Merc’s Tesla-Killing Estate, Grecale Delivers a Shock to Our Road Testers, and Our Verdict on the New 5 Series
This week in Autocar, we have some exciting news and reviews to share with you. From Mercedes’ upcoming shooting brake version of the new CLA to Maserati’s innovative hybrid SUV, there’s plenty to get excited about in the automotive world. Let’s dive in and explore what’s been happening.
News
Mercedes is set to launch a shooting brake version of the highly anticipated new CLA. This sleek and stylish estate car will surely turn heads on the road. Additionally, Mercedes has plans for electric-focused successors to the GLA and GLB SUVs, signaling their commitment to the electric vehicle market. We have all the details you need to know about Mercedes’ attack on the compact class.
Alfa Romeo is also making waves with their announcement of an electric large SUV set to launch in 2027. This SUV will be pitted against the likes of the BMW iX and the next-generation Porsche Cayenne, making it a formidable competitor in the luxury SUV segment.
Nissan has made a bold move by announcing that they will only sell electric cars in Europe from now on. By 2030, they plan to cease sales of all combustion cars in the region. We delve into Nissan’s strategy and explore how this decision will contribute to their success in the electric vehicle market.
In other news, we report on concerns over lower speed limits, a new flagship electric sports car from Lexus, and an electric replacement for the iconic Honda NSX. These developments highlight the industry’s shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation options.
Reviews
Our team has had the opportunity to test drive some exciting vehicles this week. The new BMW 5 Series, Munich’s first-ever electric executive saloon, has been put through its paces in both 335bhp and 593bhp guises. We provide a comprehensive six-page verdict on this electric powerhouse.
Lexus is reinventing their luxury limousine, the LS, with the introduction of the LM. Priced at £112,995, this vehicle aims to provide a private jet-like experience on the road. We explore the features and performance of this radical reinvention.
The Nio ET5 Touring, a European-developed EV, is another contender in the electric vehicle market. With its estate design and competition against the Tesla Model 3, we give our verdict on this Chinese offering.
Additionally, we have tested the Mercedes GLA, MG 4 Extended Range, and the high-performance variant of the Kia EV6, the GT. These reviews provide insights into the performance, features, and overall driving experience of these vehicles.
Features
Maserati’s Grecale is their first mid-sized luxury SUV that combines innovative hybrid technology with style and sporting allure. In a head-to-head comparison with the Range Rover Velar, we explore whether Maserati’s approach is better or worse and reveal the shocking results.
Our editor, Steve Cropley, embarks on a 650-mile journey to BMW’s UK HQ to test drive the i4 M50. This electric vehicle is put to the test as it conquers a Cornish hill. Was the journey worth it? Find out in our feature.
Tata’s £4bn gigafactory in Bridgwater has been a topic of discussion. While it promises economic benefits for the area, there are some concerns among local residents. John Evans investigates the impact of this gigafactory on the community.
Opinion
In our opinion section, Matt Prior shares his thoughts on HS2 and argues that Britain’s reputation for poor infrastructure should not overshadow its legacy as home to some of the world’s finest engineers. He highlights the importance of investing in infrastructure to support economic growth and development.
Steve Cropley contemplates whether he is too old to retrain and shares his experiences with welcoming a Jaguar F-Type R to his garage. He also provides insights from his visit to Nissan’s technical center in Bedfordshire, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive technology.
Used
John Evans takes a closer look at the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer, a practical MPV with a unique feature. He explores how this vehicle stands out from the crowd and provides an honest assessment of its performance and capabilities.
In conclusion, this week in Autocar has been filled with exciting news, in-depth reviews, and thought-provoking features. From Mercedes’ Tesla-killing estate to Maserati’s shocking SUV, there’s something for every automotive enthusiast. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the world of cars.