Autocar magazine 6 September: on sale now
This week in Autocar...
The BMW 3 Series like you've never seen it before, BYD Seal road tested, and the Huracan Sterrato vs. Wales
This week in Autocar, we've got a Munich motor show special in which we cover BMW's reborn 3 Series like you've never seen it before, a brand new Volkswagen GTI, and go wild in Wales with a Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.
*News*
The new Vision Neue Klasse concept gives the best look yet at BMW’s all-electric future, previewing a dramatic change in exterior and interior design direction - we look at what it means for the firm's future products.
Volkswagen GTI, meanwhile, is storming into the electric age with a feisty, affordable performance variant of the upcoming ID 2 with the new ID GTI concept – a car that harks back to the original Golf GTI in spirit and styling.
In a similar era-defining vein, Mini is entering its next generation with the new Cooper and Countryman. Both cars will go on sale in the UK in 2024, mixing retro-infused styling with new-age technology.
We also uncover the new Renault Scenic, Volkswagen Passat, and Alfa Romeo's first supercar since the 8C Competizione.
*Reviews*
The BYD Seal is the latest newcomer from the current avalanche of electric cars from China - it it a circus act or like a kiss from a rose? Sam Phillips goes to Bavaria to find out.
Volkswagen has facelifted the ID 4 with the promise of a stronger yet more efficient powertrain and answers to criticism of interior quality - does it impress?
For road test 5640, we've got the sharply-styled Hyundai Kona. Is entry-level second-generation crossover refreshingly simple or wanting in key areas?
*Features*
Can the outlandish end-of-era, end-of-days Huracán Sterrato really hack it in the rough stuff? Richard Lane puts Lamborghini’s improbable rally raider to the test in Wales.
BTCC ace and true-blue car enthusiast Jake Hill has a fight on his hands – and, he tells Damien Smith, he’s loving it. We find out what life is like at the top.
Twisted is a Land Rover modifier based in Thirsk and is famed for its one-off Defenders. Now it has turned its attention to a certain Suzuki. Matt Prior tests the Twisted Jimmy in North Yorkshire.
*Opinion*
Matt Prior looks into the recently-expanded London ULEZ and why some non-compliant cars will be more useful in countries that desperately need them, rather than on a scrap heap.
Steve Cropley, meanwhile, receives a delightful message on X (formerly Twitter) about his Jeep Wrangler, comments on Ford addressing its roots, and how some farm shops are finding a brilliant new purpose in the electric age.
*Used*
The Ford S-Max 2.5T is the subject of this week's second chance - is this hot hatch-baiting MPV worthy of your hard-earned cash?