Fast-growing Chinese car brand Jaecoo has revealed its largest and most luxurious SUV to date.
The Jaecoo 8 SHS-P will become the marque’s flagship family SUV. Capable of seating seven, it takes on the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Santa Fe.
The car slots into the UK range above the popular Jaecoo 7, with a name that reflects the number 8’s association in Chinese culture with prosperity and success.
Two distinctive versions of the Jaecoo 8 will be offered to UK customers, aimed either at transporting larger families or executive guests.
Both will feature all-wheel drive and make use of Jaecoo’s SHS-P plug-in hybrid powertrain. The latter combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor.
Real off-road ability included
When the petrol engine and electric motor are working together, the Jaecoo 8’s plug-in powertrain has a combined output of 428hp, along with 428lb ft of torque. Zero to 62mph takes a brisk 5.8 seconds.
The Jaecoo 8’s battery pack offers an official electric range of up to 83 miles, and can recharge from 30 to 80 percent in 20 minutes. With a full battery and the petrol tank brimmed, it can cover up to 700 miles without needing to stop.
A three-speed DHT hybrid transmission is combined with Jaecoo’s first use of lockable differentials, aimed at maximising the SUV’s off-road ability.
For the truly adventurous, there is even a wading depth of 600mm, with adaptive suspension also fitted as standard.
Choose six or seven seats
Opting for Luxury trim brings seven-passenger capacity to the Jaecoo 8, along with multiple Isofix attachments for child car seats. Luggage capacity is up to 2,021 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
Power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation are fitted, with five massage modes and headrest-integrated speakers.
The Jaecoo 8 Executive model brings Nappa leather upholstery and a six-seat layout designed for optimum passenger comfort. Four heated, ventilated and massaging captain’s chairs are combined with an additional pair of folding seats in the boot area.
Choosing the Executive model also adds a ‘zero-gravity’ front passenger seat, providing extended legroom and a dedicated ‘Boss Button’ for passenger-side control.
Jaecoo 8 orders now open
Standard specification for the Jaecoo 8 includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless smartphone charging, dual 12.3-inch display screens and a 14-speaker Sony audio system.
The choice of exterior colours will include Amazonite Blue, Basalt Black, Granite White, Iced Slate Grey and Pearl Silver, with two-tone options available for the Luxury model. The Executive version has two-tone paint as standard.
Prices for the Jaecoo 8 SHS-P Luxury will start from £45,500, with the six-seat Executive requiring £47,500. A seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty is also part of the package.
Orders for the Jaecoo 8 can be placed now, with the first deliveries to UK customers expected in May 2026.
For this weekend’s 12 Hours of Sebring endurance event, Porsche Penske Motorsport has given its race cars a retro makeover.
Both the Porsche 963 LMDh prototypes will wear a special Mobil 1 livery, paying tribute to one of the German marque’s most recognizable endurance racers.
The color scheme celebrates three decades of collaboration between Porsche and Mobil 1, and honors an important motorsport victory for the historic 911 GT1.
Porsche will hope the bespoke livery brings the Penske Motorsport team good luck this weekend, allowing the 963 to repeat its 1-2 finish in the 12 Hours of Sebring last year.
Remembering the 911 GT1
The Mobil 1 colors were used on the 993-based Porsche 911 GT1 racing car, which first competed in the 1996 BPR Global GT Series.
FIA GT1 rules of the time were designed to see racing cars developed from street-legal production vehicles. However, Porsche stretched the regulations to their limits with the extreme 911 GT1.
A rear subframe from the legendary Porsche 962 Group C prototype was combined with the front end of a contemporary 911 sports car. The result was a mid-engined racer powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.2-liter flat-six that delivered 600 horsepower.
Porsche then produced a pair of street-legal 911 GT1 Strassenversion (road version) cars to comply with homologation rules.
The start of a successful partnership
Along with entering the BPR Global GT Series, which later became the FIA GT Championship, the Porsche 911 GT1 also entered the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time in 1996.
Despite the 911 GT1 being in its first season of competition, it proved highly effective during qualifying for the French endurance race. Finishing in second and third place further demonstrated the potential, and the reliability, of the Mobil 1-liveried GT1.
What made the Mobil 1 color scheme more significant that weekend was the signing of an agreement between the sports car manufacturer and the US energy company. This ensured Mobil 1 would provide the factory-fill lubricants for all new Porsche vehicles.
Aiming for a 30th anniversary win
These 30 years of collaboration will be marked by the throwback Mobil 1 livery, as Porsche aims for further success at Sebring.
“Even with the current Porsche 963, we benefit in many areas from Mobil 1’s innovations and expertise,” said Urs Kuratle, director of Porsche’s LMDh program.
“In the tightly contested IMSA series, the smallest details make the difference – and recently we have consistently been at the front. The championship titles in the past two years and another victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona in January underline this. Together with all our partners, we want to keep winning in this anniversary year.”
This is not the first time Porsche has brought back its famed Mobil 1 colors. For the brand’s 70th anniversary in 2018, it used a later 1998 version of the 911 GT1 livery for the Petit Le Mans race.
BYD has confirmed UK prices and specifications for its Atto 3 Evo, following the new electric SUV‘s debut last month.
The first model sold in the UK by the fast-growing Chinese brand, the original BYD Atto 3 was launched in 2023.
Three years on, the Atto 3 Evo has received a comprehensive update, improving its performance and battery range, and adding 50 litres of boot capacity.
Faster charging capability and extra equipment are also included with the revamped Atto 3 Evo. Indeed, BYD has used entirely new underpinnings for its electric family SUV, which is now based on its latest ‘E-Platform 3.0’.
The biggest difference is that the new Atto 3 is either rear- or all-wheel drive – rather than front-driven, as previously.
More power and more battery range
Prices for the BYD Atto 3 Evo will start from £38,990 for entry-level Design specification, representing a £1,260 increase over the most affordable current model.
Design trim sees the Atto 3 Evo come in rear-wheel drive, with a single motor delivering 313hp and 280lb ft of torque. This can accelerate the Evo from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds. When fully charged, it has an official, WLTP-tested range of up to 316 miles.
Included with Design trim will be 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree surround-view camera and vehicle-to-load power capability.
Inside, a new 8.8-inch digital instrument panel is combined with a 15.6-inch central touchscreen. Google Maps navigation, wireless smartphone charging, four USB-C charging ports and electrically adjustable heated front seats are all part of the package, too.
Ready to order from April 2026
The BYD Atto 3 Evo Excellence costs from £42,730, and comes with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive layout. Total outputs of 449hp and 413lb ft make for a hot hatch-rivalling 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds, plus a top speed of 124mph.
Sharing the same 78.4kWh Blade Battery as the Design version, the more powerful Atto 3 Evo still manages an official range of up to 292 miles. Charging speeds for the Atto 3 Evo have also doubled, with a 220kW DC connection meaning a 10 to 80 percent fill-up can take just 25 minutes.
Opting for Excellence specification also brings a head-up display, heated rear seats and a panoramic sunroof with an electric sunshade.
Available to order from 2 April 2026, all BYD Atto 3 Evo models come with a six-year, 93,000-mile warranty. There is also separate cover for eight years or 155,000 miles for the car’s Blade Battery.
SUVs now dominate the UK sales chart, accounting for eight out of the top 10 best-selling cars last year. Indeed, the top three in 2025 – the Ford Puma, Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai – were all streets ahead of the rest.
It’s not hard to see why; a family SUV can offer a practical interior, high driving position and running costs that won’t be much different to a mid-sized hatchback such as a Volkswagen Golf.
To help you choose the best family SUV for you in 2026, we have created a list of our favourites. Our choices are presented in alphabetical order, rather than in order of preference.
Note that we’ve also included some electric cars here, along with more traditional petrol and diesel models. Interested in buying an EV? Check out our dedicated Motoring Electric website to have your questions answered.
BMW iX3
With an official battery range of 500 miles – the longest of any EV currently on sale – the BMW iX3 could slot into your life as easily as a petrol-powered family SUV. The first of BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ range of electric cars, it’s an accomplished all-rounder, with as much passenger space as the larger BMW X5 (although there is no seven-seat option).
The iX3 is easy to drive, yet engaging enough to keep you interested. Unlike many cars in this category, it offers more than just forgettable A-to-B transport. We particularly like the new Panoramic iDrive display, which means you aren’t always glancing downwards at the touchscreen. BMW’s self-parking technology is genuinely useful, too. At the time of writing, there is just the one 469hp 50 xDrive version of the iX3 available, priced from £58,755, but more affordable derivatives are on the way.
We said: ‘Ride comfort is impressive, despite the iX3’s hefty 2,360kg kerb weight and my car’s 22-inch rims (the largest size available). Lord knows, Hampshire contains its fair share of brutal potholes, but the BMW took them in its stride. Unless you switch into Sport mode, it does its best to soothe your stress levels, with sure-footed 4WD traction and well-calibrated driver aids that don’t constantly beep and bong at you.’
The X3 sits in the middle of an extensive range of BMW SUVs, bookended by the small X1 and enormous X7. In many ways, it’s the best of the crop, offering the usability and low running costs of the X1, but quality and comfort to rival the X5 and X7. Prices are roughly in line with the Audi Q5, so the choice comes down to badge and driver appeal. If you enjoy driving, there’s a clear winner: the X3.
On the move, the X3 feels like a high-riding BMW 3 Series. Petrol and diesel engines are available, with the separate iX3 available for those who want to go fully electric.
Now into its fourth generation, the current ‘G45’ X3 is bigger than before, with angular styling that divides opinion. The sporty X3 M50 is a particular highlight, with its 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol straight-six generating almost 400hp. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes just 4.6 seconds.
We said: ‘Look beyond the fact that the X3 M50 is not a full-fat BMW M-car, and it makes a strong argument for itself. This is a rapid SUV with very few compromises. It may not be the last word in driver engagement, but it delivers considerable cross-country pace, along with a practical interior.’
From humble Romanian origins, Dacia has blossomed into a genuine automotive success story. It’s now one of the biggest-selling brands across Europe. The Bigster could be, ahem, Dacia’s biggest hit to date, tapping into the mid-size ‘C-SUV’ sector that makes up nearly a quarter of Europe’s car market.
Priced from just over £25,000, the Bigster undercuts most other SUVs on sale, offering space for five and a substantial 677-litre boot. There is a choice of two petrol engines, plus a petrol-electric hybrid that achieves up to 60mpg.
We said: ‘Dacia’s SUV rivals – and there are many of them – should be worried. By adding a dash of style and desirability to a well-proven formula of sensible motoring at affordable prices, the Bigster looks like a winner.
‘Are you really willing to pay £10,000+ more for a comparable car without a “budget” badge? As with the all-conquering Sandero, we suspect many Europeans will reject brand snobbery and vote with their wallets.’
It may share a name with Ford’s classic coupe, but the reborn Capri is a thoroughly modern electric SUV. So, let’s forget any ideas of a direct comparison and focus instead on how the Capri stacks up against family EV rivals.
Beneath that tapering roofline is the same platform that underpins a host of Volkswagen Group products, including the ID.4 and ID.5. However, Ford has given the Capri its own unique character on the road.
The new Capri is pricier than many of its rivals, and commands a premium over the closely related Explorer. Ford will hope the car’s evocative name, sportier handling and shapelier styling will justify the markup.
We said: ‘Like 95 percent of today’s SUVs, the Capri has absolutely no intention of ever going off-road. However, this taller, bulkier body style does have its advantages, as anyone who has squeezed into the ‘+2’ rear seats of a classic Capri will confirm. This time around, the Ford is a full-sized family car, with enough space for lanky teenagers on the rear bench and several suitcases in the boot.’
This one is a bit of a wildcard. It looks like a hot hatchback, but in reality the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is very much SUV-sized. With two electric motors developing a total of 650hp, plus a price tag of around £65,000, it’s hardly the most sensible family holdall on sale. However, if your heart says ‘sports car’ and your head (or your accountant, perhaps) says ‘electric SUV’, the Ioniq 5 N is a brilliant way to tick both boxes. It was the most surprising car we drove last year.
How so? Primarily because of Hyundai’s N e-Shift system, which does a remarkably good impression of a feisty four-cylinder engine linked to a modern dual-clutch auto transmission. The ‘engine’ spins to 8,000rpm in each of the eight ‘gears’, then you change up with the thud of a clutch engaging – or feel the car bounce off its artificial rev limiter. It serves no practical purpose apart from being laugh-out-loud fun: a digital simulation of an analogue driving experience. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it; the Ioniq 5 N might change the way you think about electric cars.
We said: ‘Factor in the simulated sounds of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine – complete with raspy rev-matched downshifts – and the result is far more convincing than I’d expected. Shut your eyes (actually, don’t) and you could almost be driving a Toyota GR Yaris or the now-departed Hyundai i20 N.’
We’re back at the more sensible end of the Hyundai range now, although the Tucson is one of the most distinctive family SUVs on sale. You might not love its bold look, but you can’t accuse the adventurous Hyundai of playing it safe. Make no mistake, your neighbours will know you’ve bought a new car.
It’s not the bargain family SUV it was previously, but the Tucson comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and a generous level of standard equipment. The entry-level Advance gets 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, a 12.3-inch touchscreen media system with sat-nav, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and front/rear parking sensors.
Upgrading to Premium trim adds more kit, while Ultimate spec nudges the Tucson into luxury territory. Look out for the N Line and N Line S, with styling inspired by Hyundai’s N performance models. A 1.6-litre petrol engine is available in a choice of outputs, and with mild-hybrid or full hybrid technology.
For even lower running costs, check out the plug-in hybrid Tucson, which offers up to 43 miles of electric range – if you remember to plug it in.
The Kia EV3 is one of the latest and best electric SUVs to hit the market. All versions use a single 204hp motor to drive the front wheels, with a choice of 58kWh or 81kWh battery sizes. They offer official ranges of 270 and 375 miles, respectively.
Those are impressive figures, especially for an SUV that costs £33,000 in base trim, although the flagship GT-Line S with an 81kWh battery is just shy of £44,000. All models come with Kia’s seven-year/100,000-mile warranty, backed up by an excellent reputation for reliability.
We said: ‘The Kia EV3 is an accessible and thoroughly well-rounded car that could slot effortlessly into family life. And as such vehicles are now increasingly SUV-shaped, it has become the electric benchmark to beat. It is capable, competent and easy to drive, with a smooth and comfortable ride.’
No other car manufacturer offers such a bewildering array of SUVs as Mercedes-Benz, so it could be tricky to choose the right one. We’ll cut to the chase: the GLB is one of the most practical and family-friendly SUVs in the range. It also offers better value for money than the pricier Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Squint and it looks a bit like the chunky Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which helps the GLB stand out in a crowded market. It’s actually shorter and narrower than the GLC, but its lofty stance creates an interior that is spacious enough for five adults. You even get a pair of extra seats in the third row. Quality isn’t quite up to the high standards of the GLC, but the price reflects this.
There are four trim levels: Sport Executive, AMG Line Executive, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus. All come with a pair of 10.25-inch screens, which blend together to create one seamless display across the dashboard. Take into account the fact that the entry-level GLB undercuts the basic GLC by around £20,000, and you’ll see why we consider it good value.
The Renault Scenic is back, but not as we know it. Gone are the modest petrol and diesel engines you might remember from your youth – ‘Are we nearly there yet?’ – the current Scenic E-Tech uses a 170hp or 220hp electric powertrain. The former has a 60kWh battery for 260 miles of range, while the latter boasts a 87kWh battery and can travel up to 379 miles between charges.
The three trim levels are labelled Techno, Esprit Alpine and Iconic. Prices range from £37,500 to £45,500, and while that might seem like a lot for a Renault, quality is excellent and you get an impressive amount of equipment for your money.
Thanks to the Scenic’s flat floor, its interior feels incredibly spacious, with enough room for five adults to sit in comfort. There is also 545 litres of luggage space, which is better than many of its rivals. It’s a great electric SUV, but don’t take our word for it; the Scenic E-Tech was good enough to win the European Car of the Year award in 2024, before the new Renault 5 E-Tech stole its crown in 2025.
We could mount a strong case for the Skoda Kodiaq being the best family SUV you can buy. Available with a choice of five or seven seats, even the most basic version offers a long list of standard equipment.
It shares a platform with the Volkswagen Tiguan, and although the level of finish isn’t as polished as the VW, you get more goodies for your money. Prices start from around £39,000, while the flagship vRS with a 265hp 2.0-litre petrol engine costs £54,575.
Don’t be fooled by the evolutionary styling, because the new Kodiaq is a major upgrade on the old model (which also happened to be one of our favourite SUVs). It’s bigger and more practical, and you’ll notice a significant step up in terms of quality.
There are four versions to choose from: SE, SE L, SportLine and vRS. As for powertrains, the pick of the bunch is the plug-in hybrid, which offers an impressive 71 miles of electric range
The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most popular family SUVs in Europe, with many buyers prepared to pay a small premium for the VW badge and build quality. It feels a class above its mainstream rivals, even if it can’t quite reach the high standards set by the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
Don’t be fooled by the attractive price of the entry-level Tiguan; it lacks the kind of creature comforts you’ll want over a three-year PCP finance deal. The Life trim level is more appealing, while Match and Elegance add more luxury to the mix. For more aggressive styling, check out the R-Line and Black Edition models. For seven seats, you’ll need to upgrade to the versatile Tiguan Allspace.
As well as diesel and mild-hybrid petrol engines, the Tiguan is available as a plug-in hybrid for extremely low running costs. The Tiguan eHybrid pairs a 1.5-litre petrol with an electric motor to deliver either 204hp or 272hp. A fully charged battery should provide 71-77 miles of electric range, while CO2 emissions from 9g/km will be great news for company car drivers.
Not many family SUVs are as appealing as the Volvo XC40. It might be the smallest SUV in the Volvo range, but it’s arguably the most charming and attractive of them all. Its chunky styling sets it apart from German rivals, while its interior exudes sophisticated Scandinavian cool.
Despite being on sale since 2017, the XC40 still has plenty going for it. Buyers can pick from mild-hybrid petrol versions with up to 197hp, along with the electric EX40 model, which offers a potential range of 355 miles.
Perhaps the biggest challenge for the XC40, and indeed EX40, comes from within. Volvo’s smaller EX30 electric SUV has proven very popular. We are currently running a long-term test EX30 to discover what it is like to live with.
We said: ‘The Volvo XC40 has deservedly won a string of awards and a legion of admirers. It looks the absolute business, in our opinion, and the interior is brilliantly Swedish. It’s not quite as plush as the XC60 and XC90, but it still feels premium and interesting in a “definitely not German” kind of way’.
Following a successful first 12 months on sale, the Jaecoo 7 range is gaining two new additions.
On sale from May 2026, the popular Chinese-made SUV will be available in new Black Luxury guise, along with as Jaecoo’s first full hybrid.
During the past year, Jaecoo has registered more than 35,000 vehicles in the UK. The existing 7 SHS-P plug-in hybrid makes up more than 70 percent of this total.
The SHS-P is also the basis for the Jaecoo 7 Black Luxury edition, which introduces bespoke styling and interior trim to the family SUV.
Moody makeover for Jaecoo 7
Starting with the range-topping Luxury trim level, the Jaecoo 7 Black Luxury model follows the established ‘black edition’ route to a moody cosmetic makeover.
Changes include a black front grille with a black Jaecoo badge. All other logos also receive the noir treatment, along with the alloy wheels, door mirrors, roof and roof rails.
On the inside, the standard black leather upholstery is matched with a black headlining and black sun visors.
Prices for the Jaecoo 7 SHS-P Black Luxury will start from £36,500: a modest increase over the £35,165 asked for a regular Jaecoo 7 SHS-P Luxury.
SHS Hybrid offers up to 53mpg
The new SHS introduces a full hybrid powertrain to the Jaecoo 7 lineup, providing electrified efficiency without the need to plug in.
A 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is matched with the hybrid system, resulting in a combined output of 224hp. Accelerating from 0-62mph takes 8.4 seconds, with a top speed of 112mph.
Sharing the same powertrain as the Omoda 5 SHS-H, introduced earlier this year, a host of intelligent systems are said to result in world-leading efficiency.
According to the official WLTP fuel economy test, the hybrid Jaecoo 7 SHS achieves 53mpg in mixed driving condistions.
Giving UK drivers more choice
Pure trim marks the starting point for the Jaecoo 7 SHS. Priced from £29,125, the model comes with tweed cloth upholstery, a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control and parking sensors.
The £32,795 Deluxe version adds eco-leather upholstery, a larger 14.8-inch touchscreen and an upgraded eight-speaker audio system.
Victor Zhang, managing director of Jaecoo UK, said: “After such a strong first year, it’s crucial that we keep evolving. The Jaecoo 7 SHS-P Black Luxury gives our customers even more visual impact and exclusivity, while the full hybrid SHS-H opens up electrified performance at an extremely competitive price point.
“Together, these new additions reaffirm our commitment to giving UK drivers more choice, more value and more of what they want from a modern SUV.”
BMW has revealed the new 2026 i3 saloon – undoubtedly one the most significant models in the German marque’s long history.
Inspired by the original ‘Neue Klasse’ (New Class) range of cars launched in 1961, the i3 is described by BMW as the ‘first all-electric 3 Series’.
Although not a direct replacement for the 3 Series, which will continue with petrol power for now, the electric i3 has similar dimensions to the classic compact saloon.
Sharing a platform with the recently launched BMW iX3, which our Tim Pitt gave a full five stars in his review, should ensure the i3 delivers an engaging driving experience, along with innovative technology.
The new i3 will be launched in 50 xDrive form, with the potential to cover more than 550 miles when fully charged. Still want that Tesla Model 3?
Classic BMW design is back
BMW’s design department has had notably more lows than highs in recent years, but the i3 is a real return to form. Despite its name, you can also forget any resemblance to the pioneering first-generation i3 hatchback.
A neat 2.5-box design channels classic BMW proportions, with a long wheelbase and short overhangs. At 4,760mm in length, the i3 is a fraction longer than the current 3 Series saloon, and almost 40mm wider.
Its front grille mimics the kidney design found on previous BMW models, flanked by headlights that resemble the ‘four eyes’ used on numerous generations of 3 Series. An illuminated ‘Iconic Glow’ version of the front grille is available, too.
Flush door handles, a neat ‘Hofmeister kink’ in the rear door and a set of aerodynamic 21-inch alloy wheels give the i3 real presence when viewed in profile.
The rear of the i3 is neat and chiselled, with full-width 3D lights that mimic the L-shape found on older BMWs. A sizeable diffuser (seen here) is part of the M Sport aero kit, which helps emphasise the extra width from the flared wheelarches.
Eleven different paint colours will be offered for the i3, including BMW’s ‘frozen’ matte finishes. In the new ‘M Le Castellet Blue’ metallic paint in these photos, we reckon it’s the best-looking BMW in years.
Up to 559 mileson a full charge
Underneath its retro-modern body, the new i3 is fully futuristic, featuring BMW’s ‘Heart of Joy’ supercomputer that controls all the dynamic systems.
As we discovered in the iX3, despite its slightly cringe-worthy name, the Heart of Joy can transform a 2,400kg electric SUV into a genuinely engaging car to drive. It bodes well for the i3 to meet the standards set by numerous generations of the 3 Series saloon.
At launch, the i3 will be available solely in 50 xDrive dual-motor guise, with 469hp and 475lb ft of torque. BMW has not released performance figures yet, but the iX3 SUV takes 4.9 seconds to accelerate from 0-62mph with the same powertrain.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the BMW i3 is a range of up to 559 miles when fully charged. This will make it the longest-range electric car on sale, capable of travelling far further than any Tesla Model 3.
Although BMW has not mentioned the exact battery size used in the i3, the related iX3 is equipped with a 108.7kWh NMC lithium-ion pack. Expect the saloon to use a similar setup, featuring BMW’s latest sixth-generation battery tech.
An 800-volt electrical system allows the i3 to use DC charging devices with speeds of up to 400kW. This could mean adding nearly 250 miles of range in only 10 minutes.
Inside the 2026 BMW i3
On the inside, the i3 features the radical Panoramic iDrive system, with a digital display spanning the entire width of the dashboard just beneath the windscreen.
Information such as speed and navigation directions are shown directly in front of the driver. The remainder of the display can be customised with multiple widgets. A central 17.9-inch touchscreen is used to manipulate the Panoramic iDrive, while other functions can be controlled through the steering wheel.
BMW has incorporated its Intelligent Personal Assistant into the i3, which allows for voice commands by saying “Hey BMW”. Amazon Alexa AI technology will be introduced as well, starting with cars sold in Germany and the United States.
Production starts in August 2026
Multiple interior finishes will be available for the i3. The entry-level Essential trim uses Econeer composite fabric in Vivid Grey, Agave Green, Digital White, Castanea (brown/tan) or Black.
M Sport seats will be on the options list, along with an M Sport package that adds a sports steering wheel, blue-painted brake calipers and an M logo projected from the door mirrors.
BMW will build the new i3 at its factory in Munich, which currently assembles the 3 Series and M3. Next year, the site will switch exclusively to manufacturing electric Neue Klasse models.
Full UK prices and specifications will be confirmed closer to when the i3 enters production in August 2026.
Charging an electric car could soon be as quick as filling up with petrol, as BYD looks to expand its ultra-rapid Flash technology.
BYD has already installed more than 4,200 Flash Chargers, which offer speeds of up to 1,500kW, across its native China. Now the company is looking to create a public charging network across Europe.
Cold weather, which typically has a notable effect on EV charging, is said to have a minimal impact on BYD’s latest technology. Even in temperatures as cold as -30 deg C, the Blade Battery 2.0 still only requires 12 minutes to charge from 20 to 97 percent.
The Flash Charger’s T-shaped design is also designed to stop charging cables getting wet and dirty, by lifting them away from the ground.
Pushing EV charging speed to the limit
The roll-out of Flash Charging technology to Europe will to support the launch of BYD’s flagship Denza Z9GT shooting brake (pictured above).
Making use of BYD’s e3 platform, the Denza Z9GT comes with a triple-motor drivetrain that generates 965hp: good for 0-62mph in less than three seconds.
Equipped with a 122kWh Blade Battery, the Z9GT is said to be capable of almost 500 miles when fully charged.
An opera house-inspired sound system, developed with French audio specialists Devialet, also brings Dolby Atmos tech to the Z9GT.
Are Flash Chargers the future?
Fittingly, BYD will launch the Denza Z9GT to European customers on 8 April at the Palais Garnier opera house in Paris.
Stella Li, BYD executive vice president, commented: “The introduction of the Denza Z9GT in Europe marks a very important milestone for our brand. The Z9GT represents the true spirit of Denza — where advanced technology, beautiful design and emotional driving come together.”
BYD will also provide further updates on the roll-out of its first wave of Flash Charging devices in Europe.
The company aims to install 20,000 Flash Chargers across China by the end of this year, giving an indication as to how bold its ambitions are to make EV charging quicker and easier.
Forget the clichés about Germans not having a sense of humour. BMW begs to differ – and has built a real GT3-specification M3 Touring to prove it.
First shown in 2025 as an April Fools’ Day joke, BMW M Motorsport was overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the imaginary car on social media.
More than one million users saw images of the ‘joke’ BMW M3 Touring GT racer, with the post generating an impressive 1.6 million views.
This was several times higher than the typical engagement for anything shared by BMW M Motorsport, leading the German manufacturer to consider a real, race-spec version of the M3 Touring.
A few months later, BMW M Motorsport embarked on an audacious plan to enter the unique M3 Touring into the gruelling Nurburgring 24 Hours race.
Who’s laughing now?
BMW’s engineers took just eight months to design and build the new M3 Touring 24H, using the existing M4 GT3 Evo race car as a starting point.
However, the upright Touring bodyshell created a number of aerodynamic challenges compared to the curvaceous M4 coupe, demanding some special modifications.
The rear spoiler from the BMW M4 GT3 Evo is also used for the Touring 24H, but with a new swan-neck mount. This shifts the wing 200mm further back, and 32mm higher, to create the optimum level of downforce. It also happens to look outrageously cool.
Almost every panel of the M3 Touring has been reworked to create the GT3-style racer, but don’t try to open the rear doors. Non-functioning carbon fibre panels have been fitted, with the space behind the driver occupied by a complex roll cage.
Still room for the shopping?
Beneath the wild estate bodywork, the BMW M3 Touring 24H is mechanically similar to the M4 GT3 Evo.
This means a 590hp turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine, which sends power to the rear wheels via an X-Trac six-speed paddle-shift transmission.
Despite being closely related to the M4 GT3 Evo, the M3 Touring model will have to race in the experimental ‘SPX’ class in this year’s Nurburging 24 Hours.
As a result, the driving team of Jens Klingmann, Ugo de Wilde, Connor De Phillippi and Neil Verhagen will not be eligible for outright victory.
However, this is unlikely to matter much. BMW has already won the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts before the race even starts.
A unique BMW project
Andreas Roos, head of BMW M Motorsport, said: “A project like the BMW M3 Touring 24H has never existed at BMW M Motorsport before. Many thanks to everyone who put their heart and soul into this unique car and brought it to life.
“I am thrilled – and at the same time, I am certain that our fans, who are never closer to us than at our second home on the Nurburgring, will be just as excited. I promise all fans a great show and look forward to an event of superlatives.”
The BMW M3 Touring 24H has already undergone testing, and will make its competitive debut in the second round of the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) this weekend.
This will be important preparation for the main event, with the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours race taking place across the weekend of 16 to 17 May.
With four-time F1 world drivers’ champion Max Verstappen already confirmed to drive a Mercedes-AMG, the BMW M3 Touring’s entry into the Nurburgring 24 Hours could make it the hottest motorsport event of 2026.
New Zealand-based Rodin Cars already has a formidable reputation in the world of motorsport and dedicated track cars. Now, for the first time in its 27-year history, Rodin will venture off the race track and onto the road.
Given the codename ‘Off-Track’, Rodin’s new project aims to build on experience gained from the extreme FZed and FZero track cars (FZero pictured above).
Both of these vehicles are uncompromising in their pursuit of speed around a circuit – and unencumbered by the need to meet road-legality rules.
Details of how the Off-Track might look have yet to be revealed. However, it should remain true to Rodin founder David Dicker’s philosophy of creating cars with unrivalled performance.
Single-track dedication
First envisaged by Dicker in 1999, Rodin has built a dedicated test track and production facility on New Zealand’s South Island.
In 2016, the company acquired several examples of the F1-inspired Lotus T125 track car, after the British marque abandoned the project.
Rodin took the T125 and improved it, adding bespoke 3D-printed components, along with a new titanium exhaust system. The result was the FZed (pictured above).
Powered by a 640hp 3.8-litre Cosworth V8, the FZed is capable of lap times close to contemporary Formula 1 cars. Rodin also proposed a one-make racing series using the FZed, intended as a UK-based rival to the Japanese Super Formula championship.
The ultimate track experience
In 2022, Rodin revealed plans for its track-only FZero hypercar, designed to be even quicker and more capable than modern Formula 1 machines.
Featuring a carbon fibre monocoque chassis, the single-seater FZero’s radical, aero-sculpted body features an enormous rear spoiler and flat underfloor. It can generate up to 4,000kg of downforce, yet weighs less than 700kg.
The FZero’s mid-mounted engine is equally unhinged. Purpose-built in collaboration with Neil Brown Engineering, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre hybrid-assisted RC.Ten V10 revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces 1,160hp. Top speed is around 220mph.
Carbon-ceramic brakes, an eight-speed paddle-shift transmission and motorsport-style suspension ensure the FZero could be pushed to the absolute limit on-track.
Made in Middle Earth
Both the FZed and FZero were created at Rodin’s purpose-built facility at Mt Lyford in North Canterbury, New Zealand.
Nestled amongst the dramatic Southern Alps, best known as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, Rodin has three dedicated test tracks on which to develop the new car.
Emma Duncan, managing director of Rodin Cars and Rodin Motorsport, said: “This next step in Rodin’s journey will fuse the passion and emotion of driving with our data-driven focus on ultimate driving satisfaction.
“Rodin has established itself as a key player in performance driving, and this has been several years in the making. We’re excited to share what we’ve been working on in the coming months. We’re just getting started.”
More information about the Off-Track project will be revealed by Rodin later in 2026.
New data reveals that millions of drivers are risking a fine of up to £1,000 by delaying their car’s MOT test.
Kwik Fit, the UK’s largest MOT provider, has looked in detail at its own bookings during 2025.
It found that one in six (16 percent) of appointments for an MOT test were made after the car’s existing certificate had expired.
Kwik Fit’s data showed 4.3 million cars had an MOT appointment made, then underwent a test, when their previous certificate was no longer valid.
Of these cars, 50 percent took a new test within 10 days of the certificate expiring. However, many were tested much later, with the average time between expiry and test being 33.7 days.
Expired MOTs and unroadworthy cars
The analysis of Kwik Fit’s data also found 1.7 million cars were tested after their MOT had expired, despite an appointment being made before it ran out.
Given some six million cars were tested with an expired MOT, this could leave potentially 1.5 million being driven in an unroadworthy condition.
This presumption is based on recent Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) statistics, which show more than a quarter (27 percent) of vehicles fail the MOT test.
It means drivers run the risk of using a vehicle in a dangerous condition. They could also face a fine of up to £1,000 for not having an MOT.
Remember to book your MOT
Kwik Fit operations director, Dan Joyce, is responsible for the company’s MOT programme. He said: “The MOT test may sometimes feel like a chore for drivers, but it is essential in ensuring a car is safe and roadworthy.
“We all lead very busy lives and it is all too easy for the MOT to slip down the to-do list. That’s why we have a free reminder service and also allow people to book their MOT at Kwik Fit up to six months in advance.
“Drivers can book at their own convenience, secure their appointment slot, and be assured that their car will be tested well before their current MOT expires. That way, should the MOT reveal any defects which need to be fixed, drivers can plan their repairs and not have to panic at the last minute.”
Drivers can also sign up to a free GOV.UK reminder service, receiving an email or text message 30 days before their car’s current MOT certificate expires.
