The highly anticipated new Nissan Qashqai has recently been unleashed on the stunning roads of the Algarve, where I had the opportunity to test drive it, writes Sorted Magazine’s Motoring Editor Tim Barnes-Clay.
The crossover made a lasting impression with its refreshed styling, which exudes a sharp and modern dynamism.
The new Qashqai, a testament to Nissan’s commitment to innovation, features a striking front grille with numerous high-gloss, three-dimensional comma-shaped elements in a black finish. The re-shaped headlights, distinctive daytime running lights, and revamped rear lighting elements add to its unique appeal. It also offers new alloy wheel options and captivating new colours.
Furthermore, the Qashqai N-Design grade introduces a fresh and dynamic dimension to the lineup. Its body-coloured lower portions and 20″ alloy wheels elevate its on-road presence. The vehicle is available in different trim levels to suit diverse preferences, ranging from Acenta Premium, N-Connecta, N-Design, and Tekna to Tekna+.
The 2024 Qashqai boasts Alcantara in the cabin. It adorns the dashboard, door inserts, armrests, and centre storage console lid of the upper-grade models, offering a sophisticated feel. The upper three grades feature intricately patterned materials and sumptuous seat trims, reflecting meticulous attention to detail and providing comfort and elegance.
Technological advancements include the upgraded Around View Monitor system with a 3D feature for enhanced visibility and safety through multiple external camera viewpoints. The integration of Google as part of the NissanConnect infotainment system ensures seamless connectivity. NissanConnect Services also provides security and convenience with vigilant monitoring and alerts for added peace of mind.
The new Nissan Qashqai is not just about looks, though – it’s about performance. Nissan’s innovative e-POWER system combines a petrol engine with a compact electric motor, delivering an electric drive sensation without the need for traditional charging. This provides a compelling option for motorists seeking the advantages of an electric vehicle without range anxiety. The Qashqai also offers a refined and comfy driving experience, responsive and precise handling, smooth ride quality, impressive power delivery, and efficiency.
The new 2024 Nissan Qashqai, a perfect blend of safety, comfort, and versatility, is now in production at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant in the UK. With a starting price of £30,135, it’s a compelling choice for families. Indeed, it marks another milestone for a vehicle that has seen over four million units built since its original launch in 2007, making it a proven and trusted choice for motorists.
Photo credits: Courtesy of Nissan Qashqai and Tim Barnes-Clay
The Porsche Taycan GTS saloon is a stunning four-door electric sports car with a sleek and aerodynamic design. Moreover, its lightweight construction makes for an outstanding driving experience.
Under the bonnet, the Porsche has a dual-motor setup that unleashes 590 horses. This enables the electrified sports car to sprint to the hallowed 62mph in 3.7 seconds and on to 155 mph. The Taycan also has an official range of 313 miles, which is more than enough for most UK drivers.
The interior of the German-made car is as impressive as the outside. The cabin is spacious and luxurious, with high-end materials and finishes. The dashboard features a clean, uncomplicated design, with a central touchscreen display controlling most functions. The Taycan GTS saloon also vaunts a premium sound system and climate control.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Taycan is its handling. The car is incredibly agile and responsive, with precise steering and excellent grip, thanks partly to all-wheel drive. The GTS also features Porsche’s Active Suspension Management system, which adapts to real-time road conditions to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Additionally, the saloon’s regenerative braking system helps improve handling, slowing the vehicle down quickly and smoothly.
Safety is a top priority for Porsche. Therefore, the Taycan GTS has advanced safety features that keep you and your passengers as looked after as possible. These include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system.
It is an environmentally friendly vehicle that produces zero emissions during operation. This makes the sports car a better transport option for our planet than traditional petrol-powered vehicles. The Porsche also has various charging options, allowing you to charge it at home, work, or a public charging station.
The Taycan GTS is an exceptional electric vehicle redefining industry standards. Its streamlined design, intense performance, luxurious interior, and advanced features make it a top purchase if you insist on electrified performance and luxury.
Are you looking for a practical, reliable car that can handle muddy terrain and harsh weather conditions? Look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
This vehicle is a cross between a hatchback and an SUV and blends style, comfort, and performance in one package, making it perfect for British roads and our changeable climate.
The Crosstrek’s bold front grille, sharp headlights, and distinctive body lines give it a modern and stylish look. The vehicle sits on 18-inch alloy wheels that provide a smooth, comfortable ride, even on bumpy, pothole-peppered roads.
The car’s all-wheel-drive system is one of its most significant selling points, especially in the often-wet UK. With this feature, you can motor along with confidence in any season. Additionally, the Crosstrek’s impressive 220mm of ground clearance allows it to handle rough, off-the-beaten-track surfaces easily.
Inside, the Subaru offers a spacious cabin accommodating up to five passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys more comfortable. The interior has various tech features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto and a rearview camera.
The Crosstrek’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine combined with hybrid power provides a decent balance of clout with 136PS and 184Nm of torque. What’s more, the engine is paired with a single-speed auto continuously variable transmission (CVT). The ‘Scooby’ will achieve mid-30s mpg and zero to 62mph arrives in a seemingly leisurely 10.8 seconds. However, it feels quicker than that – and the maximum speed is 123mph.
Regarding safety, the Crosstrek comes loaded with tech such as Subaru’s first-class EyeSight kit. This feature helps prevent accidents and protects you and your passengers.
Overall, this Subaru is a good choice for anyone after a car that offers style, comfort, and mount-goat-like performance. With its all-wheel-drive system, notable ground clearance, and advanced safety features, the Crosstrek is an excellent vehicle for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and outdoor adventures.
Choose the Subaru Crosstrek and drive it on any road, muddy rural trail, or in any weather with confidence.
Fast Facts – Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i e-Boxer Touring as tested:
Max speed: 123 mph
0-62 mph: 10.8 secs
MPG: 36.8
Engine layout: 1,995cc four-cylinder petrol hybrid
The Musso began life in 1993 as a rather ugly mid-size SUV before being discontinued ten years ago.
But now it’s back, having had a massive makeover, and it’s on sale in the UK.
And believe it or not, it’s surprisingly impressive and has already won plaudits and accolades.
Like SsangYong’s other vehicles, the Musso is a workhorse, a veritable powerhouse of features that make it a standout performer.
It is a rugged pick-up that doesn’t skimp on the finer things, such as 17-inch alloy wheels and DAB radio.
Admittedly, entry-level EX trim is a little bare, not including infotainment or smartphone connectivity.
That and even the next trim up, Rebel, still only offer manual air conditioning. Still, the one after it – Saracen – gets 18-inch rims, dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, heated and ventilated power-adjustable Nappa leather front seats with driver lumbar support and SatNav.
Top-of-the-range Saracen+ offers even more.
Under the bonnet is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine that pumps out a respectable 202PS, part-time four-wheel drive, and a manual or automatic gearbox.
As pick-up trucks go (and, without doubt, as SsangYongs go), the Musso is an attractive motor that looks classy but, at the same time, is rugged and built for the rough stuff.
It is a brute, no doubt about it, with bold lines and design giving it a robust look, while the bold front grille and vertical ‘air intake slits’ that house the day running lights add much aggression.
The Musso isn’t a vehicle that you can assess based on the criteria of any regular car, taking 11.9 seconds (11.3 with the manual gearbox) to get from 0-62mph, which isn’t exactly remarkable, but then no truck is judged on its pace.
Nor is it judged by its handling, which is okay but not helped by the absence of any real feel to the steering.
Ride comfort is reasonably good, albeit not great, although the middle ground between softness and firmness gives it a good level of agility in the bends compared with some of its competitors.
It does tend to feel like it’s bouncing around a bit without anything in the loading bay to press the rear down, though.
You can have a six-speed manual gearbox, although the automatic increases the towing limit by 300kg to an impressive 3500 kilograms, so that’s worth considering.
It is fine off-road, too, unless you’re tackling a thick swamp.
Inside, the Musso looks much like an ordinary car, so there’s no utilitarian feel that you’d associate with some pick-ups.
There is plenty of silver trim, buttons on the steering wheel, air vents and a nicely sized touchscreen built into the dashboard.
This added to the leather on top of the gear knob with the automatic version gives it a premium feel, and you’d quickly forget you were in a truck.
It feels high-quality, too, with decent attention to detail.
The infotainment system is an eight-inch touchscreen in the Rebel and a 9.2-inch HD screen in the Saracen and Saracen+ trims, that’s intuitive to use and comes with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, plus TomTom SatNav with the larger screen.
As expected, practicality is a strong suit of the Musso, with seating for five and ample headroom and legroom for all passengers.
It could be more economical, and the Saracen+ is available with a long wheelbase, which is slightly less economical still.
The Musso comes with a safety pack as standard, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning and high beam assist.
Overall, the SsangYong Musso isn’t what I thought it would be at all. It treads the delicate balance of ruggedness and refinement well, offering a vehicle that can tackle a muddy trail and comfortably ferry your family around town.
The Musso satisfies many needs, offering a compelling choice for those seeking a rough terrain vehicle that doesn’t skimp on luxury, especially with higher trims.
It could be more entertaining to drive, but people rarely buy a pick-up for its ability to power slide around corners.
I recommend the Rebel trim, as it offers many more creature comforts than the EX-version, although even the latter, at entry-level, offers excellent value for money.
The eC4 is a crossover that combines a coupe’s sleek lines with a hatchback’s practicality and adds a dash of Citroen’s trademark quirkiness.
But is it any good to drive, and does it make sense as an electric car? Let’s find out.
The eC4 is powered by a single electric motor that produces 136PS and 300Nm of torque, which propels the front wheels through a single-speed automatic gearbox.
Its battery has a capacity of 50kWh, which gives the car a claimed range of 219 miles, while charging the battery from 0 to 100% takes around 7.5 hours on a 7.4kW home wallbox or 30 minutes for a 0 to 80% top-up on a 100kW rapid charger.
A burst of torque from the electric motor delivers instant acceleration, making the French vehicle feel nippy around town.
There are three driving modes to choose from: Eco, Normal and Sport, with Eco limiting the power output and maximising the regenerative braking, which helps to extend the range. Normal mode balances performance and efficiency, and Sport sharpens the throttle response and steering.
The suspension system is one of the highlights of the eC4, as it features Citroen’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushions technology. This means that hydraulic bump stops at each end of the suspension travel absorb shocks and vibrations from uneven roads.
The result is a very comfortable ride quality, especially on rough surfaces, making the eC4 feel smooth and refined.
On the inside, the eC4 is spacious, with a minimalist dashboard and a digital instrument cluster, which looks stylish if a bit plasticky in places.
There is plenty of headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. The boot space is decent, too, offering 380 litres of room with the rear seats up and 1,250 litres folded down in a 60/40 split.
The infotainment system is easy to use, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. The only downside is that some of the settings are buried in submenus, which can be distracting while driving.
The eC4 is an economical car to run, as it has zero emissions and low running costs. Citroen says you should be able to do 219 miles on a full charge but, as with nearly all-electric cars, expect less than this in practice.
However, the eC4 could be more engaging to drive, and it faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Kia e-Niro and the Volkswagen ID.3.
But, if you’re looking for an electric car that’s different from the rest, the eC4 is undoubtedly worth a gander.
Fast Facts – Citroen eC4 [Sense trim, 50kWh]:
Max speed: 93 mph
0-62 mph: 10.0 secs
Range: 219 miles
Motor layout: Single electric motor with front-wheel drive
The Audi A4 Avant is the estate version of the German marque’s compact executive saloon and a big rival to BMW’s refined 3 Series Touring.
Although most of the A4s you’ll see on the roads won’t be the Avant, the car with the bigger booty is supposedly the best combination of premium performance, style, and practicality that Audi offers.
The Sport Edition, which is the entry-level trim nowadays, is tested here. But it still comes well-equipped, with 17-inch 10-spoke wheels, LED headlamps that pierce the night like a lighthouse, three-zone climate control and heated front seats.
The cabin greets you with a three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles and twin-leather upholstery – available in beige, brown, grey, or black, setting the tone for a luxurious ride.
The 40 TFSI engine is a gem – a well-refined 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit churning out a healthy 204PS, making it an animated performer.
It is paired with a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission that’s smooth and refined, ensuring that power delivery is always on point.
The A4 Avant is a beauty, no doubt about it, with its elongated silhouette and sharp lines giving it a commanding presence on the road.
It is visually appealing with Audi’s now traditional aggressive hexagonal goatee grille at the front, chiselled air intakes and a mean frown from the headlights.
Driving the A4 Avant is an experience in itself. The ride comfort is top-notch, thanks to the ‘comfort dynamic’ suspension that easily absorbs bumps and potholes. However, the next trim up, the S-Line, has a firmer, sportier suspension.
You don’t need a harsher ride as the handling is still sharp and responsive in the Sport edition. It makes it a joy to navigate through winding country roads or busy city streets, meaning you can stick at entry level without compromising.
The 40 TFSI engine is a performer, delivering its power smoothly and efficiently. At the same time, the S tronic gearbox ensures seamless gear changes.
Step inside the A4 Avant, and a delightful, stylish, and functional cabin welcomes you.
Even the standard black colour scheme feels classy and timeless. Mind you, that’s partly thanks to the aluminium inlays, which brighten things up nicely, adding much sophistication and modernity.
The infotainment system is a standout feature, positioned on the dashboard with its 10.1-inch touchscreen that’s intuitive to use and packed with features like Audi Connect, MMI Navigation Plus and Audi Smartphone Interface.
You also get a digital instrument cluster called Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, replacing the traditional analogue dials with a 12.3-inch high-resolution LCD, providing lots of helpful information in your line of sight.
Practicality, though, is where the A4 Avant truly shines.
It offers five relatively spacious seats for what’s still a compact car, offering a relaxing ride for all occupants and ensuring a comfortable experience even on long journeys.
Boot capacity measures 495 litres with the rear seats up, increasing to 1,495 litres with them folded down in a convenient 40/20/40 configuration. However, BMW’s 3 Series Touring and the Mercedes C-Class Estate offer marginally more.
Still, that’s enough for your weekly shopping, a couple of suitcases, or even a small piece of furniture.
Fuel economy is okay, delivering 44.1mpg emitting 146g/km of CO2 in the process, making it a reasonably good choice for an estate of its size.
Safety features include Audi pre-sense city, parking system plus, cruise control with speed limiter, plus automatic emergency braking, while an optional driving assistance pack adds even more.
The Audi A4 Avant is a car that ticks all the right boxes: it’s stylish, powerful, practical, and packed with features.
Fast Facts – Audi A4 Avant [40 TFSI Sport Edition S tronic]:
Max speed: 130 mph
0-62 mph: 7.3 secs
Fuel economy: 44.1 mpg
Engine layout: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol
The Bentley Continental GT Mulliner is not so much a car as it is a symphony of luxury, performance, and craftsmanship that’s set to leave an indelible impression.
The exterior design of the Continental GT Mulliner W12 is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to attention to detail, sculpted with precision, resulting in a silhouette that’s both elegant and commanding.
The Mulliner variant showcases Bentley’s most exquisite features, boasting unique 22-inch wheels that command attention and a distinctive Double Diamond front grille that exudes an air of exclusivity.
It also has many customisable options that set it apart in the Continental GT range.
Nestled under the hood, the Mulliner is propelled by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, churning out a staggering 659PS and 900Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, ensuring a seamless and efficient transfer of propulsion, resulting in a car that’s as thrilling to drive as it is to look at.
Venture inside the Continental GT Mulliner, and you’re greeted by an interior that’s a masterclass in lavish luxury. The diamond-quilted leather upholstery is visually stunning and incredibly comfortable, making every journey pleasurable.
The ride comfort is unrivalled, courtesy of the advanced air suspension that effortlessly absorbs road imperfections. However, it’s adjustable by selecting a driving mode to adjust the bias between softness and agility in the bends.
Furthermore, the boot space measures 358 litres, enough for a few suitcases or a golf bag.
The Continental GT Mulliner is not just about luxury and performance, or perhaps accommodating the odd set of golf clubs; it’s also equipped with a wide range of safety features to ensure that you and your passengers are always protected.
For instance, a head-up display provides crucial information without requiring you to take your eyes off the road, while a night vision feature enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
In conclusion, the Bentley Continental GT Mulliner is an opulent, potent, and meticulously crafted vehicle that stands in a class of its own.
As an exclusively electric SUV, it was among the first of its kind and gave us a glimpse into the future.
Style, performance, and sustainability go hand in hand – and that’s certainly true if you opt for the range-topping e-4ORCE model. This edition adds a second electric motor, meaning it’s all-wheel drive.
Like the rest of the range (which comprises two-wheel drive models with 63kWh and 87kWh batteries), the e-4ORCE version is available in a couple of trims: Advance and Evolve.
Nineteen-inch wheels, LED matrix lights, a powered tailgate, a snow driving mode, dual-zone climate control, an around-view camera and SatNav are standard.
The more expensive Evolve version gets part synthetic suede upholstery, a Bose premium audio system, an openable panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.
All models get a ‘shield’ front grille – this houses the sensors for the ProPILOT driver-assist system.
Inside, you’re treated to a minimalist and modern cabin with two 12.3-inch displays, heated front seats, and a host of high-tech features that make driving a breeze.
The two electric motors that produce a combined output of 306PS and the all-wheel drive system ensure optimal power, traction, and stability in all conditions.
Is this Nissan pretty? Well, that’s up for debate – it’s certainly memorable, with its stocky design and very pronounced mouth.
The car’s sleek lines, coupe-like silhouette at the rear (thanks to a sloping roofline) and futuristic design elements give it a unique and eye-catching look.
The acceleration is fierce in the e-4ORCE versions, taking just 5.7 seconds to get from 0-62mph thanks to a burst of instant torque, ensuring rapid acceleration and seamless power delivery.
For an SUV, the handling is okay, but there’s a bit of body roll in the bends, and some competitors with all-electric offerings offer a dash more entertainment.
The ride comfort is better in the e-4ORCE models compared with the rest of the range, though. This is thanks to a revised multi-link rear suspension setup which helps deal with the additional heft of the second electric motor.
The Ariya includes a feature it calls e-Pedal, which enables one-pedal driving by automatically applying the brakes when you lift off the accelerator. This enables regenerative braking – a common feature on electric cars but, as a new technology, some manufacturers’ creations aren’t particularly intuitive. I’m pleased to report that’s not the case on the Ariya – its deceleration when using the e-Pedal feels consistent and predictable.
The cabin is functional and stylish, with the black and copper colour scheme giving a classy, modern feel. Indeed, the minimalist design gives the Nissan a premium vibe of quality and makes the interior seem spacious and airy.
The infotainment system is a standout feature, sitting alongside an identically sized digital instrument screen. The system is intuitive to use and packed with features like Nissan Connect, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
As you might imagine, practicality is a strong suit, with five seats offering ample space for all occupants, ensuring a comfy ride even on long journeys. The boot space is generous, too – so the family’s shopping will more than fit in.
Being an electric vehicle, the Ariya emits zero CO2 and, depending on trim, offers a range of over 300 miles on a single charge of its 87kWh battery, making it a sustainable and economical SUV.
You will get up to 329 miles of range if you opt for the two-wheel drive edition, though, while a smaller 63kWh battery will get you up to 250 miles on a full charge.
Euro NCAP gave the Ariya a five-star safety rating when it was crash-tested, giving it 86% for adults, 89% for children and 93% for safety assists.
The latter score is due to the breadth of features like ProPILOT, intelligent forward collision warning, intelligent emergency braking, parking sensors, intelligent key, a driver alertness monitor, blind spot intervention and warning and rear cross-traffic alert.
Cruise control, lane intervention, object detection, and lane keep assist are other examples of safety tech – and even that’s not the full list.
The Nissan Ariya E-4ORCE is a car that ticks all the right boxes. It is stylish, powerful, practical, and sustainable.
So, if you’re in the market for a premium electric SUV, the Ariya E-4ORCE is definitely worth considering.
Fast Facts – Nissan Ariya [e-4ORCE, Evolve trim] as tested:
Max speed: 124 mph
0-62 mph: 5.7 secs
Range: 309 miles (87kWh battery)
Engine layout: Dual electric motor with all-wheel drive
The Honda Civic Type R takes an otherwise normal family car and adds copious amounts of zing and a touch of oomph into the mix.
Except for one-offs like the famous NSX, the Civic Type R has been Honda’s flagship in terms of bold declarations of its racing prowess.
Not only that, though, it’s a machine that’s as practical as it is exciting.
Buying a Type R is a lifestyle choice as much as it is a car – aimed at those who crave the thrill of a high-performance machine but still need an around-town runabout that can handle the rigours of daily life from commutes to shopping trips.
It is a car that doesn’t just turn heads; it makes a statement along with it.
As the crème de la crème of the Civic range, it boasts many features that make it a standout performer and a hot hatch that’s been given a generous sprinkle of Honda’s magic dust.
The exterior is adorned with a sporty body kit, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler that screams speed.
The LED headlights and fog lights are the cherry on top, illuminating the road ahead with a crisp, clear light.
Front and rear parking sensors, an alloy gear lever and sports pedals, a triple-exhaust, rear-view camera, SatNav with live traffic info, DAB radio, red suede front sport seats and a wireless charger offer many sprinklings of sugar, too.
Civic Type R (2022-)
Its aggressive lines and aerodynamic design give it a predatory look, like a cheetah ready to pounce.
The Championship White paint job is a classic choice. But if you’re feeling bold, the Rallye Red also does the job, along with three Pearl colours: Sonic Grey, Crystal Black and my personal favourite, Racing Blue, which makes it pop.
Indeed, the Type R transforms from an otherwise-mundane family motor to a real head-turner.
The bonnet houses a turbocharged 2.0-litre VTEC engine that churns out a beastly 329PS mated to a slick six-speed manual gearbox – a nod to the purists who crave the tactile thrill of shifting gears.
Slide behind the wheel, and you’ll find that the Type R is as much a performer as it is a stunner.
The handling is razor-sharp, the ride comfort is surprisingly plush for a hot hatch, and the engine performance is nothing short of exhilarating.
It goes from 0-62mph in just 5.4 seconds, topping out at a salivation-worthy 171mph.
The gearbox is a joy to use, too, with a short throw and precise action that makes every cog change a delight.
One interesting tidbit is the Type R’s +R mode, which sharpens the throttle response, stiffens the suspension and tweaks the steering for an even more engaging driving experience.
It is like having a racing car at the push of a button.
Despite its sporty nature, the Type R is surprisingly comfortable.
The suspension does a great job of soaking up bumps, meaning it’s great to live with every day, while the engine is also hushed at cruising speeds, adding to the car’s overall refinement.
Civic Type R (2022-)
Inside, the Type R is a delightfully modern-day blend of sporty flair and everyday practicality.
The black and red colour scheme is a nod to Honda’s racing heritage, while the high-quality materials give the cabin a premium feel.
The Type R’s cockpit is driver-focused and designed to keep you in control, with the bright red sporty bucket seats offering excellent support to keep you firmly in place, even when you’re pushing the car to its limits.
Its dual colour scheme extends to the leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear gaiter, adding a touch of sportiness to the cabin.
The infotainment system is a nine-inch touchscreen that’s a breeze to use, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Plus, there’s a useful 10.2-inch digital instrument display.
The eight-speaker audio system delivers crisp, clear sound, making every journey a joy, even if that means you’re having your music pulsated through you rather than delivered civilly to your ears.
Space is a strong suit of the Type R, too, offering seating for five, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers.
However, the convenience extends beyond its airy cabin, as it comes with a host of storage solutions, including a large glovebox, door bins, and cup holders.
The boot space is generous, too, offering 410 litres with the rear seats up and an accommodating 1,212 litres with them folded down.
The boot is easy to load, thanks to a wide opening and low-load lip.
Despite its performance credentials, another feather in the Type R’s cap is that, for a hot hatch, it’s not as thirsty as you might think.
It returns 34.4mpg and emits 186g/km of CO2, which is okay for a vehicle with this much grunt.
A standard Civic was crash-tested by Euro NCAP in 2022 and earned a five-star rating, scoring 89% for adults, 87% for children and 83% for safety assists.
The model comes with Honda Sensing as standard, which includes a suite of driver-assistive technologies designed to keep all occupants safe. These include collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, as well as lane-keeping assist.
Overall, the Civic Type R is a masterclass in balancing performance and practicality, delivered in a stylish package that’s as at home on a racetrack as on a school run.
Is it worth buying? Yes, without a doubt.
It delivers on all fronts, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a hot hatch that doesn’t compromise on convenience or (at least in context) economy.
So, if you’re in the market for a car that can do it all, the Type R should be near the top of your list – as long as you have fifty grand stuffed down the back of the settee.
Fast Facts – Honda Civic Type R as tested:
Max speed: 171 mph
0-62 mph: 5.4 secs
Fuel economy: 34.4mpg (WLTP)
Engine layout: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder VTEC petrol
Once upon a time, if you wanted a hot hatch, you’d go for the Golf GTi – but those days are long gone.
So many manufacturers surpassed the GTi that VW itself decided it needed to introduce a new model called the Golf R.
One of the cars that overtook the GTi’s legendary brilliance was the Ford Focus ST.
While it’s not quite in the same bracket as the full-beans Focus RS, the ST is a smorgasbord of impressive features.
It boasts 19-inch alloy wheels with a Magnetite matte finish, Dynamic Matrix LED headlights, power-folding door mirrors, and an ST body kit. It is also equipped with sports suspension, limited slip differential and dual-zone climate control, plus heated six-way electrically adjustable front seats with powered lumbar support and a heated steering wheel.
You also get a 13.2-inch touchscreen with a DAB radio, voice control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, a keyless entry/start, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The model reviewed includes the Track Pack, which adds Recaro shell seats, lightweight alloy wheels, Brembo brake callipers, larger brake discs and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. But, as you’ll read in a bit, it has even more to offer.
It is a package that screams performance.
The ST is propelled by a 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost lump that pumps out an enthusiastic 280PS and 480Nm of torque.
The blue-badged hatch comes with a six-speed manual ‘box, which will please the purists. But a seven-speed automatic is also available, albeit not with the Track Pack.
It is a beauty to look at, too, with its muscular body kit, aggressive lines, and distinctive fins on the front air intakes giving it a menacing look.
There are several colours to choose from – the default being Racing Red. But Fantastic Red, Frozen White, Agate Black, Magnetic Grey, and my favourite – Mean Green – are also available.
Picking a shade will likely make life difficult for a while.
Sadly, one of the Focus ST’s main criticisms was that it was compromising something in terms of being considered a proper hot hatch.
While reviews were mixed, some felt the kingpin Focus RS got in the way, as it meant the ST was a dumbed-down version deliberately engineered to be slightly inferior in every department.
This is put right with the Track Pack, which, although a £3,000 option, gives the ST the final weapon it needs to complete its arsenal.
While it remains front-wheel drive only, the Ford grips the road exceptionally well, and the engine note sounds pleasingly powerful.
Zero to 62mph is dealt with in 5.7 seconds, topping out at 155mph.
The ST Track Pack adds that extra edge, with weight saving, grippier tyres and improved braking power optimising the overall feel in the bends.
The ride manages to feel firmer and yet more comfortable at the same time, thanks to new dampers which absorb bumps better, yet offer more rigidity where it matters.
This added to the 1cm lower ride height, means body lean is even more limited, and, as a result, the cornering feels enriched.
And, if you’re the sort of person who likes to tinker with cars, the dampers are manually adjustable, with a toolkit supplied by Ford as part of the Track Pack.
The six-speed manual gearbox is exquisite for its simpleness. There is no clever tech around it, but that means it’s blissfully straightforward to shift through the gears.
In truth, the cog-changer can feel clunky, but it’s not a deal breaker, and I’d still recommend it over the automatic (which, as I said earlier, isn’t available with the Track Pack).
Thanks to a recent mid-life facelift, the inside of the Focus ST looks better than ever.
That said, Ford could have made more of an effort to make the ST version stand out from the rest of the range. Why? Well, other than the odd ST badge dotted around, there’s little to remind you you’re not sitting in an ordinary Focus.
At least the Track Pack adds the Recaro seats. Meanwhile, the 13.2-inch infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are both nice to use.
Of course, if you want to go tearing around Silverstone with your brand new flat-pack drinks cabinet in the back of your Focus ST, then you’ll be delighted to know practicality remains one of its strong suits.
Track Pack or not, the seats are comfy, and there’s plenty of head and legroom for everyone, front and back.
The boot space is 358 litres, which isn’t as impressive as some rivals, but it’s good enough. What’s more, folding the rear seats down expands the usable room to 1,320 litres.
Despite its performance credentials, the Focus ST is surprisingly economical. It returns 35mpg and emits 183g/km of CO2.
The standard Focus earned a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2018, scoring 85% for adults, 87% for children and 75% for safety assists.
The ST comes with emergency assistance, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision assist with autonomous emergency braking.
In conclusion, the standard Focus ST is a decent car, and the individual differences offered by the Track Pack all add up, causing a transformative effect on its handling.
It is spacious inside; it has a nice (if a little too understated) interior, and ticks both boxes: offering a great family car that enthusiastic drivers can also enjoy.
Fast Facts – Ford Focus ST (with optional Track Pack) as tested:
Max speed: 155 mph
0-62 mph: 5.7 secs
Fuel economy: 35.3 mpg (WLTP)
Engine layout: 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost petrol
