Autocar magazine 16 June - on sale now

This week: Ineos Grenadier driven, Tesla Electric hatchback detailed, Porsche Macan GTS prototype tested and much more

Tesla is making a renewed push to cement itself as the world’s top EV maker - and an affordable electric hatchback is at the heart of its plans.

In this week’s Autocar we give you all the details on the Model 2, Tesla’s path-breaking small car, set to go on sale in 2023 and spearhead the firm’s move away from the premium sector.

-Also in this issue-

Lexus has ushered in the second-generation version of its NX crossover, which has gained a plug-in hybrid powertrain - the brand’s first. Meanwhile, the Kia Sportage has been completely overhauled inside and out.

Elsewhere, Volkswagen has reinvented the Caravelle, now known as the Multivan, as the largest MPV in its 71-year history, while Jaguar Land Rover will begin testing fuel cell powertrain technology with a hydrogen-powered Defender. Trials are set to begin this year.

The Porsche 911 GT3 has gained a “more understated” Touring Package, which brings toned-down styling and a six-speed manual gearbox, Bugatti has revived the Super Sport name for an uprated version of the Chiron, and the radical Renault Megane eVision concept is destined for production in 2022 as the Megane E-tech Electric.

In the analysis section, we meet the former Ford chairman now behind Britain’s first battery gigafactory. In the Autocar Business section, we explore how the Chinese car market is booming after a rapid Covid recovery, and Jim Holder ponders what makes a good luxury car dealership?

Reviews

Hyundai introduces its Lexus equivalent to Europe with a mid-sized saloon focusing on luxury and refinement, but is the Genesis G80 any good? We find out in the first of this week’s first drives.

Then, we get acquainted with the new range-topping version Porsche’s facelifted SUV - the Macan GTS - which shows its hand in prototype form.

Meanwhile, the Renault Arkana announces that the Renaulution will be hybridised and Stuttgart’s priciest car - the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class - aims to rival Rolls-Royce with V12 power and an arsenal of chassis tech.

In the road test, hydrogen power returns to Toyota’s line-up with a radically different Mk2 Mirai. The testers find out if the new Mirai is the real deal - or a load of hot gas.

Features

It may have the reassuring look of an experienced off-roader, but the Ineos Grenadier is an entirely new car from a company that has never built one before. Greg Kable tests its mettle in the mountains of Austria.

More than £100k once separated the prices of the McLaren 12C and E46-gen BMW M3 CSL, but today you can acquire either for the same £70k. Time to take a closer look.

Why has a new label for tyres been introduced and what happens when you don’t pay them enough attention? We visit a depot to find out.

Restrictions are beginning to ease, so summer is ours for the taking. Here’s how car lovers can make the most of it.

The overall winner of this year’s Great Women: Rising Stars initiative has spent her time at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles opening doors and closing deals. We report.

Opinions

Steve Cropley finally got an extended spin in a 500e this week, a car he tried in left-hand-drive form months ago but has been itching to assess in the real world ever since. He also enjoys a refreshing turn at an old car event that doesn’t shove aside all your other weekend commitments: the British Motor Museum’s Gaydon Gatherings. Elsewhere, Matt Prior recounts how the end of his highland adventure had a predictable twist.

-Deals-

Last week we had the worst MOT test cars, so now James Ruppert counts up the best, like a Lexus NX. Meanwhile, Mark Pearson plumps for a Mazda CX-30 and Jack Warrick tells you how to buy a top used MG F.

-Where to buy-

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