Independent Reviews of New and Used Cars

Toyota's Yaris Cross could be hugely significant for this Japanese maker, thinks Jonathan Crouch

Volvo's XC60 is at its cleverest - and priciest - in Recharge T8 Plug-in hybrid form. Jonathan Crouch looks at the revised version

The whole idea of being able to drive a luxurious Mercedes while still enjoying the practical benefits of a commercial vehicle is certainly appealing. And so is this X-Class model. We wish the styling had lived up to the prototype's promise, but what's been delivered here is still easily the most desirable used pick-up on the market. If you can afford an X-Class and want a pick-up of this sort, there aren't many significant things you won't like about it. True, some of the less obvious interior fittings don't feel very Mercedes-like, but these are parts that really need to be durable to suit this vehicle's station in life. Other models in this class try to achieve 'luxury' by throwing leather upholstery, better infotainment and chromed bull bars at the standard spec. An X-Class, in contrast, feels up-market by design. The difference is important. And if you're seeking something in this sector, it might be enough to make this X really hit the spot.

The ultimate Lexus is this one, the LS luxury saloon, now usefully improved. This comes only in LS500h hybrid form these days and it'll be a rare sight on our roads. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at what's on offer.

The Arona, says SEAT, is designed for 'drivers looking for a sense of excitement, distinction and functionality. People who know that age is just a number, not an outlook on life.' In other words, the people who've been busily buying Nissan Jukes and Renault Capturs in considerable numbers over the last five years. The Spanish maker wants in on this lucrative market and this little Crossover looks to have everything necessary to entitle them to a useful slice of sales in this segment. The potential for personalisation will be key to this car's prospects, as will the efficiency made possible by its efficient engines and light, stiff MQB chassis. It's taken some time for the Iberian maker to bring us a Crossover of this kind but we can see quite a few target Arona customers feeling that the wait has been worthwhile.