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Audi Q3

Feb 21 2015

Audi Q3 UK Car Review

 

Audi’s compact SUV has been well received by the audience, selling in fairly large numbers, which lead the manufacturer to provide it with a well deserved refresh for 2015.

Audi Q3

Sharing the same design language with the rest of the Ingolstadt range, the new Audi Q3 is more refined than before, both in exterior appearance and cabin space and is fitted with more efficient engines.

In terms of looks, the fascia is immediately noticeable, as the large grille, spanning more than it has before, sports a more angular contour. Going back to the new TT, this feature has been transplanted to the entire range of vehicles belonging to Audi, in order to consolidate its image in the eyes of the consumer. Framed by a chrome margin, it will undoubtedly stand out.

Flanking it, two horizontally positioned headlamps also incorporate the already traditional LED day running light arranged in a characteristic pattern, specific to each model. In our case, they are laid out in an angular manner, mirroring other elements, such as the prominent central lip of the front bumper. Since we’re in this area, the bumper is characterized by large air intakes, but, to our dismay, they are covered by black plastic covers and aren’t functional.

Unlike the larger Audi Q7 which now looks like a wagon on stilts, the Q3 has retained its mini-SUV identity. Its sides are very athletic, as the roofline falls towards the rear, the effect reinforced by the progressively thinning window line. Aluminum elements, such as the roof rails and the contour of the glass surface give it a livelier image, also aiding the visual impact. Coming standard with 17 inch Y spoke alloy wheels, the Audi Q3 has a muscular appearance, subtly suggested by the flared wheel arches. As a pleasant addition, the vehicle also comes with plastic body protection but unlike some other rivals, it matches the paint of the vehicle.

Audi Q3Moving on to the rear, a roof spoiler adorns its upper side. The headlamps are somewhat similar to those of the last generation and to the ones fitted on the Audi Q5. Lower still, the exhaust tips are now integrated in the rear spoiler instead of being hidden.

Should you want more, there’s always the RS Q3 version, a more potent variation of the compact SUV. With a tweaked suspension system, more nimble acceleration figures (4.8seconds to 62 from a standstill) and a top speed limited to 155 miles per hours, the RS is nothing to sneer at. Add to that the improved looks and select a more eye-popping paintjob and you’ll be bound to be noticed on the road. However, prepare to pay as much as £45,495 as a starting price.

 

 

 Audi Q3 – 5 Point Car Review

Design

Audi Q3Inside, the Audi Q3 looks a lot like the old one, mostly because the 2015 version is a facelift and not an entirely new generation, as was with the TT. Soft touch materials cover the dashboard, centre console and door faces. A nifty multimedia screen pops up from the dash to display critical info and it can be accessed via steering wheel controls, but it’s still powered by MMI, lagging behind competitors.

The trim choice has improved and you can have various inlays, ranging from aluminum and piano black up to walnut brown veneer. If you still want more, you can always rely on Audi Exclusive, the Ingolstadt manufacturer’s bespoke service, to select a wide range of exterior and interior colours, personalized upholstery, custom inlays and so on. Just make sure your wallet is thick enough!

Driving

Audi Q3Although marketed as an SUV, we highly doubt that the Audi Q3 will see more than a few muddy country roads. After all, the low ground clearance and its other limited off-road capabilities restrict it to (mainly) tarmac.

Inside, the driving position is quite elevated, evading the small SUV image and the lumbar support offered by the seats is top notch. Insofar as the driving experience goes, the compact Audi isn’t the most involving of the vehicles we’ve driven. Put it alongside an Range Rover Evoque and it will hide in shame. However, its best point remains comfort, as the suspension does a splendid job of filtering road imperfections and courtesy of Audi, you have the option of selecting driving modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and efficiency, which, as you might have guessed refer to the prior mentioned categories. The “cushiony” feel of the drivetrain affects in-corner behavior, as the little Audi Q3 does exhibit some symptoms of body roll, but as long as you don’t push it to the max in hairpins, it will do its job quite well.

Reliability

Audi Q3The Audi Q3’s popularity has stemmed from its unique range of offering and one of them is its known reliability. With the new model, Audi has improved both the electrical side and the mechanical part of the car, so issues will most likely be sporadic. In addition, you’ll be happy to hear that each new Audi will receive a 3 year Audi warranty, with unlimited mileage for the first 2 years of ownership and full mechanical and electrical warranty bound to cover you for up to 60,000 miles in the 3rd year. Paint also receives a 3 year warranty, as well as 12 years protection against corrosion and UK roadside assistance for 3 years.

Running Costs

The base SE comes with a price tag of £25,340. For the money, you’ll get a 150bhp, 1.4 litre TFSI engine, coupled to a 6 speed manual gearbox, which has on-demand cylinder deactivation technology, helping you save a bit of fuel when you’re not driving it actively. Fuel economy figures revolve around the figure of 51.4 mpg mixed cycle. The best mileage comes from the 2.0 litre TDI, 150bhp powerplant, which is able to return 61.4mpg.

The top of the line Audi Q3 is represented by the S Line Plus trim; engine choices come in petrol (2.0 TFSI, 180bhp) form and diesel (2.0 TDI 150bhp/2.0 TDI 184bhp). Prices for the respective categories range from £33,675 for the petrol and £34,150/£34,945.

Practicality

Audi Q3On par with the BMW X1, the Audi Q3 has precisely 420 litres allocated to the boot, with seats up. Folding them clears up to 1,325 litres, which should be sufficient for carrying bags and the like, but it won’t be a champion hauler; for something bigger, just look at the Q5 of Q7, if you fancy Audi.

Interior space is plentiful for adults. In the front, the passenger and driver have an excellent position, and the seats allow for an elevated driving position. In the back seat, you won’t feel cramped in the least, as the front seats have recessed backs and there is plenty of head and legroom. However, we wouldn’t advise fitting adults there for a long time, as the transmission tunnel is elevated and the middle seat is a bit narrow, but it should suffice for occasional use.

If you want to know more about the Audi Q3, click here.

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Audi A3 Hatchback

Feb 7 2015

Audi A3 UK Car Review

 

In a somewhat bothersome fashion, Audi operates in a most understated manner when updating its models from year to year – on the visual standpoint, at least, and the compact Audi A3 doesn’t stray far from this philosophy.

Audi A3 Hatchback

There are no dazzling lines that make it stand out, no jaw dropping elements that would make you let go of your girlfriend’s hand and run after the 3, trying to snap a picture… Sadly, the latest example from the Audi A3 line resembles the old one, which might lead to our presentation of the new “old” one or old “new” one… Without further ado, let us get on to our review or else things might get confusing.

For starters, despite the fact that the exterior styling remains, in typical – should we say, German – fashion, more or less the same, the entire chassis, engine line-up and interior components are brand new. Coming in various configurations, the A3 family includes a hatchback configuration – the 3 door A3, a Sportback (5 doors hatch), A3 Saloon and A3 Cabrio.

The more powerful S-line is comprised on the S3, S3 Saloon, S3 Sportback and S3 Cabrio. Topping them off is the 362 horsepower RS3 Sportback.

A plug-in hybrid is also available, under the form of the A3 Sportback e-tron. The total power output is 204 horsepower, coming from a combination between a 1.4 litre petrol engine and an electric motor. The low CO2 emissions (37g/km) qualify it into the clean league and also spare it from road tax. On top of that, it offers an amazing 176.6 miles per gallon (mixed cycle), according to the manufacturer, although we reckon it might differ in real driving conditions but it beats everything Mercedes has.

Audi A3 HatchbackA familiarity greets us when we look at the Audi A3, as the lines have now become quite customary. However, the devil is in the details. A more ample grille with chrome detailing dominates the front end, while LED technology headlamps with a characteristic pattern promise to both distinguish the model at night and better illuminate the road surface.

The silhouette is more or less unchanged, especially if we’re talking about the base A3 hatchback. Thanks to the mild refresh, the visibility has improved, and it’s miles ahead of the Mercedes A-Class.

 

Audi A3 – 5 Point Review

Design

Audi A3 HatchbackAlthough you might be tempted to believe that the Mercedes Benz may offer a more premium interior, the Audi surpasses both of its main rivals, the MB A-Class and the BMW 1 Series.

The reasoning behind raising the bar in terms of interior fittings was that one in every 5 Audis worldwide is an A3, so the company in Ingolstadt was determined to both keep its clientele and gain more buyers. The introduction of the smaller A1 model also helped, as it allowed upgrading the experience of the A3’s cabin. Soft touch materials abound, while ergonomics is king. The air vents feature stylist gray rings around them, while physical controls are kept to a minimum. A 5.8 inch screen – standard on every model, regardless of trim level – will pop up at the touch of a button and it will allow both the consumption of entertainment, the display of critical information and take care of navigation.

Driving

Audi A3 HatchbackUnlike a trend which tends to propagate throughout the automotive industry, the new Audi A3 does not have a stiffer suspension system, but a more “relaxed” one. The overall driving impression left by the compact hatch is pleasing rather than exciting, as the softer settings of the dampers soften road irregularities much better and allow the driver to be more laid back while driving. This may be a downside for some, as the car is not as exciting as its Bavarian counterpart, but it doesn’t make it a dumpling on wheels either.

For those that prefer a more exciting drive, the S models are recommended and if you’re feeling generous, the 362 horsepower RS3 may be the answer.

Reliability

Audi A3 HatchbackAlthough the new generation promises to be as trouble free as possible, some of the owners have reported consistent electrical failures and mechanical issues, especially regarding the clutch. On the other hand, those benefitting from warranty have praised the Audi Services and low prices compared to those of the competitors.

A five star Euro NCAP rating in crash tests insures that the vehicle is capable of protecting its occupants in case of accidents, while front driver and passenger, as well as side curtain airbags come as standard. Moreover, all of Audi’s recent models come with a 3, 4 or 5 year warranty. The firs offers two years unlimited mileage and a third year with 60.000 miles limit, the second with two years unlimited and two years of 75.000 miles and the last with two years unlimited and three years with a 90.000 miles limit.

Running Costs

Audi A3 HatchbackThe base Audi A3, the SE, starts from £18,575 and includes a 1.2 litre TFSI petrol engine that is capable of developing 110 horsepower. The engine comes connected to a 6 speed manual by default. At the other end of the spectrum there is the 1.8 litre TFSI petrol, developing 180 horsepower and costing £28,190.

However, the most economical choice is represented by the diesel offers, particularly by the 1.6 litre TDI, which promises a mixed cycle fuel economy of 74.3 mpg and the 2.0 litre TDI, which gets you more horsepower (148) with a slight dip in mpg, the figure sitting at 68.9 mixed cycle.

 

Practicality

Audi A3 HatchbackThe boot of the Audi A3, with the seats up, measures 365, above the one from Mercedes (340l) and BMW (360) and remains a small advantage. Folding the back seat gains a total of 1,100 litres. Getting on the back seats is not as easy as in the five door A-Class, but perhaps it was designed this way so that more people buy the Sportback version. Who knows?

As we were saying, the passengers in the back, once they get there, will feel a bit cramped, due to the limited space offered both by the sloping roofline and the front seats. Tall people may feel uncomfortable, and long journeys are less recommendable unless necessary. That’s not a deal breaker, but perhaps for those who need a more spacious automobile, a five door option might be more suitable.

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Mercedes A-Class

Feb 5 2015

Mercedes A-Class UK Car Review

 

Characterized by the large grille, signature Mercedes headlights with LED trakes and the angry grin, the new Mercedes A-Class looks nothing like the mini-mpv design that preceded it.

Mercedes A-Class

Some might like it, because it now looks like a proper rival for the BMW Series 1 and the Audi A3, while others might feel nostalgic for having lost the more compact and easy to park nature of the old generation, but this is how design evolves.

A visual analysis of the car’s exterior brings out its main selling points.

First, the long snout, as the whole car, in fact, sits closer to the ground, as its center of gravity has been lowered. The grille, with the large tri-star emblem in the middle, can have one or two horizontal chrome trakes – or neither – as it is fully configurable. The sharp headlamps contain, each, a subtle streak of LED’s that serve as day running lights and further underline the car’s character. Moreover, their design root stems from the large S-Class, whose overall lines lead to a complete redesign of the entire range, which looks rather bland, if we’re to be critical, but who can argue with the brand?

Lower still, we can observe the two large air intakes that flank the central gape that houses the radiator. The vents are purely cosmetic on some version, because they do not serve any function besides looks, as bits of black plastic in the shape of a mesh cover them.

The side profile now resembles a proper hatchback, with a longer front end and super compact rear overhang. The window line dips towards the rear, resembling the dynamic contour of the estate C-Class. On one hand, it contributes heavily to the modern and fresh look of the vehicle, but on the other hand it limits the visibility of the rear passengers, so you should be prepared for this compromise.

Mercedes A-ClassA low profile window sits in the back, while a roof spoiler increases the aerodynamic efficiency of the car. Other things to note are the rear lamps that protrude into the hatch and the twin exhausts.

Should you be looking for a speedier version, the top of the line A45 AMG 4MATIC offers a more dynamic exterior package (front and rear AMG bumpers, side skirts and a more distinctive rear end, with integrated air ducts) and a more powerful, 360 bhp 4 cylinder engine coupled to a 7 speed DCT transmission. Base price for the AMG A-Class starts at £37,345, so be prepared to fork some cash for your latest toy.

 

 

 Mercedes A-Class – 5 Point Review

Design

Mercedes A-ClassInside, the cabin resembles some of the Mercedes A-Class’ larger brethren, including the super sport AMG GT due to the common design of the circular air vents and the arrangement of the dashboard and central console. A large instrument cluster provides the driver with the most vital information it needs, while the multifunctional three spoke steering wheels ushers feelings of sportiness. Add to that the lower driving position and you’d think you’re in an entry level coupe rather than a hatchback. Until you look in the rear view mirror, that is. Speaking of which, the small window limits your visibility in the back, making tight parking manoeuvres a bit tricky.

Driving

Mercedes A-ClassAs previously mentioned, the new Mercedes A-Class has a lower driving position, but unless you will buy the AMG version, it will seem quite a tame machine. For starters, the ride is extremely comfortable, and if you stick to the smaller stock wheels and don’t go for the larger, flashier ones, you will not have a sore back at the end of the day. Furthermore, the A’s, except for those with the 4MATIC four wheel drive system, are all front wheel drive, so you will not get the same driving sensation you would get, for example, in the rear wheel drive 1 Series from BMW, but the experience is comparable to the one offered by the Audi A3. Save for the AMG –again – the competition offers better performance figures for the base models.

Reliability

Mercedes A-ClassAided by the maker’s reputation, the A-Class sits on a quite decent position in various surveys concerning build quality and mechanical issues. However, despite the fact that the cabin does feature new materials – soft-touch ones being the most prominent – the lower portion of the vehicle, especially around the central console and other areas not directly visible, feature hard plastic. The downside is that after some time, that may start to become loose and vibrate, producing unwanted noise.

In terms of safety, the Mercedes A-Class scores five stars at the Euro NCAP tests and it comes standard with a host of airbags, ABS and an electronic stability system. An interesting application is called Driver Assist, that assesses via a slew of sensors you current condition and should you display signs of fatigue, it alerts you by an audio signal, in order to prevent you from falling asleep at the wheel.

Running Costs

Mercedes A-ClassThe cheapest Mercedes A-Class is the A180, starting at £20,045. For that price, you’ll get a 4 cylinder, 1.6 litre petrol that develops 122 bhp and boasts a 51.4 mpg fuel economy (mixed cycle). A 6 speed manual comes bundled as standard for that version. For those of you who favor a more efficient mpg figure, the A180 CDI, the entry level diesel engine, represents the most suitable option, as it promises no less than 76.3 mpg. A four cylinder, 1.8 litres, 109 horsepower power plant, connected to a 6 speed manual, is what drives the vehicle. Sure, it’s not the fastest thing on the road, but those of you who will buy it will not do street racing with it. Another bonus is that at 92g/km in CO2 emission, it’s free from road tax.

Finally, the A45 is the most expensive model, as it comes in at a rather steep £37,345, but then again, it offers 360 horsepower versus the 109 of the entry level diesel and it can go from 0 to 62 in less than 4.3 seconds. Also, it will return 40.9 mpg. If you don’t floor it…

Practicality

Mercedes A-ClassAlthough there is plenty of room in the front, the rear passengers might feel a bit uncomfortable, especially if they are tall, as the low roofline and the dipping rear windows offer little headroom. Moreover, regardless of the fact that the front seats have a sculpted back, legroom may be a problem if you plan on leaving on a long journey, so do mind this aspect. Boot space, with the seats up, measures 340 litres, while folding them brings the total to 1,157 litres.

On the upside, the A-Class comes in a five door configuration regardless of trim level, making getting in and out a bit easier than some of the three door rivals.

Need to know more about the new Mercedes A-Class? If so, click here.

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BMW 1 Series

Jan 29 2015

BMW Series 1 UK Car Review

The smallest member of the BMW range, the BMW Series 1, has sold in over two million examples since its introduction on the market, in 2004. Visually, it doesn’t strike as been particularly gorgeous, a trait that has lingered on since the car’s inception, but we’ve seen worse and honestly, it all comes down to personal preference.

BMW Series 1

The latest model features a front end that is instantly recognizable as being part of the BMW family, as the large kidney grille and the wrap-around headlamps give it a distinct appearance. Underneath, the front bumper is characterized by a central lip and two separate air intakes with integrated fog lights.

On the side, the profile has not suffered major alterations, as the design was kept mostly the same, with only minor tweaks to give it a more refreshed appearance. If you look closely at the front wings, you’ll notice a resemblance to the ones on the 3 Series. This is a common process done by the majority of the manufacturers, with the primary goal of unifying design traits and creating stronger brand recognition; although a somewhat commendable effort, individuality is lost to some degree by doing so. The character line running from the front wheel arches up to the tail of the vehicle is strongly profiled, with the door handles sitting inside its crease.

The rear is also familiar, as the tail laps have received a new glass cover and a slightly modified shape. A common complaint about the BMW Series 1 was the relatively small size of the rear window, which – you guessed – has remained almost unchanged. Below, a single exhaust pipe, embedded in the architecture of the bumper. A curious “option” is the ability to remove the model designation etched on the rear of you vehicle, for which you have to pay £0.

BMW Series 1Available in 3 or 5 door variants, the BMW series 1 family also includes the compact size crossover, the X1.

The top of the range M135i receives some appeal by the appearance of an M body kit, which includes new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a dual exhaust setup and badges all around, including on the interior. Exclusive, 18 inch double spoke M design wheels complete the package.

 BMW Series 1 – 5 Point Review

Design

BMW Series 1A pleasantly surprising aspect of the new baby BMW is the interior. Artifices of style are kept to a minimum, leaning towards a minimalistic approach. The dashboard and centre have design traits shared by the bigger brothers, including the 6 Series. Materials have received a most welcomed upgrade, so as to preserve the premium image of the brand; hard plastic surfaces are no longer present, as soft touch versions derivatives have taken its place. Cloth upholstery comes standard, but leather is available as well, for £1,150, as well as aluminium (£220) and fineline Stream wood (£290) trims. The brush shed aluminium trim really does stand out and it gives the cabin a more upscale look, while the wood trim seems a bit out of place.

Driving

BMW Series 1Perhaps its strongest point, driving experience is outstanding. Marching on the fact that it’s the only car of its size in the hatchback segment to offer rear wheel drive, the BMW Series 1 promises to bring the manoeuvrability of its larger brethren in the compact segment. Benefitting from independent suspension, which can be electronically adjusted, it filters the road’s imperfections much better than its previous iteration.

Stability in the corners has also improved, outdoing its closest rivals, the Mercedes A-Class and the Audi A3. Choose the top of the line M135i and you’ll never look back! Moreover, the steering wheel is adjustable, as are the front seats, but a downside to them is the fact that they are not very soft and comfortable, thus unfit for long journeys; on the upside, they provide stellar lateral support.

Reliability

BMW Series 1While the previous version was not bestowed with the cleanest reputation in the automotive world, the latest iteration might wash its sins. Customers that have bought it have reported only minor issues, meaning that the quirks of old have been sorted out.

The car has also received a full 5 star safety certification from Euro NCAP, comes with four airbags as standard and has a start/stop system included, regardless of trim level. Furthermore, more advanced safety features such as auto braking and lane departure warning are available on request.

Running costs

BMW Series 1 offers no less than 32 configurations for the Series 1, with the 114i ES as the least powerful (102 bhp petrol, 49.6/51.4 mpg) at £17,775 and the M135i as the most expensive and most fuel hungry (320 bhp petrol, 35mpg manual/37.7 automatic). The most pocket friendly choice in the range is represented by the 116d Efficient Dynamics, which offers a 116 bhp diesel engine coupled to a manual gearbox, that is capable of retuning up to 74.3 mpg (mixed cycle) and emits 99g of CO2 per km, meaning that it’s tax free.

Practicality

BMW Series 1A host of storage spaces are available in the interior, starting with the roomy glovebox compartment, door bins, a small, concealed space near the steering wheel and a spacious box situated under the (optional) armrest. Boot space measures 360 litres with the seats up and up to 1,200 with the second row folded. The driver and front passenger will be the happiest, as they benefit from enough freedom of movement and space, but the persons sitting in the back might not feel so fortunate.

Legroom is quite restrictive, as the front seats intrude on the comfort of the ones from the back seat and due to the car being rear wheel drive, the centre seat occupant will have to sprawl his or her legs as the transmission tunnel’s footprint is considerable.

Thirsty for more information on the BMW Series 1? Take a look here.

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Porsche 911 Carrera

Jan 24 2015

Porsche 911 UK Car Review

 

Being in production for over 50 years, the Porsche 911 has become an integral part of Porsche, surpassing the title of “a model”, morphing into a true living legend. From the early developmental prototypes presented in 1963 up to the latest leaked pictures of the new generation GT3 RS, the three number code has become one of the most revered in the automotive industry. Undoubtedly a symbol of elitism, unequalled prowess and superior performance capabilities, the slender sports car remains one of the most recognizable in the world.

Porsche 911 Carrera

The visual impression left by a Porsche 11 is a memorable one. In over 5 decades, its overall shape, although it went through an evolutionary process, has remained as recognizable as ever. You won’t confuse a 911 with any other sports car in the world. Slender and aerodynamic, its teardrop shape, with the steeply raked windshield and arched roofline, has changed little over the years. Its wide hips, owing to the larger track tires in the rear, are a visual element that is bound to impress, especially in the 911 Turbo variant, that includes incorporates high flow air intakes.

Frontally, the 911 is characterized by the signature oval headlamps (Bi-Xenon as standard), which include, in some specifications, a LED ring, serving as day-running light. The side indicators also benefit from the same technology. The bonnet has no elements, including power domes or ridges, to interrupt its smooth flow. Actually, the name should be that of booth lid, as underneath, a storage area is located, while the boxer engine resides in the rear of the car. The front bumper has ample air intakes, serving both a functional purpose, but also being a nice aesthetic touch, reinforcing its performance oriented nature.

Porsche 911 CarreraWhile comparing the Porsche 911 to the competition, we couldn’t ignore the fact that the Porsche has the cleanest lines in the class: you won’t see conflicting curves and straight angles – in fact, the most consistent feature that it sports are curves. From the side, the only elements that interrupt smooth metal surface are the door handles, which protrude and create a slightly contrasting feature. The remarkable thing is that even the side skirts are neatly integrated into the design of the car, circumventing the aftermarket parts strapped on to the wrong car aspect – we’ve encountered this “feature” at other manufacturers and it somehow spoils the overall aspect of the vehicle. Plus one for Porsche from our standpoint, but the matter of personal preference may also come into play.

The rear bumper accommodates four exhaust tips, two on either side, flanking the air diffuser. The LED technology rear lamps are slimmer than the ones from the previous generation, but also more stylish, as they give the backside a suppler form.

 

 

Porsche 911 Carrera – 5 Point Review

Design

Porsche 911 CarreraThe interior setup is a blend of luxury and racing DNA. The instrument cluster is arranged in a typical Porsche fashion, with the large tachometer in the very centre and the rest of the dials sitting on the left and right. The three spokes – aluminium, that is – leather wrapped steering wheel allows plenty of grip.

According to specification, paddle shifters made from the same material sit behind the wheel, but a stick shift is also available, for the purists, although this option becomes less present by the day, as most manufacturers decide to ditch it in favour of the semi-automatic alternative. Leather, aluminium, piano black inserts or even carbon fibre can be ordered as interior trim, but if you want to step beyond that, Porsche has an exclusive department catering for those who treasure individuality above all, with the limit being the size of your wallet.

Driving

Porsche 911 CarreraThe Porsche 911 Carrera comes standard with a six cylinder boxer engine, sporting a displacement of 3.4 litres. 350 bhp are directed through the rear wheels, enough to propel the car to 179 mph in 4.8 seconds for the 7 speed manual and to 178mph and 4.6 seconds (or 4.6 Sport + option) for the PDK transmission. Small tweaks, such as the balanced nature of the car, make it a more sensible choice than the Audi R8.

Moreover, although the engine is situated in the rear of the vehicle, the front won’t dip each time you brake, a result of careful engineering of the suspension. Push it a bit and from a tame and fairly easy to drive machine it will transform into a road-eating monster. Linear acceleration and consistent power delivery make it an excellent driver’s car; its mostly aluminium construction does show, making it much more nimble than you would expect, reinforcing Porsche’s reputation of manufacturing quality sports cars.

Reliability

Porsche 911 CarreraBenefitting from a vast experience, Porsche is the embodiment of German quality, so engine malfunctions and other mechanical failures are quite rare. On the other side, putting the car in service will cost you a few pounds, as genuine parts are expensive, but a maintenance service is required by the manufacturer only every two years. However, be prepared to fork around £1000 or in the vicinity of the said sum, but this is the side effect of buying a luxury sports car.

Running costs

The base Porsche 911 Carrera, with the manual transmission, will cost you £73,509, while the model with the PDK option will have a £75,897 price tag. Porsche cites the Carrera’s mileage performance at 31.4 for the manual and 34.4 for the PDK, but real life conditions may differ, especially if you drive in a sporty manner. Sat-nav, leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity and automatic climate control come as standard.

As mentioned, you also get Bi-Xenon headlights as well, even on the base model, but we’d advise against any extra options, as they’re very expensive and the vehicle already offers an excellent value for money, especially if you think about the status symbol it already provides.

Practicality

Porsche 911 CarreraAlthough purchasing the Porsche 911 for its storage space and practicality will most certainly fall on a second or third place according to personal preferences, the sports car is not something to laugh at. The driver and passenger seats provide excellent lateral support and have an array of adjusting positions. The two seats in the rear provide decent room for occupants, but tall persons may feel that it’s a bit too “intimate” as the steep slope of the roofline may be a hindrance, so long journeys in the back are not recommended. The boot space measures 115 litres, which is enough for the occasional bag, but we wouldn’t count on it as heavy hauler – you should try the Cayenne for that!

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