Road Tested and Reviewed in 2017
A quick look at the cars we’ve tested in 2017
9. Mazda MX5 RF
The best looking MX5 ever? We’ll let you decide that one. This is a unique twist on the fourth generation of the MX5 which we’ve quickly grown to adore. This ‘Retractable Fastback’ offers a more refined driving experience when the roof is up, with improved cabin insulation, while still offering the roof-down enjoyment when the sun comes out.
8. Volvo S90 R-Design
We took the sophisticated new S90 R-Design out for a spin to see how it fares against other premium rivals. This new S90 aims to appeal to a much broader audience than Volvo have been used to, as the brand expands its target market to a younger demographic.
Have Volvo hit the nail on the head? Read our full review to find out...
7. Audi A5 Sportback
A new generation of the A5 is being rolled out in coupe, cabriolet and sportback form. We took the new Sportback for a drive to see what we made of it, and to find out whether the 5 door model is worth paying the extra money for. This is a very important model for the new Audi range.
6. Toyota Prius Plug-in
The car that has become synonymous with hybrid vehicle ownership. A brand new Plug-in Prius is soon to hit the market. We tested the new model in Barcelona earlier this month and experienced the new solar panel roof, the revised driving dynamics and exceptional fuel economy. If you’ve thought about a hybrid vehicle, you can’t go wrong with this new Prius.
5. Audi RS6 Performance
Speak to most Dads nowadays and ask what they look for in a new family car. 9 times out of 10 they’ll say: ‘two things. First, a boot with over 1,600 litres of luggage space when the rear seats are folded flat. Second, just under 600 horsepower, please.’ Probably.
The RS6 Performance takes the automotive cliché of an ‘all-rounder’ to levels beyond belief. A properly demonic wagon with supercar performance.
4. Hyundai i30 Hatchback
We had the pleasure of testing this new Hyundai i30 on the roads of Marbella last month. Few cars have offered me such a pleasant surprise once I’d got behind the wheel. The new i30 is certainly on-par with the Ford Focus now. Nowadays it is unforgivably naive to think of Hyundai as cheap, basic and boring.
3. Volvo V60 Estate
Another Volvo! The new V60 estate is out and, like the S90, it possesses a whole new exterior which is in-keeping with the manufacturers desire to rejuvenate its brand image. The V60 has sacrificed some practicality to make sure it looks contemporary enough to steal the limelight from other premium competitors. A very enjoyable modern estate.
2. KIA Rio
Oh, a new Rio! Things are looking good for Kia, who have had record sales in the UK and are currently stepping up their product range. Their best selling model, the Rio, has been given a huge overhaul to bring it up to speed with competitors like the Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta - but how does it match up?
1. Ford Kuga
And lastly, a revised Ford Kuga. We took the new Kuga for a test through the scenic Peak District. This new model features a revised specification lineup, which now includes the ST-line trim which is being rolled out across the Ford range. We were most impressed with how well the Kuga carried itself across tricky terrain, with the All Wheel Drive system certainly performing well.
