Research has found that a majority of British motorists would support making owners of large SUVs pay more to park.
In fact, 61 percent of those surveyed would be in favour of tripling the amount charged for parking an SUV.
This follows the decision taken by Parisians last year, who voted in favour of a threefold increase in parking costs for vehicles weighing more than 1,600kg.
Just over a quarter (28 percent) of the UK drivers questioned said they felt all vehicles should be treated the same, regardless of their size.
From Paris with love?
The research was carried out for Startline Used Car Tracker. It found only 13 percent of respondents thought motorists should be able to enter cities in whatever vehicle they choose.
Some 10 percent believe that SUVs are now being unfairly targeted. But 41 percent of those surveyed said they believe SUVs cause unnecessary congestion, with close to a third (31 percent) saying they excessively contribute to air pollution.
Last month, Cardiff Council voted in favour of additional surcharges on parking permits for those who own the heaviest vehicles.
This followed an earlier consultation where two thirds (66 percent) of Cardiff residents voted in favour of making owners of large SUVs pay more for parking.
Growing concerns about SUV size
Following the introduction of higher parking charges in Paris for SUVs, Le Parisien newspaper reported a substantial decline in the number of large SUVs parking on the streets.
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said: “Our findings show there is a pretty strong majority of people who want to discourage big SUVs in their cities because of their impact on the environment, traffic and pedestrian safety. They would like to see action taken that actively discourages their owners from bringing them into these areas.
“We have asked other questions about SUVs in our research and it does appear there are general concerns about them. For example, 37 percent said in July that there are too many on UK roads following research showing they are more likely to cause pedestrian deaths.
“The number of people who are willing to defend this kind of vehicle also appears to be low – just 10 percent in this month’s Tracker believe SUVs are being unfairly targeted.”
Are you planning to buy a used car? Read this guide first to make sure you purchase the right vehicle at the right price.
With help from Limvirak Chea, CEO of car maintenance and MOT booking service Fixter, we have pulled together 10 tips for purchasing a second-hand vehicle, from servicing to shopping around, and timing to tyres.
If you have any further questions about buying a used car, please let us know in the comments and we’ll do our best to answer them.
Before buying a second-hand car, you need to know how many miles the vehicle has done during its lifetime. This will likely impact the amount of maintenance work needed in the future.
As a rule of thumb, a used car with a high mileage should have a lower price tag than a similar used car with fewer miles on the clock.
2. Shop around before you buy
Shopping around different car dealerships and online marketplaces before you buy a used car is essential. You wouldn’t just buy the first house you see, so why buy the first car?
Searching for the best deals can take time, but by looking in multiple places you can make price comparisons and check vehicle conditions to ensure you are choosing the best used car for you. Moreover, having knowledge of the used car market gives you better negotiating skills on the final price, which could save you serious money.
3. Go for a test drive
Being able to test drive your secondhand car before purchasing is also imperative. Some issues might not become apparent until you start the engine and hit the road.
Taking a test drive also allows you to compare the car’s performance to other vehicles – and gives you a general feel for the car before you hand over any money.
4. Check the dashboard for warning lights
Dashboard warning lights are intended to highlight potential problems. They are a key indicator that something might be wrong with a car before you buy.
Warning lights can also flag up potential repairs needed in the future, so they may be useful when it comes to negotiating the final cost of the car. Alternatively, you could ask the current owner to fix any issues with the car before the sale, then reflect this in the price paid.
5. Check the tyres
Used cars with a higher mileage will usually display more wear and tear. To avoid extra costs, it is worth checking the tyres are in good condition and do not have a tread depth below 3mm.
A quick method is to insert a 20p coin into the grooves in your tyre. If you can’t see the outside band on the coin, your tyres are within the legal limit. If the outside band is visible, the tyres need to be replaced soon after purchasing the vehicle. You may be able to negotiate a discount to cover this.
6. Make sure the car has been serviced correctly
Before purchasing a used car, it is important to ask the seller for the vehicle’s service history. A lack of service records could indicate neglect by previous owners, meaning more maintenance – and expense – will be needed in the future.
If you have already purchased a second-hand car, you should keep it serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule. This could be through a franchised dealer or, as the car gets older and outside its warranty period, an independent garage.
7. Check the car’s history
A vehicle’s MOT history is easy to check online for free simply by using the registration plate. This gives you insight into maintenance that might be due soon (check if there were any advisories at the previous MOT) and the number of previous owners.
The MOT history can also reveal past accidents that may have caused structural damage to the car, and can help you to evaluate general wear and tear.
8. Work out insurance costs
Insurance quotes are based on a number of factors, including where you live, your profession and the performance of the car in question. So checking the cost of cover before you purchase could save an unpleasant surprise later on.
For example, where older cars may have a lower cost of repair, they could also be considered a higher risk – all of which feeds into your annual insurance premium. Read our guide to saving money on car insurance for further advice.
9. Think about the purpose of the car
When most people think of buying a new car, their mind automatically wanders to their ideal set of wheels. As nice as it would be to own a sports car, can you really afford it? And will it actually suit your lifestyle?
Before splurging on the car you think you want, take a step back and pull together your list of ‘must haves’. What is essential in your new car? And what will you use it for?
For example, larger cars come at a higher cost, including for fuel and maintenance, so choosing the correct car for your needs can save you money.
10. Buy at the right time for the best deals
If you are purchasing a used car from a private seller, there is not necessarily a ‘right’ time to buy. However, the start of each quarter (March, June, September and December) is usually a good time to shop around for second-hand vehicles at dealerships, as car dealers aren’t worried about hitting their sales quota for the quarter. This means they are less likely to rush your deal, giving you more time to negotiate a fair price.
You’re also far better off shopping at a dealership during the working week, rather than at weekends, as fewer customers means fewer deals being made, giving you more haggling power.
Lastly, it is worth noting that if a dealer-owned car has been on the market for between 60 and 90 days, it will probably be sent to auction soon – giving you the chance to grab a better deal.
Renault has revealed an electric recreation of its original Twingo, set to go on sale in 2027.
The new Renault Twingo E-Tech mimics the style of the classic city car on the outside, and boasts plenty of practicality within.
The first-generation Twingo sold more than 4.1 million examples between 1993 and 2007, so the new model faces a high bar.
However, being priced from less than £20,000 should make the Twingo E-Tech competitive when it hits the market – and pitch it directly against the forthcoming Volkswagen ID.EVERY1.
Classic looks, modern tech
For the new Twingo E-Tech, Renault went from the process of initial design to a completed vehicle in just 100 weeks.
The French marque’s ‘Leap 100’ programme saw design work undertaken in France, then honed in its Shanghai studio. Renault’s plant in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, will produce the finished vehicle.
Measuring just 3.79 metres in length, the Twingo E-Tech has a relatively long wheelbase to maximise interior space, much like the original car.
Round daytime running lights, a subtle ‘smile’ in the front grille and three vents on the bonnet are all reminders of the classic Twingo.
Space and style included
Just like the first-generation Twingo, the new EV features a robust and spacious interior. Boot capacity is up to 360 litres, with class-leading shoulder room for rear-seat passengers.
The simple dashboard incorporates a splash of body-coloured trim. The Twingo’s trademark bright-red hazard warning button also gains a new transparent case.
Other highlights include the original Twingo slogan: A vous d’inventer la vie qui va avec (‘it’s up to you to invent the life to go with it’), which can be seen on the straps used to slide and fold the two individual rear seats. The words Ouvert d’esprit (‘open-minded’) are visible on the inside of the tailgate, too.
A 7.0-inch digital instrument panel is combined with a 10.0-inch central touchscreen. There is even a soundtrack created by French electronic musician Jean-Michel Jarre to welcome you aboard.
New Twingo on sale in 2027
The Renault Twingo E-Tech will be available in a host of retro colours, including Absolute Red, Absolute Green and Mango Yellow.
Two trim levels will be offered, starting with the Evolution model. This will feature 16-inch wheels, manual climate control, rear parking sensors and a host of standard safety technology.
Upgrade to the Techno version and you get 16-inch wheels with two-tone covers, a multimedia system with built-in Google navigation, one-pedal driving and a rear-view camera.
Final UK prices and specifications will be confirmed closer to the Twingo E-Tech’s launch date in 2027.
A wild Subaru Brat pickup truck will be the star of the next Gymkhana film, with Travis Pastrana at the wheel.
Unveiled at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the Subaru ‘Brataroo 9500 Turbo’ features active aerodynamics and a screaming 670 horsepower engine.
Built as a collaboration between Subaru of America and the Vermont SportsCar company (VSC), the Brataroo has undergone a dramatic transformation.
This prepared the modified Subaru for its trip to Australia, where the latest instalment in the Gymkhana series – titled Aussie Shred – will be filmed.
Complete control, even in the air
VSC has replaced the bodywork of the 1978 Subaru truck with lightweight carbon fiber panels, plus a roll cage constructed to FIA World Rally Championship standards.
Even more impressive are the active aerodynamics. The front fender louvers can be adjusted in real time, to control the car in the air or on the ground.
Pastrana had a choice of two rear wings to use during filming, both with adjustable elements to ensure the perfect balance between speed and grip.
It all helps to control the 670 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque from the Brataroo’s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Capable of hitting 9,500 rpm, it’s the highest-revving car used in the Gymkhana series to date.
Inside, the dashboard is made from carbon fiber, with flax-composite wood-grain accents. A restored OEM stereo, a period-correct Uniden CB radio, and heater controls repurposed to adjust the active aero are also included.
“This Brat is completely unhinged – in the best way possible,” said Pastrana. “It’s got the soul of a vintage Subaru with the tech to do things no Gymkhana car has ever done. Every part of it is designed to take abuse, fly big, and come back for more. It’s hands-down the craziest Gymkhana car we’ve ever built.”
The new Aussie Shred film will go live in early December 2025 on the Hoonigan YouTube channel.
Muscle car enthusiasts can now place an order for the 550 horsepower Dodge Charger Scat Pack in four-door form.
Featuring a high-output version of twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter “Hurricane” straight-six engine, the Charger Scat Pack is the most powerful sedan for less than $60,000.
With a starting price of $56,995 (excluding fees and destination charges), the Charger Scat Pack sedan comes with all-wheel drive as standard.
However, rear-wheel drive is also available, allowing the Charger’s 531 lb-ft of torque to be used for drifting or burnouts.
Burning rubber with four doors
Included as part of Scat Pack specification are launch control, line lock, and Brembo brakes, plus a two-stage active exhaust system.
The Dodge Charger Scat Pack can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 177 mph. Covering a quarter-mile takes 12.2 seconds.
“This is Dodge doing what Dodge does best: building muscle, pushing boundaries and giving customers real choices,” said Dodge CEO Matt McAlear.
“Whether it’s high output, two doors or four, Sixpack or Daytona, we’re delivering a lineup that’s as powerful and diverse as our fans. And with 550 horsepower in a four-door sedan priced at $56,995, we’re proving that practicality doesn’t have to be boring – it can burn rubber.”
New Hemi-powered Charger Hustle Stuff
The Dodge Charger Scat Pack can be ordered now, with the first deliveries to customers expected in early 2026.
For those who insist on Hemi power under the hood, Dodge has also unveiled the Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pack by Direct Connection at the 2025 SEMA Show.
Sadly, the Charger Hustle Stuff and its 354-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine are solely intended for drag racing. Aimed at NHRA Sportsman racers, the 50 cars planned will be approved for Factory Stock Showdown competition.
Such is Dodge’s confidence in the new Charger Hustle Stuff, it will pay $26,000 to the first driver who wins a Factory Stock Showdown event using one.
It suggests the return of a Hemi-powered street-legal Charger could be getting closer. Let’s hope so.
Citroen has launched a new workout guide, aimed at helping parents to make their kids more active.
It follows research by Citroen that revealed half of parents think their children don’t get enough exercise.
That’s despite the vast majority of parents (91 percent) saying they encourage their children to get active. However, more than a third say a lack of time prevents them from working out.
As a result, the Charge Up In 30 Guide is designed to let families complete a workout in less time than it takes to recharge the new e-C3 electric SUV.
Charge and get fit together
Citroen found that more than a fifth of adults aged between 55 and 64 do no exercise at all. Only 22 percent can run for between one and five minutes.
Two thirds (67 percent) of parents take exercise with their children, though, increasing to 79 percent of parents between the ages of 25 and 34.
Citrorn worked with British 5km road running champion and Olympic 800m finalist Alex Bell, and her coach Andrew Henderson, to curate the Charge Up In 30 Guide.
Suggested exercises include tricep dips using the e-C3’s open tailgate, along with press ups against the bonnet. Warm ups and cool downs are included, too.
Supporting family wellbeing
Running through the complete Charge Up In 30 Guide requires 26 minutes, the time needed to charge the Citroen e-C3 from 20 to 80 percent using a 100kWh rapid charger.
Greg Taylor, managing director of Citroen UK, said: “Our latest research shows that time is a major barrier to exercise for parents and their children. The Charge Up In 30 Guide helps to overcome this barrier, offering a practical, family-friendly solution that fits into a less than 30-minute window.”
Alex Bell added: “Citroen is a brand that puts accessible movement for all at the forefront. As an athlete, I know how powerful exercise can be for both physical and mental wellbeing.
“Whether you’re training for a race or just trying to stay active with your kids, this guide shows that you don’t need a gym or hours of free time – just a bit of creativity. You can even use a car like the new e-C3 to support your exercise plan.”
Leading restomod and racing car specialist DRVN Automotive Group has announced a new partnership with Thruxton Race Circuit in Hampshire.
DRVN Automotive brings together Boreham Motorworks, Evoluto Automobili and Alan Mann Racing.
Earlier this year, our Tim Pitt drove the reborn Boreham Motorworks Ford Escort Mk1, describing it as ‘the most exciting car to wear a Blue Oval badge in a long time’.
Thanks to the agreement with Thruxton, Escort Mk1 owners and potential customers will be able to experience DRVN Automotive’s vehicles on the UK’s fastest race track.
From fast Fords to hypercars
The partnership will allow DRVN Automotive year-round access to the Thruxton circuit, helping its engineers to undertake high-speed research and development.
Alan Mann Racing will also base itself at Thruxton, creating a new headquarters for the team originally established in 1964.
Direct access to Thruxton will enable Alan Mann Racing to test its latest racing cars without the need to travel.
Finally, DRVN Automotive will open a new customer experience centre at the circuit, spread across its portfolio of brands. This might see the Evoluto Automobili F355 Ferrari restomod taking to the track alongside a Koenigsegg, or the classic Ford Escort.
Access to a world-class circuit
“This is a pivotal moment,” said Iain Muir, CEO of DRVN Automotive. “Thruxton gives us more than just access to a world-class circuit – it gives us a home for performance. A place where our teams can engineer, test and push limits, and where our customers can connect with our brands in a visceral, meaningful way.
“Thruxton has always stood for speed, skill and the purest form of motorsport – and this partnership with DRVN Automotive takes that legacy into an exciting new era,” added Alex Thistlethwayte, owner of Thruxton Race Circuit.
“This collaboration pushes forward our vision to make Thruxton not just a venue for racing, but a hub for high-performance innovation, driver engagement and the future of British automotive excellence.”
Volkswagen has announced a new scheme aimed at addressing customer concerns about switching to an electric car.
The ID. Promise applies across the brand’s electric car range, and is intended to let drivers see if an EV will work for them.
To provide peace of mind, customers will have up to 100 days to decide whether an electric car suits their lifestyle.
Should an EV not fit their needs, they can simply hand the car back with no questions asked.
Learning to live with an EV
Any private retail customer purchasing a new Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7 or ID.7 Tourer can take advantage of the new offer.
This includes both cash buyers and those making use of a personal contract plan (PCP) from Volkswagen Financial Services to fund their purchase.
Customers have a window of time, between 80 and 100 days from the point of taking delivery, to return their electric vehicle.
This involves informing their dealership, who will for arrange a refund to be made (minus a three percent fixed-usage charge). Customers will also be liable for any damage to the vehicle, or the cost of removing any modifications.
Going electric with ‘no strings attached’
Volkswagen’s ID. Promise offer starts from 3 November and lasts until 31 March 2026. Motability, contract hire, fleet and ex-demonstrator purchases are excluded from the deal.
“Official figures show more than 1.3 million UK motorists have already converted to electric, and time and time again our customers tell us they would never go back to petrol or diesel,” said Rod McLeod, director of Volkswagen UK.
“There are many more people who want to go electric, but feel unsure. This straightforward initiative gives them the perfect opportunity to ‘drive and decide’ with no strings attached.”
Volkswagen is the latest car company to offer a returns scheme for EVs. Last year, Cupra announced a similar ‘Love Me or Leave Me’ offer, which allowed customers to trial owning an electric car.
The utilitarian pickup truck option was a mainstay of the classic Land Rover Defender range, thanks to its rugged practicality.
However, with the launch of the all-new Defender in 2019, the pickup option was notably absent from the reborn model range.
Now, Dutch-based Heritage Customs have revealed their own solution, transforming the largest Defender 130 into the Valiance Pickup.
But, given the luxurious trimmings, we can’t imagine many sheep being transported in the load bed of this Defender.
Remembering the forgotten Defenders
Heritage Customs have previously created a convertible version of the new Defender, meaning it is no stranger to chopping the bodywork of Land Rover’s new 4×4.
The overall design of the Valiance Pickup looks remarkably well resolved, with Heritage Customs opting for a side-opening tailgate.
Jan-Pieter Kroezen, CEO of Heritage Customs added: “After completing the convertible, it felt like the right time to bring another ‘forgotten’ model of the Land Rover Defender range back to life — the pickup.
“The classic 110 Defender crew cab has always been, in my view, one of the most desirable Defenders ever made. I had a strong sense that we could capture that same spirit with the new Defender 130, and I’m proud to say we’ve achieved exactly that.”
Big budget for big V8 power
Each Valiance Pickup conversion will be done by hand, with customers able to choose from a range of exterior paint colours and interior upholstery finishes.
When it comes to price, the Valiance Pickup will not be cheap, as Heritage Customs quotes a cost of €65,000 (£57,000) for the complete conversion. You can expect to add taxes, and the £85,000 needed for a new donor Defender 130 to this, too.
UK-based vehicle modifier Urban Automotive, part of the same group of companies as Heritage Customs, is also in the process of developing its own version of the Valiance Pickup.
This year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas will see two wild Mopar concepts make their debuts.
A modified version of the Ram 1500 pickup truck will take center-stage, alongside an enhanced Dodge Charger Sixpack muscle car.
Both models will showcase the range of Mopar performance and styling accessories, along with the creativity of Mopar’s designers.
A variety of other Mopar models will also be on display at SEMA, including race cars and classic restomods.
Meet The Dude Ram 1500 Concept
The Dude Ram 1500 Concept is inspired by a popular trim package from the early 1970s, offered at a time when demand for sporty pickups was on the rise.
For its modern interpretation, classic Sublime Green paintwork is matched with “Dude” C-stripes in contrasting satin black. The 22-inch alloy wheels are also finished in satin black, and the side-exit exhausts feature black tips.
A lower stance is combined with a bespoke front splitter and new side sills. The 395 horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine gains a new cold-air intake, too.
On the inside, the Ram’s leather upholstery gains contrast green stitching, plus darkened door trim panels. A custom instrument panel features “The Dude” logo in bright green as a finishing touch.
Dodge Charger Sixpack concept revealed
Mopar has also given its twin-turbocharged 2026 Dodge Charger a makeover ahead of the SEMA Show.
A Stryker Purple exterior is complemented by carbon fiber detailing, with the hood, front splitter and rear decklid spoiler all made from the lightweight material. Vented fenders are a bespoke addition for the Sixpack Concept.
Satin black Mopar graphics add further aggression to the Charger, along with a one-inch suspension drop onto 21-inch alloy wheels. A Mopar cold-air intake and stainless-steel dual exhaust system help the 550 horsepower 3.0-liter Sixpack engine to breathe easier.
Katzkin leather upholstery is used inside, along with contrasting purple and orange stitching.
Both of the new Mopar concepts will be on display at the 2025 SEMA Show inside the Las Vegas Convention Center from 4-7 November 2025.
