2020 motoring events: the car shows cancelled by coronavirus

October 19, 2020

The 2020 motoring events calendar has been thrown up in the air due to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.

Organisers of events for retro car enthusiasts have either been announcing rescheduled dates or, as you’ll see below, cancelling events entirely for 2020.

It makes depressing reading: while a handful of events have still gone ahead, the majority have been postponed for 2021.

RELATED: The best motorsport face masks

We are regularly updating the list, so be sure to bookmark this page. Get in touch if you’d like us to add a motoring event you’re organising, or revise the details listed.

LATEST UPDATE: The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run has been cancelled by the organisers – amazingly, it will be the first time it hasn’t run since 1947.

CANCELLED FOR 2020

The following events have been cancelled for 2020

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run – CANCELLED

This year’s London to Brighton run was due to take place on 1 November, with veteran cars arriving at London’s Hyde Park before sunrise. From there, they would set off for the 60-mile journey to Brighton. Any car registered before 1 January 1905 is eligible to do the run. Sadly, it has now become the last major event to be cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis.

Classic Motor Show – CANCELLED

Organisers of the Classic Motor Show at the Birmingham NEC normally welcome more than 3,000 classics in an area the size of 18 football pitches. Regrettably, show director Lee Masters has now concluded “there is no alternative but to postpone the 2020 edition of the show”. A detailed FAQ has been set up to help the many show-goers.

Goodwood Revival 2020 – CANCELLED

Step back in time at the Goodwood Revival. Visitors are encouraged to dress in period clothing at this event celebrating the golden era of motorsport. Regrettably, the 2020 event is another victim of the coronavirus crisis, but it will be back for 2021, promises the Duke of Richmond.

Goodwood Festival of Speed – CANCELLED

In 1993, Lord March hosted a hillclimb in the grounds of Goodwood House in Sussex and created the Festival of Speed. It has grown to become one of the world’s biggest and most famous motoring events, but the hillclimb remains central to its appeal. This year’s Festival of Speed has been cancelled, but Goodwood insists it will be back next year.

Want to help preserve Goodwood during these unprecedented times? Check out the GSA here.

CarFest North and SOUTH – CANCELLED

The organisers had originally planned to combine CarFest North and CarFest South to create one big event: CarFest United. It was to be held at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire across the weekend of 28 to 30 August 2020. The organisers said it will be “like the Cup Final“. But plans have since been shelved: CarFest North and South will return in their familiar form, but in 2021, not 2020.

Beaulieu International Autojumble – CANCELLED

If rummaging for oily car parts is your idea of a dirty weekend, the International Autojumble is the event for you. Some 2,000 stands are expected to fill the grounds of the Beaulieu Motor Museum, making it the biggest outdoor sale of motoring items this side of the Atlantic. Alas, for 2020, it is sadly cancelled.

2020 Wales Rally GB – CANCELLED

The 12th round of the FIA World Rally Championship was due to drop into Wales in October and November. Sadly, Wales Rally GB has now been cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis.

Classic & Performance Car Spectacular – CANCELLED

Tatton Park, Cheshire, was to be the venue for the Classic & Performance Car Spectacular on 15 and 16 August. Around 2,000 cars will be on display, along with 250 stalls and 90+ clubs. However, it fell victim to the coronavirus crisis, along with Tatton Park’s Classic American show in July and ‘Passion for Power’ show in August.

Ford Fair – 25 October

Ford Fair is Europe’s biggest Ford event, with around 4,000 cars and 18,000 guests expected to flood Silverstone. You can expect the usual mix of showroom-quality vehicles, sprint tests and track time, albeit now in 2021 after a revised date planned for October was finally cancelled.

Donington Historic Festival – CANCELLED

Originally, the Donington Historic Festival was been postponed to an alternative date later in the year. Unfortunately, organisers have now decided to cancel the 2020 event. It will, however, return for 2021.

Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show – CANCELLED

The Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show brings together 1,000+ cars, 150+ car clubs and 250+ exhibitors and autojumblers. Highlights include the UK’s biggest ‘barn-find’ display, the Practical Classics Live Stage and the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership competition. It had been hoped to postpone it until August, but now organisers have said the 2020 event is cancelled. It returns on 26-28 March 2021.

Fully Charged Live – CANCELLED

Robert Llewellyn’s Fully Charged Live, Britain’s biggest electric car show, has outgrown its base at Silverstone. For 2020, the EV event was moving to Farnborough International, with the organisers planning to show every electric vehicle available in the UK. Sadly, after announcing a revised autumn date, organisers have now cancelled the 2020 event. It returns in June 2021.

MG Live – CANCELLED

Organised by the MG Car Club, MG Live is the world’s biggest event for MG owners. This year’s event has been has been cancelled, with the organisers working with Silverstone to find suitable dates to revive the event in 2021.

Land Rover Legends – CANCELLED

The third edition of Land Rover Legends has been cancelled. All tickets will be valid for a rescheduled event in 2021, and ticketholders are advised to remain patient.

Ultimate Street Car – CANCELLED

Ultimate Street Car (USC) at Santa Pod Raceway is the ‘largest, loudest, hottest and fastest modified car festival in Europe’. Expect drifting, stunt displays, drag racing, music and tyre smoke. Lots and lots of tyre smoke. But in 2021, not 2020.

Tewkesbury Classic Vehicle Festival – CANCELLED

Sunday 23 August was to be be when 1,000 classic vehicles of all ages, plus motorcycles, automobilia and market stalls, gather at Tewkesbury School, just minutes from J9 of the M5 motorway. But no longer. The celebrated marque this year was Alvis, and there was also going to bebe a Hawker Hurricane flypast, as part of the VE Day 75th anniversary celebrations. What a pity.

Goodwood 78th Members’ Meeting – CANCELLED

Originally scheduled for 28-29 March, organisers of the 78th Goodwood Members’ Meeting have announced the event is cancelled. It had been hoped to run it later in the year, but regrettably this has not been possible.

Silverstone Classic – CANCELLED

To some people, this is one of the highlights of the motoring calendar – a three-day, non-stop historic motoring racing extravaganza. However, the organisers have now announced “t is with a heavy heart that the organisers of the Silverstone Classic announce that this summer’s flagship three-day festival – originally scheduled for the weekend of 31 July to the 2 August – has sadly been cancelled”.

June Scramble, Bicester Heritage – CANCELLED

The Bicester Heritage Sunday Scramble began as a ‘cars and coffee’ get-together but has grown to become one of the country’s biggest motoring events. You’ve missed the first Sunday Scramble of the year, and now the planned April event, originally rescheduled for 21 June, has been cancelled.

Japfest – CANCELLED

Europe’s biggest Japanese car show has been cancelled, after originally being postponed. It will now return in 2021.

Techno-Classica Essen – CANCELLED

Techno-Classica Essen is a European classic car show with a global reputation, with around 1,250 exhibitors from 30 countries. In 2019, the event attracted 190,000 visitors from 46 different nations. Essen is a four- to five-hour drive from Calais, and has now become a summertime event.

Monaco Historic Grand Prix – CANCELLED

The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique (or Monaco Historic Grand Prix) takes place every other year. This year would have marked the 12th edition of the prestigious event, but it will return in 2022.

MotoFest Coventry – CANCELLED

MotoFest Coventry is ‘a unique blend of motorsport demonstrations, static displays, live music and anything else with a connection to Coventry and transport’. Brilliantly, Coventry’s ring road becomes a sprint circuit for the weekend, creating one of the best spectacles of the motoring calendar. Following its cancellation, MotoFest Coventry will now place take place on 4, 5 and 6 June 2021.

The Isle of Man TT– CANCELLED

The fastest road race on the planet was due to get underway on Saturday 6 June, with qualifying scheduled for Sunday 31 May. Sadly, the Island’s chief minister has now decladed the 2020 event to be cancelled: we won’t be seeing world’s bravest riders test their mettle on the formidable 37.73-mile course this year.

Bath Festival of Motoring – CANCELLED

Last year’s Bath Festival of Motoring played host to 500 cars and around 6,000 visitors. This year’s event has been cancelled, with the next Bath Festival of Motoring taking place on the 19 and 20 June 2021.

Bromley Pageant – CANCELLED

The Bromley Pageant is one of the world’s largest one-day classic car shows, with more than 3,000 vehicles expected to be on display in Kent. The 2020 event has been cancelled, with the next Pageant taking place on 13 June 2021.

Yorkshire Motorsport Festival – CANCELLED

The organisers of the Yorkshire Motorsport Festival say they hope to offer northern motorsport enthusiasts ‘something new and different’. Following the cancellation of the 2020 event, the Festival will now run on 25 to 27 June 2021. The event host was due to be former Top Gear presenter Julia Bradbury.

Auto Royale – CANCELLED

Auto Royale Althorp is “a true ‘festivalised’ event which will attract the very affluent and high net worth collectors along with ABC1 owners and enthusiasts of the automotive lifestyle”. Up to 150 cars from Britain and overseas were set to compete for a range of traditional class awards, special celebration awards and the coveted Best in Show. The event will now place in summer 2021.

Classics on the Common – CANCELLED

For one Wednesday every July, Harpenden is invaded by classic cars as it plays host to the UK’s largest weekday car show. Unfortunately, the event won’t take place in 2020, but it’s likely to return on 28 July 2021.

Festival of the Unexceptional – CANCELLED

This year’s Festival of the Unexceptional has been cancelled. Owners of unexceptional cars of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s are invited back in July 2021.

Events you’ve missed: save the date for next year

Haynes Breakfast Club – 2 February

Car fans in the South and South West will be converging on the Haynes Motor Museum for the second Breakfast Club of the year. The museum, which is located just off the A303 in Somerset, is home to around 400 cars, while the cafe opens at 8.30am on Breakfast Club Sundays. These events are free to attend and held on the first Sunday of each month.

Retromobile – 5-9 February

Retromobile is held in the largest and most prestigious hall at the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre, Paris – a location befitting an event of this stature. This year, the show will celebrate Aston Martin, the Volkswagen Combi and the fabulous Automotoclub Storico Italiano Bertone collection.

Great Western Classic Car Show – 8-9 February

The Footman James Great Western Classic Car Show is the biggest event of its kind in the South West of England, with thousands of car enthusiasts converging on the Royal Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet.

Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show – 18-23 February

The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show is the largest showcase of motorhomes, campervans, caravans, caravan holidays and lodges in the UK. The latest 2020 touring caravans and motorhomes will be on display, along with a Camping Zone and a display of electric ride-ons. Head to Birmingham’s NEC if caravans are your thing.

London Classic Car Show – 20-23 February

The London Classic Car Show is moving to a new venue at Olympia London. The four-day event will celebrate 40 years of the Audi Quattro, with five examples of the legendary car on display in the capital. The show will also introduce a new Car Stories feature, which celebrates six of the world’s most iconic vehicles. On display this year will be the Porsche 962C, Lotus 49 and Maserati 250F.

Race Retro – 21-23 February

At the end of February, all motorsport roads will lead to Stoneleigh Park for the Race Retro international historic motorsport show. Highlights include a live rally stage, ‘arrive and drive a classic car’, Pride of the Paddock and a Silverstone Auctions sale.

Drive It Day – 26 April

On Sunday 26 April, thousands of classic cars will take to the road for the annual Drive It Day. First introduced by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs in 2005, the date is as close as possible to the anniversary of the 1,000 Mile Trial – an event that saw vintage motor cars drive from London to Edinburgh and back.

British Grand Prix – 2 August AND 9 August

The 2020 British Grand Prix at Silverstone has been confirmed by Formula 1 bosses – and it’s an unprecedented double-header, with two races run over two weekends: 31 July-2 August and 7-9 August.

HOWEVER, in line with strict coronavirus crisis measures, both races will be held behind closed doors – the event is on, but fans will NOT be allowed in.

This is disappointing, as Silverstone has long been rated one of the world’s most popular F1 events to attend. It does still mean that we’ll be able to watch this event from afar though, rather than seeing it cancelled, to the relief of many eager motorsport fans.

BTCC, Donington – 1-2 August

Organisers have “taken the decision to provisionally plan events from August onwards, however, the calendar will of course remain conditional upon receiving appropriate government directives”. To this end, rounds one, two and three are pencilled in for 1 and 2 August at Donington Park.

Gaydon Land Rover Show – 1-2 August

Hundreds of Land Rovers will be on display at the Gaydon Land Rover Show in August. It was due to take place in May. Owners can enter their vehicle for just £8, giving entry to display the Land Rover, as well as admitting the driver and one passenger to enter the show for the weekend. The event is held at the British Motor Museum, which is five minutes from junction 12 of the M40.

London Concours – 19-20 August

Billed as the ‘ultimate automotive summer garden party’ London Concours takes place at the Honourable Artillery Company, in the heart of the city. Around 130 high-end classics and supercars were on show last year, from the ‘Beast of Turin’ to the latest Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Tickets for the 2020 event, which has moved to August, are on sale now, priced from £40.

Concours of Elegance – 4-6 September

The Concours of Elegance 2020 will take place at Hampton Court Palace in September, with 60 of the rarest cars ever built lining up in the Fountain Gardens. Many of the entrants will also take part in a two-day driving tour in the days running up to the main event.

Classic Car Drive In Weekend – 18-20 September

Bicester Heritage has announced an end-of-summer special, the Classic Car Drive In Weekend. Running from Friday to Sunday, the organisers promise a fully socially-distanced event, with numbers on each day capped to ensure no crowding. Uniquely, it’s not just a classic car show, but a motoring-themed drive in cinema, with a line-up of films including The Italian Job and Rush. Tickets are priced from £18 for adults, £10 for children, and under-fives get in free.

Le Mans 24 Hours – 19-20 September

The 88th running of the Le Mans 24 Hours will now take place on 19 and 20 September – behind closed doors, though (sorry, race fans). The exact schedule for the revised date is to be confirmed.

Beaulieu Simply rally calendar

The Beaulieu Simply rally calendar has been confirmed for 2020. Held in the parkland surrounding the National Motor Museum, the first – Simply Jaguar – ran on 19 July, from 9.30am to 2pm. Pre-booking is essential and the outdoor events will each be limited to 500 guests.

Simply Japanese ran on 26 July, Simply Audi was on 2 August, while Simply Ford is 13 September and Simply British Classics is 20 September. Tickets can be booked on Beaulieu’s events page.

Salon Prive – 23-26 September

Salon Prive is a motoring event for fans of superlatives. ‘The most luxurious of garden parties set against the backdrop of Britain’s greatest palace (Blenheim Palace). Presenting the finest collection of supercars, hypercars and classic cars, along with a luxury retail village and exquisite cuisine, it is a truly unique experience’. Tickets are priced accordingly…

Goodwood Speedweek – 16-18 October

The 78th Goodwood Members’ Meeting, Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival were all cancelled for 2020. Instead, the famous venue is hosting a one-off spectacle called Goodwood Speedweek 2020. Although there will be three days full of live action, it’s an online-only event for spectators, due to Covid restrictions. Even so, Goodwood is promising world-class demonstrations and wheel-to-wheel racing. Check out Goodwood Speedweek when you can also sign up for updates.

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Updated plans for England’s notorious ‘Missing Link’ road

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

October 19, 2020

Highways England has launched a new consultation on updated plans designed to tackle one of the South West’s most notorious bottlenecks.

The planned upgrade of a section of the A417 in Gloucestershire will cut journey times and improve safety on a stretch of road linking the M5 and M4 motorways commonly known as the ‘Missing Link’.

The current single carriageway road is notorious for fatal accidents and heavy traffic, with two particular pinch points at the Air Balloon and Cowley roundabouts. These will be removed as part of the proposals. The designs have been changed following an initial public consultation.

Highways England senior project manager Michael Goddard said: “As a result of your feedback, we’ve made some improvements to our proposals which will benefit local connectivity, accessibility and reduce the scheme’s impact on communities, the environment, and the local landscape.

“As part of the planning process, we’re required to consult on our proposed design.”

Nearly 2,000 people took part in the original public consultation, with around 75 percent of the participants supporting the preferred option. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), protecting the environment was a key consideration of those involved in the project.

The scheme includes:

3.4 miles of new dual carriageway connecting the existing A417 Brockworth bypass with the existing A417 dual carriageway south of Cowley
Changes to the Air Balloon roundabout
A new junction at Shab Hill
A new junction near Cowley
Repurposing the existing A417 between the Air Balloon and Cowley roundabouts for use by walkers, cyclists and horse riders

‘Benefit all road users’

Speaking about the £250m to £500m scheme, transport minister Baroness Vere said: “The proposed upgrades to the A417 will benefit all road users in Gloucestershire by boosting capacity, cutting congestion, and improving connectivity between local economies.

“Highways England is keen to hear residents’ feedback on the changes, and are committed to getting the project under way as swiftly as possible.”

The supplementary statutory consultation is open until 12 November 2020. Feedback will help Highways England develop its application for a Development Consent Order to be submitted early next year.

Full details of the A417 ‘Missing Link’ can be found here.

Government creates pothole map of the UK

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

October 19, 2020

The government is enlisting the help of ride-hailing firms and delivery companies to ‘make sure roads are not plagued by potholes‘.

Combining data on current potholes and roads imagery, the Department for Transport (DfT) will identify where pothole repair funding is required. The government created a £2.5 billion pothole fund at the Budget in March.

Businesses such as Deliveroo, Uber, Tesco and Ocado will work with local highway authorities to identify ‘pothole hot-spots’. In effect, this will create a pothole map of the UK, which will allow the government to target the worst-affected areas.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “I want our roads to be as safe as possible, so during the lockdown we’ve resurfaced hundreds of miles of road. But now I want to go further by identifying critical potholes and ensuring these are fixed as quickly as possible.

“We’re teaming up with delivery companies, who know the roads well, in order to map out where remaining potholes exist and then relentlessly target them with our record £2.5 billion pothole repair fund.

“Better road surfaces benefit motorists and cyclists alike ensuring the back to school and work environment is safer for everyone.”

£2.5billion not enough to fix UK's pothole problem

Charlie Wren, director of operations at Deliveroo, added: “Deliveroo riders go above and beyond to bring people the food they love and this is a great way to make sure they and other road users are safe on the road. We’re looking forward to working with the government on this important scheme to help make the roads safer for Deliveroo riders and others.”

The number of potholes was expected to increase by 16 percent if the investment in roads remains at current levels. That was before the country was plunged into lockdown, reducing traffic on the road.

Data shows that highway maintenance works undertaken during the lockdown led to 319 miles of resurfacing. The government says it has provided over £1.2 billion to repair potholes since 2010.

You can report a pothole by using the aptly-named report a pothole service on the government website.

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Legislation loophole in drivers using mobile phones to be closed

Richard Aucock

October 19, 2020

Motorist using a mobile phone behind the wheel

Using a mobile phone to take photos, play games or scroll through a playlist while driving is to be outlawed under new plans announced by the government.

Consultation is underway to close a ‘legislation loophole’ that criminalises using a mobile phone to call or text while driving, but not for other actions.

These actions are currently not deemed ‘interactive communication’ and escape the present definition of an offence.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “We’re looking to strengthen the law to make using a hand-held phone while driving illegal in a wider range of circumstances.

“It’s distracting and dangerous, and for too long, risky drivers have been able to escape punishment, but this update will mean those doing the wrong thing will face the full force of the law.”

Motorists can be fined £200 and issued with 6 penalty points for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

The government is, however, planning an exemption to deal with modern smartphones being used as a method of payment, such as at drive-thrus.

Such contactless payments will be exempted, if the vehicle is stationary and the goods or services are delivered immediately.

AA president Edmund King OBE said: “Phones do so much more than calls and texts, so it’s only right that the law is changed to keep pace with technology. Tweets, TikTok and Instagram snaps can all wait until you park up.

“If you cannot resist the temptation to pick up your phone, then you should convert your glovebox into a phone box.”

Motorists will still be able to use hands-free functions, such as sat nav on a device secured in a cradle, after ministers rejected calls to go further and ban hands-free smartphone use entirely.

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The best new car discounts

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

October 17, 2020

Given the slump in demand for new cars, it’s no surprise to discover that discounts are easy to come by. Indeed, cash discounts of more than 20 percent are available on some of the UK’s most popular models.

This is according to data released by What Car?, which shows that the average new car discount is around £3,000.

Here, we reveal the biggest new car discounts, with the results presented in reverse order.

12th best discount – BMW X2

Steve Huntingford, editor of What Car?, said “With all sales now crucial to the industry’s efforts to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 there are some terrific discounts available to try and tempt car buyers back into showrooms.” The team of mystery shoppers secured a discount of £4,901 off the price of a new BMW X2 sDrive20i M Sport. That’s a 13.4 percent discount.

11th best discount – Mini Convertible

The Mini Convertible is one of the most fashionable new cars you can buy, but that doesn’t mean that it’s difficult to secure a big discount. On the contrary, the arrival of autumn means demand for convertibles is likely to fall faster than the leaves of a horse chestnut tree in a gale. A discount of £3,312 should be possible on a Cooper S Classic.

10th best discount – BMW 5 Series

In monetary terms, this is the largest discount secured by the What Car? team. That said, although £7,930 is a meaty saving, it represents just 15.7 percent of the £51,545 list price of the BMW 530e M Sport. The plug-in hybrid version of the BMW 5 Series can travel up to 37 miles in pure electric mode.

9th best discount – Seat Ateca

One of two Seats to make the list, the Ateca is one of the best family SUVs you can buy. It shares a platform with the Volkswagen Tiguan, but the Seat Ateca is cheaper and arguably better looking. The mystery shoppers managed to secure a 15.7 percent discount, shaving £3,852 off the price of a new Ateca 1.5 TSI SE.

8th best discount – Vauxhall Grandland X

Don’t be too quick to dismiss the Vauxhall Grandland X, because it’s actually a more sombre-suited version of the really-rather-good Peugeot 3008 SUV. You don’t get the bold styling or design-led cabin, but you do get the same efficient engines. The mid-range Griffin trim is a little expensive, but it’s more appealing with a 15.9 percent discount. That’s a saving of £4,423.

7th best discount – Seat Ibiza

Fancy a Seat Ibiza? The team at What Car? discovered that it’s possible to get a discount of £2,609 when buying an Ibiza 1.0 SE – that’s a saving of 16.1 percent. The entry-level SE trim is far from basic, featuring the likes of 15-inch alloy wheels, a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen display, DAB digital radio, air-conditioning and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

6th best discount – Nissan Micra

The N-Sport is arguably the most stylish version of the Nissan Micra, helped in no small part by the black and carbon-look styling pack with black 17-inch alloy wheels. You also get Alcantara seats with synthetic leather parts, a rear-view camera and keyless start. You could pay £17,525 for a Micra N-Sport. Alternatively, you could get a 16.2 percent discount.

5th best discount – BMW 2 Series Coupe

New car buyers are shunning coupes in favour of crossovers and SUVs, which might explain why the mystery shoppers were able to secure a big discount on the BMW M240i. Indeed, a 16.9 percent discount is the equivalent of £6,655 in cash, which makes the 2 Series an even more attractive proposition.

4th best discount – Suzuki SX4 S-Cross

Speaking of attractive things… Actually, the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross isn’t a looker, with a grille that appears to have been designed by Vanden Plas. Ask your parents. To be fair, it’s less offensive than the grilles on most modern BMWs, while a 17.5 percent discount is certainly appealing. The SX4 S-Cross offers exceptional value for money, with the higher trim levels loaded with standard kit.

3rd best discount – Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The luxurious Mercedes-Benz E220d AMG Line Edition is being offered a 19.1 percent discount, which is the equivalent of £7,653. Across all cars, diesel vehicles are available with the highest discounts, with an average discount of 8.46 percent or £4,547. Electric and hybrid discounts have steadily risen since the beginning of the year.

2nd best discount – Volkswagen Touran

The humble Touran is one of the least fashionable cars in the Volkswagen stable, so it’s no surprise to discover that it’s available with some big discounts. The mystery shoppers managed to secure a 20.5 percent discount on a Touran 1.5 TSI SE, which is the equivalent of £5,676.

Best discount overall – Nissan Qashqai

It’s the country’s most popular crossover, but the Nissan Qashqai is also available with some big discounts. Why pay full price when you can get a 20.9 percent discount on a Qashqai 1.5 dCi N-Connecta? We should point out that few Qashqai buyers will pay in cash, with PCP the dominant form of payment for the crossover.

Tesla delivers extended range and improved cabin for Model 3

John Redfern

October 17, 2020

Tesla has quietly rolled out a range of tweaks and improvements for the best-selling Model 3 electric car.

The company’s continual evolution of the entry-level version includes upgrades for the exterior and interior. These are combined with an increased battery range, plus a boost in performance, too.

Whilst the changes may not be revolutionary, they help to make the Model 3 ownership experience more attractive.

The most noticeable tweaks come in the form of exterior detailing. Satin black replaces chrome trim for the side repeaters, door handles, and brightwork surrounding the windows.

Tesla now also has multiple wheel options for the Model 3. This includes redesigned 18-inch Aero Wheels that are fitted to the Standard Range Plus and Long Range versions.

New 19-inch Sport Wheels can also be added to these models, whilst the range-topping Performance edition has 20-inch ‘Uberturbine’ rims at last.

Different tyres are said to offer increased efficiency, whilst the rear boot opening is now powered. It can be operated at the touch of a button on the boot itself, through the Tesla app, or from the interior touchscreen.

Inside, many of the changes are subtle but will make a difference for those who currently own a Model 3. The biggest alteration is a redesigned centre console, which has a new sliding lid and wireless charging mats for two smartphones.

There are also two new USB-C charging points for additional smartphones, whilst the glove box has an extra USB-A port. Tesla says this can be used to add a storage device for Sentry Mode and Dash Cam footage.

Gloss black trim has been replaced with a matte black finish, with the sill coverings now black. The seat controls have been updated to a graphite colour, with the steering wheel controls a metallic look.

Oh, and the sunvisors now have magnets to help them snap back into place.

A new heat pump design for climate control is responsible for the biggest increase in battery range for the Model 3. All versions gain the potential for extra mileage based on WLTP testing.

Performance has also improved, with the Model 3 now recording quicker 0-60mph times.

Model 3	Old Range	New Range	0-60mph
Standard Range Plus	254 miles	267 miles	5.3 s
Long Range	347 miles	360 miles	4.2 s
Performance	329 miles	352 miles	3.1 s

The updated Model 3 is available to order now through the Tesla website, with prices adjusted for the new revisions:

Model 3 Standard Range Plus: £40,490
Model 3 Long Range: £46,990
Model 3 Performance: £56,490

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7 cars up for AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2021 award

Richard Aucock

October 15, 2020

The AUTOBEST 2021 award for Europe’s best mainstream motor will be fought out between seven different brands as contenders for Best Buy Car of Europe 2021 are revealed.

A jury of 31 members from 31 countries – including Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock representing the UK – will now make their final assessments before the winner is announced in December.

The seven cars in the running for Best Buy Car of Europe 2021 are:

Citroen C4
Dacia Sandero
Honda Jazz
Peugeot 2008
Seat Leon
Skoda Octavia
Toyota Yaris

Organisers of the awards have been eager to continue with the 2021 presentation despite the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic.

“The record number of seven is a direct result of the great news coming from the industry – brilliant new models deserving a presence in the final,” said AUTOBEST chairman Dan Vardie.

The seven cars will be judged by 13 criteria including price, service network, spare parts distribution and versatility.

The objective is to honour the best offer for everyday European retail customers, which is why a price cap is included within the criteria: vehicles must be affordable and accessible.

The AUTOBEST jury represents 31 countries across Europe, making it the largest independent motoring awards jury in the world.

The reigning AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe is the Vauxhall Corsa.

An awards ceremony is planned for 2021 where a full set of awards will be presented, including honours for best car company, best design, best technology and best eco tech.

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Jess Hawkins to be second female BTCC racer of 2020

John Redfern

October 15, 2020

After 13 years without a female driver, the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) will now get its second of 2020 later this month.

Jessica Hawkins will compete with Power Maxed Racing team at Snetterton, following on from Jade Edwards who drove for the team at Silverstone in September.

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It brings a recognition of the 25-year-old’s abilities, with Hawkins having already led a varied and successful motorsport career.

A winning reputation

The Hampshire-born driver won numerous karting titles early in her career, including the 2008 Honda Cadet British Open Championship. In 2017 she finished second in the Pro Class of the Mini Challenge UK, having taken 5 race wins and 13 podiums.

Jess has also become a successful stunt driver, featuring in The Fast & Furious Live shows. She has also worked on the forthcoming James Bond film, No Time to Die. This year has seen her added to the 2021 Guinness Book of World Records for driving the fastest-accelerating lawnmower!

Last year saw Hawkins compete in the inaugural season of the all-female W Series. Jess had planned to race in the single-seater championship again, but COVID-19 resulted in the 2020 season being scrapped.

More girl power on the grid

Hawkins will not be the only W Series alumna competing at Snetterton on the weekend of October 25th. Esmee Hawkey, who also took part in last year’s female-only championship, will be racing in the Porsche Carrera Cup GB support series.

Now in her third season of the Porsche Carrera Cup, Hawkey currently leads the Pro-Am category, having taken an impressive nine class wins so far.

It demonstrates the effectiveness of the W Series in that two of its previous contenders will be racing in top-level British motorsport at the same event.

A dream fulfilled

Power Maxed Racing has used a number of drivers to fill the seat of its Vauxhall Astra during the 2020 BTCC season. Fan favourite Rob Austin scored points in the car at Thruxton, with Jade Edwards taking the wheel at Silverstone.

Hawkins was given the chance to drive following a successful trial earlier this year. Adam Weaver, Power Maxed Racing team principal, said that Jess “impressed” the team at her initial test, and that she “should be a strong contender once she hits the Norfolk tarmac”.

Jess added that: “BTCC is where I’ve always wanted to be – it’s my dream. I’ve managed to knock on the door a few times, but I genuinely can’t believe it’s actually happening.”

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Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

October 14, 2020

The Sutton VIP Class LEVC taxi is unlikely to be waiting for you outside London Waterloo, ready for a quick trip ‘south of the river, mate’. It’s not your average LEVC TX cab.

Average taxi cabs don’t feature thick-pile carpet, hand-crafted wood veneers, a Sony PS4 games console, a refrigerator and multi-colour ambient lighting. Then again, few cabs cost in the region of £120,000 for private buyers.

The Sutton VIP Class LEVC taxi is the work of Sutton Bespoke, the tuning arm of luxury car dealer Clive Sutton. The LEVC TX is accustomed to mixing it with luxury vehicles and supercars on the streets of West London. Now it’s sharing the same showroom space.

Top rank

It looks familiar on the outside, but look again and you might spot the two-tone paint finish. The lower half retains the authentic ‘black cab’ paint, but the top half is finished in Ferrari ‘Grigio Silverstone’. The sign on the roof will read ‘VIP’, so that everybody knows you’re a cut above the rest.

Inside, the rear seats are trimmed in Sandalwood leather with Alcantara trim. The hard-wearing (and wipe-clean) rubber flooring has been replaced by thick-pile carpet. Wood veneers adorn the door trims, while occupants can enjoy the London skyline through a panoramic roof.

Crazy Taxi

That’s if the VIPs can divert their attention from the upgraded stereo system, television tuner with Apple TV, Sony PS4 and refrigerator, or deciding whether they prefer pink or blue ambient lighting. In case you’re wondering, the middle arm rest is from a Range Rover.

The driver is separated from whatever is going on in the back by a retractable screen. The steering wheel, digital instrument panel and portrait-style touchscreen are familiar Volvo items. Soft-close doors can be specified if required.

Underneath, the Sutton VIP Classic is based on the LEVC TX range-extender cab. It delivers up to 63 miles of all-electric range, offering a total range of 301 miles. This is thanks to the 1.5-litre Volvo petrol engine under the bonnet.

Business users can buy the posh cab for £100,000 (excluding VAT). The ideal ‘people-carrier’ for parents looking for a ‘mum or dad taxi’? Still want that Range Rover?

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Volkswagen ID.3 prices to start from under £30k

Richard Aucock

October 14, 2020

Volkswagen will open ordering for series versions of the new ID3 electric car later in October with prices starting from £29,900.

The surprising sub-£30k price tag is for the entry-level ID3 Life and is achieved after the Plug-in Car Grant is subtracted.

Prices may drop even lower in 2021 when a smaller-capacity battery goes on sale.

Volkswagen will offer the ID3 in seven different trim levels. All have preconfigured specs with option choices limited to paint and interior colours.

Six versions will feature a 58 kWh battery, as already featured on the ID3 Launch Edition. This gives a range of up to 263 miles.

A range-topping ID3 Tour will use a 77 kWh battery, increasing driving range to 336 miles.

All ID3 currently use a 204 hp electric motor, branded Pro Performance with the 58 kWh battery, and Pro S with the 77 kWh battery.

Volkswagen ID.3 specs

The ID3 is well equipped even in basic Life guise. LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, sat nav with 10.0-inch touchscreen, keyless start and the Volkswagen voice assistant are all standard.

No ID3 has wheels smaller than 18-inches.

An over-the-air software update brings wireless smartphone charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in early 2021.

Volkswagen then builds up ID3 equipment with a combination from five different spec packs – Design, Infotainment, Comfort, Assistance and Sport (and each has a higher-grade ‘Plus’ version).

This is some of what each includes:

Design – LED matrix headlights, animated rear LED lights, interior ambient lighting (Plus: adds panoramic sunroof)
Infotainment – Discover Pro sat nav (Plus: adds head-up display, upgraded sound system)
Comfort – heated seats and steering wheel, electric folding door mirrors (Plus: adds two-zone climate control)
Assistance – rear-view camera, keyless entry (Plus: adds Travel Assist, Side Assist, Emergency Assist)
Sport – sports suspension (Plus: adds Dynamic Chassis Control)

VW ID.3 model line-up

The six Volkswagen ID3 model grades feature the following combination of specs:

Life (from £29,990): Infotainment, Comfort
Business (from £33,720): Design, Infotainment, Comfort, Assistance
Family (from £34,560): Design Plus, Infotainment, Comfort Plus, Assistance
Style (from £34,810): Design Plus, Infotainment, Comfort
Tech (from £36,190): Design Plus, Infotainment Plus, Comfort, Assistance Plus
Max (from £38,220): Design Plus, Infotainment Plus, Comfort Plus, Assistance Plus, Sport
Tour (from £39,290): Design, Infotainment Plus, Comfort Plus, Assistance Plus

Ordering for the ID3 opens on 22 October and Volkswagen expects first deliveries to begin before the end of the month.

“We are over the moon to be able to offer an ID3 in the UK for under £30,000,” said product marketing manager Tim O’Donovan.

“The ID3 Life represents an affordable way for many people to take the leap into emission-free motoring.

“Versions of the ID3 with a smaller battery and less powerful motors will go on sale later next year with an even lower price.”

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