Tag Archives: mild hybrid

First drive in the 2026 next-generation Mazda CX-5. Is it better than ever? It shouldn’t be underestimated how important the family-friendly CX-5 SUV is to Mazda. Since its launch in 2012, five million have been sold worldwide, and some 105,000 in the UK alone – making it the brand’s best-selling …

We get behind the wheel of the surprise package that is the all-new Citroen C3 Aircross Citroen has treated its C3 Aircross to a chunky new grown-up look and a party trick for its second generation. Not only can you choose between petrol, mild-hybrid petrol and 100% electric versions, but …

We get to grips with the classy CX-80 seven-seater SUV – Mazda’s new flagship… If you need a big SUV that’s capable of carrying seven people in reasonable comfort, there’s already a pretty good choice. The new Mazda CX-80 is a welcome addition to the more affordable end of the …

We spend some quality time with the all-wheel drive Crosstrek SUV – Subaru’s entry-level model… At first glance, the all-new Subaru Crosstrek looks very much like the Subaru XV – the car it replaces. There’s a good reason for that, because the Crosstrek is, in effect, the third generation XV. …

We test the mild hybrid version of Citroen’s comfy family-sized SUV… How time flies. The first time I drove a Citroen C5 Aircross was way back in 2019, shortly after its UK launch. At that stage it was available with petrol or diesel power. A plug-in hybrid joined the range …

We road test the latest version of VW’s biggest selling car – the Tiguan family crossover… The Tiguan is a hugely important model for Volkswagen. Since the family crossover was first launched back in 2007, nearly eight million have been sold and it’s the German giant’s best-selling car globally. However, …

We head off for a trip down memory lane, taking all five generations of the Kia Sportage for a spin… Originally launched in 1993, the Kia Sportage has been the backbone of the South Korean brand’s remarkable success story. The popular family-sized SUV’s evolution perfectly reflects the manufacturer’s rapid rise …

We get behind the wheel of an intriguing new version of Mazda’s big SUV… I can’t remember the last time I tested a new diesel. There’s an avalanche of new hybrids and EVs, but diesels are a bit niche these days. Diesel once accounted for more than half of UK …

We road test the updated Mercedes-Benz A-Class – the entry-level model in the three-pointed star line-up… Priced from £31,905 and available as a hatchback or saloon, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been a huge success, delivering a relatively affordable, yet stylish and upmarket family car. The latest model was launched in …

We road test the new, improved version of the popular Ford Focus – now with mild hybrid assistance available… The current fourth generation of the Ford Focus five-door family hatchback and estate was launched in 2018 and has just been treated to a mid-life makeover. Gaining bolder looks, an updated …