Author: Jack Healy

What is it?

For many, the Ford Puma is a compact sports car that was an affordable coupe in the 90s. But with crossovers now dominating the market, the American firm has decided to repurpose the name on a new compact model with SUV styling.

This Puma shares a lot with the latest Fiesta, but now comes with an all-new look that sets it apart from most other Fords. It joins the Kuga, Edge and Ecosport in the SUV/crossover line-up for the American brand in the UK, but can this new option be as successful as its larger siblings? We went to Málaga to find out…

What’s new?

Although the name isn’t new, pretty much all of this car is. Unlike the supermini it’s based on, the Puma will be offered with mild-hybrid powertrains from launch – with the Fiesta receiving one later this year.

As well as that, there are segment-first features, such as the option of a hands-free tailgate and massage seats. The Puma also gets a series of sensors, radars and cameras to facilitate Ford’s range of Co-Pilot360 driver assists.

The new Local Hazard Information system is also included in the Ford Connect service, which warns drivers of any disruptions and hazards along their journey. But we also have to mention the innovative storage solutions, with an 80-litre box integrated under the boot floor, which comes with a removable plug so you can wash items and let the water out afterwards.

What’s under the bonnet?

On the Puma launch event, we exclusively tested the new mild-hybrid petrol systems, which are based on the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine. Paired to a 48V battery setup, customers have the option of 123bhp and 153bhp outputs – and we’ll be focusing on the latter.

Even with the electrical support, the engine remains very characterful, with it happy to rev well over 3,000rpm and pull you along nicely. But when you decide to settle down into a cruise, it feels smooth and doesn’t make a lot of noise. The six-speed manual gearbox can be notchy at times, but on the whole, it’s a smooth partner for the powertrain. A seven-speed automatic is joining the line-up later this year, though.

The electrical assistance will also make a big difference in terms of fuel usage. Ford says these units will come with cylinder deactivation to help reduce your fuel bill and it claims figures of 51.3mpg and 126g/km CO2 – not bad for a small crossover. But creating a potential dilemma for customers is the fact a diesel unit is on the way, which is set to be even kinder on your wallet than the top-end petrol mild-hybrid.

What’s it like to drive?

To contextualise our driving impressions, we tried the Puma on smooth Spanish roads, and it handled them superbly. With the larger alloys on our ST-Line X model, we didn’t feel too many bumps in the road being transferred into the cabin and it felt settled almost everywhere. There is a lack of feel through the steering wheel and it isn’t the most engaging car in the world, but it certainly isn’t a bad car to drive.

That said, the front end always feels secure, even on twistier roads, and even though it’s a larger vehicle than the Fiesta overall, body roll was handled just as excellently thanks to the sports-tuned suspension. We also have to say that even though there were Eco and Sport drive modes – as well as Trail and Slippery options – there was only a small difference between them, so you’re better off leaving it in Normal.

How does it look?

Ford has said that the Puma comes with a more laidback approach to design, and you can see where it’s coming from. The ‘anti-wedge’ design has a flat line stretching from the headlight to the rear to complement the sloping coupe-like roof – drawn from the previous Puma.

The headlights come with a design inspired by the GT supercar, and they certainly help the Puma stand out. To enhance that, Ford has given the crossover flared wheelarches, while the sporty ST-Line X model we tested came with some stylish 19-inch alloys that complemented the look of the Puma very well.

What’s it like inside?

With its base a rather practical supermini, the Puma has been extended further by Ford, with a longer wheelbase and higher body making for more interior space. Even the tallest drivers in the front will find the head room to be more than ample, while the large windscreen helps the cabin feel airy. The visibility could be improved, but it’s to be expected with the coupe-like styling.

There’s actually a lot of innovation in terms of storage on the Puma. Under the moveable boot floor is a unique 80-litre compartment that has a plug in the bottom to let water out. That extends the Puma’s boot space to 456 litres, which is a class-leading figure by a significant margin, and the opening is squared-off to make it easier to put things in and take them out. The parcel shelf is also attached to the boot lid instead of behind the seats, which Ford says allows for more practicality.

What’s the spec like?

At the event, we tried the top-spec ST-Line X model, which is joined by the Titanium X trim. The main features included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, the Sync 3 infotainment system, wireless smartphone charging, rear parking sensors, a B&O sound system, sports-tuned suspension and the FordPass Connect services setup.

For additional comfort and style, the Puma also came with the Driver Assistance, Design, and Winter packs, which took the overall price of the vehicle close to £27,000 – a fairly sizeable amount for a car of this size and quality.

Verdict

Although the market wasn’t calling out for another crossover, Ford has managed to put itself towards the forefront of the compact end of the segment. The Puma is practical, comfortable and on the whole, good to drive.

The mild-hybrid setup, which Ford expects to be popular with UK drivers, is a good step in the right direction towards electrification – but we would like to see this car with a plug-in option of some sort. However, as it currently stands, the Puma is a great option as a small family car, and could become even better.

Facts at a glance

Model as tested: ST-Line X
Price: £24,695
Engine: 1.0-litre mild-hybrid petrol
Power: 153bhp
Torque: 240Nm
Max speed: 127mph
0-60mph: 8.8 seconds
MPG: 51.3
Emissions: 126g/km

What is it?

The Kia Ceed family has many facets as it is. The hatchback, Sportwagon estate and the sporty Proceed shooting brake offer plenty of choice for customers looking for a reliable model with plenty of practicality. But the South Korean firm has decided that it needs to fill another niche with the Ceed moniker with this, the XCeed.

The crowded crossover segment continues to prove incredibly popular with British buyers and Kia has seen an opportunity for a slice of the sales pie with this latest model. Slotting in between the Ceed and best-selling Sportage SUV, the XCeed fills an admittedly small gap in the range – Kia is clearly looking to capitalise wherever it can. So, as with the impressive hatchback, can this new crossover exceed our expectations?

What’s new?

Kia has differentiated the design of the XCeed from the rest of the family by including a larger grille and air intakes at the front as well as a sharper light signature. The XCeed also sits 60mm higher than before and has larger overhangs to make it a more imposing vehicle on the road.

The crossover also gets new infotainment features including an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen that can employ split-screen functionality, while a 12.3-inch digital instrument display is also introduced as a brand-first. Kia has added the UVO Connect telematics system, which provides updates on traffic and weather along with all of the vehicle’s diagnostics data.

What’s under the bonnet?

From launch, UK customers will have the choice of the 1.4-litre, 138bhp petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel developing 134bhp – while a petrol plug-in hybrid version is on the way in 2020. We’ll focus on the diesel here though, which can be teamed with a six-speed manual or the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic fitted to our test car.

The diesel-auto combo was an intriguing one, as our test route in the south of France combined city driving, motorway stretches and twisty sections through the mountains of Provence. The auto box could be hesitant at times, especially under harder acceleration. That being said, changes were smooth and the diesel engine itself was quiet and refined, making the cruising experience very pleasant.

We also tested the petrol engine with a manual transmission on a shorter route. With slick and short changes, the six-speed was excellent to use, while the petrol engine itself was quiet and refined at cruising speeds, but great at providing the power when needed.

What’s it like to drive?

This is where the XCeed stands out in the crossover market. It is remarkably composed whatever type of driving you’re doing. It’s comfortable without being floaty and it hunkers down when making sharper turns. The XCeed remains stable at all speeds and on all road surfaces, while the exterior noise is minimal.

The steering is well-weighted and direct, and although there is a lack of feel as with all modern electrically assisted steering systems, the XCeed feels sure-footed. There is some roll when cornering at higher speeds, but there isn’t too much to be worried about. Dynamic mode adds steering responsiveness but slightly harsher suspension – so we’d happily keep it in the regular setting. The assistance systems can be intrusive – especially the lane keep assist – but on the whole, the XCeed is incredibly pleasant, and in some cases, enjoyable to drive.

How does it look?

Kia wanted to make the XCeed stand out from the rest of its siblings. In doing so, the brand altered the grille design, while also including a lower front air intake. Additional chrome elements have also been added, while the light units at the front are sharper – although they still feature the signature ‘ice cube’ lights from the regular Ceed.

The large 18-inch alloys on our test car look great and don’t hinder the overall feel of the car either. The additional plastic cladding around the lower edge and roof rails add a further SUV-like feel to the model – something which most crossover customers are after.

The coupe-like shape makes the XCeed look like a shorter but taller version of the Proceed in many ways – but as design niches for body styles continue to be filled, it’s no surprise Kia has gone in this direction.

What’s it like inside?

As with every other Kia, the interior isn’t the most exciting on the market. That being said, the yellow pack does add a pop of colour against the rather dark cabin. All the materials are of a good quality, especially the leather on the seats. There are no scratchy materials in sight, making for an unspectacular but well-made interior.

Passenger space is good, with the sloping roof line not limiting rear head room for taller people in the back. If six-footers are sat in the front, rear legroom may be a bit more limited, but it’s not bad by any means. A funky feature is that the driver’s seat slides forwards when you close the door to get you into position and makes getting in and out much easier, something usually reserved for more expensive vehicles.

What’s the spec like?

We tried the top-spec First Edition model, although the ‘2’ and ‘3’ grades will be available to customers as well – both of which are well-equipped. The flagship trim came with all you could ask for – 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, power tailgate, wireless phone charging, aluminium pedals and a fleet of driver assistance systems.

Standard kit on the entry-level model, which starts at £20,795, is good though. It gets LED headlights and daytime running lights, eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, air conditioning, reversing camera and sensors, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Driver assistance systems are also included, such as lane keep assist and forward collision-avoidance assist.

Verdict

The XCeed is a great step forward for Kia, as it combines the comfort and reliable build quality of the Ceed hatchback with in-demand crossover styling and improved driving feel. The coupe-like looks are starting to become more common amongst SUVs and crossovers, so while it is hopping onto a growing trend, the XCeed is forging a new path at the more affordable end of the market.

Well-priced, well-equipped and well-engineered, the XCeed is an impressive crossover that is entering its segment near the very top, making for a more than credible challenger.

What is it?

For 40 years, the Vauxhall Astra has been a mainstay of the British car market. Since the first iteration was introduced in 1979, more than 3 million units have been sold and seven generations have elapsed – making it one of Britain’s favourite models.

Now, Vauxhall has revealed the mid-generation facelift for the seventh generation, and with it is offered with a series of new updates to bring up to scratch against the likes of the latest Ford Focus, Hyundai i30 and new Kia Ceed. But can the Astra maintain a high level of popularity with the British public in refreshed guise? We get behind the wheel to find out…

What’s new?

Surprisingly for a mid-life facelift, there’s quite a lot new here. Vauxhall, now under the stewardship of French giants PSA Group, has added a completely new range of engines and transmissions to suit. The firm has also been hard at work in the wind tunnel, claiming to make this Astra the most aerodynamically efficient model in its class – with the estate Sports Tourer said to be even sleeker. Chassis tweaks have been made to the Astra for improved comfort and damping control over bumps.

There has also been a cull of the trim levels, with Vauxhall now offering seven specifications for people to choose from. But with that comes new features, such as infotainment touchscreens as standard across the line-up, while wireless charging, a digital instrument display and ergonomic sports seats fitted to the top-end models.

What’s under the bonnet?

As previously mentioned, the refreshed Astra comes with a series of new engines – three to be precise. There are two petrol blocks – measuring 1.2- and 1.4-litres in size – and a single diesel unit, a 1.5-litre. All three engines are three-cylinder units.

We tried the highest output petrol, the 143bhp 1.2-litre, which also develops 225Nm of torque. Alongside a six-speed manual transmission, the Astra can get from 0-60mph in 8.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 137mph.

With this combination on board, the hatchback feels more than fast enough and nice to use. You can rev the engine quite highly before needing to change gear and it feels well-refined. Through the WLTP cycle, it’s claimed that this Astra can return up to 54.3mpg and just 99g/km CO2.

Here’s Vauxhall’s facelifted Astra. Nice to drive and the new equipment is very handy indeed pic.twitter.com/ncQ70bwtTF

— Jack Healy (@jack_healy19) August 30, 2019

 

What’s it like to drive?

Chassis changes are telling, as the Astra felt stable and composed on the bumpy test route weaving through the Leicestershire countryside. A few bumps were transferred into the cabin, but they were few and far between, while wind and road noise is well-concealed. Having only driven on 17-inch alloys, we can confirm that it feels well-damped with these alloys fitted.

There is a lack of feel due to the electronic steering, but it’s direct and only goes to understeer when really pushed. When cruising, the Astra settles down very well and will remain a favourite for those needing a cossetted hatchback for long distances. Despite the sloping roofline and smaller rear windows, all-round visibility is good, while it’s easy to get comfortable with a height and reach-adjustable steering column and well-bolstered seats with adjustable lumbar support.

How does it look?

With the facelift comes a new fascia, which features more prominent chrome detailing and a new grille for a sportier look. And that new front-end is the start of a much sleeker vehicle, with this Astra the smoothest-looking yet. All of these design changes, including special flaps behind the grille to direct airflow, have all been added to improve fuel efficiency.

Vauxhall also continues to offer the Astra with the class-exclusive Matrix LED headlights, with the units featuring a signature design. LED daytime running lights are fitted as standard. The rear is almost identical to before. It’s certainly not an ugly car and we’d say it looks smarter – although we think the Sports Tourer estate version is the better looking of the two body types.

What’s it like inside?

Vauxhall has incorporated a series of new features into the cabin and has decluttered the dashboard considerably. It’s well put together and solidly built, with scratchy plastics few and far between. It isn’t the most exciting cabin in the world, but it does the job more than well enough. The Elite Nav model we tested also came with leather upholstery throughout, with the front sports seats being very comfortable.

The facelifted Astra is also rather spacious, with even taller drivers allowing for lots of legroom in the rear. The 370-litre boot space is also well-shaped and the boot lip isn’t too high either, making it easy to load and unload.

What’s the spec like?

With the refreshed model, Vauxhall has ensured that entry-level options come with a good standard of equipment. Starting from £18,885, the base SE model features 16-alloy wheels, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone mirroring, air conditioning, Bluetooth and cruise control – covering all the essentials.

In the Elite Nav trim we tried, Vauxhall also includes 17-inch alloys, an eight-inch touchscreen, climate control, leather seats and steering wheel with heating function, front camera system, LED headlights and an eight-inch digital instrument cluster. Prices for that start from £23,955. Our test car also came with front and rear parking sensors – an option box we’d definitely tick – and a heated windscreen, with a few other additions besides, taking the total cost to £26,210.

Verdict

With the new range of engines and equipment, Vauxhall has done an impressive job with this mid-life refresh for the Astra. It may not be as complete as the rival Ford Focus, but it manages to be comfortable, nice to drive and spacious – all the things a typical hatchback buyer needs.

The automatic transmission on the diesel is a major let down though, so we’d recommend going for the manual gearbox if you’re going to plum for the more efficient engine.

This mid-life update is a good step up for the Astra, and on the whole, makes it a more appealing package. It’s likely to remain incredibly popular with its core market and continue to be a strong contender in the large hatchback segment.

Facts at a glance

• Model: Vauxhall Astra Elite Nav
• Price: £26,210
• Engine: 1.2-litre petrol
• Power (bhp): 143
• Torque (Nm): 225
• Max speed (mph): 137
• 0-60mph: 8.8 seconds
• MPG: 54.3
• Emissions (g/km): 99

What is it?

Ssangyong may only be the third-most-popular car manufacturer to come from South Korea, but the firm is slowly edging its way towards the mainstream with a new set of more refined and well-equipped vehicles. And here is its challenger for the ever-booming crossover market, the Korando.

Now in its fourth generation, Ssangyong hopes that the latest Korando can be a more compelling rival to market mainstays like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, and transform the firm from an also-ran into a more credible option.

What’s new?

Comparing the new Korando to the previous generation is like comparing chalk and cheese. Ssangyong has done a remarkable job of transforming the crossover into a sharper-looking model after the previous generation’s much curvier look.

The South Korean firm has added a series of new features to bring it up to scratch with its closest rivals. That means clear touchscreen infotainment set-up, a fleet of driver assistance systems and a new engine line-up incorporating both diesel and petrol units.

Here’s Ssangyong’s new Korando… and some sheep pic.twitter.com/ZXqKY9MotO

— Jack Healy (@jack_healy19) August 20, 2019

What’s under the bonnet?

Ssangyong is offering the latest Korando with two engines in the UK – a 1.6-litre diesel and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with the latter arriving on these shores in December. The petrol will be paired to either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission – although the manual won’t be available until January next year – while two- and four-wheel drive is offered as well. The diesel is only supplied with the auto ‘box and four-wheel drive.

With the 1.6-litre diesel, the Korando has 134bhp and 324Nm of torque at its disposal, allowing the crossover to get from 0-60mph in just under 12 seconds and reach a top speed of 112mph – although performance isn’t likely to be a deciding factor for potential Korando drivers.

Ssangyong claims that the Korando, in top-spec Ultimate guise with the diesel engine and four-wheel drive, will achieve economy figures of 43.5mpg and 171g/km CO2, although these are yet to be finalised.

What’s it like to drive?

On start-up or when pulling out from a junction, the diesel unit can sound a bit gruff and the gearbox can lag after putting your foot down. But once out and about, the Korando quietens down and becomes pleasant to cruise in. Around the twisty and narrow Cotswolds test route, the Korando doesn’t feel too big either, while the lighter-than-expected steering makes it great around town.

Ssangyong UK’s managing director Nick Laird said that the new Korando was looking to be more than just an option for people who tow, but the lower down torque of the diesel will still cater to the model’s usual market. The Korando does, however, feel overly firm for our liking, and having tried the model on both the entry-level 17-inch and top-spec 19-inch alloys, that feeling is consistent across the range.

The four-wheel-drive option is the one to go for, as the front-wheel-drive option doesn’t put its power down as smoothly making progress less smooth, while the steering isn’t quite as direct.

How does it look?

This is easily the most handsome Korando so far and the South Korean firm has done a great job of helping it stand out. The sharper lines of the bonnet, wheel arches and rear end make this model much more appealing and modern than before. Having the extra chrome detailing across the front grille and at the back make the Korando look that bit more upmarket, too.

Both the mid-spec Pioneer and top-end Ultimate editions look good, but the Ultimate version comes with some good looking five-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels that match the car better and look marginally better in our eyes.

What’s it like inside?

Ssangyong has made a large step in terms of quality with the Korando, and the interior of the Ultimate model we drove was very pleasant indeed. Fitted with heated and ventilated leather seats, a sturdily built centre console and clear displays, the cabin feels up to the level of its closest rivals – and in the case of the screens, it’s actually better.

The cabin feels very spacious, with even a tall driver behind the wheel allowing enough space in the back for adult passengers. The boot is a tad smaller than you might hope, although there is underfloor storage space on the Ultimate model. That means a load space of 551 litres, which can be extended to 1,248 litres with the rear bench folded down.

What’s the spec like?

As expected, the Ultimate is the pick of the four-trim offerings and it comes handsomely equipped. Starting from a competitive £26,495 with the forthcoming petrol engine installed, this Korando gets all-leather seats, dual-zone climate control, a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 10.25-inch customisable digital instrument display and a powered tailgate.

LED headlights, rear privacy glass, interior mood lighting and 19-inch alloy wheels help finish the look of the model. Starting from the same price as the Ultimate model, Pioneer models feature a two-tonne towing capacity, leather and cloth upholstered seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, parking sensors and an eight-inch touchscreen. Although it may not be as well-equipped as the Ultimate, this version is squarely aimed at the towing market, and for those drivers, it’s an appealing package.

Verdict

While the Korando may not have been in the consideration of many crossover buyers, this new version should be. Its driving experience does fall a little short of its closest rivals, but the fourth iteration of the Korando is a much better package than before and can hold a candle to its South Korean rivals. The Ssangyong brand isn’t as well-known as Hyundai or Kia, but the new Korando could be the car to help bring it into the public view more than ever.

Facts at a glance

• Model: Ssangyong Korando Ultimate
• Price: £31,995
• Engine: 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel
• Power: 134bhp
• Torque: 324Nm
• Max speed: 112mph
• 0-60mph: 11.8 seconds
• MPG: 43.5
• Emissions (g/km): 171

After impressing with the Urban EV concept at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, Honda has unveiled its latest all-electric prototype.

Dubbed the E Prototype for now, the car will get its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week and is one of Honda’s most advanced vehicles to date – thanks to a raft of advanced features.

Built on a newly developed platform – which could be adapted in the future for models up to the size of the HR-V – the E is rear-wheel drive, with the motor mounted on the rear axle. That does compromise the boot space, however.

Although official figures are yet to be confirmed, Honda says the compact EV will be able to go more than 200km (124 miles) on a single charge – with the Japanese brand assuming customers drive roughly 30 miles each day.

The battery itself is based on the same unit used in the Accord PHEV that’s sold in the US and built by Panasonic. Honda also said the power output is comparable to similarly sized EVs, such as the Renault Zoe and Volkswagen e-Up – so expect it to develop around 100bhp. The battery is rapid charge-compatible too, as it’s capable of going from flat to 80 per cent full in 30 minutes.

Got a full look around the Honda E Prototype before it was officially revealed. My favourite looking EV so far – love the retro design pic.twitter.com/jJ8AU2tgem

— Jack Healy (@jack_healy19) February 27, 2019

The biggest difference compared with the Urban EV concept is that the production car will only come with a five-door body shape for ease of use, with the car seating just four, as Honda claims that people using this car will ‘very rarely need five seats’.

Inside, the E shows off the new completely digital dashboard, which features five screens and spans the width of the car. Instead of conventional wing mirrors, the vehicle comes with cameras mounted on the wings, with six-inch displays showing the images from each side. A rear-view camera will also be used, with the feed displayed where the mirror would normally be.

Two other screens team up as the infotainment system, which uses a co-pilot set-up that allows the passenger to swipe new navigation instructions and other information across to the driver’s screen on the go. The rest of the cabin is very simple, with large buttons being used for the remaining functions.

The model will be built in Japan, with European sales set to begin before the end of 2019. Deliveries are expected to start in the early part of 2020.

Pricing is yet to be announced, but Honda has hinted that it will be at the higher end of the current compact EV market – so expect a starting price around £30,000.

Whatever cars people look for, they don’t just want it for one thing. It may be for inner-city practicality and style, or opulence and comfort – but there are those who are after a vehicle that can act as both the perfect day-to-day car and holiday vehicle all in one.

Here, we list our favourite options that can really make that weekend getaway much easier — as well as an awful lot of fun.

Volvo V90 CrossCountry

The Swedish brand is well-known for producing functional family cars that in recent years have started to look really smart as well. When you take the large V90 estate and add some plastic cladding, you get a car that looks rugged enough to tackle most off-road situations, but the practicality of the estate remains.

With an off-road mode in the drive selection menu, the V90 XC doesn’t just look like it can go off the beaten track, but it can prove it too. As one of the largest family cars on sale, space isn’t an issue, and with Volvo’s recent safety record, you’ll have a good peace of mind in the process.

Suzuki Jimny

If you’re after a bog standard 4×4 that offers plenty of character — yet is still more than capable of driving on the rough stuff — then the Suzuki Jimny is a great place to start looking. With its rugged, boxy exterior and simple structure, the mini 4×4 has all the characteristics of a fun lifestyle choice.

With a towing weight of 1,300kg, the Jimny is surprisingly strong and comes with a low range transfer gear so you can take it anywhere. There are few cars that can offer what the Jimny can with such a reasonable outlay.

Subaru Forester

The Japanese brand is well-known for producing activity-angled vehicles, and the Forester is its current SUV that is built for taking on almost anything. Although the CVT gearbox may be very annoying in certain circumstances, the off-road capabilities of the Forester are where the Subaru excels.

Coming with permanent all-wheel drive and enough space to get all your weekend gear in, the Forester offers a rugged package that you will be more than happy to take on trips as it’ll get you pretty much anywhere.

Mercedes E-Class Estate

There’s one simple reason why the E-Class is one of the top cars for weekend adventures – its frankly cavernous boot. As one of the largest family cars, the E-Class Estate has a 640-litre boot in the standard layout, and that can be extended by folding the rear seats flat to 1,820 litres of load space. If you want more room, you’ll need a van.

Besides that, you have a well-built and well-balanced car that is great to drive, and comes crammed with all mod-cons, such as a large central touchscreen, air conditioning, LED headlights and active parking assist.

Toyota Hilux

Although it was a much older version, the Hilux is renowned for surviving pretty much anything after appearing on Top Gear with Jeremy Clarkson at the wheel. The latest version is just as indestructible and has been built to withstand anything after being tested in the North Pole, Antarctica and on the slopes of volcanoes – according to Toyota.

Coming with tech such as active traction control, up- and downhill assist controls, and trailer sway control, the Hilux is ready to go wherever you want to take it, and the new 2.4-litre D-4D diesel engine provides more economy than before so you can get where you need for less.

Volkswagen California

Volkswagen and campervans go hand in hand, may that be in the form of the legendary T1 ‘Splittie’ or the T2 ‘Bay’. The brand’s specialised California camper is the modern equivalent of those iconic forbearers and it comes with all the kit you will ever need for a camping trip.

Available in two trim levels – Beach and Ocean – each model comes with enough space for four to sleep in comfort, tonnes of storage and flexible seating configurations so you can take up to seven people on a single trip. The top-end Ocean model even comes with a kitchen setup – so what’s not to like?

Land Rover Discovery

As lifestyle SUVs go, the Discovery is arguably the best – even if the looks of the latest version are a bit marmite. It features a towing capacity of 3,500kg, seating for seven that can be altered via an app, the latest Jaguar Land Rover infotainment and safety technology, and the off-roading capabilities of every iconic Land Rover before it.

Coming with up-to-date driving systems to ensure stability on and off the tarmac, the fourth-generation Discovery is the safest version yet and, as with most other Land Rovers, the interior finish and quality is up there with the very best.

Porsche 911 Carrera

Is this an obvious choice for this list? No – but bear with us. As one of – if not the – best four-seater sports cars on the market, the 911 Carrera has been an icon of the Porsche line-up for a considerable time. But what makes this car even more desirable is the performance on offer – 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 183mph. Even better, you can fit surf, bike and ski racks to it.

Although it has a high starting price – £77,891 in fact – nothing can match the thrill of owning a practical sports car like a 911.

Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35

There is something about pickup trucks that make them almost perfect for getting to and going on holidays, as they are practical, tough and dependable. Well, this version of the D-Max was developed by extreme off-road specialists Arctic Trucks – and that means it’ll go pretty much wherever you want to.

With a massive load space in the back, all-around LED lighting and plenty of tech to keep you entertained on long journeys, the D-Max AT35 can be your faithful companion on to any and all weekend destinations.

Mini Countryman

If you’re after style as well as substance with your lifestyle vehicle, then the Mini Countryman could be the car for you. With room for five, all-wheel drive and a large storage space in the back, you can also choose this car as a hybrid for that added peace of mind.

But if that wasn’t enough, you can spec a £2,400 roof tent to fit your Countryman, that folds neatly into a roof box while on the move, then pops up when you need it at camp. It is one of the many quirky options you can get with the compact SUV that makes it even more interesting to own.

It seems that large car manufacturers are bringing out innovative pieces of tech every month to prove that they are the most advanced in the industry.

But there are some advancements that will be staying with us longer than others, and although many will take a while to get to the more affordable cars on the market, that technologies will be in them sooner than you might think.

Things like autonomous driving, interactive displays and artificial intelligence will all be coming into play with vehicles soon, but here are some modern-day examples that could be on the way to your budget vehicle in the next few years.

Autonomous driving features

Although it may be quite an unsettling notion for some people, driverless cars will be about in the not-too-distant future, and car companies are already trying to grab the initiative and put it into production cars. Audi and Tesla are two such brands, with both having developed production-ready systems for the premium market.

S, 3, X on a bridge pic.twitter.com/2E57xqkTVY

— Tesla (@Tesla) July 29, 2017

American brand Tesla was the first to fit driverless features to its cars, and although the tech is an optional extra, every vehicle has the required equipment built-in if they later decide to have install the AutoPilot software. Using a series of cameras, sensors, lidars and radars, a Tesla has the capability to see 250 metres down the road and 100 metres behind to ensure that it has a complete view of its surroundings.

With the latest version of AutoPilot, Teslas are able to pretty much drive themselves, as they can move in traffic, steer on more complex roads and be ‘summoned’ from a garage or parking space to the driver if they’re in close proximity.

CEO Elon Musk has predicted that by next year, people will be able to sleep in Teslas on their way to a destination, but people might not be so trusting of the technology just yet.

Excited about the Tesla Autopilot software release rolling out next month. New control algorithm feels as smooth as silk.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 22, 2017

Audi has also been working on its own autonomous setup, which will be more applicable in a short amount of time. The AI Traffic Jam Pilot offers less functions than Tesla’s AutoPilot and offers level 3 functions rather than the level 4 capabilities of the Tesla system. Level 3 autonomy requires the driver to be aware in case the car needs them to take over, whilst level 4 autonomy allows the driver to relax more and allow the car to drive itself for most of the time. It allows drivers to leave the car in control in nose-to-tail traffic at speeds up to 37mph on barrier-edged roads, such as motorways.

Touchscreen surfaces

If you are a fan of the button-riddled dashboard, then that design layout may only have a limited shelf-life as touchscreen technology becomes much cheaper to make and easier to fit into car interiors. You will find it on more high-end vehicles already, with the systems in the Porsche Panamera and Range Rover Velar the highest profiles so far.

The Panamera has button outlines on its central console so you know what you are pressing and when, but there is no rudimentary button as it were – only a smooth surface with white light-up icons for each function. It combines with the 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system at the front, which can be customised, and the touchscreen climate and seat controls in the rear – another forward-looking addition.

The Velar has done away with buttons altogether, with the mid-size luxury SUV coming with two central touchscreen surfaces and only touch-sensitive controls on the leather steering wheel. You can control two elements of the car’s features at once, with the satellite navigation in the top screen, and climate control on the lower one – with multimedia systems also available.

Artificial Intelligence infotainment system

The latest addition to the premium car technology line-up is AI infotainment, and the fresh-faced Mercedes A-Class is the first vehicle to come with such a system. Called Mercedes-Benz User Experience, the software learns to driver’s patterns and habits to help – as Mercedes say – “create an emotional connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers”. With natural speech recognition and augmented reality included in the system, it’s safe to say that this is one of, if not the, most advanced infotainment options currently available.

It works in tandem with the Mercedes Me application, which helps you find your vehicle and transfers all your driving data so you know where you can improve your driving style.

Now you may have used Siri, Google Assistant and Alexa in your vehicle before, but this one is built-in already to be as seamless as possible. It can be paired with the brand’s widescreen cockpit to bring an immersive and incredibly useful infotainment system – all of which can be controlled via the touchscreen itself or touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel and central console.

Augmented dashboard

Okay this one may take a while to be finessed into an everyday piece of tech, but the basis of the technology is there. Head-up displays are becoming more prevalent amongst vehicles, so the next logical step is to project all the relevant information onto the windscreen instead.

The best example of this is on a concept car called the BMW Next100, which although is unlikely to get anywhere near the road in the foreseeable future, displays some very relevant technology. The augmented dashboard is one such advancement, as it displays all of the important driving information onto the windscreen, such as speed, lanes on the motorway and directions to take when following satellite navigation.

That last feature in particular could be the best use of the tech, as it would mean drivers could have a visualisation of the route while keeping their eyes on the road – something that could prevent a lot of traffic incidents.

Digital instrument displays

This feature is the most likely to be found in everyday cars sooner than the rest of the innovations on this list, as many premium vehicles are fitted with them already. Rather than having conventional dials to tell you your speed, revs and fuel level, manufacturers are developing screens that fit into the instrument binnacle and can flick through all the information you need and with much more clarity.

The first brand to break ground in this area was Audi in conjunction with parent group Volkswagen, and its Virtual Display concept that debuted on the Audi TT back in 2015. Controlled by the multi-functional steering wheel, it comes with two main modes – classic and infotainment. In infotainment mode, the dials shrink into the corners and allow the driver to display a large satellite navigation screen in the middle, as well as search through other features normally displayed on a central screen. The classic mode is more familiar and includes two large dials with the speed and revs, while a small infotainment screen remains in the middle.

Although it isn’t a standard feature yet, Audi is offering it with the majority of its range, with Volkswagen also providing it as an option since 2017. Most other manufacturers now also include them, with Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes, Lexus, Peugeot, Renault and BMW all having a go at fully digitalising their cockpits.