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Daily Record
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We test out the Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck and preview Skoda's two new Enyaq models
With a large choice of body styles and trim levels, the pick-up truck is good value for money, with prices starting from £32,916. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John tests out the popular Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck and previews two new Enyaq models on the way from Skoda. The award-winning Isuzu D-Max pick-up is tough enough to get the job done in fields and construction sites and is now stylish enough to shine in the adventure and leisure market. With a large choice of body styles and trim levels it is also good value for money, with prices starting from £32,916. The 2025 version comes with fresh design enhancements, a revamped infotainment system as well as improved off-road performance and increased comfort and safety features. The Japanese company only makes commercial vehicles and its D-Max pick-up truck is the only model it sells in the UK. It has a strong following and has built its solid reputation on being a tough and reliable workhorse but in the last couple of years Isuzu has transformed the D-Max to make it a player in the lifestyle and adventure market. The V-Cross Double Cab model I have been sampling is the flagship of the range and with the recent updates it is now even more appealing to the private market. As well as the revised exterior styling, the V-Cross has leather upholstery, heated front seats, a nine-inch multifunction colour touchscreen, electrically adjustable driver's seat, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors. Its 4x4 powertrain and rear differential lock means it is as good off-road as it is on it and the D-Max is a match for much more expensive competition. Many other technical and comfort features that you would expect to find in a family SUV are also standard. Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) are now fitted on all models, including autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning and prevention and rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitor and emergency lane keeping are fitted on all double cab versions. As a result, the pick-up even boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Thanks to other modifications the wheelbase is longer and this means that the cabin is even more spacious than before with larger rear doors making access easier. Only one engine is available throughout the range, a tried and tested 1.9-litre turbodiesel unit which delivers 162bhp and 360Nm of torque. It completes the 0-62mph sprint in 13 seconds and can go onto a maximum of 112mph. It is noisy on start-up but it soon settles down and is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. You can opt for a manual version if you wish. Like most pick-ups it is not light on fuel with an average 30.7mpg claimed for this double cab auto and emissions run at 241g/km. It may be the lifestyle model of the strong range but the V-Cross still offers the usual workhorse features, with a one-tonne payload and up to 3.5 tonnes towing capacity. Sensors warn of towing sway and Hill Descent Control is standard on all variants. The D-Max has always been a great performer off-road and the addition of a rear diff-lock has made it even better. The speed -sensitive steering makes the D-Max surprisingly easy to manoeuvre in town and out of town it stiffens up nicely to give you more feel and control. It may not be the flashiest pick-up available but the Isuzu offers good value for money all through the large range of models and it is certainly worth a look. It also boasts an excellent five-year warranty. FAST FACTS: Price: £47,916. Mechanical: 1.9litre, 4 cyl, 162bhp diesel engine driving 4 wheels via automatic gearbox. Max speed: 112mph. 0-62mph: 13.0 seconds. Combined mpg: 31.4. Insurance group: 40. CO2 emissions: 235g/km. Bik rating: 37 per cent. Warranty: Five years/125,000 miles. Overall rating (out of 5): 4.2. Meanwhile, Czech manufacturer Skoda is expanding its new Enyaq range with the addition of a SportLine model that will sit alongside the recently introduced 85x 4WD model. Available in SUV and Coupe body styles, the new SportLine 85 shares its looks and sharp driving dynamics with the all-wheel-drive 85x. But, with a single-motor drivetrain, it delivers even greater efficiency and longer driving ranges. Available to order from this week, with prices starting at £47,260 and the Coupe from £49,160, both new Enyaq SportLine 85 models feature 82 kWh battery packs and are powered by a rear-mounted motor that generates 286ps. This allows the new models to sprint from 0–62 mph in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 111 mph. In terms of efficiency, the SportLine 85 SUV returns up to 354 miles while the more aero-efficient Coupe offers up to 356 miles - both figures higher than those delivered by the all-wheel-drive 85x version. Rapid DC charging can be carried out at speeds of up to 135kW, while AC charging peaks at 11kW. When conditions allow, a 10–80 per cent charge on a suitable rapid DC charger can be achieved in around 28 minutes. Like the SportLine 85x, the single-motor SportLine 85 comes with 20-inch black alloy wheels, sports bumpers, and gloss black styling details as standard. Inside, SportLine drivers benefit from a head-up display, front sports seats, sports steering wheel, and a CANTON sound system. Both variants are equipped with progressive dynamic steering and sports suspension that lowers the ride height by 15mm at the front and 10mm at the rear. Both models also feature a variable boot floor and Area View camera as standard. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. 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Daily Record
30-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We take a spin in the new KGM Actyon and highlight AUDI's new entry-level model to its e-tron range
The Actyon has strong kerb appeal and features Korean-flag inspired daytime running lights, upright tail lights, black roof rails and privacy glass. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John takes a spin in the new KGM Actyon, a smart-looking SUV from Korea, and highlights how AUDI is releasing a new entry-level model to its e-tron range. The stylish five-door Actyon is the first offering from KGM, the company that recently acquired SsangYong, and it is hoping that the newcomer will be a sales success. Featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine and available in just one smart trim, the Actyon is an eye-catching coupe-SUV from the Korean company and it combines good looks, advanced technology and practicality for just under £37,000. The Actyon has strong kerb appeal and features Korean-flag inspired daytime running lights, upright tail lights, black roof rails, privacy glass, and handsome 20-inch alloy wheels and lots more. The interior is also impressive and boasts eight-way power-adjustable seats in a mix of Nappa leather and suede and are both heated and ventilated. There is a nice hexagonal leather steering wheel which offers bags of adjustment and features heating and controls. A pair of 12.3-inch screens sit behind a curved glass panel with the left screen handling all the on-board tech, including the navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and ambient lighting. Behind the steering wheel the other screen displays all the essential driving information and there is also a favourites button on the wheel which allows the driver to customise frequently used features for quick access. This means you don't constantly have to fiddle with touchscreen menus. There is stacks of space inside for five to travel in comfort with lots of head, shoulder and legroom. A powered tailgate opens to reveal a substantial 668 litre boot which can be boosted to 1568 litres with the rear seats folded down. A hands-free kick sensor lets you open the boot by waving your foot under the rear bumper and there are lots of additional storage spaces inside the large cabin. The only engine available is a 1.5-litre petrol unit which produces 161bhp and 280Nm of torque and is matched to a six-speed automatic gearbox. It is good for 0 to 62mph in 10.8 seconds and has a top speed of 119mph. That performance will be good enough for most buyers but it is quite thirsty with a WLTP-tested combined fuel efficiency of 33.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 194g/km resulting in higher day-to-day running costs. The automatic transmission makes for smooth and quiet progress and there are three drive modes called Normal, Sport and Winter to choose from. Sport does sharpen things significantly and you can also play with steering wheel-mounted paddles for extra engagement. In town, light steering and a 360-degree camera proved to be a bonus and the suspension dealt well with rough surfaces and potholes. It cruised well at motorway speeds and provided good grip on country roads. It has all the latest safety features and driver aids and comes with eight airbags and a suite of smart safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Safety Distance Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Front Vehicle Start Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Assist, Blind Spot Assist, plus Safety Exit Warning. For the more adventurous, the Actyon can tow up to 1,500kg (braked) or 750kg (unbraked) and can also wade through water up to 300mm deep and boasts impressive approach and departure angles of 17.6 and 21.4 degrees, respectively. According to KGM the name 'Actyon' combines 'Act Young' and 'Act On,' and invites customers to live life fully. With smart styling, lots of tech and decent driving dynamics this newcomer is also very practical at a very competitive price. It is competing in a very crowded market and its fuel efficiency does let it down but you still might be tempted after a test drive. In other motoring developments, German giant AUDI has added an entry-level GT variant to its e-tron range with prices starting from £88,555, with the new seven model range topping out at £149,925. The e-tron GT quattro can call on up to 584ps while also covering up to 384 miles when its battery is fully charged. The new entry level Grand Tourer is available to order in the UK from this month and deliveries are due to begin in August. The Audi e-tron GT quattro rounds off the existing GT family, which comprises the S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT performance. It has a system output of 503ps (584pswith Launch Control). Thanks to a gross battery capacity of 105kW and a range of up to 384 miles, it can fulfil the Grand Tourer role but is equally at home in city traffic. The newcomer also features a charging capacity of up to 320kW. This means that only short charging stops are needed, as around 177 miles of range can be regained in 10 minutes. From a practicality perspective boot space is 405 litres and there is also a front compartment with a volume of 77 litres. Like the other GT models, the new version is produced at the Audi Sport plant in Neckarsulm. In the UK it is available as the e-tron GT quattro or the e-tron GT quattro Vorsprung, which adds features such as all-wheel steering, a head-up display, Fine Nappa Leather upholstery and Bang & Olufsen audio to the equipment list. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Daily Record
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We take a look at the new Lexus flagship and KMG Rexton commercial
The eighth generation Lexus model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John takes a look at the new Lexus flagship, which will arrive in the UK next year, and the KMG Rexton commercial, which has just been released. A stunning looking new Lexus ES has been unveiled more than 35 years after the original set new standards in the world of luxury motoring. The eighth generation model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year. Innovations such as the Lexus-first 'Hidden Tech' switches - made possible by Lexus's Arene software platform - and the latest sophisticated multimedia and safety systems all feature in the new saloon. It was revealed at the Auto Shanghai show in China and builds on the qualities of the previous model of 2018. The latest ES has been developed with a new Lexus design concept - Clean Tech x Elegance. Lexus says that investment made in comfort, refinement and luxury moves the car closer to the quality, spaciousness and specifications associated with larger executive-grade models while, its performance and handling, both in hybrid and battery electric versions, delivers the high levels of comfort, confidence and control that define the Lexus Driving Signature. The upper section is wide open to prioritise the driver's view, while the instrument combimeter is presented in an asymmetrical 12.3-inch digital array, allowing for a lower meter hood to be used. Material quality is raised with soft leather-like accents and dynamic lighting effects. Noise reduction - a trademark of the brand - was prioritised with improved door sealing and the use of glass with high sound insulation quality in the front doors. Lexus says the way sound is distributed within the cabin has been carefully managed to deliver a more natural and harmoniously balanced acoustic experience. The high quality of the ES's interior is supported by a new Lexus technology, Hidden Tech switches which are both minimalist and unobtrusive. When the car is turned off, the switches are not visible beneath the dashboard upholstery and when the driver switches the car on, they light up and are revealed to give the look of a touch-panel with a haptic feedback when used. The rear cabin can be fitted with reclining seats and, for the seat behind the front passenger, an ottoman leg support for an exclusive chauffeur-driven style experience. The front passenger seat has a forward-folding function to maximise rear leg room. Two battery electric ES versions will be available - the ES 350e front-wheel drive model delivering an output of 221bhp and the all-wheel drive ES 500e, with an output of 338bhp. Both benefit from Lexus's expertise in advanced electrification to unlock the full potential of the new Lexus global architecture-K platform, including new eAxles which integrate both the power control unit and transaxle. The ES 500e is equipped with Lexus's DIRECT4 intelligent electric all-wheel drive system which provides continuous adjustment of drive torque distribution to all four wheels, according to driver inputs and the road conditions. It can vary from 100:0 to 0:100, based on data from sensors monitoring acceleration, wheel speed and steering angle. In terms of size, the car is 165mm longer at 5.14 metres and up to 115mm taller at 1.56 metres while it is 55mm wider at 1.92 metres. Wheelbase has grown by 80mm to 2.95 metres. Lexus says that UK pricing and full details of the new ES will be available early next year. Meanwhile, a commercial version of the KGM Rexton has been announced, costing from £34,995. It made its debut at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in Birmingham and like the SUV on which it is based will have a 3.5-tonne towing capacity. The vehicle offers a secure load area with over 2200-litres of space, has a payload in excess of 700kg and can easily accommodate several standard Euro pallets. Three versions will be available with the line up topping out from £38,995 for the Rexton K50. The all-wheel drive vehicle is powered by a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering a maximum power of 202ps mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle conversion has a full-height fixed mesh bulkhead as standard and opaque reinforced rear windows, for added security. The load area is carpeted, with an optional rubber mat available as an accessory. The entry level K30 is priced from £34,995 and features LED lights all round, faux leather heated and ventilated seats and a 12.3-inch display screen, alloy wheels and a powered tailgate. Mid-range K40 models - priced from £35,995 - come with leather seats, LED cabin mood-lighting and additional safety features such as blind spot detection and rear cross traffic warning while the K50 adds more features including a sunroof and rear air conditioning. It attracts commercial Vehicle BIK taxation, is eligible for capital write-down and has a first-year VED of £345. And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Daily Record
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We sample the new all-electric van from Kia and reveal how Skoda has teamed up with Amazon to provide new service
Shorter than the likes of a Ford Transit Custom, the PV5 is 4.695 metres long. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John samples a new all-electric van from Korean giant Kia and reveals how Skoda has teamed up with Amazon to provide a new service for its customers and potential buyers. Korean giant Kia is entering the van market with its all-electric PV5 multi-role vehicle. Designed to be everything from a passenger carrier to a load-lugger that can take up to 4.4 cubic metres of cargo it is set to transform the LCV market. With a very competitive entry price of £22,465 after the government's plug-in grant for low emission vehicles it has a range up to 249 miles and a rapid recharging time of less than half-an-hour to 80 per cent battery capacity. Without VAT it can be had from £27,645 while the PV5 Passenger 'Essential' entry-grade is priced from £32,995 on-the-road. Two power versions will be available - one with a 51.5kWh battery and the long range 71.2kWh model - with the smaller capacity model having a range of up to 181 miles. Shorter than the likes of a Ford Transit Custom, the PV5 is 4.695 metres long and has a tight turning circle of 10.8 metres, meaning it is very manoeuvrable. At a shade over 1.9 metres high the PV5 can access most car parks and it has been built with features to keep maintenance costs as low as possible such as a three-piece front bumper enabling only damaged portions to be replaced. The PV5 in its van-oriented Cargo specification comes with two wide-opening rear doors and a low load height of less than 42 centimetres. Two sliding side doors can be specified - one is standard on the nearside - and maximum payload is 790kg for the standard range version with the longer range model capable of carrying up to 690kg. The recharging port is sited at the front above the bumper and a full charge can take up to 10 hours from a 7kW charger for the long range model, seven hours for the smaller battery. As well as the Cargo and Passenger PV5s Kia is also offering Crew and Chassis Cab variants with other lengths and heights slated to arrive later. All are built in a new factory in Korea. The PV5 is front-wheel drive and has a top speed limited to 84mph with the PV5 Passenger having a best 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 10.7 seconds. The passenger model will be a five-seater with space for up to 1320 litres of luggage - fold the back seats and there is 2315 litres available. In the cab there is a 7.5-inch digital instrument panel for the driver as well as a 12-inch central display which can use either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The PV5 had its UK debut at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham and first deliveries are scheduled later in the year. A larger PV7 is planned for 2027 with a PV9 due for introduction in 2029. Moving on to other motoring news, Skoda is the first European brand to offer an Amazon car showroom that integrates real-time new car stock availability where customers are located. Through this new venture with Amazon, UK customers can browse the full Skoda range, check local availability, request a test drive, and explore finance options - all before visiting a chosen retailer. By joining forces with Amazon, Skoda is enhancing the browsing experience, providing customers with all the information they need in a familiar online environment before making their decision. The online showroom showcases the brand's complete model range, from the compact Fabia supermini, to the Kodiaq family SUV, as well as the Czech brand's fully electric models, including the new Elroq and Enyaq. According to a recent national survey of 2000 UK adults, commissioned by Skoda, 47 per cent of potential customers value being able to research from home when buying a new car. However, the survey highlights the ongoing importance of physical interaction before purchasing a car. While 82 per cent of respondents prefer some form of in-person engagement, 78 per cent consider a test drive as essential. The survey reveals British consumers' shopping habits with 77 per cent of respondents spending up to two hours a day browsing online. UK customers can now: Browse and check real-time local stock availability (with cars ready within two-to-four weeks). Request a test drive. Explore and calculate finance options. Compare models. Importantly, make the purchase in person with a Skoda retailer. Matthew Bowden, director of Skoda UK, said: 'Online browsing and research are part of everyday life, which is why we're so excited to launch the Skoda showroom at Amazon. "It gives prospective customers more opportunities to find their next car and see where it's available, all from the comfort of their home.' The Skoda Amazon showroom is now live at .
Daily Record
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We get behind the wheel of the latest Honda HR-V and turn the spotlight on special event planned for Knockhill Racing Circuit
The HR-V has been with us for more than two decades and this current generation is only available as a fuel efficient hybrid. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John gets behind the wheel of the latest Honda HR-V and admires its build quality and smart design, and turns the spotlight on a special event planned for Knockhill Racing Circuit. Now in its third-generation the Honda HR-V is a compact SUV that nicely combines practicality, efficiency, technology and great build quality in an attractive stylish package. The HR-V has been with us for more than two decades and this current generation is only available as a fuel efficient hybrid. It may have more style than before but it will keep its loyal following because it is still reliable, safe and priced to compete in a crowded sector. Built for comfort rather than sporty performance the HR-V takes 10.7 seconds to reach 62mph and tops out at 106mph - but that will be good enough for most of its buyers. The boxy looks have been dumped and replaced by a coupe-like design thanks to a sloping roofline, hidden door handles, nice light clusters, smart alloys and black wheel arches. The interior has a premium feel with upmarket upholstery, a good sound system, full smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a nine-inch dash-mounted infotainment touchscreen with voice control and many other features. The HR-V is powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine paired to two electric motors to deliver a combined 131ps and 253Nm or torque. The battery pack has also been enlarged to increase the EV-only driving range. It is the same set-up introduced in the Jazz model. The HR-V cruises nicely at motorway speeds and is quiet and responsive. On country roads it provides lots of grip and is agile. In town it is a good companion because of its light steering and parking aids and cameras. There are three drive modes called Eco, Normal and Sport that alter the characteristics of the car's performance and single-pedal driving is possible when in the highest setting for regenerative braking. The high driving position means there is excellent all-round visibility. Honda claims a combined 52.3mpg and this is easily achievable - on some longer runs I was clocking almost 60 mpg without really trying. The CVT transmission can be a big grumpy if you push it too hard but take it smoothly and you will be rewarded by refined progress. There are stacks of room for four adults to travel in comfort - five for shorter journeys - and the clever Honda Magic Seats make it really practical. The boot takes 335 litres of luggage, increasing to 1,305 litres with the rear seats dropped flat. There is also lots of storage space inside the smart cabin. The HR-V is packed with safety features and driver aids and has the maximum five-star rating from Euro NCAP. Honda SENSING brings collision mitigation throttle control, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, low speed following, traffic sign recognition, road departure mitigation and eCall in Europe. This is along with the likes of blind spot warning, cross traffic monitor, tyre pressure monitoring, vehicle stability assist, brake assist, and a full suite of airbags. The HR-V Advance Style Plus model I sampled looked great in Seabed Blue Pearl paint and cost £39,525. It came with all the equipment you could ever want. It may not be flashy but it does everything very well and is definitely worth checking out if you are in the market for a compact family SUV. FAST FACTS: Price: £39,525. Mechanical: 1.5litre petrol hybrid, 4cyl, 129bhp engine driving front wheels via automatic gearbox. Max speed: 106mph. 0-62mph: 10.7 seconds. Combined mpg: 52.3. Insurance group: 31. CO2 emissions: 122g/km. Bik rating: 29 per cent. Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles. Overall rating (out of 5): 4.5. Also making the news is the announcement that racing drivers from the 70s, 80s and 90s, as well as members of the Kinnaird family whose father Tom built the track, will be at Knockhill on Sunday, May 18, to mark 50 years of car racing at Scotland's National Motorsport Centre. The drivers range from a number of whom raced at the first event in 1975 to multiple BTCC champions John Cleland and Gordon Shedden, together with seven other Scots who have raced in the Touring Cars Championship. Drivers are coming from all four corners of Scotland and beyond to join in the celebrations, with many of them bringing their original race cars to go on track for some fast laps. The clock will be turned back as the 50th celebration will feature strongly within an eleven-race programme, including track parades and grid walk, interviews with star drivers, a recreation of the opening ceremony and track sessions for race cars from the 70s, 80s and 90s and a group photograph of all 100 drivers reunited on the grid. The event programme will reflect the nostalgia of the occasion with a special display of 70s road cars complementing the race machinery on track. A special feature within the event is the welcome return of Karting Legends drivers with their long-circuit 250cc racing karts from the 80s and 90s. Knockhill uniquely hosted rounds of the World Karting Championships in the early 90s, and the drivers will be demonstrating many of the karts that competed at Knockhill three decades ago. The event also marks the 25th season of Scottish Legends racing in Scotland. These motorcycle engine single-seat race cars are a crowd favourite, and from a formative start with six cars, it is anticipated that up to 40 drivers will be racing for the 2025 title. Stuart Gray, Knockhill director of events, said, "The response from champion and race-winning racing drivers across the five decades has been fantastic. "Every day, we are receiving interest from drivers, with champions from 1975 to the present day, all sharing the same fondness and recollections of Knockhill. "Every one of them has played their small part in the history of Scottish motorsport, and all are welcome. "We truly believe it will be a walk into the past and stir so many racing and spectating memories for all attending." During the weekend, there will be racing for the Scottish Legends, Fiesta ST's, Citroen C1's, ModSports, Mini Coopers and Scottish Classics, with action starting at 9.15am each day, finishing around 5pm, with the opening ceremony recreation timed for 1pm on Sunday, May 18. Tickets and full information can be found on and tickets are also available at the gate each day over the weekend. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
