Cupra Leon

Having nearly satisfied with their works such as the Cupra Ateca, and the Cupra original vehicle, the Formentor coupe-crossover, it's about time Cupra made a hot hatch by taking the fourth-generation Seat Leon as their base for their latest masterpiece, the Cupra Leon, and by the looks and feels of it, this could be the Cupra car speedo boys are waiting for, well almost.

2021 Cupra Leon

2021 Cupra Leon Sportstourer

The first-ever Cupra Leon range follows the footsteps of the previous Seat Leon Cupra and by turning the fourth-generation Seat Leon into a Cupra-fied hot hatch, this is what the Cupra fans are demanding since the beginning of the Cupra brand. It's available in either a five-door hatchback, priced at 40,480 Euros plus additional costs, and the more spacious Sportstourer, priced at 41,080 Euros plus additional costs.

Those who are familiar with the fourth-generation Leon should have no problem about how they worked. The Tarraco-styled nose, stylish side view, rear lamps that look like it came from the Kia Sportage, minimalist interior that spells utter nonsense for speedo boys behind the wheel, seating for five people, more boot space for the Sportstourer, and wide array of ADAS such as DCC, ACC, Emergency Assist, Travel Assist, Side and Exit assist, and more. 

Yes, it's those familiar stuff that kept us familiarized with the fourth-generation Leon but since this is the Cupra Leon, the differences are all over. From its Cupra logo, wheels, and interior accents finished in its copper glory, beefed up exterior design, additional drive modes on the sat-nav for when you need it, and pretty much anything to differentiate it from the normal Seat Leon.

At the start, the Cupra Leon range features a modest e-Hybrid powertrain which combines the 150PS, 250Nm 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine and a 85kW electric motor with 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack, making it capable of producing a total output of around 245PS of peak power and 400Nm of torque. That's about more power than a Toyota Altezza RS200 and by a long shot but now's not the time for comparison because with this PHEV powetrain mated to a DSG, it does 6.7 seconds and onwards to 225kph. That's modest performance for an eco car as well as its fuel efficiency which returns to about 1.4 l/100km on the combined WLTP scale.

The PHEV variant sounds nice but those who are demanding for the ultimate hot hatch should wait later this 2021 for the 2.0L TSi engine which produces 300PS of power (10PS more on Sportstourer 4Drive variant) and with the DSG mated, it can get out at 100kph in 5.7 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph.

Of course, being the Spanish answer to the Golf GTi, the Cupra Leon is as close to the hot hatch poster boy as you can get thanks to its enhanced chassis setup, the DCC, front MacPherson struts and rear multilink setup on the suspension, and Brembo brakes. For a front-wheel drive hot hatch, the Cupra Leon is as breathable to drive as breathable underwear you bought at the mall and then soiled by the time you had a blast with this Spanish GTi.

With the choice of a e-Hybrid and 2.0L TSi with over 300PS of power, not to mention the reworked dynamics that makes it hot hatch material, the Cupra Leon is the Cupra fans are waiting for, almost. Will you have one rather than Cupra's crossover siblings?

Photo: SEAT

Audi S3 (Typ 8Y)

With the unveiling of the fourth-generation Audi A3 range, in sedan and hatchback variants, it didn't took too long until the sportier S3 variants arrived to spice things up with this latest generation.

The all-new Audi S3, in sedan and Sportback, adds some more spice to the normal A3 while retaining the same ACT! ADDICT! ACTORS! stuff that you get from the normal A3, with prices start at around 47,500 Euros for Sportback and 48,400 Euros for the sedan, plus additional costs.

The Audi S3 has been around for like two decades since the first one came out and with the latest generation, the almost high performance variant's prepared to pick up the pieces where its predecessors left with its mild but menacing performance, dynamics, tech and style that almost impresses the speedo boys.

At first glance, it looks somewhat identical to the normal A3. Same goes to the high tech interior that is worth a waste of time toying around but being comfortable for five people inside, not to mention the spacing fit for your man cave needs and the speedo boy-repelling advanced safety tech inside, but being the S3, it's got some sporty exterior design that sets itself apart from your normal A3. It's good looking on the sedan but greater to look at in hatchback guise.

Under the hood, the S3 is powered by a 2.0L TFSI engine producing up to 310PS of power and 400Nm of torque. Mated only to a seven-speed S tronic double clutch gearbox, it's capable of going 0-100kph in less than five seconds and top speed electronically limited to 250kph. Now that's hot hatch stuff.

Speaking of mild and menacing dynamics other speedo boys see it as a challenge, the new S3 is armed with four-link rear axle, progressive steering, and the available S sport suspension with damper control, making the driving experience a bit, well, mild and menacing, like almost every hot hatches should.

The new S3 makes a perfect rivalry against the likes of the BMW M135i hatch and M235i Gran Coupe because between us, these two do make proper rivals no one cared about because they're both all-wheel drive and they're both have mild language on the road and track. So, would you like this over the M135i/M235i Gran Coupe?

Photo: Audi AG

Second-generation Mazda Flair Crossover

Looking for a second-generation Suzuki Hustler but stuck at the Mazda dealership? You've come in the right place because Mazda managed to borrow the second-generation Suzuki Hustler for their all-new Flair Crossover, which starts at 1,365,100 Japanese yen plus additional costs.

By the looks of it, the front and the rearview look pretty much the same as the previous model it replaces but look closely on the side and you can spot an extra window on it, meaning that it really is a new model and not a minor change whatsoever.

On the interior, the dashboard has three circles on it and that's something the folks from Mini should learn from it while making their next model but enough encouragement because while the new three-ringed dashboard adds a nice touch to the Hustler's new interior, it really fits through any kind of lifestyle they see fit. It can be a four-seater, a two-seater with the rear seats folded, and a nice little sleeper in case you forgot to bring a tent for the camping trip to the woods.

Running on a HEARTECT platform, the new Flair Crossover promises to be more lively to drive, safer, and more efficient than the previous model and they really mean it as demonstrated by its 4.6m turning radius. City car handling aside, the Hustler's optional 4WD system comes with Grip Control, Snow Mode, and Hill Descent Control, making it capable of getting itself dirty while taking shortcuts in case of traffic jams, which will make you look like a sweet potato when they see you taking it offroad online.

The new Flair Crossover is powered by a new 660cc R06D engine with mild hybrid technology, Eco Cool, and idling stop, and when mated to a CVT, it delivers a 25kmpl fuel economy based on WLTP standards for front-wheel-drive variants. On the turbo variants with the 660cc R06A turbo engine with the same fuel-efficient tech mentioned above, it returns with a 22.6kmpl fuel economy.

In the interest of safety, the new Flair Crossover comes with a suite of driver aids, which makes this kei crossover a certified Safety Support Car S rating.

Feel free to enjoy the Mazda version of the second-generation Suzuki Hustler any time you like.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Volkswagen Golf VIII R

The ultimate Golf, the Golf R, is back on the eighth-generation model, completing the high-performance variants of the eighth-generation Golf. With the R back, the main question is, does it outperform the old model as well as the current generation's GTi model? Let's zoom in.

Priced at 50,220 Euros plus additional costs, the Golf VIII R sits on the higher position of the Golf food chain, slotting above our fan-favorite GTi, just like the previous model does. Unlike the previous model, the new Golf R is available only in a five-door configuration because five doors are better looking than three doors, as one simian said. Still, despite being offered only in five-door, the new Golf R fits well for those who are going solo or with friends while indulging in its turbocharged 4WD frenzy.

For starters, the new Golf R works and behaves like a normal Golf, judging from its minimalist interior that scares speedo boys straight, seating for five people, not to mention the wide range of driving assists such as the new Travel Assist feature, Adaptive Cruise Control with predictive speed detection, Front Assist, and its IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights.

However, because this is the ultimate Golf, the R features a more sporty exterior design that sets itself apart from the already sporty GTi model as well as its sport seats and blue accents on the inside that smell like swagger when you get behind the wheel. There's also an R button that can engage its Race profile, which is worth noticing even on track day Sundays.

Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine produces 20 more than the previous model, delivering 320PS of power and 420Nm of torque. The only gearbox offered in the R, sadly, is a 7-speed DSG and with this gearbox (that some say sucks, sadly), not to mention the fact that it packs a new, performance-oriented all-wheel drive system, it does 0-100kph in 4.7 seconds and electronically capped at 250kph.

Yes, with the DSG being the only gearbox offered just like today's GTi, it somewhat spoils the driving experience unlike the previous model it replaces, but while the gearbox is the big issue for the R, the all-wheel drive system is worth balancing act because it now comes with a rear differential and joy of joys, torque vectoring that allows most to be transferred to the rear wheels. With such balance, the new Golf R delivers a more addictive driving experience for the drivers even when taken on either gravel or snow when needed. And it's driftable so you can send it sideways when you want.

Speaking of balance, the Golf R featured various ways and means to make it even more enjoyable to drive on the road and track such as the standard variable-ratio steering, retuned suspension, the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, ESC, traction control, and improved braking system, among many others.

The new Golf R may be more expensive than the GTi and while the DSG-only offering and minimalist interior are not friendly for speedo boys behind the wheel, the addictive performance delivered by its turbocharged engine, performance-oriented all-wheel drive system, and improved dynamics, made the ultimate Golf even more ultimate than before. Yes, such dynamics can upset the GTi by a long shot but in the end, it's just a Volkswagen like every Volkswagen should be.

Photo: Volkswagen

Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4

Volkswagen signaled the start of a new era with their original electric car called the ID.3 and the whole world's talking about one of the most important vehicles in Volkswagen's new era. So, what's it all about?

Priced under the 40K mark, the first-ever Volkswagen ID.3 signals the new era for the German carmaker and when it was first debuted, it was the first model to don Volkswagen's new logo, showcasing its minimalism in the pursuit of becoming a carbon-neutral carmaker in the future. Yes, they're going green and blue in the name of cleansing its image after the company was hit hard by the Dieselgate scandal that caused the whole world to rethink not just diesel but the whole fossil fuels.

Before getting to know more about its electric powertrain, let's observe the styling first. Drawing inspiration from the ID Concept first seen at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the ID.3's concept-turned-reality styling is a welcoming feat for customers looking for an electric car with futuristic styling that proves that the future is now thanks to science.

The interior of the ID.3 is what made them noticed because, like most modern vehicles, the ID.3's interior goes for a more minimalist approach, something that will scare away speedo boys behind the wheel because to them, it's pointless and complicated and some might agree with them because with the touch screen's the only brain that functions the radio, the sat-nav, the aircon, and other concessions of comfort around it, it's hard getting to know about it on the first try. Complicating the touch screen master control stuff maybe, but the comfort zone still feels like any car should be. There's seating for five people and despite being rear-wheel-drive, its 385-liter boot space behind the rear seats makes it a suitable workhorse be it for work or for fun. Nice one, Volkswagen.

Being the first to run in the new MEB platform for added flexibility while incorporating its revolutionary electric mechanicals, the ID.3 has a choice of three battery sizes at launch with the largest being 77kWh (delivering 204PS of power output through the rear axle) and a range of 550km by WLTP standards. A lesser version with a 45kWh battery, 330km range, and 160kph top speed will be added later.

Despite being a rear-wheel drive electric car that spells fun for the drivers, the ID.3 behaves like a sensible electric car that fits nearly well on the city streets because of its near good turning radius, 1,719kg minimum curb weight, and compact sizing. It works like every electric car should and although it doesn't translate into fun, it's zippy and you can drive as much as you want, although there's a shocking fact that the ID.3 is jam-packed with the most advanced safety features Volkswagen ever thought of ranging from Front Assist with City Emergency Braking System and Pedestrian Monitoring, multi-collision brake and Lane Assist, Side Assist lane change system, Park Assist, Park Distance Control, and so on. These techs will keep you noticed and for speedo boys, this means panic in the driver's seat.

Yes, the Volkswagen ID.3 is proof that the future is now thanks to science and with its advanced tech, revolutionary electric powertrain, minimalist interior, and futuristic styling, this is the brave new world Volkswagen's heading or perhaps it could be heading because with crossovers rule the world like Hollywood superheroes, looks like the ID.3 might need some help from its superhero alter ego, which is its crossover version.

This is the first-ever Volkswagen ID.4 electric crossover, which costs over five grand more than the ID.3 hatchback, and like the ID.3, the ID.4 crossover features the same bits and bobs as seen on the ID.3 but with slightly increased height.

At first glance, it's basically donning the same styling as the ID.3 but because this is the crossover cousin, the ID.4 has a slightly increased ground clearance just like any other hatchback that spawned its crossover cousins nowadays. Although it looks rugged, it behaves just like the ID.3 because like the one I said, it features a similar choice of battery packs with the range-topper bearing a 204ps 77kWh battery pack with a 511km driving range, which is 39km less than its hatchback equivalent, probably because it's slightly heavier than the ID.3's, but still good for an electric crossover that costs less than the Tesla Model Y.

Although being a crossover, the ID.4 is rear-wheel drive just like the ID.3, meaning you can't take it offroad and you can't go all out with it because it's got a 160kph limited top speed, which is twenty less than your normal Japanese car, but thanks to its MEB platform it dons and its clever dynamics, it's still breathable to drive, it's sensible, and above all, it's all common sense.

The ID.3 and the ID.4 are proof that Volkswagen's now living in a new era where electricity is the way, truth, and life in the pursuit of purity. Like it or not, this new era really is worth the hype and Volkswagen really is on the roll towards a brighter future, whatever the reason.

Photo: Volkswagen.

Nissan Note E13

Nissan first introduced the e-Power in the facelifted Note E12 back in 2016 and because of the clever setup that makes it behave like an electric car while having its tiny petrol engine charges the batteries, using a tiny amount of fuel, it became a success story, and now, Nissan's road to electrification begins with the arrival of the third-generation Nissan Note, which now comes with the evolved version of its signature e-Power powertrain.

The all-new, third-generation Nissan Note, priced at 2,029,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, is the new normal car that blends its sharp design, user-friendly interior, tech, and its award-winning Nissan e-Power powertrain that won the hearts of many customers. It heralds the beginning of the new era for Nissan because it now dons the new Nissan logo first seen on the Ariya electric crossover last summer.

Observing first on the exterior design, the all-new Note borrows the same styling cues from the Ariya electric crossover, the one that started the new age of Nissan, and from every angle, it's hard to tell from the real thing, well the sizing is. Anyway, while it's hard to distinguish between the two vehicles, this new striking design is rather unheard of for an economy car like this but believe them, it's the sharpest economy car to look at and it really puts the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit to shame in terms of design at least.

On the inside, the all-new Note's minimalist interior is still as user-friendly as all cars should because the engineers wanted to make the new interior a bit more user-friendly on the first try. On the dashboard, you get the available NissanConnect navigation system with smartphone connectivity, the digital instrumental panel where it displays your car's status, fully functional climate control, an electronic parking brake, USB ports, and a steering wheel with loads of buttons for your everyday use, including the ProPilot button.

They all work so you don't need to worry about it. As for the comfort zone, thanks to its improved dimensions, it's surprisingly roomier than the previous model and it's got decent boot space for your everyday needs, although the first-ever four-wheel-drive variant will get more boot space in exchange for rear legroom, whatever the reason.

The e-Power hybrid powertrain has been the hallmark of Nissan since it was first introduced in the previous model. It's about an electric motor that does the talking while letting its 1.2L petrol engine charges the batteries, using tiny amounts of fuel. For the new Note, the e-Power has been evolved into its second generation and it's now more efficient than ever, allowing it to operate at a lower RPM and engaged less often during a normal drive, delivering a combined fuel economy of 29.5km/L per WLTC standards, which is 0.1kmpl more than the Honda Fit.

The first-ever four-wheel-drive variant adds another electric motor to it and this spells more power output compared to the normal front-wheel-drive variant.

Driving-wise, the new Note still behaves like a normal car should, although it feels a bit old-fashioned compared to the competition bearing suspension setups more sophisticated than this. Underneath, the new Note comes with Rack & Pinion steering, front independent suspension with struts, rear torsion beam, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear leading trailing type brakes. While this setup is somewhat old-school, it feels like it's working and it's easy to service.

In the issue of safety, the all-new Note comes with ProPilot driver-assist tech with Navi-link which allows this car to take advantage of the car's sat-nav to check for corners, speed limits, and more while taking advantage of its wide variety of semi-autonomous driving tech, which sounds a bit worrying for speedo boys behind the wheel.

The new Note continues Nissan's success story of its e-Power system in its new and functional form and in the midst of the new normal, this new economy car is ready to show the world how it's made.

Photo: Nissan

Second-generation Honda N-ONE

The Honda N-ONE, a chic and casual kei car that mimics the iconic N360 of the past, is now on its second generation and this new model picks up where the previous model left off while taking advantage of its new style, new interior, and new tech that will cater the youth demographics looking for a small car to live with.

The new Honda N-ONE, priced at a reasonable 1,454,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, is the second generation of the neo-classical kei car that caught the attention of many since the previous model made a surprising appearance of, well, let's say a blockbuster that involves a boy and a girl who can change the weather. Did you get it? No? Okay, let's talk about the new model.

The new model is almost as similar to the previous model it replaces, meaning it still carries the same N360-inspired design as the original so you can't really tell the differences between them. Like most kei cars offering different styles to choose from; the new N-ONE is available in three different flavors; the base and vanilla-ish Original, the more luxurious Premium variant, and for the first time, a sporty RS variant for those who want some more fun. Either way, it's still the new N-ONE you are facing now.

Step inside and you will notice that the new interior now boasts a minimalist approach which rather worries some drivers behind the wheel, but don't worry though, you can still toy around the buttons around the car because user-friendliness is what the new N-ONE is made for. For the first time, the new N-ONE features a rear seat notification displayed on the dashboard so you will get notified about what's going on at the back, which is somewhat weird for some drivers. On the comfort side, it still fits up to four people and it has decent boot space for groceries and deliveries.

Depending on the variant, the new N-ONE is mated to an S07B 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder engine in naturally aspirated and turbo configurations. All variants are mated to a CVT gearbox that results in a 23kmpl combined fuel economy per WLTC Mode standards while the RS is mated exclusively with the 6-speed manual gearbox that delivers a 21.6kmpl of combined fuel economy per WLTC Mode standards.

What about handling? With the MacPherson struts on the front, Torsion bar stabilizers all over, Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering, and other stuff underneath it, the new N-ONE works and feels like what a kei car should and in terms of safety, the new N-ONE now comes with Honda SENSIS functions as standard, corresponding to Support Car S Wide standards. The RS variant, meanwhile, now comes with Adaptive Cruise Control and LKAS for the first time in a 6MT kei car.

Is the new N-ONE better than the previous model it replaces?

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda e

The Honda e, the tiny electric hatchback that caught the attention of most Europeans, have arrived in Japan with a starting price of 4,510,000 Yen plus additional cost. Having enjoyed its run from the streets of London and Paris, the Honda e is ready to take on the streets of Tokyo and this means investigation with the most important Honda ever made.

So, what's it all about the Honda e, you may ask? It's a rear-wheel-drive compact electric hatchback that started out in life as an Urban EV Concept from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and then spawned into a production vehicle that our friends from Honda Europe called their most important model as they begin their road to electrification. Of course, their electrification goals made a few sacrifices for the sake of their goal and that meant shutting down the British plant where the Civic Hatchback and Type R are made as well as its Turkish production operations. It's a sad story but such sacrifices have been done in the making of this very template they've set.

Yes, while the stying is broadly similar to the two concept cars it drew inspiration from, the interior is a real shocker because lurking through the wooden dashboard is a massive display of screens to toy around. It's like you're in the hot seat at mission control where you will have all the commands at your disposal but you're not in the Game of the Generals. You're inside of a tiny little Honda that snugs up to four people and boot space up to 565-litres, which is good enough for all walks of life. On an expensive version, you'll get tons of cool stuff such as a 100v AC power source to plug your laptop on and a premium sound system for a clearer sound experience.

Now we get to know more about its electric powertrain, the one customers are getting antsy about. Powered by a 35.5kWh Li-ion battery pack that produces 60kw of power and 315Nm of torque, the Honda e has a driving range of up to 283km per WLTC Mode standards while the Advance variant gets up to 259km of driving range. It can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes and it works as a backup generator for your home in an event of a power outage. There's your science lesson for you.

Because of its compact sizing, lightweight, high-strength platform, and RR layout a la Renault Twingo, some drivers would say that the Honda e delivers some spartan driving manners similar to the Porsche 911 but this is different because even though the electric motor is bolted at the back of the car, the Honda e is a fun-to-drive car that loves to twist itself without shouting. You'll find great reasons to enjoy its nimble dynamics that are surprisingly quirky for an electric car.

In the interest of safety, the Honda e is packed with a wide array of safety equipment that will keep drivers noticed. From its side cameras in place of door mirrors, the Single Pedal Control System similar to the one found on the current Nissan Leaf, Honda Parking Pilot, and a wide array of Honda Sensing safety tech, the list of safety features is certainly a shocker for those behind the wheel.

Is the Honda e the best electric car ever made? If so, looks like Honda's on the roll with the poster car of Honda "e:Technology" branding, a new strategy that unifies all of its electrified products under the same global name. The "e:Technology" branding kicked off with the launch of the new Honda Fit and the new Honda Accord hybrid vehicles with its e:HEV dual-motor hybrid system, and with the arrival of the Honda e, the road to electrification is in a full circle.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Citroen C4 III

At first glance, it looks like Citroen created a coupe crossover that is too much to bear for today's roads but when you turn around, it probably says C4 in it and you said "it can't be" in a shocked face. As a matter of fact, it is. THIS IS THE CITROEN C4.

The third-generation Citroen C4 is now morphed into a coupe crossover for all the wrong barrels and although the design is anything but questionable, the new C4 puts its strong emphasis to its tech, economy, and safety that will put everyone behind the wheel on notice.

What's the word on the styling, you may ask? The new Citroen C4 carries the brand's new X-faced design first applied on the C3 minor change and for bystanders, that new face is worth upsetting because it has the expression of the kabuki ready to strike, or rather your favorite cartoon character got slapped with X-eyes, the cute and hilarious expression of death. Striking the menacing new face it maybe, the switch to coupe-crossover styling is a radical departure from the previous model and while it sounds questionable, it feels like it's in tune with the times.

On the inside, the new C4 features a rather futuristic dashboard that feels like you're in a French cyberpunk movie without the punk in it. Although it features a touch screen sat-nav in it as well as other show-off features such as the head-up display, there are buttons in it where you can adjust the volume and room temperature. Happy days for the hipster-type speedo boys behind the wheel.

Convenience aside, the new C4 comes with numerous places to store with and for the first time ever in the world of motoring, it features Smart Pad Support Citroen, a retractable system made for holding iPads or any tablet computers you had in your arsenal. That's pretty neat for a car like this and while it was built for drivers from all walks of life, it fits up to five people on board and has a boot volume of 380-litres, which is shockingly less than the previous model it replaces, probably due to the sloping roofline but it still carries almost everything for work or for play.

Driving behind the wheel of this 20,900 Euro high-riding fastback, you will experience its clever dynamics and comfort that has championed Citroen for ages since the original C4 of 1928. That's because the new model's signature suspension setup comes with the Progressive Hydraulic Cushion that gives this car the most comfortable driving experience that is uniquely Citroen in every way. Ask everyone who drove the new model and this is the end result.

Under the hood, the new C4 offers a wide range of petrol and diesel engines with the most powerful bearing a 131PS 1.2L petrol engine that can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Auto.

For the first time, the C4 is offered in electric which features a 100kw electric motor and 50kWh battery pack good for 352km in one full charge based on WLTP standards. It does 0-100kph in 9.7 seconds and top speed of 150kph, which is 20kph slower than a normal Japanese car. Plugged at a 100kW public charging station, it gets recharged to 80% in half an hour.

Of course, because tech is the main focus for most modern cars, the new C4 features a wide array of safety features such as Active Safety Brake, Blind Spot Monitoring System, Active Lane Departure Warning System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Highway Driver Assist, Coffee Break Alert, Driver Attention Alert, Extended traffic sign recognition, and intelligent beam headlights.

The new Citroen C4 may have became a coupe crossover that cuts space from the previous model but it's surprisingly as comfortable as most Citroens should be and it has lots of tech to toy around. Like it or not, this is the Citroen built for the new normal.

Photo: Citroen

Fiat 500 (FA1)

The Fiat 500 has proven to be one of the greatest things to emerge from Italy since pizza, spaghettis, and Ferraris. People around the globe have been clamored by its tiny size, timeless styling, and nippy performance that can squeeze through like a clean sheet of paper. In the age of electrification, the all-new, all-electric, Fiat 500 has arrived to cater to today's motorist by delivering iconic looks with zero-emission driving fit for the future.

2021 Fiat 500

Starting at 26,150 Euros, the all-new Fiat 500 is one of the most reasonably-priced electrics on sale and with all that value comes numerous highlights such as the new styling, new interior, the electric powertrain, and so on.

2021 Fiat 500

Focusing on the styling, the new 500 looks vaguely similar to the previous model, which remains available at this moment in time, but look closely and you'll see that the new 500 sports an all-new exterior design, a stylish new set of wheels to choose from, a 500 badging on the front, and the new FIAT badge in the back, a first for FIAT.

For the first time, the new 500 is offered in three different body styles such as the regular hatchback, the open-top 500 Cabrio with the canvas top on it, and the first-ever 500 3+1, the one with the tiny extra door on the passenger side that allows you to squeeze into the rear seats just like the Hyundai Veloster. Yes, it's that thing but be warned though because it won't be easy living in the back seats.

2021 Fiat 500

The interior goes for the minimalist approach which can surely scare a speedo boy straight because of its long sat-nav touch screen with no buttons all over. Despite the minimalist approach on the dashboard that scares away speedo boys, (thank you FCA), it is still as roomy as the previous model and the boot space feels decent enough for trips to the grocery or for delivery purposes if you are into fulfillment. As I said, in the 3+1 variant, it won't be easy living in the back seats just like what you felt inside the Veloster.

2021 Fiat 500

On the driving side, the new electric powertrain on top-spec variants boasts a modest 87kw of power and 220Nm of torque, making it capable of hitting 0-100kph in nine seconds and a top speed of 150kph. The driving range is expected to be 312km on one full charge, which is quite decent for an electric city car of such size.

For cleverness, the Fiat 500 has three driving modes to choose from such as the range-friendly Sherpa mode, Normal, and the odd-looking Range mode, where it engages one-pedal drive just like the Nissan Leaf.

Despite being heavier than the previous model, the new 500 still handles like a good city car should, which is nice but there's one itty-bitty thing that will make you notice and it's the fact that the new 500 features Level 2 autonomous driving in the form of intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Assist. Again, these things car scare speedo boys straight despite being innocent-looking Italian tiny car that has a mind of their own.

The all-new Fiat 500 is a step into the future of mobility because of its Level 2 autonomous driving and all-electric drivetrain that fits rather well in city life. Yes, if you're a speedo boy, you might not want to drive one but for a regular Joe who got his driver's license for the first time, then this is the electric car you can start with.

This nippy little Italian hatch just got a brand new lease of life in today's world where the dawn of internal combustion will soon face mass extinction because of ever-changing regulations, which makes speedo boys very sad, but for experts on the environment, it's their calling and this new 500 is worth the calling everybody's itching to drive one.

Photo: FCA

Toyota GR Yaris

Ever since Toyota launched the fourth-generation Yaris in early 2020, it didn't take long before the Japanese automotive giant waved the green flag for their high-performance version of the Yaris, which served as the basis for their next rally car to follow the footsteps of its successful predecessor. With that, the first-ever GR Yaris was born.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris

The second JDM sports car of the Reiwa era, the GR Yaris, may be the template of Toyota's next rally car but it's more than that because it's the road-legal rally car speedo boys are longing for since the legendary Celica GT-FOUR of the '90s. So, what's so special about Toyota's newest rally car?

Starting with the design, the GR Yaris looks similar to the fourth-generation Yaris but it blows two extra doors off to make it three-door and pumped up with some steroids to add some muscle to the already sharp-looking hatch. With rally-inspired looks that have some street cred to it, looks like some speedo boys are going to think twice before taking on the GR Yaris. In fact, its short but rowdy character will give the now-axed Subaru WRX STi a run for its money.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris interior

2021 Toyota GR Yaris interior

On the interior, it still works like a normal Yaris and fits like one too but with the specially-made instrumental panel, the new GR-FOUR selector control, and dark interior theme, it really smells like it was being sprayed with AXE all over to give it a more macho feeling when you get it. Although you will not use it for TNVS purposes because it's a three-door hatchback with rear seats that are difficult to access, by all means, the GR Yaris barely works as either a family car or for quiet weekend road trips with friends. It's an all-rounder, well, almost.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris

As a JDM sportscar with rallying know-how, the performance is the GR Yaris's trump card and under the hood, it carries a brand new G16E-GTS 1.6L 3-cylinder intercooler turbo engine which produces 272PS of power and 370Nm of torque. Mated exclusively with a 6-speed iMT, fuel economy is a combined 13.6km/L in WLTP standards. It does 0-100kph in five and a half seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 230kph.

Aside from the engine, Toyota spent countless hours perfecting the GR Yaris on the inside and they festooned it with a new forged C-SMC roof, aluminum hood and doors, frameless windows, and more, giving it the end result in the curb weight of 1,280kg and in compliance with WRC regulations.

The GR Yaris is armed with Toyota's first-ever sports all-wheel-drive system called the GR-FOUR. This all-wheel-drive system can be driven in 50:50 track mode or for the more enjoyable one, 30:70 sport mode. This setup is where it gives most but not all of its rear wheels a moment to shine, making the GR Yaris a sliding rascal you want to get hooked on. 

Couple this with a rigid structure, dramatic braking setup, serious suspension setup made specifically for this hatch, and the TNGA platform, and you have yourself an awesome hot hatch that loves playing dirty in the woods and leaves it be when going back on the city center without all the drama.

Speaking of drama, there's a cheaper, slower RS version that weighs less than the four-wheel-drive one but it's front-wheel-drive and it comes with a modest 1.5L M15A-FKS engine, and a CVT which gives it about 18.2kmpl of fuel economy. Avoid that one, folks, unless you don't have enough money to afford the big guy.

The GR Yaris starts at 2,650,000 Yen for the front-wheel-drive RS variant, the one to avoid unless you're in a credit crunch, up to 4,560,000 Yen for the RZ High Performance variant. Due to compliance with WRC regulations, the GR Yaris, like any other road-legal rally car, is built on limited numbers and you can expect numbers are run out to the brink of sold out so get one while you can.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Volkswagen Golf VIII GTI/GTD/GTE

The forever iconic Golf GTI, and its alternative relatives, the diesel-powered GTD and the GTE PHEV, are back on the eighth-generation Golf, giving more ways to enjoy the return of an icon on this latest generation Golf.

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTD

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTE

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI

What's the difference you may ask? Sure, they are based on the eighth-generation Golf but have been given some sporty exterior treatment and checkered seats like every past GTIs had, not to mention the same minimalist interior that the normal Golf had, which speedo boys called it worthless because of the lack of buttons of it but there are hints that will differentiate them. There are tiny red accents on the GTi, blue accents on the GTE, and grayish accents on the GTD. Simple as that.

What lies underneath are different stories for each version. Starting with the GTI, it is powered by the improved version of the EA888 2.0L TSi engine which produces 245PS of power and 370Nm. Mated to a 7-speed DSG, which is the only gearbox offered for the time being sadly, the GTI can sprint from 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 250kph. 

The GTD, meanwhile, is powered by a tender juicy EA288 2.0L TDi engine which produces 200PS of power and 400NM of torque, meaning it's almost a second slower than the GTi and 5kph less as well. 

Lastly, the GTE's PHEV setup features a 1.5L TSi engine connected to an 85kw electric motor which produces the same amount of power as you get from the GTI but with the environmentally-conscious side to lean on thanks to its 1.6L/100km of fuel economy. Mated to a 6-speed DSG, it can go from 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of only 225kph. 130 when going on electrics.

Out of the three, the GTI is the fastest while the GTE is the most efficient and the GTD is the one to avoid because it's diesel, and Europeans of today are starting to shy away from the clattering burners.

On the dynamics side, since the GTI is the lightest of the three, let's put our attention to the GTI because this is the one we care for. Anyway, the new model, like the other relatives, feels so lively to drive than its predecessor while it delivers the classic formula we all love about since the very beginning. With the new Vehicle Dynamics Manager, front-axle locking diff, DCC, and progressive steering in place, it starting to show how much of a hot hatch it really is and despite all the technological breakthroughs implemented, it still remains a classic to drive. This front-wheel drive legend has a lot to live up to its name and reputation and it does it away with flying colors of the German flag.

On the pricing side, it's not what you called reasonable because the new GTI starts at 37,607 Euros while the GTD starts at 38,114 Euros and the GTE starts at a rather pricey 41,667 Euros so out of the three, the GTI is the one to buy.

So there you have it, ladies and gentlemen. With these three back in the eighth-generation Golf range, it looks like the legend is still the best to drive and although the new Golf GTi wasn't intended to take on the likes of its powerful rivals from Renault and Honda, it's still is the best hot hatch to get into the zone and break.

Enjoy these new and sporty Golf additions if you can!

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Audi A3 (Typ 8Y)

The Audi A3 is basically a poshed-up Volkswagen Golf with all of the luxury stuff you'd expect from Audi with the price that makes it a welcoming committee to Audi. Although more expensive than the Golf it was based on, the A3 wasn't really a bad car to start with unless you had some issues with the way it behaves on the road. For the fourth-generation A3, let's find out if the new model is better than the previous model as most would want to say but because this is the A3, it must have the three A's as its name implies; ACT! ADDICT! ACTORS!

2021 Audi A3 Sportback

2021 Audi A3 Sedan

ACT! ADDICT! ACTORS! This is what the A3 really means and for the fourth-generation model, the all-new Audi A3 tries to get its act together with its pricing, design, interior, tech, performance, and safety, the ideal recipe of a modern vehicle of today. To understand more about the all-new A3, let's start with its first A: ACT!

2021 Audi A3 Sportback

2021 Audi A3 Sedan

To ACT means how will customers act when they see the fourth-generation A3 in person. With the starting price of 26,800 Euros (plus OTR) for the Sportback and 27,700 Euros (plus OTR) for the sedan, it's way over reasonably priced by "Reasonably Priced Car" standards but with such price, some people may act quickly to get their fat paychecks ready and then drive home by all means.

2021 Audi A3 Sedan interior

2021 Audi A3 Sportback interior

The second A is ADDICT! What the ADDICT in the A3 tagline means just how addicting is the new model is in terms of design and interior. Judging by the design, it borrows the look from today's Audi Q3 crossover, meaning there are some resemblances between them but unlike the Q3, the new A3's styling is very addictive to stare than its rivals from BMW and Mercedes. 

Whether if its a hatchback or a sedan, the styling really fits the ADDICT term for keeps but that's just the start because the interior is the latter part of this term. On the inside, you are greeted by its addicting tech such as the Audi virtual cockpit, the HUD, online connectivity, the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, and many others.

On the back, the new A3 is surprisingly more spacious than the previous A3 in terms of rear passenger space and boot space and that's good news for those who are planning to use it for whatever means necessary; be it for family use, for road trips with pals, deliveries, or TNVS purposes although the latter one is not worth it because this is an Audi and it's too obvious for someone using this as a TNVS car.

2021 Audi A3 Sportback

2021 Audi A3 Sedan

And now we get to the third and final A of the A3 mantra; ACTORS! If by ACTORS, they really mean just how much of an ACTOR the A3 is. Under the hood, the new A3 is offered with a choice of 1.5 TFSi and 2.0 TDi engine at launch, although the latter choice is the one to avoid like most Europeans of today should. Anyway, the 1.5L TFSi engine features a cylinder shutoff system which automatically shuts off the second and third cylinders while driving in an efficient manner. Apart from that, it comes with a 12-volt electrical system for mHEV capability that results to 5.5L/100km of combined WLTP fuel economy. Nice job, Audi.

Both of these engines are mated to either a brand-new 6-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed S tronic gearbox, which most say it drives quicker than the manual, but anyway, while continuing on the ACTORS story, let's get to know more about its dynamics and being front-wheel drive only at launch, it feels very civilized on the road but in the middle of a Sunday drive, the lowered suspension setups, Audi drive select and ESC, the modular dynamic handling control, and many other updates to its dynamics really means big business. Sporty as it means but it feels like its a snuggle with a struggle if you try to poke it hard at the bends. To put it in broad context, it behaves just like today's Mercedes A-Class and the now-FF BMW 1-Series but who cares.

As for safety, the new Audi features a wide range of Driver Assist Systems with the optional assist package for a more safer experience, which is too dubious for some who might think it can outsmart its driver with its AI inside. Scary but this is the ACTOR's way.

The fourth-generation A3 has all the three As it implies; a price to act for, addicting features, and the performance of the ideal actor. ACT! ADDICT! ACTORS! Now that's the A3 everybody's talking about and looks like Audi's on the roll with this one, well sort of. Anyway, let's wish the new A3 the best of luck on the road!

Photo: Audi AG

Seat Leon (4th Gen)

Now on its fourth-generation, the all-new Seat Leon promises to be the best Leon ever made with its striking new design, new interior, efficient and powerful range of engines, and the most advanced safety tech offered in its class. Let's get to know more about the best Leon ever made and why are you feeling tingly to drive one.

2020 Seat Leon

2020 Seat Leon Sportstourer

When the Seat Leon first introduced to the world over two decades ago, it became one of the biggest turning points in Seat's history thanks to its sales, tech, and competitiveness and for the fourth-generation model, the all-new Leon is ready for a brave new challenge with its striking new design, new interior, efficient and powerful range of engines, and the most advanced safety tech offered in its class, making it the best Leon ever made.

Offered in two distinct variants; the hatchback (priced at 20,270 Euros plus on-road costs) and the more spacious Sportstourer (priced at 22,090 Euros plus OTR), the new Leon is the best-looking Leon to date because when it hits the road, it leaves a major impression to the public. One look from its Tarraco-styled nose, stylish side vide, rear lamps that look like it came from the Kia Sportage, and the new Leon logo, and you know that it really hooks you where you stand. Not bad for a VW Golf in Spanish accent but what about the interior?

2020 Seat Leon interior

2020 Seat Leon Sportstourer interior

The new interior really means big business for the new Leon and because it's run on the same stuff from the Skoda Scala and the new VW Golf, it's surprisingly more spacious than the previous Leon in terms of passenger space and boot space, meaning there's so many uses with this new model, be it for work of for going out, whatever means necessary for them. Aside from space, the new Leon features so many stuff to toy around with such as the SEAT Digital Cockpit, the annoying voice recognition system, Full Link system, the available Connectivity Box, and more, making yourself feeling busy while driving on the streets and on the highway.

2020 Seat Leon

2020 Seat Leon Sportstourer

The new Leon features a wide variety of engines to choose from such as the 1.0 TSi, 1.5 TSi, a 2.0 TDi, and the more important 1.5 eTSi at launch with PHEV and CNG variants to follow. Like everyone in Europe should, the 2.0 TDi engine is the one to avoid because of you know what, a dn while waiting for the big daddy PHEV to come out shortly, the 1.5 eTSi mHEV variant produces 150PS of power while delivering a combined WLTP-based fuel economy of 5.8L/100km. Now that's efficient and when you get to the dynamics side, the new Leon really behaves like a sportscar even though this isn't until Cupra get their hands on it later, but still rather impressive to drive all day and all night, making this a more enjoyable alternative to binge-watching your favorite show.

Being the best Leon ever made, the new Leon is literally the most safest Leon ever made thanks to its wide array of ADAS such as DCC, ACC, Emergency Assist, Travel Assist, Side and Exit assist, and more.

SEAT promised the world that this is the best Leon ever made but the main question is, does it live up to its promise. With more and more are going the crossover route like the rest of the world does, the new model is going to be in a serious pinch in the beginning but a handful of people who rebelled against the crossover-calypse might be wise and tempted to buy the new Leon and when they do, they might enjoy with it for the rest of their lives. Let's wish this new model the best of luck as it takes on a brave new challenge in this ever-changing motoring world.

Photo: SEAT