The new Toyota Land Cruiser has taken home the Utility and 4×4 title at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards, with judges calling it the “gold standard” for go-anywhere SUVs. It is a strong win for a model that already has a loyal following around the world.
Presented at a ceremony in Edinburgh, the award highlights what has always made the Land Cruiser special. Strength, reliability and an ability to handle serious off road terrain with ease. This latest version keeps that character while adding smarter tech and a more refined drive.
Why the judges loved it
Ally Ballingall, President of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, said the Land Cruiser stood out for its toughness and capable four wheel drive system. Judges praised its build quality, dependable engineering and the way it tackles tough conditions. They also pointed to its spacious and practical cabin which works just as well for everyday use.
Back to its roots, with a modern twist
Toyota introduced the latest generation Land Cruiser in late 2024. The design leans into its heritage and the engineering focuses on confidence on every surface. Built on the GA F body on frame platform, it delivers the strength and off road ability the nameplate is known for. After more than seventy years, the Land Cruiser remains a vehicle designed to take you anywhere and bring you back again.
New electrified power for 2026
For the 2026 model year, the Land Cruiser gains a new electrified 2.8D 48V powertrain that aims to deliver a smoother and more responsive drive. It should also make the stop start system quieter and more natural in daily traffic. Customer deliveries begin in March 2026 and you can read more about the model’s electrified updates here: Toyota Land Cruiser Electrified for 2026
A proper SUV for people who need one
In a market full of soft roader SUVs, the Land Cruiser still feels authentic. It remains a serious tool for towing, exploring and long distance travel. This award only reinforces its position as one of the most capable and dependable utility vehicles you can buy.
Toyota is stepping up its electrification plans with a new smart-charging ecosystem rolling out across the UK and wider Europe from 2026. The move will give Toyota and Lexus drivers access to cheaper, greener and more convenient charging at home and on the road.
What’s happening?
Toyota Motor Europe has signed new partnerships with energy providers across Europe, including a major link-up with British Gas in the UK. The aim is simple. Make charging easier and more efficient, and help drivers cut their energy bills.
These partnerships sit at the heart of Toyota’s push towards smarter, cleaner mobility. They bring together Toyota’s vehicle know-how with the energy sector’s expertise in flexible grids, renewable power and digital energy services.
Cheaper, smarter charging
The first big change arrives in 2026 with a new Demand Side Response (DSR) service. UK drivers will be able to charge their Toyota or Lexus plug-in hybrid or fully electric car at the best possible time.
Key benefits include:
Lower bills. Charging automatically shifts to cheaper off-peak hours.
Convenience. Drivers can set schedules and manage charging through mobile apps.
Greener energy. Cars can charge when renewable power is most available.
Rewards. Customers can get incentives for helping balance the electricity grid.
Supporting the wider energy network
As more drivers switch to electric, the grid needs smarter ways to manage demand. Toyota’s new system helps balance peaks and troughs, reduces the need for fossil-fuel backup power and supports the growth of wind and solar.
This isn’t just about individual savings. It helps the UK transition to cleaner energy without huge upgrades to the grid.
What comes next?
Toyota plans to expand these energy partnerships into more European markets. The next big leap will be Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. Once rolled out, EVs will be able to send power back to the grid when it’s needed most.
This could turn electric cars into mobile energy assets that save drivers money and help stabilise the electricity network.
Toyota’s view
Leon Van Der Merwe, Vice President of Circular Economy and Energy Business at Toyota Motor Europe, said the programme was a major step forward.
He explained that smart, green charging will be key to Toyota’s long-term goal of cleaner mobility across Europe and will help create a closer link between transport and energy systems.
Fiat has confirmed updates to the Grande Panda range for 2026. A new Pop trim now joins the fully electric line up. It replaces the previous (RED) edition. The hybrid and electric models now share the same structure with Pop, Icon and La Prima available across both.
What the new Pop trim offers
The Pop trim keeps several design details from the outgoing (RED) version. You get 16 inch white steel wheels and PixLED lighting front and rear. Inside, there are two tone seats with Panda lettering and a 10.25 inch touchscreen.
The standard equipment list is generous for a city car. Features include mirror screen connectivity, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, rear parking sensors, a 60-40 split rear seat and an upper dashboard glovebox. It is simple, useful and fits the Panda style well.
(RED) badging returns in a new way
Fiat is also marking four years of its partnership with (RED). Any Grande Panda ordered in the red colourway will now include two (RED) badges on the B pillars. It is a small feature, but it highlights Fiat’s ongoing support for global health causes.
Pricing and the Fiat E Grant
The fully electric Pop starts at £20,995 on the road. With the Fiat E Grant, buyers get a £1500 reduction, which brings the entry point under twenty thousand pounds. It makes the Grande Panda one of the most accessible electric city cars in the UK.
The Icon is £21,995 and the La Prima is £24,035. All qualify for the same £1500 saving. These figures also mean the Grande Panda sits in a price band that often works well for people exploring monthly finance or leasing options, as the lower list price can help keep payments manageable.
When it arrives
The Grande Panda is expected to reach the UK in early 2026. With prices dropping below twenty thousand pounds, it lands in a strong position for buyers looking for a low cost electric city car.
The Peugeot 208 has become one of the most recognisable small hatchbacks on UK roads. Sharp looks, a premium interior and a wide choice of petrol, hybrid and electric power make it an appealing option if you want something with more character than the usual choices.
I ran the 2021 Peugeot e208 for several months. It was one of those cars that I genuinely looked forward to driving. Even the lower trim levels look smart. The styling carries a sporty feel that gives the car a little hot hatch vibe, especially when seen from the rear. Living with one day to day uncovered some quirks, but as a whole package it left a very strong impression.
Below is my full review based on real ownership and the latest UK specs.
Styling and first impressions
The Peugeot 208 is one of the best-looking superminis on sale. Peugeot’s design team has nailed the mix of sharp lines, compact proportions and premium touches. The front end looks modern with the large grille and the signature vertical “claw” lighting. The stance is sporty without feeling forced.
Even the entry-level Style trim looks good. Higher trims bring bigger wheels, gloss black accents and Peugeot’s 3D i-Cockpit display, but you never feel short-changed with the cheaper versions.
Inside, the cabin feels more upmarket than many rivals. The driving position is wrapped around you and the materials are mostly soft and premium. It feels like Peugeot focused on design first and found a way to keep costs sensible, which is rare in this class.
Driving position and comfort
Peugeot’s i-Cockpit layout is unique, but not perfect for everyone. The small steering wheel sits low and you are meant to look over it to see the dials. For me, this caused two issues.
Getting in and out was awkward because the wheel sat exactly where my legs needed to go.
With the wheel in my comfortable position, the digital cockpit was often obscured.
The optional 3D effect driver display looks great at first, but I found it impossible to read when the sun came through the driver’s window. The reflections washed out the information completely.
Comfort in the front seats is good, and at 5 foot 11 I had plenty of space. Rear space is not great. I rarely carried passengers, but someone my height would not want to sit behind me for long.
Petrol, mild hybrid and electric options
Peugeot offers the 208 in three main power types:
Petrol
1.2 PureTech 100
Six speed manual
Punchy for its size and well suited to mixed driving
Hybrid (MHEV)
Hybrid 100 or Hybrid 136
Six speed automatic
Smoother than the manual petrol and more efficient
Good choice for town or commuting
Electric (e-208)
50 kWh or 51 kWh battery
136 hp or 156 hp motor
Up to 224 to 258 miles WLTP depending on version
My experience with the Peugeot e208
The e208 was a fun car to live with. The acceleration was strong and instant, which made it great on twisty B-roads. It felt planted, responsive and genuinely enjoyable. At lower speeds, the range was fairly accurate. Driving up to 50 mph gave predictable energy use and a real-world range that matched expectations.
Once you sit at 70 mph, the story changes. You can watch the range drop at around three miles for every one mile travelled. This made long trips more stressful than they needed to be. I travelled from Brighton to Norwich regularly. It is under 200 miles, yet I never attempted it in one go. The combination of motorway speed and patchy rapid chargers made me less brave than the numbers might suggest.
Charging was also not the quickest. The car supports up to 100 kW rapid charging, but in reality I rarely saw speeds that made long trips feel convenient.
One small annoyance was the lack of auto hold on the automatic versions. The car creeps forward when stationary unless you keep your foot firmly on the brake. City driving would be easier with a true hold function.
Range and charging (official figures from Peugeot UK)
e-208 50 kWh (136 hp)
WLTP range up to 224 miles
7.4 kW home charging
Up to 100 kW DC charging
Around 30 minutes from 20 to 80 percent on a rapid charger
e-208 51 kWh (156 hp)
WLTP range up to 258 miles
Same charging speeds
More efficient motor and improved battery chemistry
In normal UK conditions, especially in winter, expect less. My real-world range was usually in the 150 to 180 mile window depending on weather and speed.
Performance and fun factor
The 208 in any form feels lively and light. The small steering wheel gives the car a playful feel. The suspension is set up to be comfortable, yet it still handles direction changes well.
The petrol models suit drivers who want a simple, efficient supermini. The hybrids are better for town use and bring smoother acceleration. The e208 is the most enjoyable to drive because of its instant torque and quietness.
On a twisty road, the e208 is a proper laugh. It darts into corners, grips well and feels more agile than many small EVs.
Interior, tech and infotainment
The 10 inch touchscreen has all the essentials, but it can be fiddly. The menus are not the most intuitive and the system can be slow. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help, but it still feels more awkward than rivals like the Polo or Ibiza.
Storage is fine in the front, limited in the back. The boot sits at around 309 to 311 litres depending on version. It is usable, but the load lip is high and the opening is narrow.
Real-world practicality
Front space: good
Rear space: tight
Boot space: average
Visibility: restricted by the styling
Ride comfort: very good on most roads
Noise: well controlled, especially at speed
Running costs and leasing value
The petrol and hybrid models offer strong real-world efficiency. The electric model is cheap to run day to day but loses range quickly at motorway speeds.
Where the 208 becomes very tempting is leasing. With the current incentives from Peugeot, the 208 and e208 can be extremely affordable. For drivers wanting a stylish small car with low monthly costs, this is one of the strongest options on the market.
Want to explore how much this would cost you on a business or personal lease? Check out Rivervale today for the latest deals.
2025 Peugeot 208
Ben Freakley
Performance: How quick it feels day to day. Power, throttle response and smoothness.
Handling: How it corners and how stable it feels on different roads.
Comfort: Ride quality, seating, refinement and road noise.
Ease of Use: How simple the cockpit is. Buttons vs touch. Clear menus. Good ergonomics.
Space and Practicality: Boot size, rear room, storage, access, visibility.
Running Costs: Real world range, charging speed, fuel use, tax, servicing.
Build Quality: Materials, fit and finish, how solid it feels inside.
Value for Money: How much car you get for the price.
Summary
A stylish small car with plenty of personality.
The Peugeot 208 stands out in a crowded class. It looks great, it feels high quality and it is genuinely enjoyable to drive. The electric version adds instant performance and refinement, although it is less suited to long motorway journeys.
The i-Cockpit driving position will divide opinion and the infotainment is more complicated than it needs to be. The rear seats are tight and the boot opening is narrow.
Even with those compromises, the 208 remains one of the most appealing small cars you can lease right now. It brings style and fun without a premium badge price. For many people, that is exactly the sweet spot.
4.2
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Peugeot 208 a good car?
Yes. The Peugeot 208 is a very good small car if you value style, comfort and a premium feeling interior. It is not the most practical in its class, but it feels more upmarket than many rivals and is enjoyable to drive.
Is the Peugeot 208 reliable?
Recent owner surveys show Peugeot performing above the industry average for reliability. The 208 is not perfect, but it does not have any major, widely reported weak points. As with any car, a full service history and regular maintenance are key.
What is the real-world range of the electric Peugeot e208?
In my experience, the e-208 works well for mixed driving at up to around 50 mph, where the range estimate is fairly accurate. On faster roads at 70 mph, the range drops quickly and you can see several miles of range disappear for every mile travelled. For regular motorway trips, plan to stop and charge.
Can the Peugeot e208 do a 200 mile journey on a single charge?
On paper, certain e-208 models have a WLTP range of over 220 miles. In real-world UK conditions, at motorway speeds, I would not rely on a single charge for a 200 mile trip. When I drove regularly from Brighton to Norwich, I always planned a charging stop rather than trying to stretch the battery to its limit.
Is the Peugeot 208 comfortable on a long journey?
Yes. The 208 rides very well for a small car and feels settled on the motorway. Road and wind noise are well controlled and the seats offer good support. The only caveat is the driving position. If the i-Cockpit layout does not suit your body shape, you may struggle to find a perfect position.
Is the Peugeot 208 good for tall drivers and passengers?
Tall drivers should be fine in the front, although the small steering wheel and high dials can make it tricky to get fully comfortable. Rear space is limited. At around 5 foot 11, I would not expect someone of the same height to sit behind me in comfort for a long trip.
Is the Peugeot 208 a good first car?
It can be. The 1.2 petrol versions are easy to drive, compact and efficient. The interior feels more special than many rivals, which new drivers will appreciate. Insurance groups are not the very lowest in the class though, so it is worth getting quotes before you commit.
What are the common complaints about the Peugeot 208?
The main complaints are the i-Cockpit driving position, limited rear legroom, a narrow boot opening and a touchscreen that can be laggy and fiddly to use. On electric versions, some drivers also find rapid charging speeds and high-speed range a little disappointing.
Is the Peugeot 208 good value to lease?
Yes. The 208 often benefits from strong manufacturer and finance offers, which makes it very attractive as a lease car. The electric e-208 can also work out well on personal or business lease, especially if you do mainly town and suburban driving and can charge at home.
Should I choose the petrol or electric Peugeot 208?
Choose petrol if you want a simple, affordable small car and mainly do mixed town and A-road driving.
Choose hybrid if you want an automatic and better efficiency, especially in traffic.
Choose electric (e-208) if you have home charging, mainly drive locally and like strong acceleration and very low running costs.
For regular long motorway runs, petrol or hybrid will be less stressful.
Is the Peugeot e208 fast?
Yes. The e-208 feels very quick at normal road speeds thanks to instant torque from the electric motor. It is not a hot hatch in the traditional sense, but it pulls strongly away from junctions and out of corners and feels very lively on B-roads.
The MINI Paul Smith Edition has arrived and it feels like a perfect celebration of two icons of British design. MINI has teamed up once again with Sir Paul Smith to create a car filled with charm, colour and personality. If you’re searching for the new Paul Smith Mini, curious about the MINI Electric Paul Smith, or you love the idea of a modern MINI with a designer touch, this is one worth knowing about.
I’ve added some images and a short clip of Paul Smith walking through the design touches. It really shows how much of his world has made it into this new edition.
A partnership with proper history
MINI and Paul Smith have been working together on and off for almost 30 years. The first collaboration landed in 1998 with a classic Mini finished in a special shade of blue. A year later, Paul Smith went all in and created a one off Mini covered in 86 colourful stripes.
They reunited in 2021 for the MINI STRIP, a minimalist concept based on reducing the car to only the essentials. In 2022 they unveiled the MINI Recharged by Paul Smith, an electrified classic Mini based on one of the original 1998 Paul Smith cars.
So this new MINI Paul Smith Edition feels like a natural next step. It brings the designer’s famous style into the newest MINI family for both petrol and electric models.
Available across the MINI Cooper range
The MINI Paul Smith Edition will be available on:
MINI Cooper 3 door
MINI Cooper 5 door
MINI Convertible
It will sit across both petrol and electric versions, although John Cooper Works models are not included.
This means there will be a Paul Smith MINI Electric, which is likely to be a strong draw for people who want character and zero emission driving in the same package.
A look built around the idea of British with a twist
Paul Smith is known for creating classic pieces with a playful edge. MINI is known for personality, fun and creativity. Put them together and you get a car that stands out without shouting.
The colour options set the tone:
Statement Grey inspired by the 1959 Mini Austin Seven.
Inspired White based on the classic Beige from the original Mini.
Midnight Black Metallic from the current MINI line up.
All of them get special accents in Nottingham Green, a nod to Sir Paul’s hometown. You’ll see this shade on the mirror caps, grille outline, hub covers and one of the two roof designs. It gives each car a proper designer feel.
There are two roof choices:
A Nottingham Green roof with Paul Smith’s Signature Stripe running along one side.
A black striped roof with a mix of matte and gloss finishes.
Convertible models get a black soft top, keeping things simple and classic.
The car sits on 18 inch Night Flash wheels in black with a tinted steel finish. Even the MINI logo has been redesigned for this edition, shifting to a Black Blue colourway that fits the palette.
A cabin full of thoughtful touches
Inside the MINI Paul Smith Edition you get a mix of modern MINI design and unmistakeable Paul Smith details.
Knitted dash and door materials.
Paul Smith inspired patterns woven into the dashboard texture.
Nightshade Blue sport seats in Vescin with soft knitted upper sections.
Multicolour stitching on the steering wheel inspired by the Signature Stripe.
The central circular display gets three exclusive Paul Smith backgrounds in Personal Mode. When you open the door, a light projection on the ground says “Hello” in Paul Smith’s own handwriting. The sills carry his phrase “Every day is a new beginning”. Small, warm touches like this give the car a sense of welcome each time you get in.
There is even a hand drawn rabbit on the floor mats, created by Paul Smith himself. It brings a sense of humour to the interior, something both brands share.
A collaboration built on British craft and creativity
Both MINI and Paul Smith have always blended heritage with forward thinking design. This new edition continues that story. It celebrates British style without feeling old fashioned. It works on petrol and electric models, so whether you want a MINI Electric Paul Smith Edition or a 3 door petrol Cooper with a designer twist, the personality is the same.
The Paul Smith MINI collection
Alongside the car, Paul Smith is releasing a capsule range of bags inspired by design details from the new MINI Paul Smith Edition. MINI has also featured in Paul Smith’s clothing collections in the past, so fans of the brand will recognise the crossover.
Final thoughts
The new MINI Paul Smith Edition feels like one of those special collaborations that will become desirable very quickly. It has the charm of the classic Paul Smith Mini from the nineties, combined with the clean, modern look of the latest MINI Cooper and MINI Electric models.
It’s playful. It’s stylish. It’s distinctly British. If you’re into design led cars or you’ve always loved the idea of a Paul Smith Mini, this one is well worth a look.
If you are looking for a used van that can take a beating, carry real weight and keep running costs in check, the Vauxhall Vivaro is once again proving why it is one of the most trusted choices on the used market. The Vivaro has just been crowned Used Commercial Vehicle of the Year at the Car Dealer Used Car Awards 2025, a ceremony that highlights the strongest performers in the used market.
Why the Vivaro won
Industry judges, including Wheeler Dealers’ Mike Brewer, praised the Vivaro for the qualities buyers actually care about.
Dependable day to day
Practical for trade work and small businesses
Low running costs
Good resale value
Plenty of choice on the used market
Mike Brewer said the Vivaro is a familiar sight on UK roads for a reason. It supports tradespeople, small businesses and fleet operators without making life complicated. Car Dealer’s editor-in-chief, James Baggott, said it delivers what buyers want without relying on hype. Solid praise for a van that often ends up on shopping lists for anyone hunting for used vans for sale in the UK.
Strong in the new and used markets
The Vivaro has been a key player in the medium van segment for years. It was the second best-selling van in the UK in 2023, and the fully electric Vivaro Electric led the UK electric van market for three years in a row. That strong record in the new market filters directly into used stock.
This means buyers have plenty of choice, from low-mileage nearly new diesels to older high-spec models at keen prices, plus a growing supply of used electric variants.
Powertrain options that suit every job
One of the reasons the Vivaro performs so well in the used market is the range of engines and body styles available.
Diesel options
Used examples are often found with 1.5 or 2.0 litre turbo diesel engines, producing 100PS, 120PS, 145PS or 180PS. These engines have a good reputation for efficiency and durability, which is essential for anyone relying on their van for business.
Electric Vivaro
If you are searching for a used electric van, the Vivaro Electric (previously called Vivaro-e) is one of the strongest options in the UK.
Battery choices: 50kWh or 75kWh
WLTP range: up to 143 or 205 miles
Rapid charging: 0 to 80 percent in 30 minutes (50kWh) or 45 minutes (75kWh)
Ideal for ULEZ and low emission zones
The electric version is smooth, quiet and can slash running costs for businesses that cover predictable routes each day.
Body styles
Shoppers will commonly find three formats when browsing used Vivaro listings. • Panel Van • Double Cab • Platform Cab
Two body lengths were offered, giving buyers flexibility depending on payload, people and equipment.
What Vauxhall says
Vauxhall’s Managing Director, Steve Catlin, said the award reflects the van’s long-standing role as a hard-working partner for UK businesses. Its mix of capability, efficiency and modern tech continues to keep it in demand across both new and used markets.
Why used van buyers should care
If you are comparing used vans for sale in the UK, the Vivaro’s award win acts as useful confirmation of what many buyers already know. It offers: • Strong reliability • Good payload capability • A wide choice of trims and engines • Low operating costs • A strong electric option • Better availability than some rivals
It is also a van that dealers trust to sell, which is often a good sign for long-term ownership.
Should you consider a Vivaro as your next used van
Yes. If you need a medium van for trade work, deliveries, tools or multi-stop routes, the Vivaro ticks the important boxes. It is well suited to: • Builders, electricians and plumbers • Local delivery businesses • Growing start-ups • Fleets that need dependable workhorses • Drivers looking to switch to a used electric van
The mix of value, durability and choice makes it one of the safest buys in the used commercial vehicle market.
The Kia EV9 GT Line S is Kia’s electric flagship. It is big, bold and packed with tech, yet surprisingly easy to live with. I ran it for a full week thanks to Kia UK and filmed a full review for the Rivervale YouTube channel. After long drives to London and a coastal run from Brighton to Folkestone, it left a strong impression. It looks stunning, drives with real confidence and offers proper space for families. A few small niggles showed up during the week, but nothing that takes away from what is one of the most convincing full size electric SUVs on sale today.
Headline numbers
Price: From £65,000 to around £78,000+
Trim tested: GT Line S
Battery: 99.8 kWh
Power: 378 bhp (AWD)
Range: Up to 313 miles WLTP (GT Line S)
Charging: Up to 350 kW DC peak
Seats: 7 as standard, optional 6 seat layout with swivel chairs
Availability: On sale now
Leasing note: A strong choice for business users thanks to low Benefit in Kind
First look
This is not just Kia’s biggest EV. It is their flagship. It carries the same design confidence seen in the EV6 and pushes it into a full size, three row SUV. It has the bold front end with vertical light signatures, sharp surfacing and a profile that gives it huge road presence.
Several major outlets have praised the design. After living with it, I agree. It draws attention in the same way a Range Rover does. Many owners seem to be switching for the electric range and tax savings, and I can fully understand why.
Design and cabin
The cabin is calm and spacious with a clean layout. The triple screen setup looks modern and the materials feel premium. Some lower plastics still feel more practical than luxury, but the overall impression is strong at this price.
The seats are exceptional. They are heated, ventilated and have a massage function for the driver. There is loads of adjustment too. The driving position is high with excellent visibility and the big windows help you place the car.
I did not fully gel with the digital rear view mirror, but you can switch it back to a normal mirror, which I ended up using most of the time.
Space and practicality
Space is one of the EV9’s strongest talking points.
Third row
The third row is not an afterthought. It is properly usable for adults on short or medium journeys and ideal for children. You get ISOFIX, cupholders and USB C ports back there. There is even seatback recline adjustment. Access is simple thanks to the second row sliding forward smoothly.
Six seat version
If you choose the optional six seat layout on GT Line S, you unlock a clever bit of flexibility. The two second row seats swivel to face the third row and slide to create huge legroom. It feels like a lounge and makes long family trips far more comfortable. If you want maximum comfort in all rows, the six seat version is worth serious thought.
Boot
Boot space is generous and with the various seat configurations you can expect:
333 litres with all seats up
828 litres with the third row folded
Over 2,300 litres with both rear rows folded flat
You also get a usable frunk at the front, which is large enough for charging cables or maybe your muddy wellies.
On the road
For something this size, the EV9 is a real surprise. It handled every journey far better than I expected.
It feels planted on the motorway and remains quiet even at higher speeds. The suspension smooths out bumps well and the steering is light in town but weightier on faster roads. There is a bit of tyre noise on rougher surfaces, which is common in large electric SUVs.
Cornering
The most surprising part is how well it manages corners. You can genuinely throw it into bends with confidence. The AWD system and low centre of gravity keep it stable and controlled. You do still feel the weight in tight turns, but it never feels clumsy. Kia has done a brilliant job with the chassis.
Braking
The brakes are powerful but the transition from regenerative braking to friction braking can feel slightly inconsistent. It is not a major issue, but worth mentioning it can feel a bit abrupt.
Range and charging
Real world range is good but not quite at WLTP in winter. It was around six degrees during my week with the car and I consistently saw around fifty miles less than the official figure. It was still fine for my journeys, but worth noting.
Charging speed depends entirely on the charger you find. On a 50 kW unit, a 10 to 80 percent charge took around an hour and a half. On a high power 350 kW charger, Kia claims around twenty four minutes, so the potential is there if you have the right infrastructure.
Trims and pricing
The GT Line S sits near the top of the line up and gives you the full package. The Air trim offers the best range for less money, but the GT Line S adds more tech, a better sound system, more safety kit and the biggest wheels.
In terms of value, it does compare well to rivals like the BMW iX, Volvo EX90 and Tesla Model X. It delivers a lot of features for the price.
Rivals
• Volvo EX90 • BMW iX • Range Rover PHEV (for those dipping a toe into the EV world) • Audi Q8 e tron • Tesla Model X (used market only)
Who should buy or lease one
Families who want proper seven seat space and a large boot will love this. It is also great for business owners who want a premium SUV with low Benefit in Kind. If you are moving away from a diesel Discovery or Range Rover, you will find the EV9 comfortable, refined and very easy to adapt to.
Want to explore how much this would cost you on a business or personal lease? Check out Rivervale today for the latest deals.
2025 Kia EV9 GT-Line S
Ben Freakley
Performance: How quick it feels day to day. Power, throttle response and smoothness.
Handling: How it corners and how stable it feels on different roads.
Comfort: Ride quality, seating, refinement and road noise.
Ease of Use: How simple the cockpit is. Buttons vs touch. Clear menus. Good ergonomics.
Space and Practicality: Boot size, rear room, storage, access, visibility.
Running Costs: Real world range, charging speed, fuel use, tax, servicing.
Build Quality: Materials, fit and finish, how solid it feels inside.
Value for Money: How much car you get for the price.
Summary
The Kia EV9 GT Line S is one of the most impressive electric SUVs I have driven. It has huge space, loads of tech and a calm, well designed cabin. It is not cheap and the charging speed on lower power chargers is slow, but the positives easily outweigh the downsides. This is a genuine alternative to the traditional premium brands and shows how far Kia has come.
4.6
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kia EV9 worth buying?
Yes. The Kia EV9 offers genuine seven seat space, strong performance, excellent comfort and a premium feel at a lower price than many rivals. It is ideal for families and business users.
What is the real range of the Kia EV9?
The GT Line S is officially rated at up to 313 miles. In cold weather, expect around 250 to 265 miles depending on driving style and road conditions.
How long does the Kia EV9 take to charge?
On a 350 kW high power charger, Kia quotes 10 to 80 percent in around twenty four minutes. On a 50 kW charger, expect around ninety minutes.
Is the Kia EV9 a good family car?
Yes. It has three usable rows, ISOFIX in multiple seats, loads of storage, a massive boot and easy access to the third row. The six seat version makes long trips even more comfortable.
Can adults fit in the third row seats of the Kia EV9?
Adults can sit in the third row for short or medium journeys. Children will be comfortable on longer trips. The seats recline and have USB C ports and cupholders.
What is the difference between the 6 and 7 seat Kia EV9?
The 7 seat version has a 2–3–2 layout. The 6 seat version replaces the middle bench with two captain’s chairs that can swivel, slide and recline. This gives more legroom and a lounge-like feel.
How big is the boot in the Kia EV9?
Boot space is 333 litres with all three rows up, 828 litres with the third row folded, and over 2,300 litres with both rows folded flat.
Is the Kia EV9 good to drive?
Yes. It is smooth, quiet and stable, with plenty of power. It corners better than you expect for its size and feels safe and predictable on the road.
Does the Kia EV9 qualify for low benefit in kind?
Yes. As a fully electric vehicle, the EV9 offers very low Benefit in Kind costs which makes it attractive for company car drivers.
Renault has done it again. The Renault 5 E Tech Electric has been crowned ‘EV of the Year’ at the Motor Trader Industry Awards 2025. It’s a huge moment for one of the most talked-about small EVs on the market, and I’m not surprised at all. The R5 has been my favourite city car since I first drove it. It’s stylish, light on its feet and has the right mix of charm and everyday usability.
This win comes on the back of strong competition from Europe and Asia. Even with the pressure of new rivals arriving every month, the Renault 5 still stands out. The judging panel praised its design, pricing and tech, calling it a breath of fresh air in the supermini EV segment. With battery choices of 40 kWh or 52 kWh and a range of up to 252 miles, it delivers the right amount of performance for daily driving without pushing the price out of reach.
Prices start from £21,495 on the road thanks to the UK Government Electric Car Grant. It’s not often you get this level of style and capability at that price point. Renault has also done well to balance retro cues with modern tech. The R5 feels familiar yet fresh, and the vibrant colour palette only adds to its appeal.
It’s worth remembering that this is the second year in a row Renault has impressed the Motor Trader judges. Last year the Scenic E Tech Electric took home the ‘New Car of the Year’ title. That momentum continues with the R5, which has quickly become one of the most desirable electric hatchbacks in the UK.
Ben Freakley and Rocio Artist reviewing the Renault 5 in Brighton
If you want to know what it’s like to live with, I’ve already done a full review after spending a week with the car.
The award feels well deserved. The R5 captures the original’s spirit and brings it into today’s world with confidence. It’s good to see a small EV winning big.
Fiat has added another trophy to the shelf as the 500e takes home the City Car title at the Auto Express Used Car Awards 2025. It also picked up a commendation in the Electric Car category, which shows how well it continues to perform in a segment filled with strong choices.
There are so many capable small EVs on the market now, yet the 500e still stands out. It has character, charm and plenty of style. Even though the 500 has kept the same basic shape since the petrol model first launched, it still looks fresh and modern. Fiat’s most recent facelift sharpened the lines, added a touch more flair and helped the electric version feel right at home in today’s city car scene.
Auto Express combined its own road test results with real owner feedback from the Driver Power survey. The 500e came out on top thanks to its mix of iconic Italian design, easy electric performance and real-world value for money. You can already find low-mileage examples on the used market, making it an appealing entry point into EV ownership.
Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, called it “a great value, chic and fashionable little city car” and said the win is fully deserved. Since launching in 2020, the 500e has collected awards across Europe and continues to be Fiat’s most decorated model.
The electric 500 carries its heritage with confidence. It offers up to 118hp, 0–62 mph in 9 seconds and two battery options, with the larger 42 kWh pack giving up to 199 miles of range. For short trips, commuting and tackling tight streets, it remains one of the easiest and most enjoyable small EVs to live with.
As someone who has always had a soft spot for the 500, I’m pleased to see it recognised once again. I look forward to spending more time with one soon and seeing how the latest models feel on the road.
Maserati has introduced a new special edition of its mid-size SUV. The Grecale Lumina Blu brings a fresh take on the Modena trim with a striking Night Interaction paint finish and bold yellow details that stand out straight away.
On the outside you get 21 inch Pegaso wheels, yellow brake calipers and a yellow Trident badge on the rear pillar. Matrix LED headlights and tinted rear windows finish off the look.
Inside, Maserati has gone for a light Ghiaccio leather interior with open pore burl wood and a sporty steel pedal box. It mixes traditional craftsmanship with modern tech to create a calm, premium space. Standard kit includes a panoramic roof, motion-sensor electric tailgate, heated and cooled 14-way front seats, a heated steering wheel and a 360 degree camera system.
Power comes from the familiar 2.0 litre mild hybrid engine with 330 hp, matched to an eight speed automatic and all wheel drive. It aims to offer smooth everyday performance with the efficiency benefits of hybrid assistance.
The Grecale Lumina Blu adds another stylish option to the brand’s SUV range and shows Maserati pushing further into special edition models that carry extra visual flair and comfort features. I am looking forward to seeing this in person as the combination of deep metallic blue and yellow accents should look great on the road.
