Car Reviews

Here at OSV we take car reviews seriously. On our website you will find some of the most extensive car reviews on the internet. We work closely with manufacturers and consumer websites to ensure that all our reviews are honest and detailed, enabling you to make an honest, unbiased decision when you’re searching for a new vehicle.

Time Barnes standing near a ford fiesta ST line

A Massive Review of the Ford Fiesta ST-Line: Features/Prices/Comparison

You’d think Ford would be satisfied by having the best-selling car in Britain on its books. The Fiesta can simply do no wrong it seems, but Ford isn’t resting on its laurels and has introduced the Ford Fiesta ‘ST-Line’. ST-Line offers the sporty, desirable image of the heralded ‘ST’ hot-hatch, but with better running costs and a little bit more comfort. ST-Line models are a special trim level from Ford. The cars are brawny looking, but are they as powerful as their appearances suggest? Our motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay, got behind the wheel of the Fiesta ST-Line to discover more…

A Massive Review of the Ford Fiesta ST-Line: Features/Prices/Comparison Read More »

2017 nissan gtr coupe front pic

Massive Review Of The Nissan GTR Coupe: Features/ Prices/ Comparisons

Looking for an objective review of the Nissan GTR Coupe? OSV has got you covered, from engines to lease deals.

The barnstorming new Nissan GTR Coupe is a car that will make you feel supersonic. Ferocious, confident and visually striking, it’s a car capable of humbling even the sportiest Porsche.

For hardcore enthusiasts who want to chuck caution (and everything else) to the wind, this tornado with an engine is worth a look.

One of the quickest cars on earth, the new GTR feels as though it’s been injected with rocket fuel. It might not be super car aristocracy, but if the thought of getting behind the wheel of a monstrous upstart that is here to challenge the status quo of super cars appeals to you, join OSV as we take a closer look at what the new Nissan GTR Coupe is all about.

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Toyota Verso Review

Massive Review Of The Toyota Verso

The new Toyota Verso is an MPV that offsets its relatively high purchase price with family-friendly running costs. It’s practical, reliable and well-built. In many ways, it’s the essential car for modern families in 2017. The ability to fit seven people is one of this cars strengths. It’s not the best looking MPV on the market, but it’s usable and thoroughly accomplished and won’t give you any hassle as you carry out your chores on a full or light load. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Toyota Verso.

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Tim Barnes Clay Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line

A Massive Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line

It’s common knowledge that the Ford Focus is a great car to drive. Sharp handling and great driver feedback make for a fun experience behind the wheel – at ‘ST’ level, it’s an absolute riot. The problem is, not everybody wants to drive fast and use up lots of fuel, and not everyone wants a firm suspension. Ford has recognised this, and as a result is now offering the ‘ST-Line’ trim level, so your car can look like an ST, but drink fuel slowly, and with small sips.

A Massive Review of the Ford Focus ST-Line Read More »

bmw 5 series review

A Massive Review of the 2017 BMW 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series is King of all it surveys. From atop the executive car castle, it might be feeling a little bit worried, though. Pretenders to its throne have strengthened and gathered at the gates to compete, so the 5 Series has had to up its game in a bid to stay on top. The question is, has it done enough to fight off the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6? Has BMW managed to build yet another fantastic saloon?

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Tim Barnes Clay Review Of Kia Optima

A Massive Review of the Kia Optima PHEV

Some say that electric-powered cars are the future, but until we’ve got rechargeable vehicles capable of long-range, we’ve got motors like this – the Kia Optima PHEV. Part petrol, part plug-in electric, the South Korean hybrid is aiming to impress – backed up by that famous Kia warranty. Go back 20 years or so, and the Kia stable looked much different to how it does today. Uninspiring, low-tech, poorly made machines seduced nobody in the car market, but everything’s different now. The new Kia Optima PHEV shows how far Kia has moved on. A stylish, modern saloon rammed with all the gadgets you need and utilising a powertrain that is famously difficult to configure. It’s very much the face of modern Kia, but is there a place for it on the motoring market?

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Audi A4 Avant Estate front

Massive Review Of The Audi A4 Avant Estate: Prices/ Features/ Comparison

Looking for an objective review of the new Audi A4 Avant Estate? OSV have got you covered, from engines to lease deals.

The new Audi A4 Avant Estate is one of the most upmarket and stylish estate cars on the road right now. In fact, it’s arguably one of the most upmarket estate cars there has yet been. It’s got the typical Audi touch of luxury, and it can also boast a very usable interior.

The estate class is one that is rising in popularity, its rise coinciding with the slow demise of the saloon car. This A4 Avant is one of the most expensive ones available, and goes head to head with its big German rivals. If you want something a bit more affordable, check out our review on the new Ford Mondeo Estate.

OSV takes a closer look at what this premium offering is all about with our 2014 Audi A4 Estate review.

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Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid

Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid; Which is best?

When looking at plugin hybrids, it’s hard to know which ones are best. After all, there is so much to think about.

However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. And hopefully we can help with the decision process.
In this article, we are going to compare two luxury plug in hybrids; the Audi Q7 and the Porsche Cayenne on a number of things including price, running costs and their green credentials.

Audi Q7 e-tron vs. Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid; Which is best? Read More »

BMW i3 electric car driving with mountains in the background

BMW i3 vs. Mercedes-Benz B250e

Choosing an electric car can be difficult, especially if you haven’t bought one before. Where do you start? That’s where we come in. In this article we are going to compare two popular electric city cars; the BMW i3 and the Mercedes-Benz B250e on everything from running costs to practicality so you can be as informed as possible when it comes to making a decision. It should be noted that in this article we’ll be looking at the fully electric i3, not the i3 with the Range Extender.

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Renault Zoe vs. Nissan Leaf

Renault Zoe vs. Nissan Leaf

When you’re looking for a new car, you are naturally going to compare a few to see which one is best.
This is obviously important, you need to be sure that you are making the right decision. Particularly when it comes to electric cars. Choosing an electric car is a big decision, particularly if you are buying an electric car for the first time.
So, in this article, we are going to compare two extremely popular electric city cars, the Renault Zoe and the Nissan Leaf and see which is better in terms of price, running costs, and reliability.

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Review Of The 2017 Aston Martin Vantage

Massive Review Of The Aston Martin Vantage: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

Looking for an objective review of the new Aston Martin Vantage? OSV has you covered, from engines to lease deals.

If you like cars, you’ll love the new Aston Martin Vantage. It’s for the ages. Sporting its instantly recognisable looks that will never get old, it’s powered by a muscular V8 engine that boasts serious performance.
This is one of those classic sports cars that we all want to drive at least once in our lifetime. And if you can afford it, owning one of these babies is just magic. It’s fun to drive, stunning to look at, and it’s got oodles of prestige and badge appeal.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Aston Martin Vantage review.

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2017 Review Of The Honda Civic Hatchback

Massive Review Of The Honda Civic Hatchback: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Honda Civic Hatchback looks a bit different to the more conventionally-styled hatchback’s in this sector. It comes with an excellent track record of reliability, and makes a strong alternative to the usual suspects in this market – the Ford Focus et cetera.

Over the years, the Civic has cultivated a reputation for being affordable and dependable. It’s a wholesome family car you can rely on to get you guys from A to B without any hassle, and it’s always been a joy to ride in. In 2016, it continued to do what it’s always done best. This means that making your mind up over which hatchback to buy is going to be tricky!

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Honda Civic Hatchback review.

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2017 Review Of The Ford Kuga Estate

Massive Review Of The Ford Kuga Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Ford Kuga Estate has a lot of strengths that buyers in this market are looking for: It’s comfortable, practical and easy to drive. Visibility of the road ahead is awesome thanks to a high driving position, while space inside seems to know no bounds. You can all stretch out and travel with ease.

The Kuga emerged on these grey shores in 2012, and like most Ford’s has gone on to be a success. The competition in this sector is stiff, though, so if you’re unsure we’ve got a comparison section to help you weigh up your options.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Ford Kuga Estate review.

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Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG Hatchback review

Review of Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG Hatchback: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA Class AMG Hatchback is based on the CLA Coupe and the A-Class hatch but is a high performance variant of the GLA small 4×4. Although the family it joins is already quite extensive, there is still space for this one. Despite its relatively high-rise body, it’s actually a really fast car.

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Review Of The Volvo V60 Estate

Massive Review Of The Volvo V60 Estate: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The new Volvo V60 Estate looks much better than previous attempts by the Swedish brand at estate cars. The boxy look has been replaced by a much more modern design language so that the V60 can offer both substance and style, while competing with its fashionable rivals.

Substance is plentiful. There is a lot of safety kit on offer, rafters of interior space, and build quality is second to none. And, as ever with a Volvo, it’s also reliable.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Volvo V60 Estate review.

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Review Of The BMW X6 SUV

Massive Review Of The BMW X6 SUV: Features/ Prices/ Comparison

The surly new BMW X6 SUV is as gigantic, bold and brash as ever. The styling might be questionable, but there’s no doubt about the scintillating performance and driving experience.

The X6 has had its fair share of critics in the past. Some (many) have questioned the point of a coupe-like SUV that’s more expensive and yet less useful than the X5. But despite the big question marks, the X6 has always sold well. It’s premium, luxurious and insanely fast.
OSV takes a closer look at what this desirable SUV is all about with our BMW X6 review.

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Toyota Rav4 Review

Review of the Toyota Rav4: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Toyota Rav4 SUV is ideal if you need plenty of interior space but don’t want to pay over the odds when it comes to running a hefty family car.

Among the cost-saving perks of this chunky but stylish estate is its five-year warranty, which sets it apart from its rivals who continue to offer the bog-standard three years. The Rav4 is also hugely practical and can boast a massive boot to cope with all your shopping and camping equipment. It comes with a generous amount of standard kit, too.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Toyota Rav4 Estate review.

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Grey Porsche Cayman Coupe driving on street

Review Of The Porsche Cayman Coupe: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Porsche Cayman Coupe is one of the best cars to drive at this price point. It also looks like a dream and doesn’t cost as much to run as you might look like. It’s faster than the 911 but 25K cheaper. Just two seats, but that’s all you need to have some balls-out fun in the new Cayman. Cheaper than the 718 Boxster, it’s affordable but formidable. If you’ve always wanted to let your hair down in a rapid Porsche and grin like a Cheshire cat but have never been able to afford it, there has never been a better chance than now. This a pleasure machine that doesn’t cost the earth. OSV takes a look at this absolute steal with our Porsche Cayman review…

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Volkswagen CC Saloon Review

Review of the Volkswagen CC Saloon Review

The new Volkswagen CC 4dr Coupe Saloon is essentially an improved version of the Volkswagen Passat CC. Restyled with added luxury, space and comfort, it’s got a lot to offer families who want to add a bit of elegance to their day to day travels.

The VW Passat was already sensible and practical, but it needed a makeover. Here, the CC boasts a sleeker shape that is much more exciting to look at, while its interior is also more contemporary. It’s very “now”.

However, the CC has also retained everything that made the CC so sellable in the first place – which was, of course, its usefulness.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Volkswagen CC Saloon review.

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Review of the Ford Focus Estate

A massive review of the Ford Focus Estate

The Ford Focus Estate is one of a raft of cars that are vying for your cash in a sector that doesn’t shift huge numbers. For any car to standout, it’s got to be the absolute bees knees. One clear thing the Focus has going for it is that it’s a lot more fun to drive than its rivals, and with buyers wanting more style and entertainment from their compact Estate’s these days, this could be a really useful selling point.

But an Estate also has to wow you with its boot space and overall practicality. This car might be one of the most fun to drive cars in its class, but how big is its boot? OSV takes a closer look with our Ford Focus Estate review, including prices, spec’s and comparisons with similar cars – including the Volkswagen Golf Estate.

A massive review of the Ford Focus Estate Read More »

Audi A1 hatchback in red parked

Review of the Audi A1 Hatchback

The new three-door Audi A1 Hatchback is one of the best small cars on the market right now. It’s crammed with all the latest technology, looks fantastic, and boasts the classiest interior in this sector.

It also has fantastic resale values and is a second-hand car of choice for many young people in the UK. This means that after three years you can move it on while recouping around 50% of what you paid for it.

Although it asks for a £4,000 premium over the Ford Fiesta, it isn’t a price that leaves a sour taste in one’s mouth. Rather, the A1 fills all the same roles as the Ford – but it does everything better. The driving experience is pleasant, and it’s cheap to run. But more than anything, it’s desirable.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Audi A1 Hatchback review.

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Review of the Jeep Renegade

Review of the Jeep Renegade 4×4: Features / Price / Comparison

The new Jeep Renegade 4×4 sports unique, chunky looks, and, despite its fairly compact dimensions, is a tough cookie off-road. It copes well with a bit of rough and tumble but is a bit uninspired on the tarmac.

It is, however, the car to look at if you want something a bit different for your family but don’t want to spend over the odds.

Based on the Fiat 500X, the characterful Renegade stands out in the small crossover sector thanks to its pretty-yet-tough styling. It’s an impressive image that’s backed up by some warrior-like ability on rougher terrain, helped in no small part by a solid range of punchy engines, all of which are impressive.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Jeep Renegade 4×4 review.

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Ford Fiesta hatchback in red driving on the road

Ford Fiesta vs. Mazda 2 vs. Vauxhall Corsa

When you’re looking for a new car, you’re probably going to be looking at a few in the same sector to see how they compare in terms of reliability, practicality etc.

It’s important that you do this so you know that you are choosing the right car for your needs.
So we are going to take three similar cars, the Ford Fiesta, the Mazda 2 and the Vauxhall Corsa, and compare them on factors that you will be taking into consideration when choosing your next car.

Ford Fiesta vs. Mazda 2 vs. Vauxhall Corsa Read More »

Blue Nissan Micra hatchback on a white background

Review of the Nissan Micra: Features / Price / Comparison

Former European Car of the Year the Nissan Micra Hatchback is priced low, boasts a roomy interior and offers an easy going driving experience. And thanks to excellent all-round visibility, it makes a fab choice for young new drivers who are a tad unsure of themselves. It’s easy to see the road ahead, and easy to park.

The Micra is a familiar face, having been around for over thirty years. Buyers love its cheery disposition, usefulness and low running costs. As such, it’s built up a loyal fan base that it’s adding to with each new release. The problem it faces is that its rivals have got even better. Is this one worth your money? OSV takes a look with our Nissan Micra Hatchback review.

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SEAT Mii vs Skoda CitiGo vs Citroen C1

SEAT Mii vs. Skoda CitiGo vs. Citroen C1

When looking at new cars, you’re going to look at a few in the same sector to compare a variety of things such as reliability, running costs, safety etc.

It is important that you do this to ensure that you are suitably educated when it comes to choosing the car that you are going to buy or lease. So, we’re going to look at three very similar cars, the SEAT Mii, the Skoda CitiGo and the Citroen C1, and compare them on important factors you should be looking at when choosing a new car.
Firstly, let’s look at what each model excels in…

SEAT Mii vs. Skoda CitiGo vs. Citroen C1 Read More »

The best hybrid cars for company car tax

Is the Toyota Yaris a good car?

Described by OSV’s very own Will Titterington, the Toyota Yaris is a ‘cheap and cheerful small car that is practical, reliable, and cute to look at’, and he’s hard to please.

So, our very own loves the Toyota Yaris, but is it really as good as he says it is?

We take a look at whether the Toyota Yaris is a good car, and whether it’s right for you. Let’s start with reliability because let’s be honest, you don’t want to spend money on a car only to spend double that on repairs…

Is the Toyota Yaris a good car? Read More »

The best hybrid cars for company car tax

Review of the Lexus IS Saloon: Features / Price / Comparison

The Lexus IS Saloon is aimed at any of you who want something a bit different in a sector dominated by the powerhouse German brands who, let’s face it, can be overly predicable. It’s strikingly designed, cheap to run and well worth a closer inspection.

To convince you to take the plunge on this and not a Mercedes, an Audi or a BMW, the IS has to have something going for it other than being different, though, right? Maybe.

But maybe not.

Audi, Mercedes and BMW saloons have a lot in common, with very few features that set them apart from one another. The IS, however, is ready to offer you something bolder. As such, it’s dropped all diesel’s from its engine range in an act of heresy that already tells you this is a bold car for a bold buyer.

OSV finds out more with our Lexus IS Saloon review …

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Tim Barnes Leaning on a BMW 740Ld xDrive

A Massive Review of the BMW 740Ld xDrive: Features / Price / Comparison

BMW’s backbone has always been its saloons. The compact 3-series is a huge seller, as is the middle-management hero 5-series, but the 7-series is another level, and represents the pinnacle of BMW. It’s now in its sixth generation, and has been a bit of a star previously, having featured in a Bond film and the famous ‘Transporter’ series of films. This new BMW 740Ld xDrive we’re testing packs a powerful diesel engine under the bonnet and combines this with extensive tech as well as the ‘xDrive’ all-wheel drive system for winter weather security. It’s also the longer version, giving occupants in the back extra leg room to go with their luxury surroundings. With rivals providing such stiff competition in the luxury car market, can BMW’s fresh super-saloon go toe-to-toe with the best of them? Let’s find out…

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Mercedes C250 Polar White front view

Why the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is better than the Lexus IS

Upon its launch, the Mercedes-Benz C Class Saloon was poised to rival the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series and has achieved its aim pretty spectacularly. The C-Class has received rave reviews across the board but there was one outlier it might not have been expecting to compete with. The new Lexus IS was originally designed to rival the BMW, but quickly became a serious competitor against the C-Class.

However, while it has given the C-Class a run for its money, it has failed to knock it off the top spot. I explain why exactly I think the Mercedes-Benz C Class Saloon is better than the Lexus IS. The C-Class was awarded a 5 star rating by the Euro NACP, reaffirming Mercedes’ reputation as some of the safest cars on our roads. Scoring 92% for adult occupation protection, 84% for child occupant protection and 77% for pedestrian safety…

Why the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is better than the Lexus IS Read More »

Five reasons why the Nissan Qashqai is better than the Kia Sportage

Five reasons the Nissan Qashqai is better than the Kia Sportage

The Nissan Qashqai was one of the first cars to popularise the ‘crossover’ genre. The genre, along with the Qashqai, has since become a huge success.

It wasn’t long before the Qashqai had rivals, and strong ones at that. One of its main competitors is the Kia Sportage, the car that put the South Korean brand back on the map. While the Sportage and the Qashqai have both stolen the hearts of many, including ours, there can only be one winner. And, for me, it’s the Qashqai.

Let’s take a look at the reasons why I think the Nissan Qashqai is better than the Kia Sportage. When I found out that the Qashqai had scored highly (or low) on its CO2 emissions, I knew we were onto a winner. The two-wheel-drive 1.5 litre diesel holds the lowest CO2 rating at just 99g/km…

Five reasons the Nissan Qashqai is better than the Kia Sportage Read More »

Ford S-Max Vignale MPV

Ford S-Max Vignale Review: Features / Price / Comparison

Ford are marketing the Vignale as more of a desirable sub-model than just another trim line, but has the Ford S-Max Vignale MPV got enough to convince you that it’s worth the extra premium?

The biggest problem this large family car faces is that Ford are marketing it as a luxurious product. Problem one is that this means it will be competing for your cash with the likes of Mercedes and BMW, while problem two is that it has to be luxurious. And a luxurious family Ford sounds a bit like an oxymoron.

Scepticism aside, the Vignale gives you access to a posh dealer experience, as well as some sophisticated – and even luxurious add-ons – as well as classier styling. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Ford S-Max Vignale review…

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BMW X5 M 4x4 review

Review of the BMW X5 M 4×4: Features / Price / Comparison

The brand new BMW X5M is a muscular proposition. In every way imaginable, it’s an astonishing engineering achievement. Straight-line acceleration is outstanding, the handling is sharp as a whip, and the rather pumped-up styling befits the cars’ character.

If indeed you like your cars big, quick and brash, this one has plenty to offer. It is a tad on the expensive side, and will cost more than the X5 40d M Sport, but it’s a large 4×4 that fares well against its rivals in its class. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our BMW X5 4×4 review. The car is powered by an almighty twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine that can rocket you from rest to 62mph in just 4.2 seconds. This makes it one of the fastest cars in this market. It maxes out at 155mph, which is fairly standard of an 4×4 such as this, but if you could remove the electronic limiter, it’s almost scary to think how fast this X5M could actually go.

Review of the BMW X5 M 4×4: Features / Price / Comparison Read More »

Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet review

Review of the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet: Features / Price / Comparison

The new open-top Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet gives the 911 class a different dimension. A magical convertible that gives you a chance to match the warmth of the sun caressing your face with the the thrill of driving, it’s got all the equipment to be a runaway success.

The equipment in question starts with a “questionable” turbocharged 3.0-litre engine. While the idea of a turbocharged 911 might have some critics biting hard on their biros, the engine here suits the car’s character to a tee. The edge it has over its rivals is that it’s more efficient, which means you can spend a bit more time on the open road and less time at the filling stations.

Open-air thrills are, of course, provided by the convertible roof, while the car’s usability means that it’s also a solid everyday choice. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet review.

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Red Vauxhall Corsa driving with woodland in background

4 features you will love about the 2016 Vauxhall Corsa

The ever-popular Vauxhall Corsa was back this year with its fourth generation. Coming with a new chassis and a fresher suspension set up, the Corsa gave its rivals, the Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo a serious run for their money. But what is just so special about the latest Vauxhall Corsa? In this article, I’m going to talk you through the top features that I think make the Corsa stand out from the rest.It should be noted, before I start, that not all of these products come as standard, and you may have to pay extra for them. If in doubt, contact a dealership or your vehicle broker and they will be able to provide additional information. One of the first things that caught my eye with the new Corsa was the amount of technology that came with the car…

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MG6 Magnette Saloon review

Review of the MG Motor UK MG6 Magnette Saloon: Features / Price / Comparison

Derived from the MG6 five-door hatchback, MG Motor UK MG6 Magnette Saloon is, according to the promotional material, entirely British. It was conceived here, designed here, engineered here – and apparently even built here. It’s as British as fish and chips. Or rain during a caravan holiday with your wife and mother-in-law. Except it isn’t. Not really. And this is where some of the criticism has come in. Although the car was certainly styled here in Britain, it was actually built all the way over in China by the same company which owns MG Rover. Then, it was packed off to our green and pleasant land where a geezer fitted an engine. It isn’t really British, and therefore expectations should be managed better. The benefit of a car such as this being exported over, though, is that it’s going to be cheap. Cheap – but any good? Is this just another substandard product that is priced so low you don’t even care if it falls apart while you’re filling up several shopping bags in Tesco? OSV takes a closer look to find out with our MG Motor UK MG6 Magnette Saloon review.

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Review of the BMW i3 Hatchback

A Massive Review of the BMW i3: Features / Prices / Comparison

Originally known as the ‘MCV’ in development, 2011 saw the unveiling of the BMW i3 concept car, and two years later BMW’s first all-electric hatchback was on the market. With little in the way of styling changes, the i3 is a futuristic looking car and was the first mass-production car to use carbon-fibre reinforced plastic in its construction. Now in 2016, BMW i – the eco-conscious sub-brand of BMW – has added extra range to the conceptual little i3 in a bid to attract more buyers and dispel a little more range anxiety from the minds of drivers…

A Massive Review of the BMW i3: Features / Prices / Comparison Read More »

Kia Cee'd Sportswagen on the road with headlights on

Ultimate Kia Cee’d 2016 Sportswagon Review: Features / Price / Comparison

The Kia Cee’d Sportswagon is ideal if you’re on the lookout for an Estate that is well-equipped, usable, and sensibly-sized. It comes with the brand’s outstanding warranty, and gives rivals such as the Ford Focus Estate a very good run for their money.

Indeed, standing out in the impressive mid-sized family Estate sector is not easy. Quality cars here are plentiful. But among the Kia’s strengths are its handsome looks, and that seven-year/100-000 mile warranty which no other vehicle gets close to. It’s also pleasingly affordable.
OSV takes a closer look with our Kia Cee’d Sportswagon review.

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Red Toyota Hilux on the road

A massive review of the 2016 Toyota Hilux

Toyota Hilux – it’s a legendary name in the world of pick-up trucks. Well, the original tough guy pick-up truck is back. Originally launched way back in 1968, it’s been twelve long years since the last fresh Toyota Hilux arrived, and with the pick-up market really evolving in the last year or so, the pressure is on Toyota to deliver a quality product that can go up against some improved and developed rivals. It also has to fend off predators that are yet to emerge – Mercedes-Benz and Renault both have their development teams working on pick-ups – so the legendary Toyota Hilux has to be prepared for the future too…

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Toyota Aygo X-Wave Hatchback

Review Of The Toyota Aygo X-Wave Hatchback: Features / Price / Comparison

City cars these days have to look good in order to have a broad appeal, and the Toyota Aygo X-Wave Hatchback certainly boasts a pretty but assertive face. Its distinctive styling is only part of its charm, though; it’s bigger than last time around, which makes it more useful, and it’s also really economical.

There isn’t a huge amount of power available, but if you’re on the lookout for something that’s small but practical, doesn’t cost much to buy or run, and handles consummately, this super-compact and super cheerful city car is worth a closer look. OSV investigates with our Toyota Aygo X-Wave Hatchback review.

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Aston Martin DB9

Ultimate Aston Martin DB9 Coupe Review: Features / Price / Comparison

The Aston Martin DB9 Coupe is a charismatic, rapid and classy roadster that offers scintillating pace and performance.

It’s technically a Grand Tourer, but sports dynamic coupe looks that are a match for its rivals in this market. If you like your engine notes vocal and raspy, the V12 unit here is always on song, but it settles down if you just want to cruise long-distance. Beautifully built and adorned in a typically gorgeous handmade interior, the car has got bags of desirability.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Aston Martin DB9 Coupe review.

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Hyundai i20

Ultimate Review Of The Hyundai i20 Coupe: Features / Price / Comparison

If you’re young and on the lookout for a new set of wheels that aren’t going to cost you a fortune, the Hyundai i20 Coupe is a very desirable motor that sports some impressive good looks.

Based on the standard 5-door Hyundai i20, the Coupe variant is aimed squarely at the 18-30 age group. Performance is good enough, on the whole the suspension setup makes for a comfortable ride. And although it’s not as much fun to drive as, say, the Ford Focus, it’s got a bit more sex appeal.
OSV takes a closer look with our Hyundai i20 Coupe review.

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Mercedes E-Class Estate

The Ultimate Review Of The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate: Features / Price / Comparison

Mercedes have really raised the stakes with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, because this is the most stylish car of this type that they’ve ever rolled out. Over the past two decades, it’s had its rivals in knots as they figure out how it manages to merge practicality with luxury so effortlessly. And it’s just taken things up another notch.
Oozing badge appeal and prestige, the E-Class Estate would seem to have it all. But if you’re on the hunt for a premium Estate that also drives like a dream, you might want to take a closer look at the BMW 5 Series Touring. Or, if you fancy something a little bit more affordable, the Skoda Superb Estate represents a decent wild card choice. OSV takes a look at all three in our Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate review to help you make a better buying decision today. Let’s take a look.

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Vauxhall Mokka Review by Tim Barnes-Clay

The Ultimate 2016 Vauxhall Mokka Tech Line 1.6 CDTi (110PS) ecoFLEX Review: Features / Price / Comparison

The Vauxhall Mokka has been around since 2013 and was thrust into the UK’s money-making and rapidly swelling compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment.

When it was launched, the Griffin-badged motor company’s aim was for the adroitly styled, down-to-earth and well equipped vehicle to attract youthful motorists with a dynamic lifestyle.
That goal may have shifted somewhat as there are plenty of older people behind the wheel of the Mokka now. And much of that has to do with the ever more efficient and green power units Vauxhall is lowering into the model’s engine bay.
The latest, on test here, is the 110ps 1.6 CDTi diesel, in Tech Line, ecoFLEX, front wheel drive guise, costing only £18,614.

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Vauxhall Meriva

Vauxhall Meriva Review

If you’re driving an MPV you probably aren’t looking to engage in stoplight drag races. Even so, the Vauxhall Meriva provides enough scoot for mum (or dad) to get the kids to school swiftly. The former 1.7-litre CDTi diesel engine has been replaced by the 1.6 CDTi diesel scooped from the Zafira Tourer. This Euro-6 compliant mill cranks out 136PS and 320Nm of torque at 2,000rpm – more than enough power for a family wagon. If you ever do decide to take the kiddies to the race track, the mini will sprint to 60mph from a standstill in under nine seconds. In addition to the new oil burner, the Meriva’s carryover petrol engine range (1.4 100PS, 1.4T 120 & 140PS) remains and is now fully Euro-6 compliant.

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