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The Independent
01-08-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
MG IM6 review: So near, yet so far from the Tesla Model Y
Dot, slash, slash, dot. It could be morse code for 'Tesla rival', but no – it's the weird badge on the nose of the new MG IM6. The IM6 is an MG, but it could just as easily have been an IM – a posh brand from MG owner SAIC in China. Instead, it's a muddle of two brands, which is a shame for a car that has a front boot full of promise. The IM6 is a smart-looking all-electric SUV with a vague hint of the Aston Martin DBX about it, especially at the back. The quality of the paintwork is good, and that extends to the materials used inside. The IM6 feels properly posh. There's plenty of space inside, too, along with a decent-sized boot. And when you start to tot up the tech it's pretty much as good as anything else at this price, and better in some ways. The adaptive cruise control works well, the self-parking is swift and accurate, and it'll retrace its steps for 100 meters in reverse – you might be surprised how useful that might be. The numbers for the electric powertrain stack up nicely, too. You'll most likely want the 100 Long Range model with its 100kWh battery. It claims a Tesla-beating 388 miles of range and Tesla-beating charging speeds, too. You can see why the IM6 is so tempting then, as long as you can live with the ride quality, which is a bit too firm for my liking. How we tested After spending a morning driving the IM5 hatch, I spent the afternoon in a couple of IM6 SUV models: the 100 Performance and 100 Launch Edition. I drove on a wide variety of roads from motorways to tight town streets and even went to Tesco to try out the self-parking systems. And, of course, I rode in the back and checked on the practicality details. Independent rating: 7/10 Pros Spacious, good quality, range and charging speed, loads of innovative kit Cons Ride is too firm, poor rear visibility MG IM6 specs Price range: £47,995 to £52,995 Battery size: 100kWh Maximum claimed range: 388 miles Miles per kWh: 3.4 Maximum charging rate: 396kW Battery, range, charging, performance and drive Unlike the IM5, there's only one battery option in the IM6 – an enormous 100kWh pack sitting under the floor. It's a shame as a cheaper, slightly lighter IM6 could be really appealing – and might be more comfortable over bumps and potholes. As it is, there are three versions with the 100kWh battery: Long Range, Performance and Launch Edition. The Long Range model has rear drive and a claimed maximum range of 388 miles and will still get from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, all pretty much spot on with the Long Range Rear Drive Tesla Model Y. The Performance IM6 gets four-wheel drive and will go for a claimed 313 miles on a single charge, while getting from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds. It's cheaper, quicker but won't go as far on a charge as a Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive. There isn't currently a Performance Model Y. At the top of the IM6 range is the Launch Edition which shares the Performance model's stats, but gets air suspension, supposedly to give it a more cushioned ride. More of that in a bit. Whichever IM6 you get you'll benefit from 800-volt technology that – among other things – gives you charging at speeds up to 396kW. That equates to a 10 to 80 per cent charge on a fast 350kW charger in just 17 minutes – really impressive stuff. Less impressive is the way the IM6 drives. It's not horrendous, but I found the Launch Edition to be too firm, crashing over potholes that other cars would manage with less fuss. As much as the straight-line speed is impressive, this is no sports car. The taller body of the IM6 means there's a bit more body lean through corners, while the steering felt a bit too heavy in the Launch Edition car. Sadly, the Performance car without the air suspension rides slightly worse, although the steering felt more responsive. MG says that there are tweaks that they plan to do before cars reach showrooms and go on to customers in September – let's hope they can get the company's UK-based engineers to work some magic on the suspension, too. Interior, practicality and boot space Like the IM5, whichever IM6 you go for, you'll get the same level of kit inside – the only difference I could spot on the spec sheet was a snow mode in the four-wheel drive cars. Every model gets the same super-impressive level of quality inside, too, and the same modern and easy-to-use layout. The materials used around the cabin feel properly premium, while there's acres of space in the comfy back seats and a great view forward and up through the standard full-length glass roof. Also, just like the IM5, there's a tiny rear-view mirror giving you a view through the tiny rear window. Thankfully, there's the same clever feature that gives you a view from a rear-facing camera on the infotainment screen if you push the right-hand button on the steering wheel upwards. I'd rather just have a better view out of the back, personally. The impressive space inside continues in the boot where the rear door swings up high (and is powered, of course) to reveal an impressive 665 litres of space. That increases to 1,640 litres with the seats down. There's also a decent 32-litre cubby under the bonnet, too. As with the IM5 there's not that much storage around the driver for odds and ends, with only one wireless phone charger, too. Otherwise, the driving environment is good with comfortable, heated and cooled powered seats covered in a faux leather. Technology, stereo and infotainment The MG IM6 is one of those cars that quietly surprises you — not just with its tech, but with how genuinely useful some of it turns out to be. Take reversing, for example. You know that awkward moment when you meet another car on a narrow lane and realise you've got to back up? Most cars leave you nervously glancing over your shoulder or relying on vague beeping sensors. Not the IM6. It remembers the last 100 metres you've driven — precisely. Then, with the press of a button, it retraces its tyre tracks backwards, even around bends or through car parks. It's eerily accurate and brilliant in real-world use. Parking tech is just as slick. Unlike systems that faff about and never quite get it right, the IM6 parks itself quickly and confidently. It'll even shuffle a bit closer to the kerb if your parallel parking isn't textbook-perfect. Inside, everything runs through screens – two of them, in fact. A huge, super-wide 26in display stretches across the dash for driving and infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in. A second 10in touchscreen sits lower down for climate control, settings and that clever parking feature. Just ignore the weirdly labelled 'Ramdon' climate mode – hopefully just a typo rather than a setting to avoid. There are other clever touches too. Indicate left or right, and a live feed from the digital mirrors pops up on the corresponding side of the big screen. Better still, the indicator clicks come out of the correct speaker – a small but oddly satisfying detail. Adaptive cruise control is present and correct, operated via neat paddles behind the wheel to adjust speed and following distance. Driver assistance systems are comprehensive, if predictable these days – lane-keep, collision avoidance and the rest are all onboard. The cabin tech has its hits and misses, though. MG boasts about the IM6's 20-speaker audio system, complete with 'Sky Speakers' in the roof. In reality, the sound was a bit flat, lacking punch and clarity – not what you expect from a system with such a headline. Similarly, the voice control ('Hello IM' rather than 'Hello MG') was more reluctant than responsive, and while the single wireless phone charger is ventilated to keep your phone cool, it seems a missed opportunity not to offer two, like many rivals do. Still, there's a lot to like here. The IM6 doesn't just load up on tech for the sake of it – some of it, like that reverse memory and clever screen integration, feels genuinely helpful. A bit more polish and it'd be even more compelling. Prices and running costs If there was more of an advantage for the IM6 over the Tesla Model Y, I'd be more inclined to recommend it. As it is the Long Range car at £47,995 is £995 cheaper than the equivalent Model Y, which I would say is more than £995 better. The Performance IM6 at £50,995 doesn't have a real rival in the Model Y line-up, but measures up well against the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive, while the Launch Edition I don't think I'd bother with at £52,995 – the adaptive air suspension doesn't improve the ride enough and I preferred the steering in the Performance model. What I would say on price is that MG dealers are more likely to talk discounts than Tesla retailers would be. MG IM6 rivals Tesla Model 3 Xpeng G6 BYD Sealion 7 FAQs How long does it take to charge? The 100kWh IM6 supports 800-volt charging at up to 396kW, enabling a 10–80 per cent charge in 17 minutes with a compatible fast charger. How much does it cost - is it worth it? Prices start at £47,995 for the 100 Long Range car going up to £52,995 for the 100 Launch Edition, which I wouldn't bother with. If you must have four-wheel drive, go for the 100 Performance model at £50,995. MG dealers might knock a few pounds off those prices, too. Does MG replace batteries for free? The IM6's battery is covered by an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty, the same as all other EVs. MG provides a seven-year warranty for the remainder of the vehicle. Why trust us Our team of motoring experts have decades of experience driving, reviewing and reporting on the latest EV cars, and our verdicts are reached with every kind of driver in mind. We thoroughly test drive every car we recommend, so you can be sure our verdicts are honest, unbiased and authentic. The verdict: MG IM6 In the IM6 versus Model Y battle, the MG has much in its favour. It looks good, has more space inside than the Tesla, better build quality and is strong on tech, too. The MG is ever-so-slightly cheaper and goes ever-so-slightly further than the Tesla, too. The sticking point is that the IM6 is neither as good to drive or as comfortable to be in as the Tesla – the ride in particular is just too jittery.
Auto Blog
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Here's What Lucid's Future Models Will Be Called
Trademarks Hint At Affordable EVs to Rival Tesla Several new trademarks have revealed the possible names for Lucid's next models, as the company looks to expand its lineup beyond the full-size Air sedan and Gravity three-row SUV. Considering Lucid already occupies these segments, these future models should hopefully be more affordable, giving the brand higher-volume alternatives to the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y. The brand has, after all, already teased a midsize SUV and confirmed a Model Y competitor. Here's a look at all the latest Lucid trademarks. Source: Lucid Lucid Earth Dream Edition The Lucid Earth trademark already popped up a few weeks ago, and it has since been confirmed that this will be a new smaller EV. It's set to go into production in 2026, when it should compete head-on with the Tesla Model Y. The newest trademark is for an Earth Dream Edition, filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office, adding further confirmation that this is a new Lucid production model. The brand's Dream Edition EVs are typically sold for a limited time after a new car is launched. They offer the best outputs and features, and also carry the highest prices. A price of under $50,000 and a class-leading range are expected for this model, but the Dream Edition could cost more than this. Lucid Ocean Another trademark, this time filed with the Government of Canada, is for the Lucid Ocean. If that name sounds familiar, you may be thinking of the Fisker Ocean SUV. However, Fisker's recent bankruptcy presumably means that the 'Ocean' name is back up for grabs, and since it fits in thematically with other Lucid model names, it's a logical choice. It's not known what vehicle the Ocean name could apply to, but a smaller sedan to slot in below the Air sounds like a logical move. It would give the brand a true BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE rival, leaving the Air to do battle with the i7 and EQS. Lucid Air Pure — Source: Lucid Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Lucid Space The last time 'Lucid Space' was mentioned, it was by former Lucid CEO, Peter Rawlinson. However, he was specifically referring to the Lucid Space Concept, which doesn't refer to a particular model, but references one of the brand's philosophies. Rawlinson was explaining how Lucid cars free up an amount of interior space beyond the physical footprint of a given vehicle. Once again, though, 'Space' fits in well with other Lucid names like Gravity and Air, referencing the elements and/or the natural environment. Last year, Lucid ruled out a station wagon, but was open to the idea of a more rugged vehicle. Given the brand's luxury focus, a classy coupe doesn't seem out of the question, but electric coupes are exceedingly rare. The word 'Space' sounds applicable to something larger, but the Air and Gravity are already full-size models, so it's anyone's guess what this model could be. Source: Lucid Final Thoughts While Lucid has not yet come close to toppling Tesla, it's doing what a lot of other EV startups couldn't: surviving. And, with only two high-end models on sale presently, the potential for growth is enormous if the brand launches two or more models that are more accessible. The Earth is the only one that looks like a guarantee, but we can't wait to see the possibilities of the Ocean and Space nameplates. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
The Independent
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
Cupra Tavascan review: This European Tesla rival will stretch your budget
In a world where every electric car is measured by how it stands up against a Tesla, the Cupra Tavascan is more competitive than many. With so many Chinese Tesla rivals all looking very much the same, the Tavascan is a breath of fresh air. It looks very different to its VW Group siblings, with dramatic styling inside and out. It may be a bit too bold for some, especially on the inside, but you can't deny that it's not different. The other sticking point may well be the price. The Cupra starts at £47,350 and goes up to £62,180, yet performance and range aren't as strong as a Model Y – it's another EV that underlines the value that Tesla offers. Build quality is better, though, unless you take the infotainment system into account. While the software is okay, the Tavascan is lumbered with the same hardware as other Volkswagen Group cars, which is frustrating to use. There are other foibles, too, like the lack of separate rear window switches on the driver's door and touch sensitive buttons on the steering wheel that can mean you inadvertently adjust settings with a brush of your hand when you're turning. But the Tavascan does drive nicely with a comfortable ride, responsive steering and decent performance, which lives up to Cupra's billing as the sporty member of the Volkswagen family. How we tested We spent a week living with the Cupra Tavascan, taking care of family duties around town while also using it for longer trips on the motorway. The dog had to stay at home, though, as the boot isn't a dog-friendly shape. Cupra Tavascan: From £47,350, Independent rating: 8/10 Pros: Comfy ride, strong performance, distinctive style Cons: Pricey, dire infotainment, poor rear visibility Cupra Tavascan specs Price range: £47,350 to £62,180 Battery size: 77kWh Maximum claimed range: 352 miles Miles per kWh: 4.09 Maximum charging rate: 135kW Battery, range, charging, performance and drive The Tavascan comes with just one battery option, two power outputs and either two- or four-wheel drive. Trim levels are V1, V2, VZ1 and VZ2 – don't ask us what they stand for. The 77kWh battery pack offers a maximum range of 352 miles in the rear-drive only V1 and V2 models. Adding an extra motor on the front axle for four-wheel drive drops the range to 318 miles. The upside is more power: 336bhp for VZ1 and VZ2 cars, and 282bhp in the V1 and V2. That equates to a slightly nippier feel in the four wheel drive cars, which claim a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds, 1.3 seconds quicker than the other models. And our VZ1 car did feel quick, especially with the sharper throttle response and steering reaction in the sportiest of the car's selectable settings. The car changes direction swiftly and there's little body lean through corners, yet the ride comfort is a nice blend between sportily firm and comfortable enough so the family won't complain. The brakes can feel a little grabby, though, making it a bit tricky to come to a smooth stop. When it comes to other speeds, the Tavascan will charge at up to 135kW, with a 10 to 80 per cent charge taking just 28 minutes. The interior of the Tavascan is like nothing else, with copper accents making it feel properly posh. Beautiful reflective lighting and illuminated door panels up the class even more. It's a shame some of the plastics feel a bit cheap, then. The swoopy dash design looks like a giant shark baring its teeth at you which combines oddly with some sporty carbon fibre finishes. Some might find that a bit over the top, but at least there's decent stowage space in amongst all the design features. There's excellent space in the back for passengers, although the shallow window line – especially above the boot – can make it feel a bit dark. Visibility out the back isn't great, and there's no rear wiper either – you may have to wipe it clear first thing in the morning rather than wait for the demister to do its thing. The 540 litre boot is excellent, with a two-level floor and space to hide cables underneath, but the sloping roofline extends to the boot door, making it a bit of a squeeze for awkward loads and larger dogs. As well as the infotainment issues, Cupra is lumbered with the same window switches as other Volkswagen group cars. That means on the driver's door you have to touch a button to select front or rear before you can lower a window. It's a design choice we continue to be baffled by, and can only assume it's a misguided attempt to save some pennies by reducing the number of window switches in the car. Smart, sporty cars normally come with excellent tech on board, but the Cupra falls short in a number of areas. Firstly, there's the 15in infotainment system. The software is okay and it's fairly responsive and easy to navigate, but the Volkswagen Group's frustrating hardware rears its head again in the Cupra. Try to rest your thumb or fingers at the bottom of the screen and you'll inadvertently adjust either the volume or air con temperature. We've already mentioned the frustration caused by the window switches, but if you're driving along and the audio system either gets louder or quieter, or changes station, chances are you've brushed the touch sensitive controls at the edge of the steering wheel. Proper buttons can't come back soon enough. You might be impressed by the thought of a Sennheiser audio system, but you won't be once you've heard it. The speakers sound tinny, flat, and anything but premium. At least there's wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, plus the expected range of luxury, assistance and safety tech that you'd expect at a car at this price. Prices and running costs And that brings us to the price. Cupra is positioning itself above Spanish sibling Seat and Skoda with its sporty, semi-premium offering. Which means the Tavascan is pricey, starting at £47,350. Our VZ1 car came in at £57,280 with the £1,335 winter pack (heated seats, heat pump and heated windscreen), while a top-spec VZ2 with all the heated bits costs £62,180. Ouch. As with pretty much every other electric SUV of this size, that doesn't compare well with the new Tesla Model Y in terms of performance, range or price. At least the Cupra looks like nothing else. Cupra Tavascan rivals Tesla Model Y Volkswagen ID. 5 Hyundai Ioniq 5 FAQs How long does it take to charge? With just one 77kWh battery to go for, any Tavascan will charge up at up to 135kW, with a 10 to 80 per cent charge taking just 28 minutes. How much does it cost – is it worth it? The Tavascan is expensive, but you are getting an EV SUV that's different from the norm. It starts at £47,350 and goes up to £62,180. You can get better value elsewhere, but it'll be something less daring to look at. Does Cupra replace batteries for free? The batteries come with a full eight-year warranty or 100,000 mile warranty, while the rest of the car gets a decent five-year warranty. Why trust us Our team of motoring experts have decades of experience driving, reviewing and reporting on the latest EV cars, and our verdicts are reached with every kind of driver in mind. We thoroughly test drive every car we recommend, so you can be sure our verdicts are honest, unbiased and authentic. Cupra is carving a niche for itself with cars that look different but live on the same Volkswagen Group platforms as VWs, Skodas and Audis. I really enjoyed the Tavascan – it drives nicely and stands out for mostly the right reasons, but the premium pricing may put you off.
