Road Tests
Skoda Yeti
May 25th
With the recent winters that the UK has experienced, are we going to see a huge demand for 4 x 4s? From the many conversations I’ve had with women responsible for getting their kids here, there and everywhere, their thoughts are definitely turning that way. Yet there is a reluctance for the traditional monsters we see in Chelsea and a desire for a useable family car that isn’t too heavy on the gas, but can get you out of trouble and gives a feeling of safety.
The Skoda Yeti could be the answer. It’s such a pleasing car on so many different levels. While zooming around town (as the 1.8 petrol TSi does) it’s hard to believe that this easy to drive and manoeuvrable car can actually cope with very rough and unpredictable terrain. While it vaguely has the looks of a four-wheel drive in a cheeky, urban type of way, it certainly doesn’t scream at your 4 x 4 coming through, move over or else!
Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion 1.9 TDi
Feb 6th
The Look
If like me you remember the Golf the first time round there will be no surprises in the looks department as seemingly very little has changed over the years – this is still recognisably a Golf. However, for those unfamiliar with the look it is one of understated elegance and design with the detailing of the headlamps and tail lights in particular blending in beautifully. Closing the doors gives the reassuring thud of a well-made car. In fact, everything you touch gives the impression of being very solid and well-made…
Looking good? The new BMW X1
Jan 24th
BMW X1 sDrive 20d SE (6 speed) £24,205
I’m still undecided about the looks of this car. Are they just bold, or is it a disaster? A bit of this and a bit of that all stuck together. If so, then I know how it feels – and that’s on a good day…
Renault Grand Espace Tech Run dCi 150
Jan 24th
This review first published September 2008
The Look
I’ve been told (by Paul mainly) that this is a beautiful car because of its proportions, beautiful lines and flowing curves. I can’t see it myself. It does look smart and the look has grown on me especially since I enjoyed driving it so much, but when I first saw one of these cars I thought they were just plain ugly.
Renault Clio 1.5 DCi
Jan 24th
Review first published September 2008
The Look
The previous Clio was very stylish and unusual with its very distinctive rear window “bustle” and I feel that this look has actually been improved upon with this new model, still being cheeky with a lovely distinct bump to the rear.