The article is a review of the new BYD Seal Excellence AWD, an electric car from the Chinese brand BYD, which is being compared to the Tesla Model 3. The author, Al Suttie, provides a day-by-day account of his experience with the car over a week. He discusses the car's design, practicality, performance, and technology, including its acceleration, all-wheel drive, and the new Cell To Body battery technology. Suttie praises the car's handling, especially in wet conditions in Scotland, the quality of the cabin materials, and the improved warranty offered by BYD. He concludes that the BYD Seal is a quality vehicle that should be considered for fleets, noting its competitive edge in the market and the brand's rapid development.

The article is a review of the Kia EV6 GT, an electric SUV, by journalist Al Suttie. The review spans a week, with each day offering insights into different aspects of the vehicle. The EV6 GT is praised for its acceleration, handling, and quality, comparing favorably to competitors like Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Porsche. The author appreciates the car's subtlety in design, practical features, and performance, despite its high price tag. Concerns are raised about the car's range, which is adequate but not exceptional. The review concludes with the journalist expressing enjoyment of the EV6 GT and considering it a value proposition against more expensive rivals, while also anticipating the release of the BYD Seal.

The article is a review of the current Dacia Duster model, particularly the Duster Journey TCe 90, ahead of the release of a new generation. The journalist revisits the vehicle's attributes, including its value for money, rugged utility, and suitability as a company car. The review covers a week's worth of experiences, noting the car's performance on deteriorating local roads, the quality of updates made in 2021, the infotainment system, and the practicality for family use. The Duster's engine performance, fuel economy, and tax implications are also discussed. The vehicle is praised for its handling on frosty back roads and its fuel efficiency, which closely matches the official claims.

The article is a review of the Nissan Ariya, the second fully electric car from Nissan and its first electric crossover. The author, Al Suttie, provides a day-by-day account of his experience with the vehicle, highlighting its performance, interior features, and charging capabilities. The Ariya is praised for its acceleration, ride and handling balance, and interior space, including heated rear seats and well-designed electric controls. However, the author notes a minor issue with a sharp edge on the steering wheel and problems with some chargers. Overall, the Ariya is commended for its realistic range indicator and the ability to cover a useful distance on a single charge.

The article is a review of the Nissan Ariya, the second fully electric car from Nissan and its first electric crossover. The author, Al Suttie, provides a day-by-day account of his experience with the vehicle, highlighting its performance, interior features, and charging capabilities. The Ariya is praised for its acceleration, space, heated rear seats, intuitive electric controls, and ride and handling balance. However, the author notes a minor issue with a sharp edge on the steering wheel and problems with some chargers. Overall, the Ariya is commended for its real-world range and quick charging, comparing favorably to competitors like the Škoda Enyaq.

The article discusses the impact of 'gigacasting', a manufacturing process used by Tesla and being considered by other car manufacturers like Volvo, Nio, Volkswagen Group, Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford. Gigacasting involves replacing multiple pressed steel components with a single die-cast aluminium alloy piece, aiming to reduce production costs and improve efficiency. However, a white paper from consultancy firm Ducker raises concerns about the repairability of vehicles with gigacast parts, which could lead to higher costs and more cars being scrapped after collisions. The Association of British Insurers reports a 33% increase in repair costs, partly due to this technology. Thatcham Research is investigating the implications of gigacasting on vehicle repairability and insurance premiums, with a focus on the Tesla Model Y's rear structure. The article suggests that while gigacasting could lead to cheaper production and longer-lasting vehicles, it also presents challenges for repairability and insurance costs.

The article is a detailed road test review of the Ford Puma 1.0 Ecoboost MHEV 125 Titanium, a popular compact SUV in the UK. The journalist provides a day-by-day account of their experience with the vehicle, highlighting its manual gearbox, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. The Puma is praised for its 1.0-litre petrol engine, which delivers sufficient power for overtaking and enjoyable driving. Despite initial skepticism, the mild hybrid system shows better than expected fuel economy, achieving 59.1mpg against the claimed 52.3mpg. The car's practicality is also noted, with ample cabin space and a large boot. The review concludes positively, suggesting the Puma as an excellent choice for a compact SUV.

The article is a day-by-day account of the journalist's experience with the Ford Kuga 2.5 PHEV Black Package Edition, a mid-size SUV plug-in hybrid. The vehicle is evaluated for its suitability for company drivers, considering its electric and petrol power sources, handling, ride quality, and fuel economy. The journalist encounters issues with public charging stations, assesses the vehicle's performance in various conditions, and notes the overly warm heated seats. Despite a successful charging session, the fuel economy achieved is lower than Ford's claim, and the journalist finds the braking system's feel unusual. The article concludes with a reflection on the potential for better fuel economy with more regular charging, while also considering the cost in comparison to pure EV alternatives.

The article is a day-by-day account of a journalist's experience with the Ford Kuga 2.5 PHEV, a mid-size SUV plug-in hybrid. The vehicle is evaluated for its suitability for company drivers, considering its electric and petrol power sources, handling, ride quality, and fuel economy. The Kuga's features such as heated seats and lane keep assist are tested, and the journalist encounters some issues with public charging stations and the car's braking system. Despite a successful charging session, the fuel economy achieved was less than Ford's claim, and the journalist notes the Kuga's price point is comparable to some pure EV options. The article concludes with a nod to the potential for better fuel economy with more consistent use of the vehicle's charging capabilities.

The article is a day-by-day account of a journalist's week spent with the Honda Jazz Crosstar, a facelifted hybrid supermini in a pseudo SUV form. The car is praised for its subtle exterior updates, improved engine performance, and ride comfort, especially on Edinburgh's cobbled streets. The hybrid system's seamless transition between EV and hybrid modes is highlighted, as well as the car's practicality for everyday tasks like transporting children and handling trips to the refuse tip. The Jazz Crosstar's fuel economy is noted to exceed the claimed figures, which is seen as a testament to the car's reliability and efficiency. Overall, the car is portrayed as a low-demand, high-reward vehicle that fits easily into daily routines.

The article is a review of the Honda Jazz Crosstar, a facelifted hybrid version of the Honda Jazz supermini with a pseudo SUV style. The reviewer discusses the car's list price, CO2 emissions, fuel economy, and test efficiency. Throughout the week, the reviewer notes the subtle exterior updates, improved engine performance, ride comfort, and the efficiency of the hybrid system. The car's practicality is praised, especially in terms of passenger space and utility for everyday tasks. The Jazz Crosstar's fuel economy is highlighted as it exceeds the claimed figures, reflecting the car's reliability and efficiency. The article concludes with a positive impression of the car's seamless integration into daily life and its ability to deliver on its promises.

The article is a detailed review of the Honda ZR-V, a hybrid SUV, by journalist Al Suttie. The review spans a week of driving experiences in the UK, highlighting features such as the panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, and premium Bose stereo. The author encounters an issue with a rear view mirror and expresses dissatisfaction with the vehicle's heavy steering in the city and the non-permanent lane keep assist feature. The Honda ZR-V was nominated for an award at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards but did not win. The review concludes with a comparison of fuel efficiency between the Honda ZR-V and the Ford Puma, noting that the Honda's performance was less impressive.

The article is a review of the Kia EV6 GT, an electric SUV, by journalist Al Suttie. The EV6 GT is praised for its acceleration, handling, and quality, with a 0-62mph time of 3.5 seconds. It competes with high-end electric vehicles from Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Porsche, particularly the Porsche Taycan. The design is subtle, and the interior offers comfort with sports seats. Practical aspects of the car are also appreciated, although the range is noted as a potential concern, with the car achieving 229 miles on a full charge against a claimed 263 miles. The EV6 GT is considered a value proposition compared to its luxury competitors, and the review ends with anticipation for the upcoming BYD Seal. The article also briefly mentions other brands like Lamborghini and Jaguar in comparison.

Al Suttie reviews the Honda ZR-V Advance, a full hybrid SUV, after spending a week with it. The vehicle is compared to other models like the Ford Puma and Nissan Qashqai and is noted for its features such as a panoramic sunroof and premium Bose stereo. Suttie encounters a problem with the rear view mirror and comments on the vehicle's performance in urban settings and its eligibility for free entry into Glasgow's Low Emission Zone. The ZR-V was nominated at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards but did not win, with the Hyundai IONIQ 6 taking the prize. The review touches on the car's infotainment system, gear selectors, and driver assist features, and concludes with a note on the car's fuel economy, which was less impressive than expected.

The article reviews the Honda CB1000R, a motorcycle that defies easy categorization but fits into the Neo Sports Café bike genre as per Honda's branding. The bike is praised for its attention to detail, construction quality, and design elements that combine retro and futuristic aesthetics. It features a 998cc motor based on the 2006 Fireblade unit but with increased power and torque. The CB1000R offers a natural riding position, an LCD dash display, and a key ignition system. It has three riding modes and a user setting for customization. The bike's handling, suspension, and brakes are commended, although the seat comfort for long rides is critiqued. The standard model is considered well-priced, but the + model with additional features is recommended. The CB1000R is seen as a reliable and exciting choice in its market segment.

The article discusses the Philips Auto Mignon, an in-car record player launched in 1959, which allowed drivers to play their favorite 45rpm records while on the move. It highlights how Philips capitalized on the growing popularity of pop music at the time. The Auto Mignon was designed to mount under the dashboard and used the car's radio as an amplifier. The device's design influenced the future of in-car music players, setting a standard for cassettes and CDs. The article also notes the cultural impact of the Auto Mignon, mentioning that the Beatles, including George Harrison, had the players installed in their cars. Additionally, Philips used the then-young boxer Muhammad Ali in their promotions.

The article announces that the Volkswagen Golf, which has been in production since 1974, will no longer feature petrol and diesel engines, with the company shifting its focus to electric propulsion. The Golf Mk 8 is set to be the last model with combustion engines. The article reflects on the history of the Golf, its popularity, and its evolution through eight generations. It highlights the car's success due to its practicality, reliability, and adaptability to the changing demands of the market, including the iconic GTI version. The piece also touches on Volkswagen's future plans for electric vehicles, mentioning the ID EV range and the possibility of an electric Golf co-existing with the ID.3 hatch.

The article discusses the introduction of the Tesla Model 3 in Edinburgh, highlighting its affordability and features. The Model 3 is Tesla's third car and is expected to start at £46,500. Customers have already placed deposits without test driving the vehicle. The Model 3 comes in three versions, including a long-range and a Performance model, with the latter boasting a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds. The article includes comments from future owners, John Van Dieken and enthusiasts Ellya Gold and Jean Hay, who discuss the benefits of electric vehicles, Tesla's charging network, and the car's suitability for both daily use and potential rallying. The Model 3 is praised for its build quality, minimalistic interior, and ease of use, with Scotland's EV charging infrastructure being a supportive factor for electric car adoption.

The article discusses the impact of new MoT test rules introduced in May 2018 in the UK, which led to over a million cars failing due to dangerous defects. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) categorizes defects as minor, major, or dangerous, with the latter two resulting in a failed MoT. Cars with dangerous defects cannot be driven until repaired, and driving a failed car can lead to fines and penalty points. Alex Buttle from Motorway expressed concern over the high number of dangerous vehicles and suggested that the trend of holding onto older cars could lead to more dangerous vehicles on the road. The article also notes a significant increase in diesel cars failing the MoT due to emissions after the new rules, with DVSA's chief executive emphasizing the role of the new procedures in improving road safety and air quality.

Classic Restorations, located in Alyth, Scotland, is a renowned classic car restoration firm attracting clients globally, including from Argentina, New Zealand, South Africa, and the USA. Founded in 1985 by Charles Palmer, the company is known for its high-quality work and comprehensive in-house services. The article highlights the company's dedication to maintaining traditional restoration skills, the emotional value owners place on their vehicles, and the bespoke services offered, such as convertible conversions for Rolls-Royce Silver Clouds. The company also faces challenges in training apprentices due to the lack of recognized qualifications in Scotland, which Graeme Johnstone, the managing director, is addressing with local and government agencies. Charles Palmer is transitioning the company into an Employee Benefit Trust to secure its future and continue providing exceptional service to classic car enthusiasts worldwide.

The Scottish Borders Hill Rally, a motorsport event combining off-roading and stage rallying, took place at the Forrest Estate in Kirkcudbrightshire. Spectators had to be prepared for challenging weather and terrain to witness the event, which offered stunning scenery and impressive driving. Competitors from across the UK participated in various classes of 4x4 vehicles. Sian Rogers, competing in a Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin, finished second in her class and 23rd overall, emphasizing that reliability is key in hill rallying. The event featured 110 miles of competitive stages, including night stages. Despite the tough conditions, all participants, including the last-place finishers and the winning team of Anthony Jackson and Pete Widdop in their hybrid Warrior Audi, enjoyed the event. For more information on hill rallies in Scotland, the Scottish Hill Rally Club's website was recommended.