Equally busy was the automotive industry, with an array of new reveals to kick-start the year, including Mercedes killing off more of their four-cylinder AMG models and a potential ban on flush-fitting door handles. Because we like to bring you all of the exciting news.

Latest: 2026 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross review: the true ‘do it all’ daily driver

In member highlights this month, we have all of the details on the new Mitsubishi L200 and the reborn Toyota Urban Cruiser. As well as an in-depth look at the Stellantis write-downs and a man who bought his wife a Vauxhall Tigra. 

Read on for a round-up of the new cars news, first drives, and what SGMW members got up to in February.

SGMW New Car Watch:

February started with big news from Skoda, literally, with the Czech brand finally revealing its forthcoming all-electric seven-seater, which will be called the Peaq. The model has already been previewed with the bold-looking Vision 7S concept, and it will measure in at around 4.9 metres long – about the same size as the current Superb estate. The Peaq will be fully unveiled later this year as a rival to other chunky EVs like the Kia EV9, the Hyundai Ioniq 9, and the Peugeot E-5008. 

Mercedes also put another nail in their own downsizing strategy last month with the announcement that the AMG GLC 43 and 63 models are being discontinued. Both performance models were powered by four-cylinder engines, which weren’t exactly a hit with buyers and journalists alike. There is good news, though, as an AMG GLC 53 will replace both of the outgoing models, which gets its power from a 442bhp 3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged engine. It may not be a V8 ‘63’ model, but we’ll take it. 

In electric car news, Mazda confirmed that its swish-looking 6e saloon will cost from £38,995 – a keen price point for a 348-mile EV. Elsewhere, the Toyota Highlander EV also made its official debut, with the US-only model packing three rows of seats and a 320-mile range figure when equipped with the largest battery option. 

For the budget conscious who don’t want to go very far, Citroen revealed the e-C3 Urban Range last month as well. The new model is the cheapest way into an e-C3 starting at just £18,495. Of course, the ‘Urban’ part of its name hints at where it’ll be best utilised, as it offers up to 130 miles of range, making it the perfect foil for city dwellers. 

We finish with a gripping story, again literally. As the Chinese government announced last month that it intends to ban retractable and flush-fitting door handles. Why? Because in the event of an accident and an electrical malfunction, they say recessed door handles that cannot be opened are likely to cause a fatality. And here we were thinking it was a pain when they freeze shut in the winter. But seriously, we think retractable door handles are technology for the sake of it and a bit unnecessary.

SGMW Test Drive Watch: winners and losers

The winners are…

Plenty of new models were highly rated last month, including the new Toyota bZ4X Touring, an SUV/estate EV which offers greater practicality than its regular-bodied sibling with an extra 140mm of length and 20mm more headroom for rear passengers. 

The new MG4 Urban also achieved what we thought was impossible last month by undercutting the regular MG4 for value for money. While it may not get the pulse racing when driving it, the enormous 577-litre boot, impressive comfort and tech, and the 258-mile range impressed reviewers thanks to its price tag that starts at just under £23,500. A very cheap price for a new EV in 2026. 

In the ‘cars you cannot have quite yet’ sector of the market, a drive of a prototype version of the new baby Skoda Epiq EV impressed reviewers thanks to its deft handling and techy interior. Reviewers were also impressed by the new Jaguar GT prototype. Yes, that whopping vast EV that has caused much controversy before it even arrived in showrooms. Ignoring the way it looks, this 2.7-tonne, 1,000bhp super-saloon was deemed as being super comfortable and very intuitive to drive. Leaving us with high expectations for the final production model. 

Finally, we finish in Italy with the new Ferrari 849 Testarossa, a model whose looks caused a bit of controversy online, which, according to reviewers, doesn’t matter at all, as the way it drives and goes down the road will blow your mind, describing it as thrilling to drive with a sensational soundtrack.

And in the ‘everyone gets a trophy’ section…

This one hurts a bit, we won’t lie. The updated Alfa Romeo Tonale is still a looker with plenty of Italian flair. But questionable interior quality, wheezy powertrains, and a minuscule boot in the PHEV earned it a middling review score that falls short of rivals like the Ford Puma and VW T-Cross. 

BYD’s frantic attempts at global domination in the past two years have also hindered the new Atto 3 EVO – an updated model that is designed on paper to keep it competitive in a fast-moving market but doesn’t. Yep, despite the addition of faster charging and an upgraded Google-powered infotainment system and a healthy 316-mile range figure, it hasn’t quite kept pace with rival models which offer greater range and a better driving experience. Proof if you ever needed any that new cars are in a constant state of rapid advancement these days.

SGMW Web Watch:

Mitsubishi L200 returns in May as £36k rival to Ranger and Hilux – Phil Huff

We kick off with more big news: the Mitsubishi L200 is back! After the brand withdrew from the UK in 2021, the new seventh-gen model marks the brand’s return to these shores with an all-new design. Phil Huff runs through all the details for Professional Pickup.

Read the Professional Pickup article here 

Toyota Urban Cruiser cruises into the limelight at multi-million pound media centre – Maxine Ashford

Toyota’s latest addition to its ever-growing EV range is the new Urban Cruiser. Yes, the name was used on the rather poor small SUV from the mid-noughties, but now, it’s back as a chunky all-electric SUV. Maxine Ashford takes a look at the new small Toyota for Regit cars. 

Read the Regit Cars article here

I bought my wife a new Convertible and it immediately broke – Matt Richardson

In marriage news, Matt Richardson buys his wife a new car, which then breaks down. The car in question is a Vauxhall Tigra Twin Top. And yes, we cannot remember the last time we saw one either. 

Stellantis $26.5 Billion EV Debacle May Prompt Brand Purge – Neil Winton

No, $26.5 billion is not a misprint. This is the write-down figure announced by Stellantis last month. According to Neil Winton, this vast figure could prompt the conglomerate to cut down its vast collection of overlapping car brands. 

Read the Forbes article here

SGMW Social Watch: 

Shane Wilkinson loves a Rover. So much so that he has vowed to cram as much Rover-themed content into Auto Express as he can. We wish him luck with this noble quest. 

Apparently, the Isuzu Gemini was sold in South America – a fact brought to our attention by resident obscure car historian Chris Rees. Even stranger is that it was built in Korea and called the Saehan Bird. 

Phill Tromans gets up close with the new Geely Starray EM-i – a new PHEV that can manage up to 84 miles of electric range that also gets plenty of kit and animals that live inside its infotainment. 

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Lastly, we finish on a high via Stu Bird, who got to have a poke around a first-gen Toyota Prius rally car. Very cool. 

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The post Southern Group Happenings: February 2026 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Last month, the SGMW members were their typical busy selves, cranking out the usual mix of reviews, including first drives of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the electric Nissan Micra, as well as an in-depth feature on car parks. 

2025 Southern Group Heritage Day: Big trucks, police cars, and classic drives

Here, you’ll find a round-up of the latest goings-on in the automotive industry, along with a selection of highlights from the latest content produced by SGMW members across the web and in print, as well as a selection of social media posts. To find out more about our members and the content they produce, the full list can be viewed here. 

Read on for the highlights created by SGMW members in September 2025. 

SGMW car launch watch:

September started funky with the reveal of the GWM Ora Cat SUV, a model aiming to steal sales away from the Ford Puma Gen-E with retro-inspired design and a 201bhp electric powertrain. 

At the other end of the car spectrum, Analogue Automotive VHPK revealed their take on the Lotus Elise S1. How does a 600kg kerbweight, central steering wheel, and 250bhp sound? Yep, we agree it sounds magnificent. 

Elsewhere, the ‘cars you can never have list’ got a bit longer last month with the arrival of the new Ferrari 849 Testarossa. A 1,035bhp twin-V8 plug-in hybrid supercar with the looks to match the vast power figure that we think is worthy of the hallowed Testarossa nameplate. 

Finally, the other notable highlights from last month included the Renault 4 E-Tech electric van, and the Dacia Duster Pick-Up and Cargo models – because quirky vans based on SUVs are practical. Proof that small commercial vehicles still have a place in 2025.

SGMW test drive watch:

The winners from last month’s test drives started with the new BYD Seal 6, a PHEV estate that scored highly for its practicality and efficiency. Who would’ve thought that we’d see a new family car in 2025 that isn’t an electric SUV? Not us for sure.  

Other winners from last month included the facelifted Honda Civic, which received strong reviews, having benefited from a bunch of subtle tweaks. The new Kia EV4 hatchback also won strong scores from many reviewers thanks to its striking looks, superb refinement, and spacious interior. 

Other winners included the new all-electric Nissan Micra, a model that has utilised the Renault 5’s underpinnings to good effect, according to critics. The KGM Musso EV pick-up also scored well last month, being described as the most convincing effort to date in the electric pick-up sector. 

At the other end of the review scale, we have a solitary loser for you with the Changan Deepal S07. A model that received middling review scores while being branded a ‘Teslawannabe’. Oh dear.

SGMW web watch:

Hyundai Ioniq 9 review – Maxine Ashford

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is the brand’s biggest SUV yet, but is this new three-row SUV good enough to succeed in the large family car sector? Maxine Ashford delivers her verdict for Regit. 

Read the Regit review

Britain’s best car parks: the mega multi-storeys it’s a pleasure to park in – Shane Wilkinson

If you’ve never given much thought to car parks, then you’re probably not alone. However, the choice of where you park your pride and joy is an important one, according to Shane Wilkinson, who runs through the very best car parks in Britain for Auto Express.  

Read the Auto Express article

Porsche 930 Turbo 3.3 buyer’s guide – Tim Pitt

The Porsche 930 Turbo 3.3 became an instant icon upon its debut in 1974, with performance figures closely matching rival Ferrari and Lamborghini models of the era. Tim Pitt runs through everything you need to know about the 930 Turbo with his in-depth buyer’s guide for 9Werks. 

Read the 9Werks article

Nissan Micra first drive review: Not reinvented, but just right – Phil Huff

The Nissan Micra has been reinvented for the electric era with the latest model, which packs an electric powertrain and underpinnings shared with the Renault 5 EV. But is the latest evolution of the Micra enough for it to succeed? Phil Huff puts the new model to the test for Average Joes. 

Read the Average Joes review

SGMW print watch:

Diesel&EcoCar – Issue 467 – October 2025

SGMW Chairman Ian Robertson helms the October 2025 issue of Diesel&EcoCar, which features the first pictures of the new BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC – reveals of the Polestar 5, Audi Q3 Sportback, and Peugeot’s updated 308 – and full details of this month’s cover star, the new Renault Clio. 

There’s also the Diesel Top 50 countdown, featuring all of the best diesel cars on sale in 2025, a used buyer’s guide on the Honda Civic e:HEV, and reviews of the Hyundai Ioniq 9, the BYD Atto 2, and the brand-new Nissan Micra, to name just a few. 

Buy Diesel&EcoCar Issue 467 here

SGMW social watch:

Tim Pitt tests the very blue and lightly facelifted Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo, which now gets 370 miles of range from a 105kWh Performance Battery Plus unit. Of course, it’s still very much a looker, judging by these pics.

Chris Rees makes us all jealous by getting behind the wheel of the rather lovely Alfa Romeo Tipo 33. Cor blimey. 

In artwork news, Peter Nunn shares the genius design work of Flaminio Bertoni. Pretty isn’t it. 

In a rare ‘motoring journo on holiday lifestyle’ picture, Shane Wilkinson reports that the Mazda CX-30 gets along just fine with the local wildlife. 

The post Southern Group happenings: September 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Read on for the full roundup of the goings-on in the automotive industry and the latest highlights from SGMW members.

2025 Southern Group Heritage Day

Last month, the Southern Group’s annual Heritage Day was held at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu in Hampshire. The 2025 event was a record breaker, with 24 members and 35 PRs in attendance (both record numbers). A total of 33 cars were available to test from 17 car brands, another record number for the event, and there was even an Iveco truck offering passenger rides (another first for the Heritage Day). 

On the day, the sprawling roads of the South Downs once again proved to be a fantastic place to put an array of cars to the test, with plenty of stunning scenery on offer. 

As is now tradition, members and PRs voted for the best member’s car award and the manufacturer’s award. Several classic member cars were in the running, including a Caterham, a Kia Pride, a Fiat X/19, and a Ford Crown Victoria. While the Ford Focus RS500 and Escort Mexico were grabbing all the attention for the manufacturer’s award. 

For all the highlights of the day, and the winners, the full story is here. 

SGMW Car Launch Watch:

We start with cars you cannot have, and it’s a big one – as in late August, Skoda revealed an AI-generated version of what a modern Felicia Fun pick-up could look like – and it’s gloriously yellow and quirky. Tragically, it is just a design study, and they won’t make it. 

August also saw the arrival of the new Volkswagen T-Roc. It gets a new Tiguan-style front end, more tech, and hybrid power. Also, and in case you didn’t know, it is likely to be the last new ICE-powered VW before the German brand goes all in on EVs. Sad times. 

The facelifted Peugeot 308 also broke cover last month, sporting a revised exterior, light-up badges (urg), and improved tech. The new Audi Q3 Sportback also arrived with the same front-end design as its SUV-bodied sibling but with a sloping coupe roofline from the B-pillars onwards. Views on the new front end are mixed, to say the least, but we’re betting this won’t stop Audi from selling loads of them to sporty SUV buyers (as in most of the car-buying public). 

Lastly, Vauxhall decided to be very un-Vauxhall-like with the reveal of the new Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept, a new high-performance concept previewing the future of the brand’s design language that will feature on the next-generation Corsa in 2027. We think it could be the most exciting Vauxhall since the VXR8 of the mid-noughties. Just look at it, with its angular flared bodywork and massive wheels making it look all angry. Grrrrrr indeed.

SGMW Test Drive Watch:

In last month’s reviews there was a clear winner: the Dacia Bigster SUV. In 4×4 form, it scored highly for its brilliance for a budget price. Just don’t look up its name in the Urban Dictionary, whatever you do. 

Other winners included the new Nissan Micra, a car that is now almost capable of rivalling the ageing VW Polo in the supermini sector. The revised Rolls-Royce Cullinan also scored highly, but this is not unexpected for a car that starts at £350k and is nicer inside than the average motoring journalist’s house.

In the losers section, the new Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line can now be had with the 2.0 TSI engine from the Golf GTI, but it hasn’t made it any more exciting according to reviewers. 

Lastly, we get to the Jeep Renegade North Star, the latest update to the decade-old Stellantis mini-SUV. According to reviewers, this new trim level cannot hide the fact that the Renegade now lags far behind rivals due to its age regardless of its powertrain. Words do hurt indeed. 

SGMW Web Watch:

Alpine A290 review: the rebirth of the modern-day hot-hatch – Jim McGill

Can an electric car really be a hot hatch for the purists? As part of the SGMW’s Heritage Drive Day, Jim McGill took the Alpine A290 for a drive to find out.

Read the Scotsman review here

Best SUVs to buy 2025 – Shane Wilkinson

With a vast array of SUVs to pick from in 2025, which is best? Shane Wilkinson picks his top ten for Auto Express. 

Read the Auto Express Article here

The Honda Civic Mk1 UK Brochure Read-Through. This isn’t just any old Civic – Stu Bird

In his latest video for the DrivenIt channel, Stu Bird gives some automotive themed bedtime reading on the Mk1 Honda Civic.

The most reliable family SUVs – and the least – Claire Evans

As UK sales of SUVs continue to surge, you might wonder which are the most reliable models to buy? Well, Claire Evans has been crunching the numbers for What Car? to find out. 

Read the What Car! article here

Ranger-rivalling RAM Dakota won’t reach the UK – Phil Huff

RAM has made a smaller pickup that’s a ready-made rival for the Ford Ranger – but it won’t be coming to the UK. Phil Huff breaks down the details of the new Dakota pickup for Professional Pickup. 

Read the Professional Pickup article here

SGMW Social Watch:

Our resident supercar correspondent, Tim Pitt, goes exploring in Wales in an Aston Martin Vanquish Volante. Jealous? Yes, we very much are.  

Exploring North Wales in the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante.

Drop-top is 95kg heavier than the coupe, with a dry weight of 1,869kg (call it two tonnes with fluids).

Weight distribution has shifted slightly backwards, so it’s now 49:51 front to rear. pic.twitter.com/H9eJZnHFD4

— Tim Pitt (@timpitt100) August 31, 2025

In rubbish bin news, Jim McGill makes a film about a Canadian dumpster he spotted on the streets of Vancouver. 

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Phill Tromans starts his own Jazz Club on his driveway. 

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Ben Hodges gets a bit teary-eyed after it’s announced that Godzilla is finally dead due to silly regulations. 

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The post Southern Group Happenings: August 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

In this month’s round-up we’ve got some advice on vehicles capable of seeing out the end of days comfortably, economical driving tips, how a 4 compares to a 5 with a Renault badge on the front of it, a strange-looking Renault Captur, and a French pickup from Brazil.

SGMW Car Launch Watch

Starting off with cars you can never buy, Bentley introduced a glimpse of the future with its EXP 15 concept. A car that only has three seats with a design that is part SUV and part coupe. Yeah, the reception was varied on this one. 

To bring us back down to earth last month, Mazda unveiled the new CX-5 SUV. The good news is the increased interior space and a new posh look; the bad news is that it has far fewer buttons on the dash. Thumbs down, we say. 

Last month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed saw lots of new car unveilings, including the sleek-looking Hyundai Ioniq 6 N, a 641bhp M3 rival, while Maserati revealed the facelifted MC20, which is now called the MCPura – a name that sounds like a terrible DJ with an obsession for healthy homemade drinks. 

Elsewhere Dutch tuner Re-Volve unleashed the Renault 5 Monte Carlo Edition, a model that pays tribute to the Renault Williams. Just 25 will be built, meaning you’d better be quick if you want one.

Kia also released full details of its EV4 Fastback, which trades a minor amount of practicality for more style. Lastly, Chery announced it’s taking aim at the mid-size cost-friendly SUV market with the new Tiggo 7. A model that will rival models like the Dacia Bigster and Kia Sportage when it arrives later this year. 

SGMW Test Drive Watch

This month’s winners start at the premium end of the market with the Lamborghini Temerario (which translates to ‘Daredevil’), which was described as a “stunning dawn of a new era” by Auto Express. Winning equally lavish praise was the BMW M3 CS Touring, a model that takes the standard longroof M3 and turns it up a notch or two – leading to it being praised as “the ultimate estate car.” 

Other winners from last month include the Nissan Leaf and Ford Puma Gen-E, with both of these small electric crossovers earning high scores from reviewers. 

In the losers section, it was a double whammy for Vauxhall, with the Mokka and Astra Electric earning middling review scores. Why? Well, in a sea of more talented rivals, the Griffin-badged models are struggling to stand out. Oh dear.

SGMW Web Watch: 

The Torsus Praetorian Liberra might just be the most hardcore camper on Earth – Phil Huff

Want a campervan for the end of days? Phil Huff runs through the details for the apocalypse-proof Torsus Praetorian Liberra, a 13-tonne overlanding fortress on wheels with a luxury interior. 

Read the Average Joes article here

I tried to visit nine countries on a single tank of fuel in the Omoda 9 – here’s what happened – Jim McGill

Our resident Scottish correspondent Jim McGill attempts to drive as economically as possible through nine countries on one tank of fuel in the Omoda 9 Hybrid. Did he make it? Or is he now living in mainland Europe? Read The Scotsman article to find out. 

Read The Scotsman Article here

Ford Capri 2025 review – Tim Pitt

Is the reborn Ford Capri worthy of the iconic name? Tim Pitt overlooks the nostalgia of the badge by removing his “rose-tinted Ray-Bans” to give his verdict on Ford’s latest sporty electric SUV.

Read the City A.M. review here

Renault 4 E-Tech review: will this EV thrive like the Five? – Shane Wilkinson

Is a 4 better than a 5? Shane Wilkinson gets number crunching on the internet to work out if the new Renault 4 EV will thrive like the brilliant 5 EV.

Ford E-Transit Custom to get AWD variant from 2026

Ford has announced the E-Transit Custom electric van will get a new all-wheel variant next year. The new model will get an additional motor on the front axle and will be available in Tourneo MPV spec alongside the regular Transit cargo model. Natalie Middleton runs through the details for Fleetworld.

Read the Fleetworld article here

SGMW Social Watch:

While in Mallorca, Tim Pitt spots a Renault Captur that looks a bit iffy. 

In Bertone news, Peter Nunn provides a visual demonstration of the iconic styling house’s finest work with an Alfa badge.

In walking news, Shane Wilkinson finds a few lovely French rarities while out for a stroll.

Ben Hodges visits the 2025 Festival of the Exceptional and falls for a small French pickup truck from Brazil. 

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The post Southern Group Happenings: July 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Without further delay, these are the highlights from SGMW members from April 2025.

SGMW car launch watch

We start off with a new addition to the ‘cars you cannot buy’ list with the new Mercedes G-Class ‘Edition Stronger than the 1980s’. Although it’s technically new, this very special G-Wagon is a retro-styled throwback to the classic and indestructible models of four decades ago. Cost? Well, here’s the sore point, as all of this 1980s greatness will set you back a cool £152,815. The even bigger pain point is that only 460 will be built. And of course we want one. 

The new Audi A6 saloon was also revealed last month. The new model gets the brand’s latest design language and will go head-to-head with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. Here’s to hoping buyers opt for this svelte-looking saloon over the typical SUV choice. 

Lastly, Honda showed the world a glimpse of their future last month with a trio of reveals. First up was the welcome return of the Prelude nameplate, a new coupe model that’ll get the brand’s new S Shift technology. The radical-looking Honda 0 SUV and 0 Saloon also made their debut. Both are slated to start production in 2026, and both prototypes feature long striking rooflines and angular rear quarter styling setting them apart from other electric rivals. A design that gives the 0 models a quirky-looking side silhouette. 

Lastly, we have to give Smart a special mention. You remember Smart, the Mercedes offshoot that used to make tiny city cars? Well, those days are long gone. As the new Smart #5 Brabus has arrived with 637bhp. No, that’s not a misprint either – this new Brabus-tuned electric SUV is the brand’s largest and most powerful model to date. 

SGMW test drive watch

Several new models got their first drives on UK roads last month, including the refreshed Volvo XC90. Which is still rather good even after nine years on sale. Reviewers were also full of praise for the Vauxhall Grandland Electric, Renault Rafale Hybrid, and the new BMW M5 Touring. 

In slightly odd car reviews, the 2025 Citroën Holidays campervan was praised for being keenly priced compared to the more expensive VW California. 

In the perhaps not as good as we’d hoped section, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX is proof that more power doesn’t mean better as reviewers found it less than thrilling to drive. The BYD Sealion 7 lost points from motoring hacks for not being as good to drive as its direct rivals. Lastly, there was the Nissan Ariya Nismo, a model that reviewers said failed to live up to the iconic badge attached to it. Ouch indeed.

SGMW web watch:

Armed police, avalanches and 40cm of snow – inside our 3,750-mile Arctic drive powered by sustainable fuel – Jim McGill

Have you ever gone on a road trip and wondered if you should have stayed at home? Well, Jim McGill might have felt that way during a 3,750-mile Arctic drive where he encountered 40cm of snow, avalanches, and some armed police. 

Read the Scotsman feature

Test ride: Heightened sense of adventure – Royal Enfield Himalayan – Andy Russell

Andy Russell switches to two wheels for his latest review and to find his sense of adventure with a test ride of the new Royal Enfield Himalayan for Orwell Motorcycles. 

Read the Orwell review 

Car Deal of the Day: Genesis G70 Shooting Brake offers real luxury for less than £265 a month – Ben Hodges

Want a stylish-looking rear-wheel-drive estate car that’s not a BMW or a Mercedes? Ben Hodges confirms his pick for the Auto Express deal of the day. 

Read the Auto Express article

Test-Driving The 2025 Jaecoo 7 Super Hybrid System SUV – Trinity Francis

Last month, Trinity Francis tested something of a rarity in 2025, a new hybrid! And not just any hybrid, the new 2025 Jaecoo 7 Super Hybrid System SUV. 

Read the Forbes review

SGMW social watch

In ‘having a hard day’ news, Chris Rees is forced to put in the hours driving a 505hp Alfa 4C race car with a manual gearbox. Our heart bleeds for him. 

At a cars & coffee event, Ben Hodges finally makes a friend in his new (to him) Audi TT Roadster.

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Tim Pitt gets behind the wheel of the last ever Ford Focus ST for City AM. 

In 70th birthday news, Peter Nunn shares some highlights of Alpine’s birthday party at the Goodwood Members Meeting. 

The post Southern Group Happenings: April 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Last month, SGMW members continued to be their usual active selves, producing a wide array of content across the automotive spectrum, with a number of first drives, new videos, breaking news stories, and informative and sometimes amusing social posts. 

Car Launch Watch:

The new car reveals in February had a distinct flavour, varied.

Kia stole plenty of headlines with the new EV4, a rather svelte-looking electrified hatchback, the new EV2 concept, a smaller entry model, and the PV5 van – a model that will compete for sales against the VW ID. Buzz. 

The Swedes, meanwhile, went off the beaten path, literally speaking, with the new Volvo EX30 Cross Country. A more rugged and lifted, off-road-capable version of the standard EX30.

In our usual ‘cars you cannot buy section,’ the single-seat Renault Filante Record 2025 was revealed. A model that is surely the brand’s most outrageous concept car yet, taking inspiration from the land speed record cars of the 1920s and 1950s. Back in the UK, McLaren finally revealed its new W1 Hypercar in production form. And no, you cannot buy one as it’s sold out. Hence its inclusion here.

The hot news out of Germany was that Audi has again changed its model naming structure. Sigh. This time the brand has promised it’s returning to more straightforward names based on size and segment. A-badged models are ‘low-floor,’ while Q-badged models are ‘high-floor.’ Then comes the model number that confirms the size, which is followed by whatever powers it – such as electricity, petrol, or diesel. The new A6 is the first to get the naming structure, meaning the rest of us will have to struggle to understand the current model line-up for a while yet.

Test Drive Watch:

Starting off with last month’s losers, the Nissan Ariya Nismo received a lukewarm reception from reviewers. This hot version of the brand’s flagship EV starts from £56,620 and was deemed to fall somewhat short on thrills compared to the sporty EV benchmark of the moment, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

Winners from last month include the Alpine A290 electric hot hatch which was branded as both fun and engaging to drive. Elsewhere, new SUVs, including the BYD Atto 2 and MINI Aceman, won respectable praise for being, well, respectably good, while the verdict on the updated BMW iX confirms that it’s still very good as long as you don’t look at it.

SGMW web watch:

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS T-Hybrid 2025 review – Tim Pitt

For the new 992.2 generation, the 911 has now gone hybrid. But does the electric motor lessen its sporting appeal? Tim Pitt drives the new Carrera GTS to give his verdict. 

Read the Motoring Research review

Used Car Hunter: exciting, sporty but affordable cars for £17,000 – Shane Wilkinson

Want an exciting, sporty used car for a budget of around £17,000? Shane Wilkinson gives his take on what you should buy for Auto Express. 

Read the article on Auto Express

First look: Toyota Urban Cruiser is a sensible everyday electric SUV – Phil Huff

The Toyota Urban Cruiser is back! The new model shares its underpinnings with the Suzuki e-Vitara and comes with a choice of two motor and battery pack options. Phil Huff has a poke around the new model for Average Joes. 

Read the Average Joes article 

Mini Aceman test drive – Trinity Francis

The new all-electric MINI Aceman slots into the gap left by the Clubman, but is it a worthy replacement? Trinity Francis tests the new Aceman for The Car Expert website. 

Read The Car Expert review

SGMW social watch:

Chris Rees confirms what we all suspected by stating the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider is better looking than the coupe. Not to mention the rather lovely green/orange colour combination.

Shane Wilkinson spots that the EV transition is down…  To a 1/34 scale. 

Maxine Ashford gets a Peugeot E-3008 damp in Cannes during a test drive. 

In ‘cutting it fine’ news, Phil Huff plays battery charge roulette and wins the prize of getting home. 

The latest from the Southern Group: 2025 Mazda CX-80 review: flagship-worthy style, tech, and smoothness 

The post Southern Group Happenings: February 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

In the first month of 2025, the members kick-started the year with a mass of new content and the usual mix of amusing and thoroughly informative social media posts, which may have included an occasional rant or two. 

2025 Mazda CX-80 review: flagship-worthy style, tech, and smoothness 

Now sit back, relax, and read on for the highlights of what the SGMW members got up to last month.

Car launch watch: New M3 CS Touring arrives with less weight, more power, and the updated Tesla Model Y gets an indicator stalk

The array of new car reveals last month raised one important question: can you really have one car for everything? BMW certainly thinks so with its new M3 CS Touring. It weighs 15kg less and gets more power with 542bhp going to all four wheels (19bhp up on the standard car), which helps it to 186mph flat out. Other go-faster goodies include carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bodywork, lots of CS badges, stripes, and forged alloy wheels. Production numbers will be limited, and if you want one, it’ll cost you £120,600, which is £32,655 more than the standard model. Blimey. 

BMW also revealed the refreshed iX electric SUV. Which still has the same imposing looks, but with a few tweaks. Every model gets more power, improved efficiency, and an updated name to match.

In China, the new updated 2025 Tesla Model Y broke cover. Changes include a new Cybertruck inspired front end with a similar-looking light bar, a revised rear with a full-width tail light cluster, and a much-improved interior with the addition of an indicator stalk. The exterior tweaks are not just for show either, as they give the Model Y improved aero efficiency, adding over 20 miles of range over the outgoing model. 

Finally, in cars you cannot buy, the Audi Q6 e-tron Off-Road concept arrived with an array of off-road parts. It sits 160mm higher than the standard model and has a 250mm wider track, making it perfect for serious off-roading. Not to be outdone, Genesis revealed their own take on a dedicated off-roader with the GV60 MIV Concept. A modified version of its premium SUV with snow tracks. Unconfirmed reports suggest that Simon Branney has quickly commandeered the GV60 MIV for his winter commute. 

Test drive watch: New Grande Panda impresses, and the family SUV continues to dominate

Journos managed to get behind the wheel of the new Fiat Grande Panda. What did they think? Well, the news is good with the all-new model receiving an array of praise from all sections of the automotive media. 

The updated Ford Puma was also put to the test, with the regular model receiving strong praise. However, the Puma ST, a model that’s well liked by the SGMW membership, fared less well. It’s now powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 170PS (from 200PS with the old 1.5-litre), and it’s now automatic only. Why? Because of emissions. With the radical changes leaving one reviewer to describe it as a shadow of its former self. Ouch indeed. 

Large SUVs also fared well last month, with the rugged-looking KGM Actyon proving to be rather good, and the Mazda CX-80 winning praise for its tech, comfort, and torquey 3.3-litre diesel engine. And the latter is not a misprint; you can buy a new diesel engine in a new car in 2025. 

SGMW web watch:

Ford Explorer review – Maxine Ashford

Does the second coming of the Ford Explorer mark a return to form for the brand? Maxine Ashford puts Ford’s latest reborn electric model name to the test to find out if it matches up to its historic nameplate. 

Read the Car Journo review here

One car stolen every 8.5 minutes in 2024 – Natalie Middleton

With car thefts at an all-time high in recent years, has the trend continued for last year? Natalie Middleton breaks down the numbers for Fleet World. 

Read the Fleet World article here

Maxus eDeliver 5 review – Phil Huff

The Maxus eDeliver 5 is the latest electric van on the market, but is it really a rival to models offered by legacy brands? Phil Huff reviews the new eDeliver 5 for What Car?

Read the What Car? Review here

Incredible Series 1 Land Rover hoard! – Matt Richardson

In his latest video, Matt Richardson visits a Land Rover hoarder to take a look through his fantastic collection.

SGMW social watch:

Despite Lewis Hamilton breaking the internet last month by standing in front of an old Ferrari, Stu Bird thought there was room for improvement. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Stu Bird (@t2stu)

In an unnamed car park, Shane Wilkinson abandons his shopping plans to take photos of a rather lovely but battered Nissan Micra K10.

For your enjoyment: a truly heroic Nissan Micra K10. pic.twitter.com/foo6Hf1qhc

— Shane Wilkinson (@WilkiWheels) January 28, 2025

The new Kia EV3 is regarded as a benchmark for the small SUV sector. So much so that Tim Pitt wrote a trio of reviews of it. 

‘The EV3 doesn’t occupy any more of your brain’s bandwidth than it needs to. It calmly and competently gets on with the job.’

Read my Kia EV3 review – now live on:

– Motoring Research: https://t.co/NnZcav1juX

– MSN: https://t.co/xCSHd878TX

– City AM: https://t.co/lomfGoDrOM pic.twitter.com/RYE54Co4YD

— Tim Pitt (@timpitt100) January 25, 2025

Chris Rees breaks the news that in Japan, a company will convert a Nissan Micra K11 into an Austin A35. Word has it that Chris was booking a flight to Japan minutes after posting this tweet.

A company in Japan called Goodwoodpark will turn your Nissan Micra K11 into an Austin A35 lookalike called the Ministar. Aaah! pic.twitter.com/4v8LGEDGge

— Chris Rees (@quillerrees) January 20, 2025

Peter Nunn reports from the January Sunday Scramble at Bicester Heritage. Where the weather was best described as being ‘terrible,’ but the cars were great. 

Latest posts:

The post Southern Group Happenings: January 2025 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Yes, there was the usual number of automotive-themed events, free calendars, some Christmas gifts from manufacturers, and the usual slew of holiday season cheer on social media. But regardless of the impending holiday season, the group continued to produce  a vast amount of new content.

SGMW 2025 NEW YEAR HONOURS AND THE WINNERS ARE…

Welcome to the final SGMW Happenings of 2024; here are the highlights and lowlights of what group members got up to last month.

SGMW members celebrate double win at the 2024 Guild of Motoring Writers Awards

At the start of December, two of the group’s members saw off serious competition to record a double triumph at the 2024 Guild of Motoring Writers Awards.

First up was Maxine Ashford, who took home the BCA Feature Writer of the Year trophy for her EV work. While Trinity Francis was awarded the IVECO Commercial Vehicle Writer of the Year title for the second year in a row.

Read the full story here

Car Launch Watch: Honda brings back fun for under £40k, Puma Gen-E arrives, and Renault has a crazy moment

In the act of what should be known as ‘let’s get it out there before the end of the year,’ car PR teams kept journos busy last month. Starting with Honda, who teased further details of the new Prelude that will get hybrid tech and simulated gear changes – all for a price of under £40k when it arrives later in 2025. Good job, Honda.

We also got our first look at the updated Skoda Enyaq, the all-new Toyota Urban Cruiser, and the refreshed Citroen C3 and e-C4, which both feature the brand’s new design language shared with the latest C3. Then there was Ford, which bolstered their EV lineup with the new Puma Gen-E, a fully electric version of the regular Puma that has a range of up to 244 miles. We are crossing our fingers in hope that it’s as good to drive as the petrol-powered models.

Finally, Renault gave us something that we all want for Christmas in the new 5 Turbo 3E. A 500bhp RWD hot hatch that you can buy. Yes, that is five hundred horsepower in a tiny electric city car – making it face-bendingly fast going from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds. It’ll be available in 2026, so remember to add it to your Christmas list then.

Test Drive Watch: The reborn Ford Capri defies the hate, while Skoda, Vauxhall and Volvo give the people what they want

After all the drama about its name, the Ford Capri is finally back, but is it any good? Yes. According to most automotive outlets, it is. With the reborn coupe-SUV winning over reviewers for its comfort, practicality, and build quality.

Other winners last month include the new Vauxhall Frontera, which is rather good according to road testers, although we mainly like that base model that gets white steel wheels, making it the one we’d pick. Also deemed to be rather good was the Skoda Elroq, a new, smaller EV that is the Czech brand’s second ground-up electric SUV model.

It was also second-time lucky for the Volvo EX90, with the model being described as flagship worthy after road testers finally got to drive it in the UK. 

SGMW Print Watch:

Diesel & Eco Car – Issue 458 – January 2025 

In the world of print, this month’s Diesel & EcoCar magazine helmed by SGMW Chairman Ian Robertson takes on a shocking hue for the January 2025 issue. 

The cover of the January 2025 issue of Diesel & EcoCar may be shocking pink, but its contents will be familiar to anyone that is a regular reader of the magazine. We’ve got all of your favourite features and articles, including the news section that reports on the new Jaguar Type 00, and the controversial strategy to relaunch the brand. We’ve also got the first pictures of the interesting new DS No.8, the new Hyundai Ioniq 9 electric SUV and the curvaceous Audi Q5 Sportback. There’s the latest news on the Vauxhall Luton plant closure, as well as first pictures of the Ford Puma Gen-E. There are updates for the Mazda CX-60, Alfa Romeo Tonale, and Toyota Yaris, news of GT versions of the Kia EV6 and EV9, and a review of the Government’s ZEV mandate.

You can buy a copy of Diesel & Eco Car issue 458 here

SGMW Web Watch:

Dacia Duster Hybrid test drive – Trinity Francis

The third generation of the affordable Dacia Duster is here, and now there’s a full hybrid model for the first time. But is it a competitor in the fierce SUV market sector? Trinity Francis gets behind the wheel for the Car Expert. 

Read the Car Expert review here

Ineos Highlights Customisation with One-Off Kaiju Quartermaster Build – Phil Huff

Ineos created a one-off version of its Grenadier Quartermaster pickup to showcase the truck’s rugged abilities and the vast array of customisation options available. Phil Huff runs through the details for Professional Pickup. 

Read the Professional Pickup article here

Could The Dacia Spring Inspire The Mass EV Market Europe Needs? – Neil Winton

Could the Dacia Spring be the affordable EV to fire up consumer interest in electric cars? Neil Winton takes an in-depth look at why the European market desperately needs more affordable electric cars. 

Read the Forbes article here

What You Need to Know About ULEZ Compliance and Car Tax – Phill Tromans

London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone has seen drastic change in the past couple of years; Phill Tromans runs through everything you need to know about ULEZ for Select Car Leasing.

Read the Select Car Leasing article here

Kalmar 9X9 review: Exclusive drive of new Porsche-based hypercar – Tim Pitt

Want a Porsche that also pays homage to the 959? Then the 911-based Kalmar 9X9 hypercar could be for you. Tim Pitt puts it to the test for City A.M. 

Read the City A.M review here

SGMW Social Watch:

Stu Bird teases us with pictures of the new Vauxhall Frontera with white steel wheels. After a group-wide vote we all agree this is the spec to have. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Stu Bird (@t2stu)

In his end-of-year address to the nation, Shane Wilkinson breaks down his 2024 in one tweet. 

In Christmas news Phil Huff teams up with Genesis to wish everyone a merry one.

Finally, Chris Rees brings you the latest ‘small’ car news from China.

The post Southern Group Happenings: December 2024 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

SGMW gets on track for New Year Honours testing at SMMT Test Day South

Here, we walk through the highlights from the wider automotive industry and from the SGMW membership for October 2024. 

SGMW Car Launch Watch: Big SUVs and Tesla does away with the taxi driver

Last month kicked off with a pair of large (no pun intended) SUV reveals with the arrival of the Dacia Bigster and the Volkswagen Tayron, with the former being a large budget SUV and the latter replacing the outgoing Tiguan Allspace seven-seater. We’re happy to report that both models met our vast expectations. And yes, we’ll see ourselves out after that one.  

The Tesla Model 3 line-up also received a refresh, with the Long Range RWD model living up to its badge with a whopping 436 miles of range. Elon Musk also called a Taxi with Tesla’s new Robotaxi. A $30,000 driverless taxi cab that the brand says will make autonomous travel “safer, faster, and affordable.”

Chinese brand XPeng Motors also showcased their own self-driving tech last month with the P7+, a new electric saloon car that promises to “help drivers enjoy a safer, smarter, faster, sustainable, and more pleasant driving experience. This lofty promise is thanks to new AI and autonomous driving tech that can learn the behaviours of its driver. Meaning that when the P7+ arrives in the UK, we’d expect it to exclusively position itself in the middle lane of all motorways as it learns from the typical British driver. 

Finally, a variety of brands revealed pricing for their latest shiny new electric models. Nissan kicked off with the sporty Ariya Nismo, which will set you back from £56,620. This was bettered by Audi, who revealed pricing for the new A6 e-tron Sport and Q6 e-tron Sportback EVs, which start from £62,500 for the former and £62,475 for the latter.

SGMW Test Drives Watch: New Ferrari and BMW flagship models don’t disappoint

A litany of new cars finally got into the grubby mitts of reviewers last month as well. The Ferrari 12Cilindri won universal praise from all quarters. In spite of much online trolling about its 2.4-tonne weight figure, the new BMW M5 received rave reviews as a great driver’s car that is also a practical family saloon or estate. Exactly what we’d expected for the latest M Division special. 

There was also good news for family SUV buyers, with the new Ford Explorer receiving decent scores from most publications, while the Cupra Terramar was dubbed an “excellent family hauler” by Auto Express while receiving a similar score. 

In a market sector that we are glad still exists, Volkswagen appears to have proved that it can still produce a great hot hatchback with the latest iterations of the Golf GTI, Golf GTI Clubsport, and the Golf R, which all earned excellent reviews for their facelifted Mk8.5 models. 

SGMW Web Watch: 

Aston Martin Vanquish 2024 review – Tim Pitt

The Aston Martin Vanquish has returned! This time, though, the British GT gets an 835hp twin-turbo V12 and a 214mph top speed. Tim Pitt manages to tame all of that power while delivering his verdict. 

Read the Motoring Research review here

Revealed: Kia Enters the Pickup Scene with All-New Tasman – Phil Huff

Some five years after Kia revealed they were adding a pickup truck to their line-up, they’ve finally done it. And what a handsome-looking thing it is too. 

Phil Huff delivers all the details for Professional Pickup.  

Read the Professional Pickup story here

Polestar 4 – First Drive (2024) – Maxine Ashford

Is the world ready for a car without a back window? The Polestar 4 coupe-SUV has arrived to find out. Maxine Ashford has been testing the new model. 

Read the Car Journo review here

Ferrari Unveils Range-Topping F80, Priced At Just Under $4 Million – Neil Winton

Ferrari is the latest brand to give downsizing a go with its new F80 hypercar, a model that now features a turbocharged V6 with hybrid power. Neil Winton breaks down the details for Forbes. 

Read the Forbes article here

The cars with the biggest boots – Claire Evans

If you need to carry large loads, dogs, or whatever you want, then you’ll need a car with a big boot. But which one should you pick? Claire Evans runs through the cars with the biggest boots for Whatcar?

Read the Whatcar? article here

SGMW Social Watch:

In maximum lifestyle news, Phil Huff goes Chabak camping in the new Hyundai Santa Fe. 

In breaking fake exhaust sound news, which is now a real thing, Chris Rees takes a revealing peek underneath the Abarth 600e. 

Trinity Francis steps into dream car territory, getting a drive in the Ford GT. Are we jealous? Yes, maybe quite a lot.  

Stu Bird reveals his pick for a vintage Woolarding pose. Which, for those not in the know, is the practice of striking a pose on or near a motor vehicle that was created by William Woolard.

After the reveal of the new Ferrari F80 hypercar, Tyler Heatley gets creative with the configurator, creating a spec that receives maximum points from us.

The post Southern Group happenings: October 2024 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.

Last month, it seemed that motoring PRs were busier than ever, revealing an array of new cars. This started with the unveiling of the new Ferrari 12Cilindri, a name that translates to 12-cylinder in English and also points out it has a V12 engine. Continuing the ‘deep pockets’ theme were Rolls-Royce, with the reveal of the Cullinan Series II, a mildly updated version of the old car. In the world of new cars that are actually affordable, Kia revealed the EV3, a mid-sized electric SUV with over 370 miles of range. Elsewhere, pricing was revealed for the new facelifted Skoda Octavia, which costs £27k upwards when it goes on sale, making it a bit of a bargain if you ask us. 

Southern Group News: 2023 SGMW Heritage Drive Day

For SGMW members, though, the month of May is usually when the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) annual test day takes place at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. This is a chance for members to catch up with PRs in person, all while testing an array of the newest cars from manufacturers, as well as sampling the free food and cakes available (but not all at the same time). 

Here, we present a couple of the social media highlights from the day:

These are the highlights of what SGMW members got up to in May 2024:

SGMW digital round up: 

First Drive: This All-Electric Land Rover Defender Restomod Makes Off-Roading Surprisingly Easy – Tim Pitt

Ever wanted a Land Rover Defender 110 without the diesel clatter? Well, now there’s the Bedeo Defender 110 restomod EV. It swaps the old TD5 diesel for a 75 kWh battery and four compact hub motors. Unlike most modern EVs, it only produces a mere 82 horsepower along with a substantial 479 lb-ft of torque, but is this enough to tempt fans of the original Defender to make the swap? Tim Pitt puts it to the test for the Robb Report. 

Read the Robb Report review here

This Classic BMW 2002 tii packs a 343BHP E46 M3 motor – Trinity Francis

Is it right to swap the heart of a classic car for a more modern and powerful engine? Swedish native Magnus Granberg certainly thinks so, as he’s responsible for squeezing a six-cylinder S54 engine from a BMW M3 into the nose of his vintage 2002 tii. Trinity Francis delivers the full low down for Top Gear.

Read the Top Gear article here

First Drive: Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Pickup Review – Ben Hodges

In a short space of time, Ineos managed to get its Grenadier model from concept to showrooms – all while making a considerable impact along the way. Now, the third member of the Grenadier family is here, the Quartermaster pickup. But how does it stack up against long-established names like the Ranger and Amarok? Ben Hodges flew to Italy to put it to the test for Professional Pickup. 

Read the Professional Pickup review here

2024 KGM Torres EVX review – Maxine Ashford

After the demise of the SsangYong name, the brand has been reborn as KGM Motors. The Torres SUV is the first new model to emerge since the rebranding, and it’s available with both ICE and EV powertrains with a starting price of just under £45k. But can this new brand make an impact in an already packed market sector? Maxine Ashford drives the new Torres EVX to find out. 

Read the review on Regit Cars here

SGMW magazine watch:

Diesel & Eco Car issue 451: June 2024

The latest edition of Diesel & Eco Car magazine features contributions from a number of SGMW members including Ian Robertson, Tyler Heatley, and Martin Gurdon. Here’s the full preview:

The electric MINI Aceman takes pride of place on the front cover of the June 2024 issue of Diesel&EcoCar magazine and is amongst good company, as it’s a bumper month for new model debuts. The new Citroën C3 Aircross and Vauxhall Grandland are revealed, alongside the Mazda CX-80, facelifted Nissan Qashqai, mildly revised Mercedes-Benz EQS and hybrid-powered Renault Symbioz. We also feature the reprofiled Cupra Leon and Formentor, the smart #5 concept car, Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ power and Tesla Model 3 Performance.

All of your favourite columns and features are present and correct, including The Doctor, Motor Grump, Bright Spark, Tech Zone, Road Watch and Current Affairs. 

The June 2024 issue of Diesel & Eco Car is on sale here

SGMW social watch:

In German car styling news, Tim Pitt celebrates the reveal of a BMW he actually likes the look of for the first time in history. 

Last month, the SGMW’s leading Volkswagen correspondent, Stu Bird, played a starring role in ‘Herbie Douglas completes an 80-mile journey without charming me.’ Not coming to a cinema near you soon.

Chris Rees discovers that for some secret agents, the driveway is not enough, as they prefer to park on the street. 

In touchscreen news, Phil Huff voices his frustrations with the controls of the Volvo EX30 before celebrating the vastly improved setup in the new EX90. 

In bicycle related news, which is an unusual thing to see on these hallowed pages, Phill Tromans rightly points out the positive impact of the car number plate.

The post Southern Group happenings: May 2024 appeared first on Southern Group of Motoring Writers.