The Kia EV9 has been awarded both the World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle titles at the 2024 World Car Awards, recognized for its innovative design, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. The EV9 has also won several other awards, including 'Family Car of the Year' and 'Best Premium Electric Car'. The article also mentions other winners, such as the Volvo EX30, Toyota Prius, BMW 5 Series, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Adrian Newey of Red Bull Racing F1 team was named World Car Person of the Year.

The Toyota C-HR Plug-in Hybrid is a stylish and economical family crossover, building on the success of its predecessor with enhanced design and technology. Priced from £39,145, it features a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with a larger electric motor and battery pack, offering a total output of 220bhp and an all-electric range of up to 41 miles. The car is praised for its kerb appeal, comfort, and potential for fuel efficiency, though it is noted to be less spacious than some competitors. The C-HR comes with a three-year warranty, extendable up to 10 years with regular servicing.

With the average annual car insurance cost reaching £924, more drivers are opting for temporary car insurance. Cuvva, a leading provider, revealed that the Ford Ka is the cheapest car to insure for an hour at £12.05. Other affordable options include the Fiat 500, Mini One, and Citroen Berlingo. Temporary insurance allows drivers to borrow cars without affecting the owner's insurance. Darryl Bowman from Cuvva notes the growing trend of borrowing cars for affordability.

The first fifth-generation MINI Cooper has been manufactured at Plant Oxford, marking a significant milestone for the brand. The new model, driven off the production line by Charlie Cooper, integrates traditional values with innovative technology. BMW Group's UK manufacturing sites, including Plant Swindon and Plant Hams Hall, contribute to the production process. The new MINI Cooper joins the MINI Cooper Electric and MINI Countryman, available in two variants: MINI Cooper C and MINI Cooper S. Key figures like Stefanie Wurst and Dr. Markus Grüneisl emphasize the importance of this development for the brand and UK manufacturing.

Peugeot UK has announced the top 10 Michelin Green Star restaurants for electric vehicle drivers, ranked by the quality of nearby charging infrastructure and accessibility from major UK cities. Apricity in London’s Mayfair topped the list, with extensive EV charging points and sustainable practices. London locations dominated the top four spots, with Wilsons in Bristol being the highest-ranked outside of London.

New research indicates that the primary reason for the increasing preference for used cars over new models is cost savings, with 58% of respondents citing financial reasons. The study, commissioned by The Motor Ombudsman, highlights that consumer budgets are under pressure due to rising household bills. In 2023, 7.2 million used cars were sold compared to 1.9 million new car registrations. The survey also reveals that many consumers prefer used cars to avoid depreciation and appreciate the larger selection and the ability to test drive. Additionally, nearly half of the respondents feel more secure buying from established traders due to pre-sale checks and legal protections. The poll also shows a preference for petrol models, especially among those aged 55 and above, with hybrids, diesel, and electric vehicles following in popularity.

The Toyota C-HR Plug-in Hybrid is praised for its styling, comfort, and equipment, with the potential for high economy. It features a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with a larger electric motor and battery pack, offering a total output of 220bhp. The C-HR PHEV boasts a 0–62mph time of 7.4 seconds and an all-electric driving range of up to 41 miles. It is priced from £39,145 and comes with a three-year warranty extendable to 10 years/100,000 miles with annual servicing at an authorized Toyota workshop. Despite not being the cheapest or most spacious, it is considered to have a 'wow factor'.

The third-generation MINI Countryman is the largest MINI yet, offering more space and significant tech upgrades. The new model includes a 100% electric option with a range of up to 287 miles, though the review focuses on the turbo petrol versions. The entry-level Countryman C and high-performance Countryman JCW are highlighted for their distinct features and driving experiences. The interior boasts a minimalist design with a circular OLED display, while the exterior has a more SUV-like style. The review notes the car's practicality, fun driving experience, and technological advancements, though it mentions some drawbacks in material quality and ride firmness.

A recent RAC survey reveals that 85% of motorists believe headlight glare is worsening, with 89% considering some headlights too bright. The study highlights that 91% of affected drivers experience regular dazzling, leading to safety concerns such as reduced visibility and potential accidents. The RAC urges the Government to investigate the issue further, noting that LED headlights and poorly aligned lights are significant contributors to the problem. The survey also indicates that headlight glare has led some drivers, particularly older ones, to avoid night driving altogether.

GEM Motoring Assist, a breakdown and road safety organization, is urging drivers, riders, and pedestrians to prioritize safety on the road as part of their New Year's resolutions. Road safety adviser James Luckhurst highlights the importance of making wise choices to improve safety and reduce the risk of harm. The call to action comes in light of the 10% increase in road deaths and serious injuries in the UK from 2021 to 2022.