Journalist Christopher Sharp drove 15 cars in a single day at the SMMT Test Day, held at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. The event allowed motoring journalists to test the latest models, from budget Chinese SUVs to a £191,820 Maserati. After eight hours behind the wheel, one car stood out: the Honda Civic eHEV hybrid hatchback, priced at £35,945.
Top Performers
1st: Honda Civic eHEV – £35,945
The Honda Civic eHEV won convincingly, thanks to its outstanding handling and clever powertrain. Sharp noted that few cars handle this well, with precise and responsive steering that inspires confidence. The hybrid system works seamlessly, and the hatchback offers practicality.
2nd: Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – £87,056
The Giulia Quadrifoglio impressed with its nimble feel and fun driving dynamics. Sharp described it as a car that reminds us of what we stand to lose if combustion engines disappear. It's a joyous machine that feels agile and delightful.
3rd: Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid – £18,995
The Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid demonstrated that compact, practical cars with modest engines can be impressive. Sharp rated it highly for its size and efficiency, noting the resurgence of small cars.
Mid-Range Highlights
4th: Maserati Granturismo – £191,820
The most expensive and powerful car on the list, the Maserati Granturismo, was described as an absolute blast with agile feel and sheer excitement. Sharp advised keeping an eye on the low front end.
5th: Kia PV5 – £32,995
The Kia PV5 electric MPV was praised as the best electric car of the day. It handles superbly, is wonderfully practical, and doesn't lean excessively through corners. Ideal for large families.
6th: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – £65,800
The Ioniq 5 N gripped the road tenaciously, with a flat, Terminator-like cornering ability. Sharp wondered how it would fare against a Lancia Rally 2 car.
Other Noteworthy Cars
7th: BMW Z4 – Around £45,000
The only manual gearbox car besides Sharp's own, the BMW Z4 offered a thoroughly enjoyable drive with rewarding involvement. However, Sharp would opt for the Toyota Supra coupé.
8th: Nissan Micra – £21,495
The latest Nissan Micra shares its platform with the Renault 5 but has a more relaxed character. Sharp found it agile and balanced, with distinct personality.
9th: MG Cyberster – Price not specified
An electric two-seat convertible with scissor doors, the MG Cyberster captured the spirit of 1960s/70s motoring. The outer wheels felt soft when pushed hard, but the car was enjoyable overall.
10th: Peugeot 308 SW – £31,195
A non-electric estate car that offers solid performance, low ride height, and a generous boot. Sharp noted that the steering wheel obscured the instrument binnacle for his driving position.
Lower Rankings
11th: Jaecoo 7 – £29,210
Sharp had respect for the Jaecoo 7, branded the 'Temu Range Rover'. It felt reminiscent of an old Land Rover Freelander and handled bends better than the Ford Puma.
12th: Chery Tiggo 9 – £43,105
The Chery Tiggo 9 is a large, plush, and cosy SUV that feels solidly constructed. It's decent but not outstanding.
13th: Jaecoo E5 – £27,505
After a disappointing first impression at Goodwood, the Jaecoo E5 at SMMT showed noticeable improvement in damping and build quality. Not a class leader, but a step forward.
14th: Smart #1 – £29,960
The Smart #1 electric SUV has an enormous touchscreen and regenerative braking that kicks in at inconvenient moments. It's handsome but not as enjoyable to drive as rivals.
15th: Aion V – £36,450
The Aion V is a new Chinese SUV that Sharp couldn't fully assess due to being unable to take it on the Alpine Handling Course. It felt soft and had a generous boot, but left more questions than answers.
Overall, the Honda Civic eHEV emerged as the clear winner, combining exceptional handling, a clever hybrid system, and practicality. Sharp rated it 9 out of 10.
