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.

The Kia EV9, an all-electric flagship SUV from the South Korean brand, offers a bold design, spacious interior, and a range of up to 349 miles. Available in six or seven-seater configurations, it features a large 99.8kWh battery, ultra-fast charging, and a choice between a 201bhp single motor and a 378bhp dual motor. The EV9 boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating, impressive build quality, and a variety of drive modes. Despite its size, the SUV provides a comfortable and effortless driving experience, though the energy consumption in AWD models may be higher than expected.

The Nissan Qashqai e-Power is a unique full hybrid vehicle that offers a driving experience similar to an electric vehicle without the need for recharging. Launched in the UK in 2021, it features a 1.5-litre petrol engine that acts as a generator for the electric motor. It boasts instant torque, seamless performance, and the ability to run in pure electric mode. The Qashqai e-Power is economical, with real-world fuel efficiency close to diesel cars, and offers a comfortable ride with modern technology and safety features. It competes with the likes of Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson but stands out with its novel hybrid system.

The second-generation Toyota C-HR is praised for its bold styling and improvements over the first-generation model. It competes with the likes of Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, offering a more mature design with sharper lines and upgraded technology. The new C-HR, starting at £31,290, features Toyota's fifth-generation full hybrid technology with 1.8 and 2.0-litre engines, and a plug-in hybrid option coming in 2024. The vehicle is described as comfortable, with a high-quality cabin and reasonable space, though it has a snug driver-focused setup. It handles well with a supple suspension and light steering, but the CVT gearbox can be noisy. The C-HR is also noted for its economical performance and a warranty that can extend up to 10 years/100,000 miles with annual servicing at an authorized Toyota workshop.

The Mercedes-AMG A45 S, the most powerful hot hatch on the market, impresses with its 415bhp, 369lb ft of torque, and a top speed of 168mph, achieving 0–62mph in 3.9 seconds. Despite a firm ride, it offers a heady mix of power, superb driving engagement, top build quality, and practicality, making it one of the best hot hatches ever. The starting price is £63,285.

The Jeep Avenger, Jeep's first battery-powered vehicle, shares an EV platform with Stellantis group cousins and is notable for being the first Jeep created outside America. It has won the European Car of the Year 2023 and is competitively priced at £35,700. The Avenger offers a range of up to 249 miles, a 54kWh battery, and a 100kW maximum charging speed. It features a classic crossover design with Jeep DNA, ample headroom, and a 355-litre boot. The ride is firm, handling is nimble, and it includes six driving modes. The upcoming four-wheel drive model will be suitable for more extreme conditions. The Jeep Avenger is praised for its range, charging speed, and ruggedness compared to rivals.

As the UK enters autumn, thrill-seekers are warned of the potential dangers of vehicle breakdowns on the country's most haunted roads. The article lists five roads with reputations for paranormal activity, including the A229 in Kent, A75 in Dumfries and Galloway, A30 in Cornwall, A38 in Devon, and A616 in Nottinghamshire. It promotes the CS FREE adaptive booster as a solution to prevent battery issues during such ghost-hunting expeditions.

The Audi Q4 e-tron, launched in 2021, competes in the mid-sized SUV sector with a starting price of £51,325. It offers two power levels, a range of 292 – 328 miles, and a high-quality interior with advanced technology. The Q4 e-tron is praised for its build quality, comfort, and practicality, achieving five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. It is considered one of the best electric SUVs in its class.

The Volkswagen ID.3, an electric hatchback launched in 2020, has received updates for 2023, including exterior styling tweaks, cabin upgrades with recycled materials, and an improved infotainment system. The vehicle maintains its rear-wheel drive, with two battery options offering ranges up to 266 and 347 miles, and improved charging capacities. Priced from £37,115, the ID.3 is described as competent, assured, and a refined cruiser, though it lacks the driving engagement of some rivals. It offers ample space, a 385-litre boot capacity, and comes with the latest safety and driver assistance systems, including the new Travel Assist feature. The updated ID.3 is considered a safe, spacious, and sensible electric hatchback choice.