MG Cyberster

The first-ever Cyberster is the culmination of MG's 100-year history as a carmaker that forever changed the rules of motoring and with prices starting at 54,995 Pounds, it's the most affordable GT car you can drive.

2025 MG Cyberster

The MG Cyberster is a fully electric roadster that was imported from China. It is the first all-electric roadster in Britain. The Cyberster served as the catalyst for MG's 100-year history. Although it's two times more expensive than the Mazda Roadster, it's considered the cheapest fully-electric sports car you can drive.

2025 MG Cyberster

The concept-turned-reality exterior design is one of the key points of the Cyberster. From its round-shaped headlights, the arrow-shaped taillights, the racy side skirts, and the Lambo doors that make its statement, its subtleness is all part of the plan for this electric sports car.

2025 MG Cyberster interior

The MG Cyberster's interior is designed to make you feel like you're on top of the world. It has a triple-screen digital display panel, Y-shaped sports seats with Nappa and Alcantara leather, six-way powered seats, 64-color ambient lighting, a BOSE sound system, and dual-zone air conditioning.

2025 MG Cyberster

The Cyberster is offered in two variants. The rear-wheel-drive single-motor variant produces 250KW of power and with launch control, it does 0-62mph in five seconds and a top speed of 121mph while the driving range is good for 316 miles. The range-topping 4WD dual motor variant has 375KW of power with a 0-62 time of 3.2 seconds, 125mph top speed, and a range of 276 miles. That said, the dual-motor variant is as fast as a Mazda Roadster RF but it's quicker from the starting line thanks to its Launch Control.

On the road, the Cyberster is a silent and smooth GT car. But on the track, it reminds drivers of the Porsche 911 in terms of dynamics. For a car weighing nearly two tons, the Cyberster is all show-and-go and the more you drive it, the more addictive it becomes.

Although controversial for a two-ton sportscar, the Cyberster, hence the name, is armed with noticeable safety features such as lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, lane change assist, forward collision warning system with AEB braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and braking intervention.

MG's return to the sports car business with the first-ever Cyberster is a must-have for speedo boys everywhere. Although it's made in China, it still has the beating heart of a British soldier. This is what 100 years of MG looks like. 100 Years Young.

Photo: MG Motor UK

Volkswagen ID.3 GTX

When the first-ever Volkswagen ID.3 received its first minor change last year, it gained what the customers demanded apart from its updated styling; and more user-friendly features. It all went well but the lack of a performance variant made it...lacking. Until now.

2025 Volkswagen ID.3 GTX

2025 Volkswagen ID.3 GTX interior

The first-ever Volkswagen ID.3 GTX is an all-electric alternative to the legendary Golf GTI. It promises to deliver GTI levels of driving feel, and at 50,795 Euros plus additional costs, it's a worthy sleeper. The ID.3 GTX is part subtle and part obvious.

Although it looks and feels just like the normal ID.3, it features the usual GTX exterior treatment as well as sporty front seats, red stitching, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and illuminated touch sliders for the media volume and air-conditioning. It still fits five people and has up to 1267 liters of boot space for your daily stuff.

Being the only rear-wheel-drive vehicle of the VW GTX grid, the electric motor powering the rear axles and the 79kWh battery pack gives the ID.3 GTX 286PS of power and 545 Nm of torque. In the more powerful Performance variant, the performance figures bumped to 326PS, resulting in a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 200kph, as fast as a Mazda Roadster.

The ID.3 GTX is a rear-wheel drive car that weighs almost two and a half tons. It behaves like a hot hatch but in a mild and tangy way as expected. It has spartan driving manners just like a normal Porsche 911. Driving one is a piece of cake, thank you MEB platform and aluminum bodywork.

As for safety, the ID.3 GTX features a wide array of ADAS such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Travel Assist with automated lane changes, and Park Assist Plus with a memory function. It also comes with V2X technology that allows this car to "communicate" with others within 800 meters and alert the driver of hazards, accidents, and stationary traffic.

If you're looking for a hot hatch that promises to be as cool as the Golf GTi, but the Golf is out of the picture due to the new normal, then the ID.3 GTX is your only alternative. It's controversial, but it's worth a shot.

Available Colors: Mondsteingrau Schwarz, Grenadillschwarz Metallic Schwarz, Gletscherweiß Metallic Schwarz, Kings Red Metallic Schwarz, and Scale Silver Metallic Schwarz.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Volkswagen Passat B9 vs ID.7 Tourer

Even in the age of the "new normal" the Volkswagen Passat managed to survive with its ninth generation but with only one twist; it's now wagon-only.

2024 Volkswagen Passat

That's right. The all-new Volkswagen Passat B9 is now offered exclusively as a five-door station wagon starting at 39,995 Euros plus additional cost. Sometimes, a painful sacrifice has to be made to keep the Passat alive and kicking amid the "new normal".

2024 Volkswagen Passat interior

Beginning with the design, the all-new Passat prefers to keep it clean and Golf-ish even in its sporty R-Line trim. While incorporating modern-day VW design standards, it's surprisingly bigger than the old Passat Variant thanks to the MQB evo platform it dons.

Step inside, the minimalist interior is getting more interesting to toy with because of the buttons of the steering wheel instead of the utterly irresponsible touch panels, not to mention two screens with the latter being the 15-inch touchscreen that controls the infotainment, navigation, smartphone connectivity, and climate control. It's a tricky job.

Getting accommodated with its ergoActive front seats with 14-way adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, the sharp increase in dimensions made it the most spacious Passat ever made and with up to 1920 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down, Volkswagen's not joking about it.

2024 Volkswagen Passat

Under the hood, the Passat B9 is offered with the choice of a 1.5L turbo eHybrid, 1.5L eTSI, 2.0L TSI, and 2.0L TDi. The eHybrid is mated only with the 6-speed DSG while the eTSi, TSI, and the TDI variants are mated to a 7-speed DSG. The 1.5L eHybrid variant is the most powerful of the range with 272PS of power and 400Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 225kph. It has 0.4l/100km of fuel economy based on WLTP standards and running on electric power alone, it's good for 118km. Not bad for a German PHEV wagon.

The Passat B9 is more interesting to drive than previous models, especially with the available Dynamic Chassis Control Pro. This system features two valves that provide more precise control of the suspension's rebound and compression. The new Vehicle Dynamics Manager controls the electronic XDS system, which provides better handling and stability.

As for safety, the Passat B9 has a long list of available ADAS such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance), adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane change assist, and more. Coupled with the Park Assist Pro, it's now the most technologically advanced Passat ever made.

The Passat B9 is proof that it's here to stay even though it's a wagon only. However, despite being all-new, it feels like its days are already numbered thanks to this.

2025 Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer

This is the first-ever Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer, it's the all-electric alternative to the all-new Passat B9. With prices starting at 54,795 Euros, this is shockingly cheaper to own than the one Passat B9 variant I know, the 2.0 TSI R-Line 4MOTION DSG.

2025 Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer interior

The ID.7 Tourer features most of the bits and bobs from its saloon counterpart but with up to 1714 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down. That's less than the Passat B9's boot space although the Tourer's dimensions are bigger than the Passat B9's.

Like its saloon version, the ID.7 Tourer is powered by the APP550 electric motor that runs the rear axles, producing 286PS of power and 545Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 6.6 seconds and a Japanese-esque top speed of 180kph. As for the driving range, it's good for 605km for one full charge.

Being aerodynamic is the top trump for the ID.7 Tourer. Despite being rear-wheel-drive, its mild driving feel is what sums up the ID.7 really well. As for safety, it comes with Travel Assist which comes with assisted lane change maneuvers and assisted parking maneuvers, among others.

If you prefer a conventional internal combustion engine or need a car with a well-established service network, the Passat B9 might be more suitable. If you're ready to embrace electric mobility and want the latest tech, the ID.7 Tourer is likely the better fit. It's the new normal, after all. Up to you.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Kia EV6 - 2025MY Minor Change

The Kia EV6 has been on the road for three years. It's now ripe for a minor change. This is a chance to rediscover the fully electric Kia that made headlines.

2025 Kia EV6

Starting at 55,400,000 KRW plus additional costs, The New EV6 is the refreshed version of Kia's award-winning EV that promises fans and newcomers to rediscover it with a slightly different approach. Compared to the recently facelifted Hyundai IONIQ 5, it's better looking.

2025 Kia EV6

Beginning with the exterior design, the minor change features new G-shaped headlamps conjoined to the return of the signature Kia Tiger Nose grille, refreshed taillights, and new wheel designs. The standard EV6 features refreshed bumpers while the GT-Line features an even more aggressive design and the Civic Type R-styled rear bumper. Don't ask but squint harder. You'll see.

2025 Kia EV6

The interior has been refreshed in this minor change as hinted by a new steering wheel, revised 12.3-inch display panel, revised dashboard, ambient lighting, and a revised Qi wireless charging pad. In addition to a new software update, The New EV6 has a walk-away auto lock, powered steering wheel adjustment, a 12-inch head-up display, photocatalytic sterilization for the air conditioning, a digital rear-view mirror, and a built-in dash cam.

2025 Kia EV6

The EV6's electric powertrain was updated by increasing the size of its Li-ion battery from 77.4kWh to 84kWh, meaning the performance and ecology were updated as well. RWD variants have 229PS of power and up to 494km of driving range. AWD variants have 325PS of power and up to 461km of driving range. Not only it's more efficient than the pre-facelifted model, but it's better than the recently facelifted Hyundai IONIQ 5 as well.

The 2025 Kia EV6 has an 800-volt electrical architecture, which means that its battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes when plugged into a 350kW DC fast charger. These chargers are available at public locations throughout South Korea.

In addition to improved drivability thanks to its revised dampers, reduced motor noise, and increased rigidity, The New EV6 comes with new safety features such as the revamped remote parking assist, lane keeping assist, and low-speed autonomous braking.

The Kia EV6 is the beginning of the brand's new age. It's a commoner's crossover that embodies the "Movement that Inspires" slogan. This minor change is an opportunity to rediscover the EV6 with a slightly different approach.

Available Colors: Snow White Pearl, Moonscape Matte Grey, Ivory Matte Silver, Glacier, Yacht Blue, Runway Red, Interstellar Grey, and Aurora Black Pearl.

Photo: Kia

Volvo EX90 vs Polestar 3

At Volvo, they see climate change as their real safety test and they're on the road to becoming an all-electric brand. The first-ever Volvo EX90 is a clear reminder of such a transition.

2024 Volvo EX90

Starting at 997,000 Krona plus additional costs, the first-ever Volvo EX90 marked the new beginning for the Swedish carmaker as their road to becoming an all-electric carmaker is in full swing to keep up with the challenges of the new normal.

2024 Volvo EX90

Beginning with the design, the EX90, when it was first unveiled to the world, was the first to incorporate the "new normal" Volvo design judging by the pixelated take on the Thor's Hammer headlamps and the squarish Volvo trademark taillights. Although the retractable door handles and creases made statements, the "new normal" exterior design is the template for future all-electric Volvos heading their way.

2024 Volvo EX90 interior

2024 Volvo EX90 interior

The same "new normal" Volvo principle applies to the interior. It features a 14.5-inch touchscreen powered by Android Auto that controls not just entertainment and navigation but almost the entire car, which can be cumbersome for anyone behind the wheel. What's also cumbersome is the steering wheel with touch-sensitive buttons, a rotary gear selector, USB-C ports, a digital instrumental panel that knows your name, and others.

Regardless of how many seats you have, from five to seven, the boot space can accommodate up to 1,915 liters with the passenger seats folded down. With all seats present, it can carry up to 365 liters. Decent enough to carry today's grocery shopping list or rather thrift store dump if you're into that. The sweet spot of the EX90? Almost impossible to say because most Swedish families may end up with this, but it still works rather well for escorting liberal democrats, woke capitalists, and other VIPs alike. It's business class with a greater cause.

2024 Volvo EX90

The EX90 features three different configurations armed with the 107kWh lithium-ion battery pack such as the entry-level 279PS Single Motor, the 408PS all-wheel-drive Twin Motor variant, and the most powerful in the lineup, the Twin Motor Performance. The flagship variant produces 517PS of power and 910Nm of torque, sprinting from a 0-100kph time of 4.9 seconds. That's it. The driving distance in one full charge is about 590km. A real road-tripping crossover.

Asked about charging times, the EX90 will take about the length of an episode of your anime show to reach 80% or nearly half an hour to reach full charge while at home.

Although extremely regular to drive every day, not to mention being silent and comfy on the move, the EX90 is packed with a roof-mounted Iris LiDAR sensor from Luminar, five radars, eight cameras, two interior cameras, and 16 ultrasonic sensors, taking advantage of the crossover's cutting edge safety features Volvo has championed through the year. Although capped at Level 2 autonomy for the time being, the EX90 is the first that is hardware-ready for fully autonomous driving in the future. Whoa.

Like it or not, the EX90 is the poster Volvo of the new normal as its road to becoming an all-electric carmaker is in full swing. However, those who demand more should consider its sportier alternative to the EX90.

2024 Polestar 3

This is the Polestar 3, the third Polestar-made vehicle and the second fully electric since the Polestar 2 midsize saloon. Priced at 960,000 Krona plus additional cost, it's cheaper to own than the EX90, although it's available only as a five-seater.

2024 Polestar 3 interior

2024 Polestar 3 interior

While the exterior is strikingly sexy for crossover standards thanks to its design inspired by the Precept Concept, although the sidelines and rear can be downright mistaken for the Chevrolet Bolt EV, the minimalist interior, the 9-inch digital instrument cluster, the 14.5-inch touchscreen, and up to 1,411 liters of boot space proves that the Polestar 3 is all about taking things seriously, whatever life throws at it.

2024 Polestar 3 interior

Offered only in a Twin Motor 4WD layout with 107kWh lithium-ion battery, the Polestar 3 is offered with a choice of a 489PS Long Range Dual Motor and the 517PS Performance Pack. Although the latter is the same as the one in the EX90's range-topper, this is faster than the EX90 Twin Motor Performance variant because the Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor Performance variant is 0.2 seconds faster than the EX90 and while the EX90 is as fast as a Japanese car on Japanese roads, the Polestar 3 goes flatout in 210kph.

Apart from the performance, the Polestar 3 features front double wishbones, rear integral link, dual-chamber air suspension, adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, and torque vectoring, making this heavyweight Polestar worth driving everywhere. Makes you fizz behind the wheel, huh?

Like the EX90, the Polestar 3 is packed with numerous safety features that earned the right to become fully autonomous in the foreseeable future, with Level 2 autonomy the best it can do for now. It even comes with the Polestar-first Smart Eye that detects drivers' eye movements in the name of reducing driver distraction. Speedo boys consider it a buzzkill but whatever.

The Volvo EX90 and the Polestar 3 are two extremely different sides of the same coin. While the EX90 is all about being a civilized crossover daily, the Polestar 3 rewrites the rules of what a fully electric crossover should be. Either way, this is the new normal. Deal with it.

Photo: Volvo Cars/Polestar

Volvo EX40 and EC40

Formerly known as the XC40 Recharge and the C40, the two electric crossovers from Volvo have been renamed as the EX40 and the EC40 as the Swedish carmaker's plans to become an EV-only brand have gone in full circle.

2025 Volvo EX40

2025 Volvo EC40

Although they look the same as the now-defunct XC40 Recharge and the C40, the first-ever EX40 and the EC40 are picking up where the recently deceased former selves left off in the name of mobility for all.

 

2025 Volvo EX40 interior

2025 Volvo EC40 interior

While the styling and the interior layout look and feel the same as the XC40 Recharge and the C40 it replaced, so does the boot space of up to 1286 liters for the EX40 and 1196 liters for the EC40, not to mention the driving feel between them, which in their case, civilized, relaxing, well-poised, and thanks to the most advanced safety features Volvo has championed, it's surprisingly safer as well, the EV powertrains saw a major shake-up with the addition of a new flagship version.

In addition to the 238PS rear-wheel-drive Single Motor and the 408PS all-wheel-drive Twin Motor variants, the EX40 and the EX40 received a new Performance variant where a special Performance drive mode bumped the 82kWh Twin Motor powertrain with an additional 34PS of power, bringing the power output of 442PS. It will go from 0-100kph in four and a half seconds and being a new-normal Volvo, the maximum permitted speed is 180kph. 

Asked about the driving range, the EX40 Twin Motor Performance variant is good for 538km while the EC40 Twin Motor Performance does 552km, which is more. Both can hit 80% in less than 30 minutes while charging at a 50kw DC charging station at a public place.

The EX40 starts at 607,000 kr while the EC40 starts at 625,000 kr plus additional costs. Both can be ordered online.

Even with the name change, the Volvo EX40 and the EC40 deserve some attention.

Photo: Volvo Cars

Volvo EX30

The first-ever Volvo EX30 is undeniable proof that the Swedish carmaker's going big on its electrification gamble as plans to become an electric car maker going full circle.

2024 Volvo EX30

Priced at 429,000 Swedish Krona plus additional costs, the first-ever Volvo EX30 is the baby EV crossover that showcases the Swedish carmaker's commitment to going all-electric since the moment they announced it. Like it or not, this is the new normal for the new Volvo.

2024 Volvo EX30

Beginning with the styling, the EX30 dons Volvo's new-era design that prefers subtlety over obviousness, and being subtle is a good thing for an all-electric crossover made for the new normal. From the new-era Thor's Hammer headlamps, wheel arch creases, clamshell bonnet, and two-piece taillights, the EX30 is "new normal" material.

2024 Volvo EX30 interior

2024 Volvo EX30 interior

Inside, the EX30 prefers minimalism, which spells trouble for speedo boys behind the wheel but hey, this is the new normal after all, and cars with large touchscreens are a big deal. The 12.3-inch touchscreen with Snapdragon Cockpit Platform and Android AOS takes control of not just infotainment, but also navigation, room temperature, and other important bits and bobs surrounding it. 

First-timers will find this gizmo complicated at first but they'll find it enjoyable the more they know it.

The EX30 has a complicated infotainment system, but other than that, it has a lot going for it. It comes with a Harman Kardon premium audio system that includes a soundbar located at the top of the dashboard.

In terms of comfort and spacing, despite its just-sizing dimensions, the EX30 is as cozy as most commoners' cars can be and with the rear seats folded down, you can store up to 904 liters of boot space, fit for all walks of life. Stealing the idea from the Hyundai Santa Fe, the EX30 comes with a door-opening safety feature that warns the driver when he or she is about to open the door in front of a cyclist, scooter, or runner, to prevent accidents.

2024 Volvo EX30

The EX30's electric powertrain consists of a rear-wheel-drive Single Motor layout with 272PS of power and a 4WD Twin Motor Performance layout with 428PS of power. The Single Motor variant comes with the 51kWh lithium iron phosphate battery while the Single Motor Extended and Twin Motor Performance variants get a 69kWh NiMC battery.

The Single Motor Extended Range variant has up to 476km of driving range while the Twin Motor Performance, with its 0-100kph time of 3.6 seconds, has up to 450km of driving range. Charging times? While charging at a 150kW charging station, it will take less than 30 minutes to hit 80% for most variants.

Running on Geely's SEA platform, the EX30 behaves well for a Swedish EV crossover. Although not as exciting as expected, it is civilized on various scapes from suburbia to the great outdoors. As for safety, the EX30 features various safety tech you would expect from a Volvo such as the new-generation Park Pilot Assist, 360-degree camera, Pilot Assist, Collision avoidance system, and driver warning system, among others.

Although not one of the best crossovers of the new normal, the Volvo EX30 is proof that the Swedish carmaker's electrification transition is going full circle. As one said, what you say is what you get. Volvo wanted to become fully electric because climate change is the real safety test, and this is what they've got. This is only the beginning...

Photo: Volvo Car Corporation

Hyundai IONIQ 5 (2025MY minor change)

The Hyundai IONIQ 5, the electric car that forever changed Hyundai, has been given a minor change for the 2025 model year, and this award-winning electric car is now made even better.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5

Starting at 52.4 million Korean Won, the facelifted Hyundai IONIQ 5 saw some revisions on the award-winning electric car that forever changed Hyundai, keeping it fresh and competitive as the opportunity arises.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 interior

The IONIQ 5 minor change saw some revisions inside and out. The exterior now sports a V-shaped garnish and revised bumpers, increasing its overall length by 20mm. The rear spoiler's revised as well and a new set of wheels are offered for this minor change. A sporty N Line variant was added to this minor change, mimicking the looks of the high-performance IONIQ 5 N variant and that's it.

The interior is revised with its new center console layout, a new physical button that offers access to frequently used functions, the wireless charging pad repositioned to the upper part, a new steering wheel design, and ccNC implementation with OTA updates, among others. The N Line jams the red ambient lighting, sports seats, metal pedals, red stitching, and the N steering wheel into the mix.

The IONIQ 5's electric powertrain was updated by increasing the size of its Li-ion battery from 77.4kWh to 84kWh, meaning the performance and ecology were updated as well. RWD variants have 229PS of power and up to 485km of driving range while HTRAC AWD variants have 325PS of power and up to 425km of driving range. Apart from the increased battery size, it comes with a new shock absorber, new cowl crossbar, doubled reinforcement at the rear wheels and the lower part of the vehicle, improved body stiffness, and added sound insulation, slightly improving its dynamics for the good of it.

Apart from the reinforced body and eight airbags, the IONIQ 5 minor change features new safety features such as the hands-on detection steering wheel, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, intelligent front lighting, Digital Key 2, and Built-In Cam 2.

The award-winning Hyundai IONIQ 5 is now made even better with this facelift and it looks like it's on a roll. Will you?

Available colors: Atlas White, Lucid Blue Pearl, Digital Teal Green Pearl, Cyber Grey Metallic, Ecotronic Grey Pearl, Abyss Black Pearl, Atlas White Matte, Ecotronic Grey Matte, Gravity Gold Matte, and Ultimate Red Metallic (N Line only).

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

smart #3

Following the advent of the smart #1 electric crossover, smart shook away its Little Tykes image in favor of a city-centric approach, and the renaissance continues with its coupe-crossover derivative, the smart #3.

2024 smart #3

Starting at 38,490 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever smart #3 is basically a smart #1 with a sloping roofline. It's a city-centric coupe-crossover done the smart way and you'd better thank the Chinese overlords from Geely for making it possible.

2024 smart #3

2024 smart #3 interior

While the exterior and interior look and feel similar to its #1 equivalent, the #3's boot space has 370 liters with the rear seats present and up to 1160 liters with the rear seats folded down, that's more than you get from the #1 because of the longer wheelbase that makes up from its lowered height. This means the added dimensions made the #3 roomier than its #1 equivalent. Not bad for a coupe crossover, though.

2024 smart #3 Brabus

Like the #1, the smart #3 runs on the SEA platform developed by Geely, and because of its RR layout and city car sizing, it behaves in a unique and spartan manner even while going nuts with it. Most variants come with the TZ220XSA02 electric motor bolted to a NiCM battery that produces 272PS of power and 343Nm of torque, capable of hitting 100kph in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 180kph. The #3 Brabus, meanwhile, produces  428PS of power and 543Nm of torque. Although it has the same top speed, the 0-100kph time was dropped to 3.7 seconds.

For safety, the smart #3 features a wide array of advanced driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, lane change assist, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, among many others.

For a coupe-crossover of its size, the smart #3 is becoming more of a big brother compared to its smart #1 equivalent because of its proportions. Has the whole world gone upside down? For the smart #3's case, it is.

Volkswagen ID.7

This is Volkswagen's answer to the Hyundai IONIQ 6, the first-ever, all-electric saloon called the ID.7, and it's taking the place of the now-deceased Passat saloon. So, what's it all about the first-ever Volkswagen ID saloon car?

2024 Volkswagen ID.7

2024 Volkswagen ID.7 interior

Starting at 56,995 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever Volkswagen ID.7 is the first saloon of the ID line of electric cars and it's obviously the most dramatic one because with this, you can really kiss the Passat saloon goodbye for real.

While the styling is broadly similar to its electric family tree, the ID.7 has a longer wheelbase compared to the now-deceased Passat sedan, and having learned from Volkswagen's mistakes, the interior is packed with a 15-inch floating central infotainment screen, AR HUD, a new layout for air-con, a new Favorites buttons where users can save their configurations, an electronically dimmable panoramic sunroof, a massager, Harman Kardon sound system, and a rather annoying IDA voice command assistant. It even comes with Volkswagen's first adaptive Climatronic front seats with cooling, heating, and drying functions. Optional extra as expected.

Because of its longer wheelbase, this five-seater saloon is spacious as such and it comes with foldable rear seats that allow the ID.7 to carry up to 1600 litres of boot space. With the rear seats present, it's just 532 liters, which is more than the IONIQ 6.

Although it runs on the same MEB platform, the ID.7's electric powertrain is unlike the others. Called APP550, the electric motor powering the rear axle produces 286PS of power and 545Nm of torque. It's the most powerful single electric drive motor in the VW ID family tree. It does 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds and a Japanese-esque top speed of 180kph. As for the driving range, it's good for 621km for one full charge.

Being aerodynamic is the top trump for the ID.7, the questionable dynamics for an all-electric saloon is starting to show its worth. Despite being rear-wheel-drive, its mild driving feel is what sums up the ID.7 really well. Not as exciting as expected but it feels spartan and unique in every way, which is unheard of for a commoner's electric saloon like the ID.7. As for safety, it comes with Travel Assist that comes with assisted lane change maneuvers and assisted parking maneuvers, among others.

Although it's a stalemate compared to the Hyundai IONIQ 6, the first-ever Volkswagen ID.7 is proof that the sedan race is not dead yet, although it killed off the Passat saloon immediately. It may be part of the ID family tree of electrics but it rather feels like an outcast because of the one electric motor that sets them apart. Still, with its familiar styling and spartan driving manners, the fully-electric ID.7 has a long way to go for Volkswagen's electrification road map.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A long time ago, VW created the Sambabus and it became a cult classic favorite not just for the so-called hippie crowd but for road trippers young and old alike. Fast forward to today and the Sambabus just got an electrified remake. Welcome to the ID.BUZZ.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A concept turned reality, the Volkswagen ID.BUZZ is the electrified remake of the ancient Sambabus that is now catering to the Gen Z crowd in the way the Sambabus caters to the boomers. Which generation is the people on, the ID.BUZZ is fit for all generations of life.

There are two kinds of ID.BUZZ available such as the business-friendly ID.BUZZ Cargo, which is priced at 54,431 Euros plus additional costs, and the fun-for-all ID.BUZZ Pro, which starts at 64,581 Euros plus additional costs. Although they're as pricey as a luxury car, these modernized Sambabuses are ready for a new kind of samba.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ interior

While the styling draws inspiration from the concept, which is a sigh of relief for motoring observers, the interior is nothing but basic. Unlike the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ Pro can seat up to five people while the ID.BUZZ Cargo is good for two because the back is where the most important cargo goes. Apart from the minimalist interior layout, the extensive use of vegan and recycled materials showcased its guilt-free commitment as an eco-friendly electric MPV.

Powering the ID.BUZZ's electric propulsion system is a single-drive motor bolted to a 77kWh Li-ion battery located under the van. In the Pro version, it produces 204PS of power, 310Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 10.2 seconds, a 145kph of top speed, and up to 423km of driving range. The Cargo's good for 425km per full charge. As for charging times, it will take half an hour to reach from 5% to 80% charge while plugged into a 170kW outlet.

Although not a fun car to drive by yourself, the ID.BUZZ feels soothing to drive even on open roads. In the case of family trips, you can really find some sweet spot while into it unless child seats took over the second row. As for safety, the ID.BUZZ is packed with Car-2-X local warning system, front assist, lane keeping assist, and the available Travel Assist.

The Sambabus remake known as the ID.BUZZ... Although it's got fewer seats than the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ is all about capability in the midst of the new normal. As a concept turned reality, there's so much to know about this electrified Sambabus remake but it's best to leave it here.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

MG MG4

The first-ever MG4 electric hatchback is by no means one of the most affordable electric vehicles on sale in Britain and with prices starting at 25,995 Pounds plus additional costs, it's cheaper to own than the Nissan Leaf by a razor-thin margin but there's a lot more to it than that...

2023 MG MG4

Fresh from the People's Republic of China, the MG4 electric hatchback is the biggest upset in the electric car market, probably because of the pricing that beats the Nissan Leaf by a knife edge. While the pricing is the MG4's top trump, there are plenty of reasons to buy one; starting with the design.

The MG4's design is by no means the sharpest-looking for a city car of such size judging by the front face that delivered its first impression, although the rear view can be visibly mistaken for a Kia EV6 when you squint your eyes further. Either way, the MG4's exterior design is nearly exceptional for an electric car made for the British masses.

2023 MG MG4 interior

On the inside, the MG4 has plenty of toys to play around with such as its 10.25-inch touch screen with smartphone connectivity, the Rotary Gear Selector, the wireless charging pad available on the Trophy Long Range variant, and heated front seats and steering wheel, among many others. Talking about space, this five-seater's modest space feels just right when you step inside. In terms of boot space, with the rear seats present, it's less spacious than the Nissan Leaf...that is until you fold the rear seats down. With nearly 300 liters more than the Nissan Leaf of total boot space with the rear seats down, it's another top trump for the MG4.

2023 MG MG4

The MG4 features two kinds of battery capacities. The SE model features a 51kWh battery capacity that produces 170PS of power, 250Nm of torque, a 0-60mph time of 7.5 seconds, 100mph of top speed, and up to 218 miles of driving range combined. The Long Range variant runs on the 64kWh battery pack which bumps the power output to 203PS power, which is a tad less compared to the Nissan Leaf e+, and with 281 miles of driving range, a tad less efficient as well but whatever.

Because the MG4 weighs less than the Nissan Leaf and because it's rear-wheel-drive unlike the Nissan Leaf, which is front-wheel-drive, you will find that it's a lot more enjoyable to drive as well. Although spartan because it has the same layout as a Porsche 911, it feels rather unique to drive one even beyond city limits, not to mention the fact that it comes with MG Pilot Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for a safer driving experience.

With the first-ever MG4, it looks like the Nissan Leaf has completely lost it because of such pricing which made the MG4 the electric bargain of the new normal, not to mention the dynamics and the styling that delivered the biggest upset in the electric car market. Looks like this Sino-British marque is on the roll.

Photo: MG Motor UK

smart #1

Thanks to the folks from China's Geely, smart's turnaround has begun with the unveiling of the first-ever smart #1 electric crossover which is basically a city car that promises to excite drivers with its compact sizing and electric powertrain fit for the new normal. So, what's it all about the smart #1?

2023 smart #1

2023 smart #1 interior

With prices starting at 41,490 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever smart #1 is the start of a new era of smart under joint ownership between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, making it a dual citizen in its own right. Eurasian, if you may.

Beginning with the styling, the concept-based styling is great news for observers as the concept car was based on transferring "very compact exterior dimensions" and "traditional smart design" into "a new vehicle concept with a significantly higher premium and high-tech claim," and for the production version, they were right and wise about this...nearly. Although smaller than the concept car, it feels just right for European roads, and driving one is a breeze.

Inside, the smart #1 features a minimalist interior only Gen Z people can understand. From the tall floating center console, a 12.8-inch touchscreen, a 9.2-inch digital instrumental cluster, an HUD, a Beats sound system, seating for five people, and up to 976 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded, this is surprisingly good for city car standards and in terms of premium, they were right as well.

2023 smart #1 Brabus

Because of its SEA platform developed by Geely and its RR layout, not to mention its city car sizing, the smart #1 behaves in a unique and spartan manner even while going nuts with it. It feels nippy and spritely as you would expect in a smart vehicle and overall, it's rather good in the real world.

In Pro and Premium versions, the TZ220XSA02 electric motor bolted to a NiCM battery produces 272PS of power and 343Nm of torque, capable of hitting 100kph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 180kph, as fast as a Japanese car. The Brabus model, the one speedo boys are gunning for, produces  428PS of power and 543Nm of torque. Although it has the same top speed, the 0-100kph time was dropped to 3.9 seconds, which sounds quick for a smart car. 

As a smart car built for the new normal, the smart #1 features a wide array of advanced driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, lane change assist, lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring, among many others. Although not friendly for speedo boys behind the wheel, it's all in the name of working smart, not hard.

The smart #1 is a clear sign that the age of tiny cars the size of Little Tykes car toys is well and truly over. It's a compact electric crossover built for the new normal and whether you like it or not, it's ready to keep things smart.

Photo: smart