July's car reviews in brief

Toyota’s fifth-generation RAV4 has gained plug-in hybrid technology making it the company’s flagship hybrid model. It is also the most powerful RAV4 to date so who says you have to compromise on power for cleaner, greener motoring?

The RAV4 PHEV may be a tad expensive, but the cars do hold their value exceptionally well and the customer aftercare is regarded as one of the best. This car looks great, drives well and has all the boxes ticked for any active family with an eye on the planet.

High quality, well equipped, and practical enough for most families, but the Formetnor’s real talent is its ability to destroy roads with its remarkable performance.

However, it’s still a family-friendly SUV at heart, and setting lap records or exploring oversteer limits are not the preserve of a family’s designated driver. Security and confidence are the names of the game instead, which are qualities the Formentor provides by the bucket load.

Maserati has just launched its fastest production saloons ever with the Quattroporte and Ghibli Trofeo models offering high-end exclusivity combined with brutal performance ability.

The beating heart of the Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo is the Ferrari sourced, Maserati worked V8 3.8-litre engine. This tried and tested collaboration has been working successfully for several years now, but is due to end next year with Maserati taking control of building its own unique V6 powertrains. 

The Quattroporte Trofeo may be a tad expensive, but it sure puts a smile on your face.

For the last few years, Toyota’s Highlander has been the best-selling mid-sized sport utility vehicle in the United States. Now, it’s coming to our shores for the first time – and it’s in hybrid guise.

When you compare the Highlander with premium automakers, why would you splash out over 50 grand when the likes of Audi and BMW have marginally smaller SUVs for less money?

On the positive side, you get a lot of stock kit and, if your decision is driven by needing a bigger SUV, you could regard it as a hell of a lot of machinery for less dosh compared with the premium marques’ largest vehicles.

Audi has managed to develop a flagship model that delivers blistering pace, outstanding driving dynamics and yet still provides all the comfort expected from a limousine-styled car. 

The S8 is the ultimate proof that comfort and elegance need not be compromised in the search for performance. It literally has it all and should be on any Lotto winner’s wish-list.

MINI has taken its legendary three-door hatchback Cooper model and given it electrifying appeal. 

The styling of its all-electric model is as similar to the standard car as possible and that’s not a bad thing as it maintains all its funky character and charm. There are EVs that are cheaper and boast a superior driving range, but few have the charisma of the MINI.