight names for the new vans. Once finished, officers toured local schools to visit the winning youngsters – whose selected names have been applied to the side of the vehicles.

Sergeant Andrew Edwards observed: “I have been astounded by the creativity and energy shown by the schoolchildren, as well as the support provided by their teachers, who have worked very hard with us to make this a rewarding experience.

“I am also incredibly proud of the police officers and staff who have devoted their own time to this initiative. They have certainly captured the imagination and spirit of the youngest members of the communities we serve.”

Over the years, Britain has created some wonderfully good-looking cars. Yes, some haven’t quite hit the mark, but many have worked their way into the motoring hall of fame.

We know that this list could go on forever, but we’ve hand-picked a small selection that stand out from the crowd. See if you agree with them.

Aston Martin DB10

The Aston Martin DB10 was designed for one of the coolest film characters ever – James Bond. Sleek and elegant in design, it’s given way to the current Vantage – with many design cues on the production car lifted directly from the DB10.

There isn’t a single angle that the DB10 looks bad from. It’s got some hallmark Aston design features – the large, upside-down wing grille, for one – but it’s definitely a modern car. We’d argue it’s one of the most beautiful, too.

Range Rover

The Range Rover is one of very few totally classless cars – and we don’t mean that in a bad way. In fact, what it’s capable of is appearing totally at home wherever it is – whether that’s outside a fashionable Chelsea member’s club, up to its sills in thick mud, on a country estate or cruising round some of the less reputable suburbs in the country.

It helps that it’s an incredibly capable car – class-leading off-road, pretty decent on it, and equipped with one of the most luxurious interiors on the market. The imposing styling and sky-high driving position also ensure that whenever you’re behind the wheel, you feel like the king of the road – and there’s not much higher praise than that.

Triumph Stag

James May once described the Stag as ‘the blokeiest bloke’s car ever’. That’s not to say it was objectively fantastic, as it was slow, poorly built and heinously unreliable.

However, the Stag’s long, lean lines are undeniably equal parts gorgeous and striking, with testosterone flooding out of every panel gap. Make no mistake, if the Stag was a person, it would have a hairy chest with a medallion on.

Caterham Seven

The Caterham has been around for some time now and, across the years, has changed very little in terms of design. It’s another car which has been created with lightness in mind, and in that sense, it’s very stylish indeed.

Even the widened SV chassis introduced relatively recently has the same styling as the traditional Caterham – and keeping things light is the name of the game. Its looks are created through a need to make it as sharp and agile as possible, and that certainly makes it distinctive.

Ariel Nomad

Okay, so it may not have actual styling, but the Nomad is an impressive thing to look at, simply because its looks are dictated by its function. Yes, it doesn’t have any doors and yes, the likelihood is that in the rain you will get wet, but the way the Nomad moves down the road – or any surface, for that matter – is nothing short of incredible.

It may not be one of the most ‘stylish’ cars on this list, but its looks are impressive because of its dedication to going fast.

Jaguar E-Type

We couldn’t in all good faith leave the Jaguar E-Type out of this list. It’s been voted one of the most beautiful cars ever made more times than we could count, is always one of the first mentioned whenever you’re asked for a British icon, and quite frankly it’s just stunning.

It was also surprisingly accessible, providing British drivers with one of the cheapest routes to 100mph+ motoring. Effortlessly cool, timeless, sleek, and stylish – that’s the E-Type.

Aston Martin DB9

When Aston Martin revealed the DB9 back in 2003, it kicked off a whole new generation of vehicles for the British manufacturer. Even now, the V12-powered grand tourer looks effortlessly stylish, with its raked roofline and long, swooping bonnet echoing design touches of past Astons while also moving forwards.

It became immediately desirable, and set the precedent for future Aston vehicles. Even now, with a new wave of cars coming into the market, the visual influence of the DB9 is easy to see – and that’s no bad thing at all.

Morgan Plus 8

To some, the Morgan Plus 8 may be a little olde-worlde, but its long, flowing hand-beaten bodywork laid over an aluminium and ash wood frame is an exquisite blend of old building techniques and up-to-date technology.

In a world of sharp, angular car designs dictated by modern design methods, the Plus 8 is a breath of fresh air. The interior’s styling is equally as good, with large dials and hand-stitched leather combining to create a cabin which is more of a transport to yesteryear than a conventional cockpit.

Rolls-Royce Dawn

The Rolls-Royce Phantom is all very well if you want to be whisked around in total luxury. But what if your primary goal is to see and be seen? Then you’ll need the Dawn, which is Rolls-Royce’s flagship convertible.

It’s the size of a small country but remarkably sleek, and exquisitely detailed throughout – as you’d hope for a car that costs well above the average house price in the UK. It’s also eerily silent, but put your foot down and the 563bhp V12 engine will hustle you to scary speeds in no time at all. In many ways, it’s quite magical – and definitely a car for the exhibitionist.

Mini

The Mini is easily one of the most iconic car designs of all time. Created through the need to produce a compact car with decent interior space, it’s overall architecture is all about creating room where there really shouldn’t be any. A Mini is recognisable on any road, in any country – and it’s all down to way it looks.

The ‘new’ Mini has attempted to capture some of the magic of the original, and has done well in some respects. In others, it will never be able to match the iconic first-generation car in the way it looks.

DeLorean DMC-12

The DeLorean DMC-12 was but a fleeting entry into the ever-changing world of motoring, but it certainly made an impact. Built in Northern Ireland, the DMC-12’s body was designed by Giorgetto Giugario of Ital Design, and crafted from brushed stainless steel.

Then there were the doors. The DMC-12 featured gullwing doors, giving it an even bigger visual impact when parked. Yes, the DeLorean DMC-12 was short-lived, but it’ll go down as one of the most iconic cars of all time – and easily one of the most impressive to look at.

Buying a used car can be a daunting experience. Without prior knowledge, selecting a vehicle from a list of thousands can prove to be a little overwhelming – and can prove costly if done incorrectly.

Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of the things you need to check when buying a used vehicle.

Check its history

Once you’ve picked out a car you like from the classifieds, it’s imperative that you check the car’s history. Many companies provide this service for a small fee and require just the car’s registration. You can also find out a vehicle’s MOT history via the government’s website, and this gives you an idea as to any faults the vehicle may have had, or still suffers from.

Ask questions

Before you even go anywhere near the car, give the seller a ring and ask them about it. This could save you hundreds of pounds by eliminating the need to travel and see the car if it isn’t quite right for you.

Get up close and personal

Once you get to the car, it’s time to give a thorough going over. Check that the engine isn’t warm – this could be a sign that the owner is trying to hide some mechanical faults.

Look out for rust spots on the arches – these are prone to corrosion – and check underneath the car’s sills, too.

Look under the bonnet

Of course, checking out the engine is a crucial part of the inspection process. Check the dipstick – is the oil fresh?

Also look around the oil filler cap – any white residue could potentially mean a blown head gasket, and could lead to thousands of pounds in repair bills. Make sure that you see receipts for any work that has been undertaken on the car too – this will give you a better idea about the state of its mechanicals.

Check the interior

Does the interior of the car match the mileage? If the car has a beaten-up interior but has low miles, it could mean that the vehicle has been ‘clocked’, where the car’s odometer is wound back. This is less prevalent in newer cars, but it’s worth bearing in mind.

Do the deal

If you’ve checked the car over, reviewed its history and feel happy with the overall package, then it’s time to make an offer. Don’t be afraid of pitching low – there’s a good chance that the seller could take it, saving you thousands.

Remember to keep things amicable and, above anything, don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.

The covers are off, the pictures have been taken and the mysteries have been revealed – the 2018 New York International Auto Show press days have come to a close. Of course, the vast majority of the cars featuring at the show in the Big Apple are destined to only arrive in the U.S., but there are certain vehicles that will be heading to the U.K, too.

Here, we look at some of the standout, U.K-bound models to be featured at this year’s New York motor show.

Mercedes-AMG C63

AMG’s ballistic version of the popular executive C-Class has long been a hit with car enthusiasts, and in New York the German firm revealed a mildly refreshed version. The latest C63 has been given some subtle exterior design changes, but the really interesting stuff is in its dynamics. The suspension, adaptive damping system and dynamic engine mounts have been ‘elaborately retuned’ and a limited-slip differential is now standard.

There are still two versions available – the standard C63 gets a 469bhp version of the 4.0-litre V8 engine, while the C63 S gets 503bhp. Prices for the standard model start at £64,000 and increase to £73,000 for the S.

Mini Classic Electric

Mini is working on an all-electric version of its popular three-door model, and to get buyers excited at the prospect of a zero-emission Mini it has built a one-off version of its classic model.

Details of what’s underneath are thin on the ground, but the iconic exterior has been fully restored with bright red paint, and a white roof and bonnet stripes. It’s likely this unique model is powered by the electric powertrain from a BMW i3, as that is what is expected to go under the bonnet of the new production Mini when it goes on sale next year.

Maserati Levante Trofeo

If you’re in the market for a high-performance Italian SUV, then this is your latest option — the Maserati Levante Trofeo. With a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 under the bonnet, this is one fast 4×4 – and Maserati claims that it’ll hit 60mph in under four seconds thanks to an advanced all-wheel-drive system that is able to accurately get the power onto the road.

Maserati claims that the V8 features the highest specific output of any engine it has created, and with 750Nm of torque on tap it should certainly feel brisk enough to live up to this.

Jaguar F-Pace SVR

Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations division is tasked with creating high-performance and limited-run version of the British firm’s cars, and now it’s turned its hand to the F-Pace SUV. Under the sculpted bonnet sits a 5.0-litre V8 making a healthy 542bhp and 680Nm of torque.

With all-wheel-drive aiding grip that makes it good for 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds, while the top speed is 176mph. It also gets an aggressive body kit with large air intakes to improve cooling, and costs from £74,835.

Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 made its first appearance at this year’s show, marking the return of a popular name in the compact SUV segment. Available with two powertrains – a 2.5-litre hybrid unit as well as a 2.0-litre petrol – it’s been designed to be more dynamic and better to drive than the outgoing model.

In addition, 30mm has been added to the wheelbase, increasing the levels of interior space. Despite this, the front and rear overhangs have been shortened, giving the RAV4 a more dynamic look out on the road.

Audi RS5 Sportback

We’ve already seen the regular RS5 Coupe, but this is the first time that the Sportback version has broken cover. It’s there for people who want the performance of the two-door, but with the added practicality only afforded by a five-door.

Under the bonnet sits a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which sends power to all four wheels via Audi’s famous quattro all-wheel-drive system. The German manufacturer claims that the sprint to 60mph can be dispatched in just 3.9 seconds.

Wheel arches extended by 15mm help give the RS5 Sportback a commanding appearance on the road, while a lower ride height thanks to sports suspension should mean that it corners well too.

The MOT test – which annually checks a car’s roadworthiness – is changing on May 20 with diesel cars coming under closer scrutiny.

If your diesel emits any smoke whatsoever it’ll immediately fail and testers will put the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) under inspection to ensure it hasn’t been removed or tampered with.

Some diesel car owners remove the filters to boost performance and increase fuel efficiency, but as it regulates the gases produced by the engine it is damaging to the environment if it’s taken out.

Now, if a car was fitted with a DPF as standard, its removal would mean an instant MOT fail. While testers will thoroughly check the housing to ensure the internals haven’t been removed.

The biggest update to the test, though, is the way faults are classified – they’ll now either be dangerous, major or minor.

Minor issues will be recorded and the owner advised to get them fixed – but the car will still pass. These faults will also be added to the MOT certificate and online recording system.

Anything resulting in a dangerous or major classification will mean an immediate fail.

For example, a minor issue would be a problem such as oil leaking from the steering. However, this would escalate to a major if the leak was so bad as to be dripping.

AdBlue systems will be inspected as part of new checks for emissions control equipment while any leaks that pose a risk to the environment will be frowned upon.

Cars first used after March 2018 will also have their daytime running lights and front fog lights inspected.

New checks on prop shafts, rear drive shafts, the security and condition of bumpers, reversing lights, and closer inspection of the brakes than previously, will also come in.

The RAC has voiced concerns that the new system could lead to problems, though.

A spokesman said: “The new system creates the potential for confusion as testers will have to make a judgement as to whether faults are dangerous, major or minor.

“This will surely be open to interpretation which may lead to greater inconsistency from one test centre to another.

“Motorists may also struggle to understand the difference between dangerous and major failures. The current system ensures that any vehicle with a fault that doesn’t meet the MOT requirements is repaired appropriately before being allowed back on the road.”