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See the Renault 5 Turbo 3E in action at Goodwood FOS this July

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The 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place across four days, running from Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th July

UK enthusiasts will get their first chance to see the radical Renault 5 Turbo 3E in action at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed. 

Unveiled last year, the electric 5 Turbo 3E is a celebratory throwback to the original mid-engined Renault 5 Turbo of the 1980s – but with enough power to rival a modern supercar.

With a dramatically modified version of the regular Renault 5 E-Tech’s chassis, and extensive use of carbon fibre bodywork, the Turbo 3E will certainly turn heads on the Goodwood hill climb. 

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E’s performance is likely to be even more startling, thanks to the pair of in-wheel electric motors mounted on the rear axle. 

These generate a combined 555hp, plus an almost unbelievable 3,450lb ft of torque. When placed in a car weighing around 1,450kg, the results should be predictably electrifying

‘Celebrating the spirit of performance’

Renault 5 Turbo 3E

According to Renault’s official figures, the 5 Turbo 3E can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed in excess of 165mph. 

An 800-volt electrical architecture is combined with a 70kWh battery pack, giving the Turbo 3E a range of almost 250 miles. Recharging will be rapid, going from 15 to 80 percent in 15 minutes via a 350kW device

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of Renault brand, said: “Renault 5 Turbo 3E embodies the boldness and spirit of innovation that have always defined Renault. By reinventing the legendary Renault 5 Turbo for the electric era, we have created something truly unique: a mini-supercar that combines spectacular performance with cutting-edge electric technology. 

“Bringing the production-ready Renault 5 Turbo 3E to the Goodwood Festival of Speed for its UK dynamic debut is the perfect way to celebrate this spirit of performance and excitement with enthusiasts.”

Other Renaults to star at Goodwood

Renault 5 Turbo 3E Goodwood Festival of Speed

Reservations for the Renault 5 Turbo 3E are open now. The French marque plans to produce 1,980 examples of its ‘EV supercar’, with prices starting from £140,000. 

For those with a smaller budget, there is also a Renault-backed campaign to have a miniature Lego version built. 

Starring alongside the Turbo 3E at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 will be the recently announced Renault 4 E-Tech ‘Plein Sud’, which features a full-length canvas roof. The new Renault Twingo E-Tech and regular Renault 5 E-Tech will also be on show. 

Now a four-day event, this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place from Thursday 9 July until Sunday 12 July 2026.

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New electric Jaguar GT car to be named Type 01

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Jaguar will demonstrate a camouflaged version of the Type 01 at the Formula E Monaco E-Prix this weekend

Jaguar has confirmed the name of its forthcoming luxury GT car. The first electric Jaguar will be called Type 01. 

After the controversy that surrounded the British marque’s pivot to full electrification, and the divisive new corporate aesthetic for the Type 00 concept car, the name of the production Jaguar seems reassuringly conventional.

Breaking it down, the ‘Type’ designation is a throwback to previous Jaguar models. It first featured on the C-Type Le Mans racer in 1951.

It was subsequently used on the legendary E-Type sports car, along with two generations of the modern F-Type.  

The ‘0’ stands for ‘zero tailpipe emissions’, thanks to a battery-electric powertrain. And the ‘1’ was chosen to represent the first Jaguar model for a new era.

A new name for a new era

Jaguar Type 01 badge

Jaguar says the choice of name for its new luxury GT is intended to unite ‘the brand’s history of innovation in design, technology and performance’, in combination with being ‘the most advanced Jaguar ever’.

The Type 01 name will appear on the car’s strikethrough motif, where the bonnet meets the windscreen. We’re told it will use ‘bold linear graphics’.

Rawdon Glover, managing director at Jaguar, said: “We have reimagined Jaguar for a new era, with inspiration from what has gone before. Our engineers have achieved this with a vehicle that looks and drives like no other electric car, yet reflects a unique provenance. 

“The Type 01 name is part of that story – for me, the zero also signifies a complete brand reset, and the ‘1’, our first car for a new chapter, a one of a kind.”

New Jaguar due in September 2026

2026 Jaguar Type 01 Name Revealed

Despite a name that has obvious links to Jaguar’s heritage, how the Type 01 drives will be unlike anything in the marque’s illustrious back catalogue

Three electric motors will provide the Type 01 with more than 1,000hp, combined with nearly 960lb ft of instant electric torque. 

Earlier this year, Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock drove a prototype Type 01, noting: “All that power gives it plenty of authority on the high-speed circuit. At any velocity, it gathers pace without effort, and the suspension has the authority to handle it even at 120mph and beyond. 

“Going fast is effortless, yet it doesn’t feel remote or disconnected. There’s a calmness to it all, but a crisp responsiveness as well. It’s engaging without being overwhelming.”

This weekend will see prototype versions of the Type 01, still wearing a camouflage wrap, take to the streets of Monaco ahead of the Formula E race. 

Jaguar will reveal the completed Type 01 in September 2026, with customer deliveries expected to begin in early 2027.

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2017 Suzuki Vitara drives a record 436,500 miles in 9 years

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2017 Suzuki Vitara

A Bedford man has achieved a record mileage in his 2017 Suzuki Vitara after driving more than 48,000 miles a year for almost a decade.

He has covered a total of 436,500 miles in the 1.6-litre petrol-powered Suzuki SUV.

Averaged over his nine years of ownership, that equates to upwards of 48,000 miles every year.

Suzuki Vitara record UK mileage

What’s more, the Suzuki has apparently proven to be “faultless” and is still using its original engine, gearbox and exhaust.

The car is said to be still running “perfectly” and – unlike many high-mileage cars – it doesn’t even have any oil leaks. Only wear and tear components, plus a single driveshaft rubber boot, have been replaced during the past nine years.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, 436,500 miles equates to around 15 sets of new tyres.

A Suzuki daily-driver

2017 Suzuki Vitara

Such a high mileage required routine servicing every few months, reports the owner. He racked up the miles by using the Suzuki Vitara daily, including for multiple trips across Europe.

A spokesman for Suzuki said the Vitara’s durability: “reinforces Suzuki’s reputation and the four easy-to-understand product pillars across its range: tech, efficiency, quality and trust”.

The owner has now purchased another Vitara, a 2024 Approved Used hybrid model, from the same dealer: Hilton Suzuki of Bedford.

The aim is to “continue travelling these staggering distances with the brand in the coming years”.

Has your car covered an ultra-high mileage? Let us know your record mileages in the comments!  

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Renault 4 gets beach-ready with cool JP4x4 concept car

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Although only a concept creation for the now, the JP4x4 points to a possible all-wheel drive version of the Renault 4 E-Tech SUV

Fresh from releasing the open-air Plein Sud model, Renault has unveiled a new concept version of the 4 E-Tech.

Known as the Renault 4 JP4x4, it becomes the fourth concept car based upon the battery-powered R4 SUV.

Both the name and design of the JP4x4 Concept are obvious tributes to the classic Renault JP4, which was produced between 1981 and 1990

Developed by French company Car Systeme, the JP4 conversion saw 20cm removed from the wheelbase of the iconic Renault 4, along with an taller ride height and beach buggy-inspired styling. 

With the JP4x4 concept, Renault has replicated the ‘lifestyle’ theme of the 1980s original, even down to dedicated spaces for storing your skateboards and surfboard. 

‘A car with no real boundary’

Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept

The JP4x4 is a thoroughly modern take on the classic JP4, with two seats and a pair of minimalist side doors. 

Describing the car, Jean-Philippe Salar, director of advanced design at Renault, said: “A cross between a pick-up and a beach buggy, the Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept was designed as a car with no real boundary between the exterior and the interior. This aspect is highlighted by the striking contrast between the Emerald Green of the bodywork and the vibrant orange of the interior textiles.”

The exterior paint colour is inspired by the Emerald Green and Lettuce Green hues offered on the Renault 4L during the 1970s and ’80s. 

A pickup truck-style tailgate drops down to allow access to the boot, while the roof is mainly open to the elements.

Inside, the seats are reminiscent of the ‘Egyptian Mummy’ design used on several classic Renaults, with upholstery in a retro shade of deep orange.

First public outing at Roland-Garros

Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept

Beneath the funky bodywork is a chassis borrowed from last year’s Renault 4 Savane 4×4 concept. This provides a ride height raised by 15mm, plus an additional electric motor for the rear axle. 

In keeping with its name, it means the JP4x4 offers four-wheel drive, which should make life easier when navigating sandy beaches and country trails. 

The French marque has not confirmed a production 4×4 version of the Renault 4 E-Tech, but is ‘monitoring customer and market feedback’.

Members of the public can see the Renault 4 JP4x4 in Paris next week, when it makes an appearance at the 2026 Roland-Garros French Open tennis tournament.

It will be joined by the Renault 4 Roland-Garros E-Tech show car, plus the recently announced Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud.

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U.S. prices confirmed for 2027 BMW iX3 electric SUV

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The 2027 BMW iX3 50 xDrive boasts an official range up to 434 miles, and can be reserved online with a $1,000 fee

United States pricing for the new 2027 BMW iX3 has been confirmed, with reservations for the radical electric SUV now open

Voted World Car of the Year 2026 by an international panel of expert judges, including Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock, the iX3 makes its North American debut in all-wheel-drive 50 xDrive guise.

The iX3 represents the first of BMW’s Neue Klasse (‘new class’) range of electric cars and SUVs, which will soon include the compact i3 sedan announced in March.  

Costs for the 2027 iX3 50 xDrive will start from $61,500 in Sport trim, plus an additional $1,350 for destination and handling. 

BMW has opened its reservation system for the iX3, so those who want to be first in the queue for the electric SUV can place a $1,000 deposit now.

EPA range of up to 434 miles

2027 BMW IX3 50 xDrive US Pricing

In iX3 50 xDrive form, BMW equips its latest battery SUV with dual motors, generating 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque.

This allows the BMW iX3 to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than five seconds, aided by traction from the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. 

At launch, the iX3 will come with a 112.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which features BMW’s 800-volt technology. 

According to official EPA estimates, this will give the iX3 50 xDrive a range of up to 434 miles. 

BMW has made the iX3 compatible with DC fast charging speeds of up to 400 kW. Using a suitable public charging device could see the battery replenished from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. 

The high-voltage battery has a specific eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty, with the rest of the iX3 covered for four years or 50,000 miles.

First US deliveries from September

2027 BMW IX3 50 xDrive US Pricing

Standard specification for the iX3 includes 20-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, bi-directional battery charging, and perforated ‘Veganaza’ upholstery for the interior.

The dramatic Panoramic Vision iDrive dashboard is fitted to all versions, with a slim display running across the base of the windshield. Drivers can customize their display via the 14.9-inch central touchscreen. 

Adding the $2,500 M Sport Package brings different alloy wheels and sportier styling inside and out, along with an expanded range of driver assistance technology. 

Opting for the M Sport Package Pro adds an illuminated “Iconic Glow” front grille, black exterior detailing, and M Sport brakes with red-painted calipers. 

Customers are able to design their ideal iX3 using the BMW online configurator now, and also place their reservation. 

BMW expects to deliver the first completed cars to US customers by the end of September 2026.

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New 2026 Audi RS5 hybrid: UK prices and specs in detail

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The new Audi RS5 recently took to the track at the Miami Grand Prix, taking guests on Hot Laps around the circuit

Audi has confirmed UK prices for its new high-performance RS5 saloon and Avant (estate), with orders now open.

Featuring the first use of a plug-in hybrid powertrain in an Audi Sport model, the 2026 RS5 replaces the long-serving RS4.

“As the first high‑performance plug-in hybrid, the RS5 marks the beginning of a new era for the Audi Sport brand,” said José Miguel Aparicio, director of Audi UK. 

“For decades, Vorsprung durch Technik has been demonstrated through the continued innovation of our RS models, driven by a singular focus: delivering the ultimate performance car for our customers. With the introduction of plug‑in hybrid technology to the RS line‑up, Audi Sport is taking usability, performance and excitement to an entirely new level.”

Prices for the Audi RS5 will start from £89,400 for the four-door saloon, with the more practical Avant costing from £91,300.

Hot enough for a Formula 1 circuit

2026 Audi RS5 UK Pricing

Audi recently demonstrated the RS5 at the Miami Grand Prix, using it to perform ‘hot laps’ around the Miami International Autodrome – and prove just how quick the car is.

All versions of the Audi RS5 use a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6. The engine is related to that in the previous RS4, but is tuned to develop 510hp and 443lb ft of torque. 

The biggest change, however, is the addition of a 174hp electric motor, which results in combined outputs of 639hp and 609lb ft. Both saloon and Avant models can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, with top speed limited to 155mph.

A 25.9kWh battery pack means the RS5 can cover more than 50 miles on electric power alone. It also means an official fuel economy figure of up to 74.3mpg.

Audi will offer three versions of the RS5 at launch, with all including a comprehensive level of standard specification. 

The entry-level car comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, a black exterior styling package, black Audi and RS badges, and darkened matrix LED headlights.

On the inside, the RS5 has Nappa leather sports seats with massage and ventilation functions, a heated RS steering wheel, an 11.9-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen. There is even a separate 10.9-inch display for front-seat passengers.

Place your orders for the summer

2026 Audi RS5 UK Pricing

Opting for the Carbon Black model ups the RS5’s price by just over £6,000, but adds larger 21-inch alloy wheels along with exposed carbon fibre details for the exterior. There is also carbon fibre inside, plus seats trimmed in a combination of Dinamica and Nappa leather. 

Topping the range is the Audi RS5 Performance Vorsprung, which costs £107,485 in Saloon form and £109,385 as an Avant.

This model gains bespoke front and rear bumpers, black 21-inch alloy wheels and camouflage carbon fibre exterior trim.

Most significantly, opting for the flagship version sees top speed increased to 177mph and the addition of an RS sport exhaust, plus a Bang and Olufsen audio system.

Orders for the new RS5 can be placed now, with the first deliveries to UK customers expected this summer.

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£3m Fenomeno Roadster is most powerful open Lamborghini ever

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Powering the Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster is a hybrid-enhanced V12 engine, producing a combined 1,080hp

Lamborghini has announced the most powerful convertible in its 63-year history: the 1,080hp Fenomeno Roadster.

Following the launch of the Fenomeno coupe at Monterey Car Week last year, the Roadster is the latest ultra-limited hypercar in Lamborghini’s ‘Few Off’ production series. 

The Fenomeno Roadster is the star attraction at the Lamborghini Arena event for owners and enthusiasts, taking place this weekend at the Imola circuit in northern Italy. 

“Fenomeno Roadster represents the purest expression of our brand values: visionary design, uncompromising performance and absolute exclusivity,” said Stephan Winkelmann, president and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “It is a unique interpretation of driving emotion, created for a select group of customers who seek something truly beyond convention.”

Production will be limited to just 15 cars, making the Roadster an even rarer sight than the 29 examples of the Fenomeno coupe.

Lamborghini’s no-compromise cabriolet

Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster

Lifting the lid on the Fenomeno required a brand-new aerodynamic package, with the upper surfaces of the mid-engined supercar completely redesigned.

An additional spoiler above the windscreen diverts air across the open cockpit, channelling it downwards towards the intakes for the naturally aspirated V12 engine

The need for rollover protection provided a challenge for Lamborghini’s aerodynamicists. Crafted from carbon fibre, the roll bars are as flat as possible, and integrated into a new speedster-style engine cover. 

Mitja Borkert, design director at Lamborghini, said: “It’s an exclusive and precious looking design; the Fenomeno Roadster represents the ‘feel like a pilot’ philosophy. At the same time, we are showcasing the relentless creativity of our Centro Stile, which has been actively creating Lamborghini designs for more than 20 years.”

The Fenomeno Roadster has almost identical downforce to the coupe model. Removing the roof has added ‘only a few kilograms’ of weight, thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre.

The most powerful Lamborghini roadster

Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster

Closed related to Lamborghini’s flagship Revuelto, the Fenomeno Roadster is powered by a mid-mounted 6.5-litre petrol V12 with a plug-in hybrid system. 

The 12-cylinder engine generates 835hp and 535lb ft of torque on its own. Adding three electric motors (two on the front axle and one at the rear) elevates total output to 1,080hp. 

Making use of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Fenomeno Roadster accelerates from 0-62mph in 2.4 seconds: identical to the coupe. Its top speed is 211mph.

The Fenomeno also uses a CCM-R Plus carbon-ceramic brake system, featuring technology previously used on Lamborghini’s LMDh hypercar racer. 

Bridgestone has adeveloped two types of bespoke tyre for the car, including a semi-slick option for maximum performance on a racetrack.

Buying a Fenomeno Roadster

Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster

To launch the Fenomeno Roadster, Lamborghini chose a striking colour combination of Blu Cepheus paint with Rosso Mars accents. 

The main hue is reminiscent of the 1968 Miura Roadster, built by Bertone as a one-off and displayed at the Brussels Motor Show. The red pays homage to the colours of Lamborghini’s home city of Bologna

On the inside, the Fenomeno features extensive use of carbon fibre, along with Corsatex upholstery by Dinamica. Three digital displays, including one for the passenger, provide driving and infotainment data.

Lamborghini has not announced a price for the new Fenomeno Roadster, but a figure of £3 million was previously quoted for the coupe version. 

However, this is unlikely to be an issue for the 15 enthusiasts fortunate enough to be commissioning the most extreme open-top Lamborghini to date.

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Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 claims new Nurburgring lap record

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With professional racing driver Benny Leuchter at the wheel, the Golf GTI Edition 50 set a record lap time of 7:44.523 minutes

The Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 has set a new Nurburgring Nordschleife lap record for front-wheel-drive cars. 

With a time of seven minutes and 44.523 seconds around the famous 12.9-mile circuit, the Golf GTI Edition 50 beat the previous record held by the Honda Civic Type R

Developed with the Nordschleife in mind, Volkswagen revealed the Golf GTI Edition 50 at a special celebratory event during last year’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race. 

A pre-production version of the Edition 50 claimed the record for the fastest Volkswagen around the Nurburgring last year. 

German racing driver Benny Leuchter was back behind the wheel for this latest run, shaving almost two seconds from his previous time in the hot hatch.

The ultimate Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 Lap Record

Volkswagen has created celebratory versions of the GTI before, but the Edition 50 is much more than just a set of anniversary badges and new alloy wheels. 

Instead, its ‘EA888 evo4 LK3’ 2.0-litre engine has been tuned to develop 325hp, alongside a substantial 310lb ft of torque. These figures make it the most powerful production Golf GTI ever, with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential to calm the front axle. 

A top speed of 168mph also sees the Edition 50 claim the title of being the fastest Golf GTI to date, with a 0-62mph time of 5.3 seconds. 

Volkswagen included a special ‘Nurburgring’ setting among the car’s drive modes, optimising the GTI to tackle the 73 twists and turns of the Nordschleife.

The record run was performed with the optional GTI Performance package fitted. Ticking this box ups the price of the £48,075 GTI Edition 50 by a further £3,675.

‘More than just an anniversary model’

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 Lap Record

Adding the GTI Performance pack sees the car’s suspension lowered by 5mm, a lightweight titanium exhaust system added, and a set of 19-inch forged alloy wheels fitted. 

The latter come wrapped in semi-slick Bridgestone Potenza Race tyres, which should make a big difference around the Nurburgring

Having raced and tested many different Volkswagens at the ‘Ring, Benny Leuchter is very familiar with the German circuit. “The Nordschleife is unique with its bends, very different sections, bumps and even jumps,” he noted. 

“And the same is true for this GTI: with impressive power, a very neutral set-up and at the same time the ability to take any bumps in its stride. 

“The Golf GTI Edition 50 is therefore more than just an anniversary model. It shows what performance in the compact segment can feel like when technical expertise, passion and 50 years of GTI history come together.” 

Volkswagen will only produce the Edition 50 during its anniversary year of 2026, so act quickly if you want to grab a record-breaking hot hatch.

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New Renault 4 Plein Sud goes open-air for the summer

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Inspired by the original Renault 4, the new electric version now boasts the option of a massive folding canvas roof

The Renault 4 E-Tech has gained the option of a huge canvas roof, bringing the outside in for the retro-styled electric SUV.

UK customers with a Renault R Pass can order the new Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud from today. The wider public will have to wait until 14 May 2026.

Paying tribute to the folding roof on the original Renault 4, the new Plein Sud has been ‘engineered to deliver the joy of open-air driving without compromising refinement or practicality’.

Being an electric B-segment SUV with a large, fully opening fabric roof makes the Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud unique in its class.

Boosting the appeal of the Plein Sud is the fact that, like the regular Renault 4 E-Tech, it qualifies for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant (ECG).

The sky really is the limit

Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud

Renault has engineered the Plein Sud’s canvas roof to operate electrically via pressing one button, or by giving a voice command to the ‘Reno’ digital assistant.

With a maximum aperture of 80 x 92cm, the roof gives both those in the front and rear seats the full open-air experience. Gathering neatly into three folds, it can also be opened in several stages.

Renault says the multi-layer construction of the canvas top provides ‘excellent acoustic and sealing qualities’. The roof also has a minimal impact on the headroom inside the electric SUV. 

In addition, the folding nature of the Plein Sud’s canvas roof means it does not affect luggage capacity. Just like the regular Renault 4, up to 420 litres of space is on offer. This increases to 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded flat. 

The roof rails and ‘shark fin’ antenna had to be removed to accommodate the fabric roof,, However, changes to the Renault 4 E-Tech are otherwise minimal.

No effect on performance

Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud

As with the standard SUV, the Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud comes with a 150hp electric motor that drives the front wheels. This allows a top speed of 93mph, with the 0-62mph run requiring 8.2 seconds. There is no performance penalty for the open version. 

A 52kWh battery is standard, providing a range of 242 miles in official WLTP tests. Capable of rapid charging at speeds up to 100kW, the battery can be replenished from 15 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. 

Renault will offer the Plein Sud in both Techno+ and Iconic+ trim levels, similar to the SUV variant. 

Standard equipment in Techno+ specification includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, a fabric dashboard with grey stitching and a synthetic leather steering wheel. 

A 10-inch digital instrument panel is combined with a 10-inch central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and adaptive cruise control are also included. 

Electric Car Grant means a £3,750 saving

Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud

Opting for the Plein Sud in Iconic+ trim sees the addition of 18-inch ‘Parisenne’ diamond-cut alloy wheels, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a synthetic leather dashboard and a Harmon Kardon sound system. 

The Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud becomes the latest model from the French marque to qualify for the full ECG, alongside the Renault 5 E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech.

A discount of £3,750 means prices for the Plein Sud in Techno+ specification start at £27,445, with the Iconic+ version requiring £29,445. 

These represent a £1,500 premium over the fixed-roof Renault 4 E-Tech. Placing an order now will mean delivery in the third quarter of 2026.

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How to report an unsafe lorry, coach or bus driver

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A large white truck speeds around a wet, curving road surrounded by trees, while cloudy skies loom above. No landmarks are visible.

Have you witnessed an unsafe HGV, bus or coach driver? If you believe one of these vehicles has broken road safety rules, you can report the incident to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Legitimate reasons to contact the DVSA about a commercial vehicle or public transport driver include:

  • Breaking drivers’ hours rules (i.e. driving for too long between breaks)
  • Overloading a vehicle
  • Using vehicles that are unsafe or unroadworthy
  • Carrying dangerous or hazardous goods without permission
  • Driving an excessively smoky and polluting lorry, bus or coach
  • Using emissions ‘cheat’ devices

Doing so could help improve safety on Britain’s roads and even save lives. So what are the next steps?

What information is required?

A street scene in Belfast shows a bus lane, several cars, and a person walking. Titan signage visible on the sidewalk.

If you decide to report a lorry, bus or coach driver, the DVSA will need to know:

  • Who is involved (the driver or company name)
  • The registration number of the vehicle(s) in question
  • The reason for the complaint
  • When and where the incident took place.

There are three ways to submit the information:

  • Email: enquiries@dvsa.gov.uk
  • Telephone: 0800 030 4103 (lines are open Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 6pm)
  • Post: Intelligence Unit, DVSA, The Ellipse, Padley Road, Swansea, SA1 8AN

Can I report a driver anonymously?

Several trucks and cars traveling on a busy highway. Overcast sky and bare trees visible in background. No specific landmarks or buildings.

The DVSA says it won’t ever ask for names or contact details, phone calls will not be traced and statements will not be required.

Also, if you wish to remain anonymous. you will not be called as a witness or be asked to appear in court.

However, anyone willing to supply details may be contacted for more information. And they could be asked to provide a statement or act as a witness, so think carefully before you submit the information.

What happens after a report is made?

Several white tour buses are parked in a row under a blue sky with clouds. No notable landmarks or people are present.

The DVSA will review the information you provide before deciding whether or not to examine the case.

Other government agencies or the police might then get involved, depending on the severity of the incident.

You will receive feedback after the investigation, when official proceedings have ended. The DVSA cannot provide feedback on an ongoing case, however.

How to report other crimes

A row of white trucks parked in an industrial area, with pallets and a domed structure in the background on a cloudy day.

The process is different for other, non-vehicle-related offences, such as drink driving, speeding and driving while disqualified. In such cases, you should contact the police first.

To complain about a bus driver being rude or buses not arriving as per the timetable, visit the Bus Users website.

If the bus service was in London or Northern Ireland, you should contact London TravelWatch or the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland respectively.

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