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 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.
The 4xe gets a hybrid powertrain which helps to deliver improved efficiency alongside all-wheel-drive traction.
Jeep’s new Avenger 4xe and a limited-edition North Face Edition of the hybrid SUV have now gone on sale in the UK.
Both versions feature a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine alongside two electric motors which gives a combined power output of 194bhp. Acceleration stands at 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds and the car can go to a top speed of 120mph. All models come equipped with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The Avenger is the smallest vehicle in the firm’s line-up. (Jeep)
The 4xe features redesigned front fog lights, roof rails and a rear tow hook which helps improve its practicality. Both front and rear bumpers feature anti-scratch paint to help keep the car looking fresh while 17-inch black alloy wheels beef up the exterior design. New LED reflector headlights and silver skid plates add to the look. For an added cost, drivers can also opt for some bonnet stickers to give the car an even bolder appearance.
Inside, the new Avenger 4xe features a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. There is a black headlining, silver accents on the dashboard and the standard 4xe car comes with seats that have a washable and durable material to make life easier for those muddy adventures.
The North Face Edition includes gold accents and a silhouette of Mont Blanc on the dashboard. (Jeep)
The North Face Edition comes equipped with a North Face Explore Pack which includes a tent, duffle bag and wattle bottle. With only 4,806 units being built, the cars also come with their own unique numbered plaque under the Avenger logo. Plus, there are Summit Gold accents found throughout the interior, exterior and even on the wheels of the car. The floor mats have 3D mountain ranges on them, while the dashboard features a silhouette of Mont Blanc.
Eric Laforge, head of Jeep brand in Europe, said: “The Jeep Avenger 4xe and North Face Edition represent our goal of combining advanced technology with the adventurous spirit of Jeep. We are proud to introduce a model that not only delivers on performance and sustainability but also sets a new standard for versatility and style.”
Prices start at £30,999 for the standard 4xe and rise to £34,999 for the North Face Edition. Order books are open now with deliveries expected to commence in early next year.
As the darker months close in with less daylight, the roads become more hazardous and we rely on our vehicles even more.
Winter is quickly approaching and with longer nights, shorter daylight hours and the possibility of grit on the roads, it’s a time which can prove tough for cars.
Winter is one of the most hazardous times of the year for driving a car. Not only that, but the turn in weather conditions means that accidents are far more frequent and unless you prepare yourself and your car – it could happen to you.
So, to make you and your car fully prepared this winter, here are some tips to make sure you stay safe and away from any mishaps.
Ice Scraper
An ice-scraper is a cheap and easy solution to get stubborn ice off your windscreen. (Skoda)
A cheap and easy way to make sure you’re not late for work is an ice scraper. It will quickly and effectively clear the sheet ice on your vehicle’s windows without damaging the glass and will allow you to get on the road in a short space of time.
They are compact, cheap to buy and can be stored anywhere in your car – or if you buy a Skoda, you get one built into the fuel filler door.
De-icer
De-icer, as the name suggests, is another quick and easy way of removing ice and snow from the windows of your car.
Unlike an ice scraper, a de-icer spray is used to burn through the frost and will prevent it from icing up again for some time thanks to the use of the chemical ethylene glycol. As water has a freezing point at zero degrees, de-icer can dissolve a frozen windscreen from as low as -12-degrees – making it a quick and easy solution to those cold and crisp mornings.
Winter tyres
Winter tyres offer more grip in conditions like snow. (Bentley)
Not everybody wants to spend a few hundred pounds on some new rubber for their car. But, if you live in an area that doesn’t have a lot of gritted roads or steep inclines which can get icy and dangerous, then winter-specific tyres can have a big impact.
They come fitted with chunkier tread patterns and are ideal for cars with four-wheel-drive and will save you the bother of getting stuck or losing grip at the most unpredictable time. Plus, winter tyres get a specific compound which allows them to grip the road more effectively at lower temperatures when compared with a typical summer tyre.
Phone chargers
Phone chargers are vital, especially if you find yourself in an emergency situation. (PA – Niall Carson)
Always carry phone chargers with you because in the event of a breakdown, accident or if you get stuck having your mobile fully topped up will save you a whole load of hassle.
It can also be very dangerous to drive around in the winter with limited battery life on your phone because in an emergency situation your mobile phone is your best friend. Most modern cars also come with wireless charging pads, however, they are not as reliable or fast to charge as a traditional USB or USB-C wire.
Check fluid levels on your vehicle
Always check your car’s engine fluids.(Castrol)
One of the most sensible and simplest things to do is to have a basic maintenance check or even a service before driving this winter. Check the vital fluids under your bonnet such as coolant, brake fluid, engine oil and washer fluid.
If you don’t, you could land yourself at a higher risk of breaking down or damaging your engine. If you’re unsure, another good solution is to take your car to a garage and get it fully serviced before using it this winter. That means that it will give your car a clean bill of health, while also benefiting from fresh engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and even a top up of screen wash.
Take a hat and scarf
A hat and scarf can make driving in winter easier and more comfortable. (Alamy/PA)
It may be wise to invest in some simple winter gear just to take with you on your travels. When driving in the winter, your car will take longer to warm up and therefore will take longer for the heater to start blowing in warm air.
Keeping a hat and scarf in your car are quick and effective ways of staying warm when driving. Staying warm will make it easier for you to concentrate as being cold behind the will could cause you to lose focus and bring a greater risk of an accident. If an accident were to occur during colder weather, then a small number of warm clothes could help to keep the cold at bay when stuck at the roadside, too.
The Chinese SUV was ‘Not Recommended’ for its intelligent adaptive cruise control.
BYD’s Atto 3 has been given one of the lowest scores in the Euro NCAP driver-assistance tests.
The Chinese SUV’s adaptive cruise control was criticised for not reading road signs correctly, and according to Euro Ncap, the safety systems were ‘not recommended’. Meanwhile, the vehicle was also marked down in the safety backup test where it did not meet minimum standards.
The Adaptive Cruise Control or ACC acted poorly against stationary vehicles, and no action was taken if the driver became unresponsive. If the driver hasn’t engaged with the steering after a prolonged period, the system switches off steering support and speed control, with Euro NCAP saying that, as a result, the car is “leaving an unresponsive driver to his or her fate.”
The i5 scored very well for its driver assistance systems. (BMW)
In contrast, the BMW i5 and Mercedes C-Class scored ‘very good’ with both vehicles providing a good amount of speed and lateral control while also keeping the driver informed if they decide to take back control of the wheel.
Additionally, cars like the Volkswagen ID.7 and Volvo EC40 scored ‘good’ with both cars performing well for their driver assistance systems – but they were marked down for not being as sophisticated or robust compared to the two BMW and Mercedes saloons.
Adriano Paleo Bernal, ADAS and AD technical manager at Euro NCAP, said: “These evaluations provide consumers with critical insights into the Assisted Driving features available in today’s vehicles.
“First, car buyers interested in this technology must be aware that while it enables a comfortable driving experience, it has flaws under certain conditions and may create new risks when misused – hence driver supervision and situational awareness must be ensured at all times while operating these systems.”
