A journalist recently put seven automatic cars through their paces in a single day, with prices ranging from £19,000 to £125,000. The clear winner was the Honda Civic eHEV, a hybrid family hatchback that impressed with its driving dynamics and practicality.
Seventh Place: Chery Tiggo 9
The Chery Tiggo 9, a large plug-in hybrid SUV from the Chinese manufacturer, was ranked seventh. Priced at £43,105, it offers a spacious and comfortable interior with a large touchscreen. On the road, it is inoffensive but lacks engaging steering feel and acceleration feels stately rather than swift. The ride is comfortable over bumps, but the car is not designed for spirited driving. Rating: 6/10.
Sixth Place: Jaecoo 7
The Jaecoo 7, dubbed the 'Temu Range Rover' by The Economist, came sixth. At £29,210, it is a regular on best-seller charts. Behind the wheel, it proved surprisingly solid, reminiscent of a Land Rover Freelander. Its short wheelbase gives it an agile character, and steering offers more feedback than the Tiggo 9. The engine provides decent pull, and brakes are adequate. Rating: 7/10.
Fifth Place: Peugeot 308 SW
The Peugeot 308 SW, a hybrid estate priced at £31,195, took fifth place. It felt balanced with impressive engine response and good feedback through steering and suspension. However, a peculiar quirk emerged: the steering wheel obscured the instrument display when adjusted to the preferred driving position. This issue can be resolved by altering the seating position but was a notable annoyance. Rating: 7/10.
Fourth Place: Maserati Granturismo
The Maserati Granturismo, the most expensive car on the list at £125,000, came fourth. With a three-litre V6 engine producing over 450bhp and a weight of just over 1,600kg, it delivers razor-sharp gearbox responses and a thrilling driving experience. However, concerns about the low-slung nose detract slightly. Rating: 7.5/10.
Third Place: Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid
From the priciest to the most affordable, the Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid at £18,995 secured third place. Despite a modest 1.2-litre petrol engine, hybrid assistance provides impressive forward motion. It is a joy to drive, with a character that encourages fun behind the wheel. Every journalist who drove it left with a smile. Rating: 8/10.
Second Place: Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, priced at £87,056, took second place. Powered by a six-cylinder engine with 520bhp and an optional Akrapovic exhaust, it delivers a thrilling soundtrack and sharp handling. It is a compact four-door saloon that can accommodate four passengers and luggage while providing a pure driving experience. Rating: 8.5/10.
First Place: Honda Civic eHEV
The Honda Civic eHEV, at £35,945, was the clear winner. This hybrid family hatchback impressed with its remarkable handling, precise steering, and confidence-inspiring cornering. It corners with minimal understeer and offers a scalpel-like driving experience. Practicality is also strong, with room for five passengers. While it may not match an SUV's versatility, it meets most drivers' needs. Rating: 9/10.
