IndyCar announces Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington DC

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February 2, 2026

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington DC is intended to be held around the National Mall on August 23 2026 — Unsplash – Jorge Alcala

The NTT IndyCar Series will travel to Washington, D.C. this August, following the announcement of the Freedom 250 street race.

President Donald J. Trump formalized the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. by the signing of an executive order.

This directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Transportation to work with Mayor Muriel Bowser to create a brand-new street course, centered around the National Mall.

Due to take place across the weekend of 21-23 August 2026, the Freedom 250 will form part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.

IndyCar has already confirmed that the Freedom 250 will be free for spectators to attend. Fox Sports will be broadcasting the race live.

‘A quintessentially American sport’

As part of the executive order, President Trump said: “For over one hundred years, American IndyCar racing has set the pace for motorsports.

“With speeds topping over 200 miles per hour, the cars and drivers inspire awe and respect in all who watch this quintessentially American sport.”

Penske Entertainment will be responsible for managing the race, as it does for a number of events across the IndyCar season.

“President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport, and we’re grateful for his trust and support as IndyCar prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle,” said IndyCar series owner Roger Penske.

The announcement swells the 2026 IndyCar season to 18 races, with the Freedom 250 slotting into the calendar between Markham in Canada and the Milwaukee Mile events.

Adding a new race to the calendar at such short notice will be a logistical struggle for IndyCar, and the capital city itself. An August date means fans and drivers will likely also face temperatures between 90-100 deg F, combined with 70 percent humidity.

Has Washington, D.C. hosted motorsport before?

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. will be the first official motor race to take place on the National Mall. However the nation’s capital has hosted other automotive events.

In 2002, the Cadillac Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. used a 1.66-mile temporary circuit laid out around the RFK Memorial Stadium parking lot. Held as part of the American Le Mans Series, the race was held just once, despite a 10-year contract.

Between 2014 and 2016, the Red Bull Global RallyCross Championship also hosted a round in the grounds of RFK Stadium.

Red Bull returned to D.C. in 2024, giving a high-speed Formula 1 demonstration run ahead of that year’s Miami Grand Prix.

This year’s NTT IndyCar Series starts with the opening race of the season, the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on 1 March 2026.

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AUTOBEST Conquest: Vote to decide the Best Buy Car of Europe

By

Richard Aucock

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February 2, 2026

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Voting is now open for the inaugural AUTOBEST Conquest. The award gives car buyers the same opportunity as motoring journalists to decide on the Best Buy Car of Europe 2026.

The motoring public now has 50 percent of the vote, with the AUTOBEST jurors from more than 30 European countries accounting for the other 50 percent.

It means that, for the first time, drivers across Europe can help decide what will be the Best Buy Car of Europe 2026. “Equal vote, equal voice,” said AUTOBEST founder and chairman Dan Vardie.

The six AUTOBEST Conquest 2026 finalists

These are the six cars in competition for the title of AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2026:

BYD Dolphin Surf
Citroen C3 Aircross
Fiat Grande Panda
Ford Puma Gen-E
MG S5 EV
Renault 5

AUTOBEST is already the world’s largest independent motoring media jury, with 32 jurors across the European continent. The rules state one country, one juror. Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock represents the UK.

Journalists have already conducted an exhaustive two-day analysis of the finalists at the AUTOBEST Ultimate Test late last year. Now, the focus shifts to car buyers, who are encouraged to visit local dealers and test-drive the finalists for themselves.

Click here to vote in AUTOBEST Conqest 2026

‘Excellence in usability, design and tech’

Public votes are also open for three other categories in the AUTOBEST awards:

Best Users’ Car of Europe
Best Car Design of Europe
Best Affordable Tech Package

The aim is to promote excellence in real-life usability, design and technology, “all shaped together by the public and the professionals”.

Voting is open now and run until the evening of 28 March 2026, when the winners – including the AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2026 – will be announced live during the AUTOBEST Conquest Show.

“This pioneering format marks AUTOBEST’s transition from the traditional Gala Awards into a modern entertainment broadcasting concept,” said Vardie.

“It is a first in the motoring world.”

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New Jaguar EV tested in the Arctic ahead of debut later this year

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John Redfern

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February 2, 2026

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The full production version of the dramatic Jaguar Type-00 concept car will be revealed later this year

A showroom version of Jaguar’s radical four-door electric GT is fast approaching, as the prototype cars undergo punishing dynamic and reliability tests.

The vehicles are currently being subjected to extreme cold weather challenges, as part of what Jaguar claims to be the ‘most rigorous global validation programme’ in its 91-year history.

Some 150 pre-production prototypes have been built for testing, with several currently in the Arctic Circle to ensure the boldy styled electric Jaguar can cope with cold climates.

Based at Arjeplog in Sweden, where Jaguar Land Rover has a long-established testing facility, the new EV is faced with temperatures as low as minus 40 deg C.

At the other extreme, other Jaguar EVs have covered hundreds of thousands of miles across scorching desert highways, along with a near-endless variety of virtual test scenarios.

Boosting batteries in cold weather

Testing in the Arctic Circle gives engineers the chance to evaluate Jaguar’s new ThermAssist technology. The thermal management system is said to reduce heating energy consumption by up to 40 percent.

ThermAssist helps recover heat to warm the Jaguar’s cabin, or its electric powertrain, in temperatures down to minus 10 deg C. Doing so will aid the car’s battery range, particularly in cold temperatures.

Skidding about on frozen lakes is also helping chassis specialists to refine the handling of the new EV. With upwards of 1,000hp, it will be the most powerful production Jaguar ever, using all-wheel drive and a torque vectoring system to assist the driver.

Other technology being honed on Swedish snow includes Jaguar’s all-wheel steering, dynamic air suspension and bespoke 23-inch winter tyres.

With the production version of the Type 00 concept arguably the most important new car in Jaguar’s history, getting everything right will be vital.

‘A true Jaguar driving experience’

Matt Becker, vehicle engineering director at Jaguar, said: “Jaguar has always been about driving pleasure and our new electric four-door GT will be no different. It marks a step-change in our technical ambitions.

“Innovative in-house electric propulsion technologies combine with the car’s unique proportions and low centre of gravity for a luxurious grand tourer that drives like nothing else. Like a true Jaguar, it can be comfortable when you wish, is engaging to drive and, with more than 1,000hp, always has power in reserve.”

Rawdon Glover, managing director at Jaguar, added: “Our aim from the outset has been to deliver a true Jaguar driving experience and we have crafted a hugely desirable car that will be as captivating to drive as it is to look at.”

Jaguar revealed the Type 00 concept for its electric GT during Miami Art Week in 2024. The finalised version will make its world debut later this year.

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1 in 4 drivers would ‘never’ consider an electric car

By

Richard Aucock

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February 2, 2026

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Almost one in four drivers say that absolutely nothing would convince them to make the switch to an electric car.

And for those aged over 55, this proportion more than doubles – with 43 percent saying they would never consider an EV.

The main reason for not looking at an electric car, found the survey by National Scrap Car, was concern over battery lifespan, cited by 55 percent of respondents.

Equal second, on 49 percent, were high upfront costs and charging times. And 43 percent of drivers were worried about range limitations.

Anxiety over charging infrastructure and insurance costs rounded out the top five reasons not to consider an EV.

Adding up the EV advantages

The survey also asked Brits what would make them switch to an electric car, with lower charging costs topping the list.

Drivers could also be won over by reduced maintenance bills, improved range and technology, environmental concerns and technological appeal.

“While it’s clear that the high upfront cost is the most significant financial hurdle, especially for older drivers, it’s crucial that consumers look at the long-term savings,” said National Scrap Car’s Saul Turner.

“We know that 62 percent of drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump now more than ever, and moving to electric is a fantastic way to lock in fuel savings over the vehicle’s lifespan.

“We also expect the current rapid pace of technological change to start addressing concerns around battery life and charging times much sooner than many drivers anticipate.

“Until then, incentives and scrappage schemes will be vital in bridging that cost gap.”

Last year, the government introduced an Electric Car Grant offering either £1,500 or £3,750 off the price of a new EV. The Ford Puma Gen-E was the first car to qualify for the full £3,750 grant.

The Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) estimates that around a quarter of new electric cars on sale in the UK are eligible for the Electric Car Grant.

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New 2026 Bentley Continental GT S is inspired by the Supersports

By

John Redfern

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February 2, 2026

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The fourth-generation Continental GT S coupe and GTC S convertible sit below the Speed in Bentley’s model hierarchy

The Bentley Continental GT range has gained a new performance-focused model for 2026.

Both the Continental GT S coupe and GTC S convertible are said to be inspired by the hardcore, limited-edition Bentley Supersports.

All examples of the lightened, rear-wheel-drive Supersports have already been sold. However, the new Continental GT S will become part of the British marque’s regular range.

In essence, the GT S combines the 680hp, hybrid-assisted powertrain from the standard Continental GT with the more dynamic chassis setup of the Speed and Mulliner models.

Along with the setup changes, Bentley has also treated the GT S to a host of aesthetic upgrades, plus bespoke interior trim.

A more dynamic driving experience

Key enhancements for the Continental GT S include the Bentley Performance Active Chassis, which brings active all-wheel drive, torque vectoring and active anti-roll bars to the luxurious grand tourer.

For the first time on a Continental GT S, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential is fitted. This is complemented by all-wheel steering for greater manoeuvrability.

Bentley has added extra settings for the stability control (ESC) system, even allowing it to be switched off entirely. This allows the car to be ‘balanced on-throttle’ when cornering, although perhaps not at such extreme angles as Travis Pastrana managed in the rear-driven Supersports.

With 680hp and 686lb ft of torque, the new hybrid Continental GT S can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 190mph.

A new sports exhaust system is designed to enhance the soundtrack from Bentley’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.

Black detailing inside and out

Standard Blackline Specification brings a dark front splitter and gloss black grille inserts for the Continental GT S, combined with black Bentley badges and lettering.

The door mirror caps are finished in Beluga gloss black, with the same colour used for the side sills and rear diffuser. Dark-tinted LED headlights and tail lights, plus a black finish for the exhaust tailpipes, are also part of the package.

A set of 22-inch silver alloy wheels come as standard on the GT S. Customers can also choose from other wheel designs, including gloss black rims.

Bentley has given the Continental GT S its own bespoke colour-split upholstery, with suede-like Dinamica fabric used on the steering wheel and seat inserts. High-gloss piano black trim continues the dark theme throughout the cabin.

Prices and availability for the GT S and GTC S have yet to be confirmed, but it should arrive before the Supersports later in 2026.

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Firing back at the critics: Ineos Grenadier 4×4 is updated for 2026

By

John Redfern

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January 30, 2026

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Ineos has kept the price of the Ineos Grenadier the same for 2026, starting from £51,390 before VAT

Ineos Automotive has announced major updates for the Grenadier, as the hardcore off-roader enters its third full year of production.

Much has been written about the story behind the Grenadier’s creation, along with the British 4×4’s ability both on and off the road. Changes for the 2026 model year aim to address some of the areas that have attracted criticism.

In particular, Ineos has fitted a new variable-ratio steering rack, intended to make the Grenadier feel more precise and responsive when the wheel is close to the straight-ahead position.

The previous Grenadier’s recirculating ball steering setup favoured off-road durability, but could feel slow-witted when driving on tarmac at speed.

Ineos has also reduced the Grenadier’s turning circle, with extra steering angle to make it more manoeuvrable in town and on twisty trails.

Answering the Grenadier’s critics

Further changes for the 2026 Ineos Grenadier include an upgraded climate control system. This has apparently improved the ‘performance and predictability of heating and cooling’ inside the cabin.

The Grenadier’s driver assistance systems (ADAS) have received important updates in order to comply with the latest safety regulations.

Ineos has also included a shortcut on the infotainment touchscreen to silence the compulsory Intelligent Speed Assist with just one press.

Lynn Calder, CEO of Ineos Automotive, said: “We’ve continuously enhanced and upgraded the Grenadier since its launch, but this is the most significant improvement so far. And it means the 2026 models are the most rounded and most accomplished yet.

“It’s easier and more fun to enjoy every day and for every journey (and with a faster way to switch off the annoying ADAS alerts we are forced to fit). And with all that, it’s our best Grenadier yet, with enhanced appeal to an even broader range of customers.”

New Grenadier Black Edition revealed

Along with updating the Grenadier for 2026, Ineos has also launched a new Black Edition trim level. This can be applied to both the regular station wagon and Quartermaster pickup truck.

Based on the range-topping Fieldmaster version, the Black Edition comes exclusively with Inky Black exterior paintwork. Gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels are combined with black trim for the front grille and skid plates.

Privacy glass, a lockable storage box for the spare wheel holder, black leather upholstery, a dark interior headlining and black carpet mats complete the moody makeover.

Prices for the Black Edition start at £71,995, covering both station wagon and Quartermaster body styles.

All other Grenadier models retain the same prices for 2026, with the Grenadier Commercial starting from £51,390 excluding VAT. The entry-level Quartermaster and station wagon variants cost from £62,495.

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Chinese car brand Chery to open European HQ in Liverpool

By

Richard Aucock

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January 30, 2026

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Chinese automotive giant Chery, maker of the Omoda and Jaecoo brands, has revealed it is opening a new European headquarters in Liverpool, potentially creating hundreds of new jobs.

The announcement, which followed months of talks, was made during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s trade visit to China.

Liverpool City Council said it was ‘one of the most significant projects’ for the city in recent years, reported the BBC.

Council leader Liam Robertson described it as a “huge opportunity” for Liverpool, the wider city region and the UK.

It “recognises our strengths” and “puts Liverpool at the forefront” of advanced manufacturing, added Robertson.

The new Chery HQ will reportedly support research, engineering and commercial development for the Chery Commercial Vehicle division.

No details have yet been announced on where in Liverpool Chery will locate its new European base, nor when it will open. However, it is hoped it will create ‘hundreds’ of new jobs.

Chery to build cars in JLR UK plants?

The news of Chery’s new European HQ in Liverpool is interesting in the context of a recent report by the Financial Times that the Chinese giant could build vehicles in the UK, using spare capacity at JLR factories.

JLR builds the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models in Solihull. It also makes Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport at Halewood, Merseyside (pictured above).

While the Solihull plant is thriving – production of the new electric Jaguar will begin there later this year – it is believed there is spare capacity at Halewood. This could potentially be utilised by Chery.

News that Chery’s European commercial vehicle HQ will be based in Merseyside may now compound the rumours.

“A JLR-Chery tie-up could be a win-win,” said Professor David Bailey of the Birmingham Business School. “The rationale… is strong.”

JLR has a longstanding joint venture with China’s Chery, called CJLR. In 2024, it agreed to license the Freelander brand to CJLR for the creation of EVs in China.

“Chery and JLR are forging an innovative collaboration model that epitomises our growth path for the future,” said Chery Group chairman Yin Tongyue at the time.

The Mk2 Land Rover Freelander was actually produced in Halewood, before it was replaced by the Land Rover Discovery Sport in 2016.

In 2024, JLR announced a £500m investment in Halewood to transform it for electric vehicle production. The aim is to produce ICE, PHEV and BEV models side by side, before becoming JLR’s first all-electric production facility.

Halewood is believed to have the capacity to produce around 205,000 cars a year. In 2025, JLR made a total of 201,283 cars at its three plants in Castle Bromwich, Halewood and Solihull.

Motoring Research has contacted Chery and JLR for comment.

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Toyota Tacoma named the official Truck of Texas for 2026

By

John Redfern

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January 29, 2026

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The Texas Auto Writers Association praised the Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter for its ability on- and off-road

The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) has crowned the Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter its official Truck of Texas for 2026.

Following exhaustive testing on both asphalt and off-road trails, the Tacoma Trailhunter emerged victorious during the annual TAWA Truck Rodeo.

It means the fourth-generation Tacoma pickup has become a back-to-back winner in the Truck of Texas contest, having defended its crown from the 2025 event.

More impressively, Toyota pickup trucks have now claimed the prestigious award four times in the last five years.

In both 2022 and 2024, the full-size Toyota Tundra took home the top prize.

Built for off-road performance

Developed especially with off-road action in mind, the Tacoma Trailhunter boasts an array of specialist equipment. This includes Old Man Emu forged monotube position-sensitive shock absorbers, 33-inch off-road tires, and an ARB steel rear bumper with tow hooks.

Powering the Tacoma is Toyota’s latest i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain, featuring a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine. A total output of 323 horsepower, along with 465 lb-ft of torque, is channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Designed by Calty Design Research in California, and manufactured by Toyota in Mexico, the Tundra Trailhunter impressed the TAWA judges again for 2026.

“Earning Truck of Texas honors for the second consecutive year underscores how the Toyota Tacoma continues to set the benchmark for durability, capability, and real-world performance as judged by the Texas Auto Writers Association,” said outgoing TAWA president, Cory Fourniquet.

Nissan Armada Pro-4X wins SUV of Texas

The Texas Truck Rodeo saw a double victory for Japanese brands, with the Nissan Armada Pro-4X taking home the silverware as the official SUV of Texas for 2026.

Described as a “super large beast” by the judging panel, the full-size Nissan Armada features a twin-turbocharged V-6 that delivers 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.

Adaptive air suspension, an electronic locking rear differential, sturdy underbody protection, and off-road-tires are all part of Pro-4X trim, along with special red exterior badging.

“Powerful, confident and exceptionally refined, the Nissan Armada Pro-4X delivers the kind of capability, comfort and presence that Texas SUV buyers demand,” said Cory Fourniquet.

“It stood out as a complete package, making it a deserving winner of the 2026 SUV of Texas Award.”

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Unique 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X raises $2.6m for charity

By

John Redfern

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January 29, 2026

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Rick Hendrick, chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group and owner of Hendrick Motorsports was the winning bidder

A bespoke example of the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X has raised millions of dollars for charity.

Sold as part of the prestigious Barrett-Jackson 2026 Scottsdale Auction, the Stars & Steel-inspired Corvette ZR1X attracted a winning bid of $2.6 million.

It makes for a substantial markup over the $212,195 recommended retail price for the 1,250 horsepower hybrid supercar. However, this particular ZR1X was truly unique.

The winning bidder is no stranger to collectible Corvettes, either. Rick Hendrick previously took home the first 2021 Stingray, 2023 Z06, and 2025 ZR1 models in similar circumstances.

In fact, Hendrick, CEO of the Hendrick Automotive Group and owner of Hendrick Motorsports, has been the winning bidder in 40 Barrett-Jackson charity vehicle auctions – single-handedly raising more than $30 million for charity.

A unique ownership experience

Based on the already limited-production Stars & Steel version of the flagship Corvette, the auctioned car was hand-painted by experts at General Motors’ Design Fabrication shop, with a custom Dark Satin Steel finish.

A host of blue detailing was then added to the ZR1X, including on its brake calipers and gigantic carbon fiber rear wing. On the inside, the Corvette is trimmed in Santorini Blue leather.

As part of the winning bid, Rick Hendrick also has the opportunity to help assemble the ZR1X’s 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged “Gemini” V-8 engine.

General Motors has reinstated the popular “Build Your Own Engine” program, last seen on the Corvette in 2019, for customers who purchase a high-performance Z06, ZR1, or ZR1X.

Ticking the box to build your own engine means the owner can work alongside master engineers in Chevrolet’s Performance Build Center, located at the famed Bowling Green Assembly plant in Kentucky.

Helping families of fallen heroes

All the proceeds from the auction of the special Corvette ZR1X will be donated to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

The charity works to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children. This includes building custom smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, and providing housing and services for homeless veterans.

Tunnel to Towers CEO Frank Siller commented: “This incredible gift will help us continue delivering on our promise to never forget the families of our fallen heroes and to ensure our catastrophically injured veterans can live their lives with the dignity and independence they deserve.”

Scott Bell, vice president of Global Chevrolet, added: “To honor those who serve, Chevrolet created a one-of-one edition of America’s quickest production car: the Corvette ZR1X.

“We’re proud to know the winning bid will go directly to supporting first responders and veterans in need across the United States through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.”

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A quarter of UK drivers suffered vehicle crime last year

By

John Redfern

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January 29, 2026

0

Almost half of those in towns and city centres were the victims of car crime, compared to 15 percent in rural locations

Car crime affected more than one in four UK motorists during the last 12 months, according to new data from the RAC.

As part of the latest RAC Report on Motoring, the breakdown organisation questioned British drivers about their experiences of vehicle crime throughout the previous year.

Some 26 percent said they had been a victim of car crime, including offences such as theft or vandalism.

For those living in towns and cities, this figure increased to almost half (46 percent) of respondents.

By comparison, only 15 percent of those who live in rural locations said the same. One in five (20 percent) of suburban respondents said they had been a victim of vehicle crime.

Rural drivers most worried about car crime

Almost a fifth (19 percent) of those in towns had seen their car deliberately vandalised during the last year, and 13 percent had items stolen from their vehicle. Only seven and two percent of those in the countryside experienced the same issues, respectively.

Despite motorists in rural areas experiencing a much lower level of vehicle crime, they have the same or a greater fear of being targeted by criminals.

Some 38 percent of rural drivers admitted worrying about the risk of vehicle theft – the same proportion as urban motorists.

And 39 percent of those in the countryside were concerned about their car being vandalised. Only 34 percent of urban dwellers had the same concern.

Rural drivers are also more anxious about drivers not leaving a note following a collision. More than a third (34 percent) had this concern, versus 18 percent of people living in a city.

A contributor to higher insurance costs

Simon Williams, RAC Insurance spokesperson, said: “It’s very worrying to see so many drivers have experienced some form of vehicle crime over a 12-month period. Having a vehicle vandalised is both unbelievably annoying and expensive, but having one stolen is a horrible violation. It’s also incredibly stressful to resolve and inconvenient to cope with, given how important cars are to our daily lives.

“Every criminal incident like this contributes to the average cost of car insurance, which has already risen in recent years due to the higher costs of parts and labour, and the increasing complexity of modern vehicles. Having to claim on your insurance because of something you’ve accidentally done yourself is one thing, but when it’s because of mindless, deliberate vandalism, it’s beyond frustrating, not least because it will inevitably result in higher future premiums

“It’s little wonder why the cost of insuring a vehicle was named the second biggest motoring frustration in our annual Report on Motoring research, with 29 percent of drivers saying it was one of their top concerns.”

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