Shane O' Donoghue

Following on from the sporty Cupra Raval and pragmatic Skoda Epiq on the Volkswagen Group MEB+ electric platform is the VW ID. Cross, a new compact electric SUV designed to be practical and affordable. Think of it as an electric alternative to the existing VW T-Cross. Remind us what's under the skin The Volkswagen ID. Cross uses the same mechanicals as its siblings, so buyers will get a choice of three power outputs and two different batteries. All versions are front-wheel drive.

BMW has unveiled the fifth-generation X5, and the headline news is that the X5 will, for the first time, be offered as a fully electric model. Called the BMW iX5, it will sit alongside petrol, diesel and plug-in-hybrid versions of the X5, while BMW has confirmed that a hydrogen fuel-cell version will follow at a later stage (that, and some of the others, will not be available in the Irish market).

Introduction to the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 3 The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is the first electric car from the company to be developed specifically with Europe in mind. It's a five-door hatchback with a daring exterior design that has a compact footprint, yet a spacious interior. Buyers have a choice of battery packs, too, with an impressive range and equipment roster. It sits above the Hyundai Inster and beneath the Kona Electric in the lineup.