John Redfern
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Freelance Writer and Editor for @Editorial_MR. GoMW Breakthrough Blogger winner. Fan of muscle cars and woodie wagons. On bsky, too
Articles by John Redfern
Geely celebrates 40th anniversary with UK special offers
Geely customers can take advantage of free servicing, and even win a trip to China, as the marque celebrates a big birthday. November 2026 will see Geely mark its 40th anniversary. The company started out as a manufacturer of refrigerator parts, located in Taizhou, Zhejiang. In 1994, Geely moved into motorcycle construction, and was responsible for building China’s first scooter. Finally, it entered the automotive industry in 1997, becoming the country’s first privately-owned car manufacturer.
SEMA Show: Nissan reveals turbocharged Sentra Spec-V concept
Nissan has unveiled an exciting new concept car at the 2026 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. The 2026 Nissan Sentra Spec-V Concept pays homage to the 35th anniversary of the legendary two-door Sentra SE-R, which debuted in 1991. A Spec-V version of the fifth-generation Sentra SE-R was launched in 2002, although the model range has drifted away from tuning and performance influences in more recent iterations.
You can now configure your restomod classic car using AI
Classic car specialist Auto RARA has launched an artificial intelligence-powered virtual design studio. The Derbyshire-based restoration and restomod company has developed its own Auto RARA Studio, which allows car owners to visualise the possibilities for their next project. Beginning with a set of reference photos, and an assessment of the car’s current condition, a virtual 3D version of the vehicle is then created in Auto RARA Studio.
BMW factories have moved one million cars without drivers
More than one million cars have now travelled through BMW production plants without the need for a driver. Four BMW factories across the globe now make use of Automated Driving In-Plant (AFW) technology. This allows completed vehicles to be guided through these sites without needing a human driver. Mini Plant Oxford is the latest factory to introduce AFW capabilities, which means finished cars can navigate autonomously around its historic production halls.
How to transport your pumpkins safely this Halloween
Unsplash – Priscilla Du Preez With just a few days left until Halloween, time is running out to pick the perfect pumpkin for carving. Along with country music, Black Friday sales and SUV ownership, the concept of Halloween as a month-long event is seemingly another North American import that is here to stay. The ritual often includes a trip to one of the many pumpkin patches across Britain, providing family fun or the perfect backdrop for social media content.
Over half of animal-related car crashes happen in darkness
Almost 2,000 people across Britain have been injured in road-traffic collisions with animals during the past five years, according to new research. Volvo examined Department for Transport (DfT) data covering the period from 2021 to 2025. It discovered that 1,939 individuals were killed or injured in animal-related accidents during that period. Of the 1,503 collisions involving animals that were recorded, just over half (54 percent) occurred in the hours of darkness.
New 217mph Aston Martin Valhalla Spider: first photos and details
Aston Martin has announced an open-top version of its mid-engined Valhalla supercar, due to arrive in 2027. Making its global debut at this weekend’s 2026 Concours at Wynn Las Vegas, the Valhalla Spider packs the same 1,079hp powertrain as its coupe counterpart. The plug-in hybrid setup combines a trio of electric motors with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre flat-plane V8 engine. These can propel the Valhalla Spider to an electronically limited 217mph, even without its roof in place.
New Mazda CX-5 gains built-in Google Gemini AI tech
Mazda has announced the introduction of Google Gemini technology to the latest version of its top-selling CX-5. The popular family SUV will gain Gemini for CX-5 models equipped with built-in Google software, across supported European markets and languages. Once enabled by the driver, Google Gemini replaces the existing Google Assistant system. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to deliver more natural voice commands.
Used EV buyers want at least 300 miles of battery range
Buyers considering a used electric car typically want a vehicle that can cover upwards of 300 miles when fully charged. The finding comes from a survey for Startline Used Car Tracker, which questioned car dealerships across the UK. Some 38 percent of dealers reported that 300 miles was the average battery range demanded by potential EV customers. Close to a quarter (23 percent) said that buyers expected the ability to cover more than 400 miles in an electric car.
IndyCar announces new international race in Spain for 2027
The NTT IndyCar Series will make a historic debut in Spain during the 2027 season, with a brand-new race announced in Barcelona. With the unstoppable dominance of five-time IndyCar Champion Alex Palou, an international race in his home country has been rumored in recent months. Now, championship organizers have confirmed that the inaugural IndyCar Grand Prix of Barcelona will take place in July next year, to be held on the renowned Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya road course.
New Chinese brands are dominating the car leasing charts
Chinese manufacturers have secured a strong foothold in the UK car leasing market, according to new data for 2026. Select Car Leasing found that new-entrant Chinese marques account for three of its top 10 cars and family SUVs supplied to customers this year. At the top of the leasing chart is the Jaecoo 7 SUV, which claims 25.98 percent of the company’s top 10 most-delivered vehicles this year so far.
Audi is first car manufacturer to offer full Spotify integration
Owners of selected Audi models will soon be able to use the Spotify music app without the need for a smartphone. Instead of having to connect a mobile device via Bluetooth or a cable, or using a standalone app, owners can access Spotify directly from their Audi’s infotainment system. Audi is the first car manufacturer to offer this technology. It was also one of the first marques to add integrated Apple Music in 2022.
Bentley reveals spec for Torcal First Edition electric SUV
As the first fully electric model in Bentley’s history, the Torcal SUV caused quite a stir when it was revealed last month. Following the Torcal’s global debut in London, Bentley has now released details of the high-spec First Edition, with even more equipment than the luxury SUV offers as standard. Bentley’s design team in Crewe has curated an array of features and finishes that would typically only be available separately when configuring a Torcal.
Budget incentives would make 61% of drivers go electric sooner
The majority of UK motorists could bring forward the purchase of an electric car if the autumn Budget includes fresh EV incentives. That is the finding of new research, which found 61 percent of drivers are open to buying an EV sooner if the Chancellor announces more financial support for electric cars next week.
Skoda is giving away free designs for 3D-printed car accessories
Skoda has launched an array of 3D-printed accessories – and owners can download the instructions to make them for free. The Czech manufacturer is well known for its range of ‘Simply Clever’ inventions, such as hidden umbrellas and an ice scraper inside the fuel flap. Now Skoda is allowing owners to personalise their vehicles by making their own accessories, using 3D printing blueprints from a dedicated Printables website.
94% of EV drivers have saved money by going electric
An overwhelming majority of electric car owners believe their decision to drive an EV is saving them money. Fully 94 percent of those questioned by the not-for-profit Electric Vehicle Association England (EVA) said they had experienced lower costs with an EV compared to running a petrol or diesel car. In addition, 93 percent said they planned to choose another EV for their next vehicle. And the same percentage would recommend an electric car to their friends and family.
Hyundai reveals Monochrome version of hot Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N performance sedan is now available with a stealthier Monochrome appearance package. Said to be inspired by Hyundai’s motorsport heritage, the Elantra N Monochrome ditches bold colors for an understated look. It follows demand from customers for a version of the compact four-door with a more restrained aesthetic, as opposed to the regular model with its contrasting bright red details.
Government announces new rules to tackle rip-off private parking
UK motorists are set to gain new rights to challenge unfair private parking charges, thanks to a new set of rules introduced by the government. Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced the new Private Parking Code of Practice, which aims to clamp down on ‘rip-off’ private parking management companies. The new rules will only apply to private car parks, where ‘Parking Charge Notices’ are issued, unlike ‘Penalty Charge Notices’ which are given by local authorities.
Maybach limo designed by LeBron James to be auctioned
A special Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sedan designed by NBA superstar LeBron James will be auctioned next month. The ultra-luxurious four-door is the identical twin to the Maybach S 680 owned by LeBron, and is customized to his personal taste. Curated via the Mercedes-Benz Manufaktur Made to Measure program, the Maybach is described as a ‘deeply personal vision’ for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Honda Civic hybrid gains Prelude’s virtual gearshift tech
Honda has announced updates for its popular Civic hatchback, including new gearshift technology from the Prelude coupe. The Civic shares the same clever 2.0-litre e:HEV hybrid powertrain as the curvaceous Prelude, with a combined output of 184hp from its petrol engine and electric motors. Using a CVT gearbox and an e-motor to send power to its wheels, the Prelude was launched with Honda’s S+ Shift simulated gearshift tech.
Fiat launches colour-matching service for new 500 Hybrid
Fiat has announced a new service to help customers find the perfect paint colour for their new car. To celebrate the launch of the new Fiat 500 Hybrid, the Italian marque is offering 20 people the chance to receive a free one-hour virtual colour consultation – and a personalised pocket guide. Using techniques typically found in the fashion industry, the colour-matching sessions aim to identify the hues that create the ‘most harmonious and flattering look’ for each particular person.
1 in 4 motorists now expect their next car to be electric
The proportion of UK motorists with an EV will more than double across one car-buying cycle, according to new data. A survey of 2,000 drivers by Kwik Fit found that 18 percent expect the next car they buy will be fully electric. Currently, only seven percent of motorists say they own an EV. However, for the 8.9 million who plan to change their vehicle in the next 12 months, the proportion expected to go electric is even higher.
Stellantis launches official eBay brand stores to sell car parts
Automotive giant Stellantis has opened a host of branded eBay stores to sell car parts and accessories in the UK. The eBay outlets are intended to offer drivers a quick and simple route to buying genuine parts to repair or upgrade their vehicles. To begin with, the Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep, Peugeot and Vauxhall brands have all received their own dedicated eBay UK stores.
New Ineos Grenadier Helmsman is designed for surfers and sailors
Ineos has announced a new special edition of its Grenadier 4×4 for the 2027 model year, this time with a nautical theme. The Helmsman is the first in a series of bespoke versions of the Grenadier – claimed to be inspired by ’adventurous spirit’ and the ‘elements it was designed to tackle’. Available in both Grenadier Station Wagon and Quartermaster pickup forms, the Helmsman is designed to reflect a nautical lifestyle.
Porsche Mission S: mid-engined supercar debuts in New York
Porsche has revealed a dramatic new mid-engined concept, which signposts the direction for a new flagship supercar. Launched in New York City, Porsche Mission S shows how a new addition to the German marque’s lineup could look, and is positioned above the legendary 911 sports car. What makes the Mission S most intriguing, perhaps, is the fact that a battery electric powertrain does not seem to be on the agenda.
Government to investigate drop-off charges at UK airports
Dramatic increases in the cost of airport drop-off charges will be formally investigated by the UK Government. A report by the RAC found 16 of the UK’s 20 busiest airports had upped fees for dropping off by an average of one third since last summer. It means the typical price charged for using a ‘kiss-and-fly’ zone jumped by £1.70 in one year, reaching an average of £7.
Scottish man drives 250,000 miles in his Nissan Qashqai
A Nissan Qashqai owner from Scotland is celebrating a major milestone, having racked up 250,000 miles in his family SUV. Craig Barker from Lanarkshire bought his 17-plate Qashqai after it had spent time as a dealership demonstrator. When Barker purchased the Qashqai Tekna in December 2017, the Sunderland-made SUV had 3,000 miles on the clock. Nine years later, its 1.5-litre diesel engine has amassed a further 247,000 miles.
New Jeep Wrangler Switchback completes special edition series
After 12 months of 85th anniversary celebrations, Jeep has finally released its final special edition Wrangler. The 2027 Jeep Wrangler Switchback completes the ‘Twelve 4 Twelve Series’ of vehicles. This has seen a unique version of the iconic 4×4 revealed every month for the past year. Based on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X, the Switchback will be offered to enthusiasts in both two- and four-door body styles, and is intended to offer a bold take on personalization.
Demand for used electric cars soars as fuel prices rise
As fuel prices reach record-breaking levels across the UK, drivers are increasingly looking towards used electric cars. Research by Snows Motor Group reveals a substantial rise in enquiries submitted about electric vehicles in recent months, as drivers contend with high petrol and diesel costs. Year-on-year, the dealership group has witnessed a 58 percent leap in the volume of customers making enquiries about a used EV.
AA calls for a 6p cut to fuel prices at the next budget
The ongoing impact of high fuel costs has led the AA to demand a 6p per litre cut to pump prices at the upcoming Budget. With conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine leading to record-breaking fuel prices , the AA says Chancellor John Healey needs to take direct action. It wants the Budget later this month to maintain the existing 5p per litre reduction in fuel duty, which was due to expire in September 2026. This cut was postponed, but the AA aims to see it protected further.
AA calls for a 6p cut to fuel prices at the next budget
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New sportier Hyundai Tucson N Line revealed at Paris Motor Show
Hyundai only announced its new Tucson SUV two weeks ago, but the Korean marque has already revealed a sportier N Line version. Set to be a core part of the fifth-generation Tucson range from the outset, the N Line gets a dynamic makeover both inside and out. The N Line should suffer any compromises as a family SUV, as Hyundai says there will be no mechanical changes to the regular version.
Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso: V6 hybrid coupe hints at next Quadrifoglio
Alfa Romeo has chosen the 2026 Paris Motor Show to reveal a stunning new concept car, set to influence future models. The Cuorerosso is a dramatic four-door coupe, with a four-seat layout and rear-hinged back doors, plus classic Alfa Romeo proportions. Most significantly, the Cuorerosso features another trademark of the Italian marque, with a V6 engine lurking beneath its Liquid Ink red bodywork.
Sleek Vauxhall STX concept proves the estate car isn’t dead yet
Vauxhall has revealed its radical, family-focused STX Concept at the 2026 Paris Motor Show – and no, it’s not another SUV. If you thought the ubiquitous family crossover had consigned the traditional family estate car to history, think again. Vauxhall still sees a future for the practical station wagon, albeit with battery power and sporty ‘shooting brake’ styling. Eurig Druce, MD of Vauxhall and Stellantis Group UK, said: “Vauxhall was an estate pioneer in the UK as early as the 1950s.
Dramatic Alpine A310 Vision honours a classic French sports car
Alpine has revealed a stunning new concept car inspired by the iconic, rear-engined A310, built between 1971 and 1984. As the 2026 Paris Motor Show opens its doors, Alpine has made a strong bid for the best-looking vehicle at the event. The original Alpine A310, which used a fibreglass body atop a steel backbone chassis, is one of the French marque’s most instantly recognisable sports cars.
Wild Peugeot E-T16 concept revives a Group B rally car
Peugeot has revived a classic rallying name at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, unveiling the electric E-T16 concept. Following the recent launch of the E-208 GTI, Peugeot has gone a step further by paying homage to the mid-engined 205 T16 rally car. Perhaps spurred on by the positive reaction to the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, Peugeot has built its own reincarnation of a Group B World Rally Championship (WRC) hero.
New cheaper petrol Vauxhall Frontera priced from £22,820
Vauxhall has expanded the model lineup for its top-selling Frontera SUV, adding a cheaper petrol-powered version. The starting point for Frontera ownership comes with a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine and six-speed manual gearbox. With an output of 100hp and 151lb ft of torque, the new three-cylinder engine can accelerate the family SUV from 0-62mph in 12.4 seconds in models with five seats. The heavier seven-seat version requires 13.3 seconds.
Two new special editions celebrate 30 years of the Skoda Octavia
Skoda has announced two special editions of the Octavia, celebrating the 30th birthday of its popular hatchback and estate. Across four different generations, Skoda has made almost eight million Octavias since 1996. The car has underpinned the company’s success as a part of the Volkswagen Group. For a model focused on value for money, it should come as no surprise to learn the two anniversary editions offer plenty of extra equipment.
Google Maps and Waze now display prices of petrol and diesel
Drivers using Google Maps or Waze can now see information on fuel prices using a simple search. With fuel costs continuing to rise, and diesel hitting a record level of more than £2 per litre, finding accurate prices is becoming ever more important to motorists. Both the Google Maps and Waze smartphone applications can now access data supplied by the government’s Fuel Finder service.
Mini enters Rebelle Rally with new Countryman Untamed
The 2026 Rebelle Rally will be the first test for the Countryman Untamed, a new Mini with enhanced off-road ability. Revealed earlier this week in Lake Tahoe, the 2027 Mini Countryman Untamed Edition features a range of modifications to suit driving on country trails. Mini’s family SUV will first have to prove itself in one of North America’s toughest off-road arenas, continuing a long tradition of Minis in motorsport.
Italian and Austrian defence forces choose the Ineos Grenadier 4×4
The Ineos Grenadier has emerged as the winner in substantial contract tenders with the Italian Army and Austrian Government. The Grenadier is becoming a vehicle of choice for European nations, with 10 countries across the continent now making use of the rugged 4×4. Earlier this year, Ineos announced the Team Grenadier consortium, aimed at developing a range of vehicles that could be used by the British Army.
South Yorkshire region is most dependent on diesel power
With diesel reaching record prices at the pumps, new research has uncovered the UK towns and cities likely to be most impacted. Used car retailer Motorpoint analysed the privately owned vehicles across 50 towns and cities to establish which areas are most reliant on diesel. The average cost of diesel has now exceeded £2 per litre: an increase of more than 40 percent since February.
Citroen has made a van especially for dog walkers
Citroen has revealed the ‘Pawlingo’ concept, designed as the ultimate vehicle for professional dog walkers. Based on the Berlingo, the UK’s best-selling small van in 2025, the Pawlingo was created in collaboration with the Blue Cross pet welfare charity. Inside the Pawlingo are two dog beds, similar to Citroen’s ‘Advanced Comfort Technology’ high-density foam seats used in the Berlingo.
Renault E-Space MPV concept to make Paris Motor Show debut
The Renault Espace MPV will make a comeback as a dramatic new concept car at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. While the rise of family SUVs consigned the original Espace to the history books, the new E-Space Concept demonstrates how the multi-purpose vehicle could return to our roads. Measuring some 4.7 metres in length, the full-size E-Space Concept is said to demonstrate Renault’s ‘new approach’ to family car design.
Dramatic increase in car insurance costs for under-25s
The cost of car insurance for younger drivers has rocketed during the past four years, according to newly released data. An analysis of premiums by comparison website MoneySuperMarket shows the price paid for insurance by those aged under 25 has risen by 34 percent since 2022. The average annual car insurance premium for drivers aged 24 or under is now £1,463. For comparison, younger drivers typically paid £1,093 four years ago.
Drivers hit by 9.6 million fines for low emissions zones since 2019
A huge number of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) have been issued to UK drivers for breaking the rules of Clean Air Zones (CAZs). There are now 14 different CAZ locations across the country, including the best-known London Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ). Introduced to cut air pollution, these low emission zones have differing rules about which vehicles are allowed to enter them. There are four different classifications of CAZ in the UK. In some cases, drivers have to pay to access them.
New Hyundai Ioniq 3 EV available to order from just £18,495
Orders are now open for the Hyundai Ioniq 3 electric hatchback, with a maximum government grant to sweeten the deal. The Korean marque’s new EV qualifies for the top Band 1 Electric Car Grant (ECG), meaning a discount of £3,750 is applied across the model range. As a result, the cheapest entry-level Ioniq 3 has a bargain price of £18,495, undercutting established EVs such as the Renault 5 E-Tech and Ford Puma Gen-E.
New 2027 BMW 3 Series – and its 51-year story so far
3 Series: a global phenomenon updated © BMW The BMW 3 Series is one of the most instantly recognisable cars in the world, with more than 20 million examples produced – and counting. Last year, the BMW 3 Series celebrated its 50th anniversary. The original ‘E21’ model was first launched in 1975. Now, the German marque has announced the latest, eighth-generation version of its compact executive saloon, introducing a new design shared with the electric i3 revealed earlier in 2026.
After 54 years, BMW has built its millionth M car
The one-millionth BMW M model has left the production line in Munich, representing a major milestone for the German marque. The landmark M car was a G80-generation BMW M3 Competition saloon, finished in the eye-catching shade of Individual Fire Orange III. Reaching one million vehicles is a notable achievement for BMW M Gmbh, which has constructed racing cars since 1972. It took until 1978, and the original M1 supercar, for the division to begin building models for public consumption.
Hyundai reveals dramatic new Tucson SUV – due in 2027
Hyundai has unveiled the latest version of its Tucson SUV, due on sale in the UK next year and boasting a bold new look. Featuring the Korean marque’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language, the fifth-generation Hyundai Tucson aims to stand out in the family SUV sector. In the face of fresh competition from Chinese marques such as Jaecoo and BYD, Hyundai clearly felt the need to give its popular SUV a clear identity.
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