Latest news with #RichardDredge
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Motoring expert says this 'impressive' used car blows all competition away
A used car expert has commented on a used car that won awards when new, but is now a popular model on the second hand vehicle market A used car expert has highlighted how impressive one popular small car, claiming that few rivals can match the vehicle. Motoring enthusiasts are often giving tips for people looking for new vehicles on what to aim for. Just recently, an expert claimed one used car is "the most reliable" in the world. But now another car has come to the fore – the Mini Cooper. The vehicle was reinvigorated as a brand and motor vehicle when it was revived by BMW in the early-2000s. Since the car was brought back to life, now as the MINI, it has become a hit among millions of drivers around the world. As a result, it has become a fan favourite on the used car market for it's smart handling and reliability. Discussing the car, Auto Express ' Richard Dredge praised the Anglo-German model. He said: 'In 2016 the MINI was crowned Best Premium Small Car at our New Car Awards for the third time in a row. It was our overall Car of the Year in 2014. Then and now, the MINI is up against some stiff competition, but we reckon that none of its rivals can match the ever-popular model's cheeky looks, efficient engines, engaging dynamics and low running costs.' On which version of the MINI people should buy, Richard said it all depended on what option packs you were after and whether one would be happy with a manual or automatic gearbox, but recommended the Cooper. He explained: 'Air-con had to be specified at the time of ordering as a no-cost option on the One/One D and Cooper/Cooper D models, so check it's fitted. The One is spartan, so we'd go for at least a Cooper. 'Pin down what options or option packs are included on any potential purchase; the list is extensive. The Pepper and Chili packs bring different features depending on the trim level.' He also noted it was "impressive" how high the MINI MK3 ranked in AutoExpress' survey among owners. Whilst the MINI as a brand may be strong in the UK, there is uncertainty over the future of its Oxford plant. Earlier this year, in February, it was announced that parent-company BMW had announced a decision to delay the reintroduction of electric car production at the facility. In a statement, they said: 'Plant Oxford is at the heart of Mini production, manufacturing and exporting a range of models, which are sought after in the UK and around the world. "However, given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford. 'We have informed the UK government of our decision to review the timeline for reintroducing battery-electric production in Oxford. "As part of this discussion, we agreed not to take the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans."
Daily Mirror
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Motoring expert says this used car is ‘one of the best' electric vehicles around
One car has been hailed as one of the best electric vehicles on the market - and if you're looking to buy used, it's a great option. Here's everything you need to know A motoring expert has said that one of the finest electric vehicles anyone can purchase right now is now available on the used car market. As worries continue about the upcoming ZEV mandate, concerns continue surrounding electric car range capabilities, with numerous drivers uncertain they're inadequate for lengthy journeys. And unless you're shopping in the second-hand market, electric vehicle prices can prove prohibitive for many purchasers who remain anxious about future battery deterioration. Despite these criticisms, there exists genuine enthusiasm for electric cars across the UK and increasing recognition that whilst they're not a complete solution, they'll still play a crucial role in tomorrow's transport landscape alongside synthetic fuels and hydrogen. Moreover, by exploring the used car marketplace, purchasers can discover some truly exceptional vehicles at genuinely reasonable prices, naturally depending on individual budgets. According to motoring specialists at Auto Express, one such vehicle is the Audi e-tron GT. This model utilises the same platform as the highly-regarded Porsche Taycan, and yet has earned acclaim in its own right. Discussing the vehicle and explaining why it merits consideration amongst electric cars, writer Richard Dredge claimed the Audi outperformed its Porsche sibling. He stated: "The Audi e-tron GT is hugely capable and desirable, but oversupply of used electric cars means these shapely Audis are very temptingly priced. "Although the Taycan is incredibly impressive, the e-tron GT is more comfortable and has superior in-car tech, while it's no slower than the Porsche." However, he cautioned that Audi's limited range and hefty original price tag could deter potential buyers. He explained: "The e-tron GT's range is disappointing for such a costly flagship product, but if this doesn't matter all that much to you, then we'd say the Audi is something of an EV bargain as a used buy. "In an ever-improving EV world, one of the best of the breed is the Audi e-tron GT. It's an expensive car to buy new, but supremely capable in most respects, and one that might just convert the most ardent petrolhead." Richard Dredge isn't alone in singing the praises of the Audi e-tron GT. My verdict on the Audi e-tron GT I put the same car through its paces last year after learning Prince William was behind the wheel of one. Following my test drive of the e-tron GT, I discovered it offered the finest handling of any electric vehicle I'd experienced. In truth, it ranked amongst the best-handling motors I'd piloted that entire year, thanks largely to its exceptional steering. Modern car steering often lacks sensation, leaving drivers clueless about what the front wheels are actually doing when you twist that circular contraption before you. The Audi's steering proved exceptional, transforming even gentle 15-20mph pottering into pure joy thanks to how the car responded like silk flowing through your fingers. This quality also enhanced the driving pleasure, making you eagerly anticipate every journey regardless of distance. At the time, my review concluded: "Is it without its flaws? Of course not, the range is probably still a bit low, but that's an easy criticism of any electric car and yes it feels big in the middle of a city meaning many parking spaces are too small. "However, if you can afford to spend £96,000 on an electric car, there's a good chance you might be able to afford off-street parking or, in the case of Prince William, inherit an entire country."
