Featured
Autocar Magazine 18 September: Available Now | Giga Gears
New Lotus Theory concept revealed, Aston Martin Vantage road test, farewell to the Jaguar I-Pace
In this week's issue, we reveal the radical Lotus Theory concept, drive the lightest sports car we’ve ever tested and wave goodbye to the Jaguar I-Pace.
News
Lotus has unveiled the striking Lotus Theory 1 concept, a three-seat, 986bhp supercar designed to evoke the spirit of the Esprit as a brand-building performance showcase that will be a “blueprint” for all of the firm’s future cars. We detail the new concept from the Geely-owned car maker.
DS has reimagined the legendary Citroën SM as a futuristic, tech-laden concept that previews the French premium brand’s design direction. We share all the important information on the stunning new concept.
We also share news on Volkswagen Group’s cash crisis, how Volvo plans to use the EX90 as a pioneer for future software and the current state of the public charger network.
Reviews
The Mika Meon looks like a carefree beach buggy but is meant as a serious sports car – and an electric one at that. Matt Saunders puts the lightweight EV through its paces.
Volkswagen has finally given the ID 3 hatchback some GTI attitude, but is it as good to drive as its ICE equivalent? Greg Cable finds out.
We also drive the new Audi S E-tron GT, BMW M440i convertible, McLaren GTS, Volkswagen Golf TDI and the Renault Megane E-Tech – and the Aston Martin Vantage is road test no.5693.
Features
The pioneering Jaguar I-Pace has been axed after only six years on sale. Steve Cropley ponders if the electric SUV was taken too soon.
Intrigued by EVs but don’t know your PSM from your EESM or the difference between NMC and LFP? Jesse Crosse explains all.
Opinion
Matt Prior questions if there is a market for hypercars in the electric era following the reveal of the Lotus Theory concept.
Steve Cropely, meanwhile, heads to the Goodwood Revival, pays a visit to the new Aston Martin F1 factory and considers adding a fun car from Caterham, Ariel or Morgan to his fleet.
Used
Should you buy a used electric car? Sam Phillips explains why it might be time to invest in a stylish, fast and refined EV: the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Also in the used section: My car and I, Our cars, Head-to-head and Caught in the Classifieds.
“Real Import Taxes at Cancun Airport: Debunking Mexican Customs Scam Rumors | Giga Gears”
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, most feel the need to remain tethered to the digital world in some capacity. Some travelers are discovering the hard way that Mexican customs agents in Cancun will tax them at the airport for bringing multiple electronic devices into the country. While tourists feel like…
“500-HP Sleeper Wagon: 2JZ-Swapped 1993 Volvo 240 DL | Giga Gears”
Volvo held a very stuffy public image for decades before it introduced any R or Polestar models, with its primary selling points being safety and comfort. The 240 wagon is arguably the most iconic Volvo, and a perfect example of the brand’s pragmatism, but this 1993 Volvo 240 Wagon that’s listed for sale on…
GMC Hummer EV Abandoned on Off-Road Trail Due to Suspension Failure
GM made huge waves with the debut of the GMC Hummer EV. In addition to big power and weight (up to 1,000 horsepower and a curb weight of nearly 9,000 pounds) it was the return of one of the most capable SUVs ever made. If one recently found abandoned off the side off an Arizona desert trail is any indication though,…
Renault Megane E-Tech Electric with Giga Gears
French firm’s traditional hatchback gains range-extending upgrades and enhanced interior tech
When the all-electric Renault Mégane launched in 2022, it couldn't have been more different from the cars that preceded it in the lineage.Here was a five-door hatchback styled by Gilles Vidal made to look like a concept SUV, powered only by electricity and shared almost nothing mechanically with previous generations. On top of this, it began a new family look for Renault models; a legacy that has since been continued with models such as the Scenic, Symbioz and Captur.But the Mégane had some shortcomings which meant it couldn't match its established competitors such as the Cupra Born, Kia Niro EV, and MG 4 - all of which have been updated in one way or another to make themselves more efficient and therefore competitive.But while it never had a problem standing out in simple, kerbside terms compared to those cars, it was the Mégane's only-average efficiency and range, its limited rearwards visibility, and some elements of its driving experience that made it uncompetitive for the class.Renault has introduced a round of upgrades for 2024 to address some of these issues. Along with a price drop, a heat pump is fitted to all cars as standard, boosting claimed range by up to 9%. A standard 12.0in infotainment touchscreen also replaces the old 9.0in display, and all cars now get 'contextual' adaptive cruise control (which adjusts speed according to sharp bends or roundabouts). How, then, does this new technology translate in the real world?Range at a glanceIn the UK, at least, Mégane buyers don’t get a lot of choice. It’s offered with just one battery size (60kWh) and one motor. A 40kWh variant is available elsewhere, though. There are three trim levels: Evolution, Techno and Iconic.ModelPowerEV60*214bhp*Version tested