Independent Reviews of New and Used Cars

So, how to sum up? Well, this second generation A3 Saloon might not look that much different from its predecessor at first glance, but it’ll feel so once you take a seat inside and get to grips with the advanced media connectivity. We also think the introduction of extra electrified engine technology in this 8YA-generation model is very significant. Otherwise though, the recipe is much as it was with the original A3 Saloon and that’ll see many continuing to like the statement this four-door A3 makes on their behalf. It’s smart and elegant without being showy. Nor does it unduly advertise its status as the smallest sedan Audi had ever made. Most who see you at the wheel will simply think you’ve bought an A4 from this period and those who do spy the different boot badge will probably think you’ve chosen wisely. So there’s very little not to like. Unless you were looking to make some sort of style statement: this car won’t turn the heads of passers’ by like a rival Mercedes CLA or BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, but then that very discretion is a fundamental part of its appeal. As with any other A3, it’s as at home in Belgravia as it is in Brixton, offering a democratisation of automotive luxury without a dilution of desirability. If you doubt that, you’ve only to get behind the wheel, for the interior is where this design really strides apart. You could be in a luxury car - and of course, in many ways, you are. Just one that perhaps better reflects the times we live in.

With the UX 300e, Lexus finally entered the full-EV segment. These days, it also offers a decent driving range. Jonathan Crouch reports on the updated version.

Jonathan Crouch thinks Škoda’s second generation Kodiaq vRS could be all the car he might ever need….

An all-electric Mercedes G-Class. Really? Jonathan Crouch takes a long look at the G 580 with EQ Technology.

The fieriest kind of MINI Hatch is this one, the John Cooper Works variant. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at the latest version.