MG5 EV

For the first time since China's SAIC took control of the renowned British carmaker MG, there is now a station wagon in the MG range and it's an electric station wagon that promises to be the most affordable electric station wagon to own and enjoy in case you want an electric car but stuck at the scum class and can't afford the fancy ones like the Porsche Taycan or the Tesla Model 3.

Priced at a very reasonable 25,095 Pounds plus additional costs, the MG5 EV is the most affordable electric car to own and it's nearly more affordable than the Nissan Leaf, making it the bargain electric car of the new normal. If the bargain is what this MG5 EV championed for, what's it like being with it?

Unlike most expensive electric cars which feature futuristic styling, the MG5 EV looks a bit regular in every way. It's somewhat reminiscent of an old Volkswagen Passat Variant and no matter how close you look at it, this electric estate looks more of a throwback rather than flash forwarding to future trends like today's electric cars.

What about the interior? Well, while the cockpit view's a bit like last decade's cars from the Volkswagen Group family tree, the MG5 EV still works like most normal cars should, and in terms of passenger space, it's not really half bad at all. It fits up to five, which is ideal for a normal family or for road-tripping buddies going out-of-town, and with rear space up to 1456 liters with the rear seats folded, it fits for all walks of life. It's spacious of course, meaning this electric estate can do nearly utilitarian stuff such as carrying today's grocery list or deliveries if you're a normal deliveryman working at the nearest Amazon fulfillment center.

The MG5 EV's electric powertrain consists of a 52.5kWh battery pack which produces a modest 156PS of power and 260Nm of torque and it has a top speed of 115mph, which is slightly faster than a normal Japanese car of course. In terms of charging, unlike most electric cars taking a day to charge at home, the MG5 can be fully charged at home in eight and a half hours, which sounds quick, and if you're in a public charging station, that takes less than an hour to reach 80%. The charging time's quite a surprise but the range of 214 miles (based on WLTP standards) is a tad less compared to the fancy ones. Sounds fair, though.

In terms of dynamics, even with Sport Mode active, the MG5 feels as old-fashioned as a two-decade-old saloon but it feels quite civilized on normal roads. It's not enjoyable as is but it's well-behaved and as civilized as a real commoner. It's a real commoner car for the real world and the host of safety features are worth noticing.

The MG5 may not be the most enjoyable electric car to own but with its pricing worth buying, it's a fresh start if you are itching to jump to the EV bandwagon like the rest of the world does.

Photo: MG Motor UK Limited

Volkswagen Arteon 2021 minor change / Arteon R

The Volkswagen Arteon four-door coupe has reached its minor change for the 2021 model year but this is more than just a minor change because it's not alone; it's got new additions such as the first-ever Arteon Shooting Brake and the first-ever Arteon R range.

The new Arteon, priced at 44,650 Euros plus additional costs, promises to be the best Arteon ever made not because of its new additions that make it more exciting but it is because of its revised styling, a revised interior, new powertrain, and new tech.

Firstly, we take a look at the revised design; the Arteon now sports a revised front face, new LED light signatures at the front and rear, and some new set of wheels, keeping itself youthful than ever while letting its newest additions shine. Of course, if you want to talk about the R's styling, just think of it as an Arteon with steroids. That is all.

The interior has been slightly revised as well with a new steering wheel complete with the new VW logo, new sat-nav, new instrumental panel, new climate control, and weirdly, in the name of minimalism, the analog clock in the middle of the dashboard as seen on the pre-facelift has been omitted. Shame about the clock but the new seats made it much of a luxury car but on the Arteon R's side, the dark-themed interior with blue accents really smells like someone's dabbing a man's cologne all over. Manly, but it still snugs up to five people and is still as spacious as the old Arteon, except that with the addition of the Shooting Brake, you can store as much as 1,632 liters of load (compared to the saloon's 1,557 liter capacity).

The choice of engines has been revised as well on the new Arteon and with the first-ever 1.4 eHybrid joining alongside it, you'll have plenty to choose from. In the normal Arteon, the range-topper comes with the 2.0 TSi with the optional 4MOTION four-wheel-drive system and DSG. Producing 280PS of power and 400Nm of torque, it is capable of going from 0-100kph in 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 220kph.

The R, meanwhile, dons the same setup as the range-topper that I've mentioned earlier but because of the sporty credentials that will make it the most enjoyable luxury Volkswagen to drive for days, the top speed has been bumped to 270kph, faster than most expensive German luxury sportscars capped 20kph less than this. Not bad for a poor man's Audi S6 that is priced at under 64 grand! It's, even more, faster than the ancient Passat B6 R36!

On the dynamics side, the new Arteon feels like the previous model it replaces but with some slight improvements on the undersides that will make it more sensible and more comfortable. The R is different because thanks to its R-Performance Torque Vectoring that sends its torque in both axles and also between the rear wheels, it's the most fun Arteon to drive and you can find yourself trying out on the track, showing that it's about as much fun to drive as an Audi S6, well almost.

Of course, when I said new tech at the end, the Arteon's minor change got it because it's got a new Travel Assist feature joining the ranks of the IQ.DRIVE assist systems, allowing assisted driving up to 210kph, which is great for having a little cruise at the Autobahn while taking a sip of your favorite coffee but such can scare speedo boys behind the wheel straight. Of course, the Arteon's got plenty of driving aids such as Lane Assist, Emergency Braking Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring, Rear View camera, and others, so you'll have lots to talk about just how noticeable this new Arteon is.

New additions, revised styling, a revised interior, new powertrain, and new tech. This is what the recent minor change for the new Arteon summed up and thanks to such additions, it's no longer alone now.

Photo: Volkswagen

Volkswagen Golf VIII Variant and Alltrack

Want a VW Golf VIII but concerned about lots of stuff to handle? Look no more because the eighth generation Golf now comes with a longer station wagon version called the Golf VIII Variant and its rugged version, the Golf Alltrack.

The longer and roomier Golf Variant, priced at 24,070 Euros plus additional costs, and the slightly rugged Golf Alltrack, priced at 41.035 Euros plus additional costs, are back on the eighth-generation model and these are the kind of Golfs that were made for people who are demanding more boot space in the back for just about everything but don't want an SUV that spoils their tastes. Volkswagen understands them so they made these for such purposes, whatever the reason.

First and foremost, the Golf Variant looks and feels like the normal eighth-generation Golf from top to bottom. Sure, it bears the same striking design as its hatchback equivalent as well as the minimalist interior that spells bad news for speedo boys behind the wheel but since this is the estate version of the Golf, it's 48mm longer than the hatchback equivalent, meaning on the inside, it's surprisingly more spacious as well and you can fit up to 1,642 litres of boot space with the passenger seats folded down, which is slightly more than the previous Golf VII Variant.

Same goes for the Alltrack which features a slightly increased ground clearance and some added cladding to make it look rugged like the rest of the so-called crossovers roaming around the streets for whatever their purposes had.

At launch, the estate version of the Golf is offered in various flavors such as a 1.0 TSi, 1.0 eTSi, a 1.5 TSi, 1.5 eTSi, a rather questionable 1.5 TGi natural gas engine, and the 2.0 TDi engine, which is the one to avoid like all diesels sold in Europe. Depending on the variant, it can be mated to either a manual or a DSG. The Golf Alltrack, meanwhile, is available only with a 2.0 TDi engine mated to a DSG and front wheel drive only with 4MOTION to follow later. I know I was gonna say avoid this one because we live in a Europe where almost nobody likes diesels anymore but because the Golf Alltrack only has a diesel engine, looks like this is probably the one to avoid, sadly.

On the dynamics side, because it runs on the same stuff learned from its hatchback equivalent, the Golf Variant behaves rather well. Not sporty as such but it's worth enjoyable to drive. Of course, I was gonna say that the Golf Alltrack has dynamics similar to front-wheel drive only crossovers but because of my stupid advice of saying avoid this one because it only has a diesel engine in it, looks like it's nothing but a void for now. Sorry, Alltrack. Speaking of which, both the Variant and the Alltrack, like the hatchback equivalent, features available Travel Assist and the new IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights.

With the eighth-generation Golf now has a roomier estate version, would you like these rather than Volkswagen's crossover offerings? And if the Golf Alltrack gets an honest petrol variant, even with mild hybrid on it, which is unlikely for the time being, would you want one?

Photo: Volkswagen

Fourth-generation Skoda Octavia

The Skoda Octavia has reached its fourth generation and looks like this new model proves that they want to stay with us despite crossovers mercilessly slowing its sales down. With the promise of a new emotional styling, more luxurious interior, fuel-efficient powertrains, and cutting-edge technology, the all-new Octavia really means business for the typical Czech salarymen.

Starting at around 493 900 Kč, the all-new Octavia puts luxury, practicality, performance, and tech in its spotlight with the pricing that is near the salaryman's reach. You can think of it as a BMW 3-Series on a budget because, well, it's the styling that explains a lot. Even though it dons Skoda's new signature look first seen in the Scala, a hard squint on the exterior design will make you tell that it's like an Audi A4 with the TT's front lamps and the nose of a regular BMW 3-Series. It's a luxury car on a budget, you can really tell and although some would call it serious, others will have second thoughts about the new look.

On the interior, this is where the real drama begins because the new Octavia's interior, like most today's tech-savvy cars, went to the minimalist route, which is bad news for speedo boys tempting to drive one. Look around and you couldn't find buttons for the volume and aircon because it's all in this touchscreen which explains a lot. While speedo boys are lamenting over the new model's minimalist interior, the comfort around it really makes a big statement on this new car. Because it's longer than the old one, the new Octavia can hold as much as 600 litres of boot space, which is not bad in liftback guise, but if you go for its Combi and its offroad-focused Scout sibling, you can store a lot more without explanation.

In its regular form, the new Octavia offers a healthy choice of petrol, diesel, and CNG engines and for the first time, it can be offered with the powerful and efficient 1.4 TSI iV plug-in hybrid powertrain which produces up to 150kw of power and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it can go from 0-100kph in 7.7 seconds and onwards to 220kph while fuel efficiency is a combined 1.2L/100km. The Scout, meanwhile, is offered only in 2.0 diesel with a 48v mild hybrid tech while mated to a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed AT, and on the high-performance RS variants, which starts at 889,900 Kč, it can be fitted with either a 1.4 TSi iV with 1.5L/100km of fuel economy, a 2.0 TDi which is the one to avoid in today's Europe, and the ultimate serving of the lineup which is the 180kW 2.0 TSi engine mated to a 6-speed manual that can get through 0-100kph in less than seven seconds and electronically limited to 250kph.

On the dynamics side, the new Octavia can be either more fun to drive as the old one or more comfortable to drive just by fiddling with different chassis options to go for including the Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select. It's the same goes for the RS variants which puts sporty handling on its crosshairs but the Scout loves to get itself dirty because of its Rough-Road package with a special off-road function that allows this sport utility wagon to claw through dirt in a middle of a Sunday drive at Hannibal's.

In the essence of tech, the new Octavia can be loaded with numerous driver assistance systems as well as LED Matrix headlights, and so much more, giving the drivers plenty of ways to get themselves noticed on the road.

Be it for work or for play, the typical salaryman favorite from Skoda just got a new lease of life with this fourth generation model. Although it's having a hard time catching up against the crossovers from the Skoda family tree, the all-new Octavia still continues where its previous generations left off in a new and noticeable way whether you like it or not.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Subaru Levorg (VN5)

The Impreza-sized station wagon from Subaru, the Levorg, is now on its second-generation, and with performance is not in its agenda, sadly, the new Levorg promises to be the most technologically-advanced Subaru ever made because of its all-new Eyesight X and Subaru Starlink services. Let's discover more about the second-generation Levorg.

2021 Subaru Levorg

Starting at 3,102,000 Japanese Yen (around $31,020), the all-new Levorg is Subaru's tour de force that aims squarely at the Volvo V60 because of the most advanced safety features Subaru ever made in the hopes to emulate this new model to its more expensive but powerful Swedish opponent.

2021 Subaru Levorg

2021 Subaru Levorg

Starting first with the design and thankfully, the bits and bobs from the prototype as seen in last year's Tokyo Motor Show retains. Compared to the previous model, the new Levorg's design looks clean, sharp, and athletic. Looking from every angle, the new look really spells smart and sexy and its own pace. Even the hood scoop adds a nice touch to it because it's a Subaru and every Subarist in the world knows that.

2021 Subaru Levorg interior

Step inside the interior and you will be greeted with a Tesla-esque dashboard which scares most speedo boys because of its minimalism. This is the first time a Subaru in a Japanese market spawned a super tall screen and due to a litany of horror stories about tall screens occupying dashboards in most expensive cars, some might fear that the new model embraces minimalism. Don't worry, though, despite the tall screen, there are buttons around for ease of use.

The driver's side is like science fiction came true but on the passenger side, it's surprisingly comfortable to live with. The rear space is surprisingly more generous than the previous model and the boot space is surprisingly adaptable. There's even a secret compartment in case you want more. With such utility, the new Levorg is ready to take on various daily routines, be it for work or for leisure.

2021 Subaru Levorg

Now we get to the very serious topic of this new Levorg and it's about performance. Because it now runs on a Subaru Global Platform, coupled with some other suspension and chassis updates, the new Levorg is now livelier to drive than the previous model, and when in the STi Sport variant with its sport-tuned suspension, it's slightly better to handle with almost none of the drama involved. Toying around with its SI-Drive system is the ideal way of getting to know about the new Levorg in all corners of the earth but the STi Sport variant features more modes than the normal Levorg had, meaning you have everything at your disposal to deliver its first impression on the road.

Speaking of drama, the new Levorg, at launch, is offered only with a brand new CB18 1.8L DOHC DIT engine that produces 177PS of power and 300Nm of torque. Mated with the only gearbox offered on the new Levorg, a Lineartronic CVT, it promises a combined 13.7kmpl based on WLTP standards. Yes, this powertrain really is dramatic and when compared to the Volvo V60, the Swedish will eat it alive on the straights but who cares? They can go up to 180kph, you know, but enough about that because it's time to move on to safety.

The new Levorg is the first Subaru to be applied with the first-ever Eyesight X, which features a wide array of highly advanced safety features such as traffic jam assist, active speed control, and active lane change assist, in addition to its pre-crash brake, unintentional acceleration suppression, active cruise control, and lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive high beam, and driver monitoring system. In addition to the Eyesight X, the new Levorg is the first to have Subaru Starlink which allows the driver to access numerous services such as SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts, Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator.

So, what can I say about the new Levorg? Well, it's not as fast or as powerful as a Volvo but with the sharp new design, new interior, improved handling, and the most advanced tech offered in a Subaru, this is a fresh start and it's starting to gain some attention in the midst of the new normal.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

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

Audi RS6 Avant C8 and RS7 C8

The best RS Audis in the stable, the RS6 Avant and the RS7 Sportback, are back in the latest C8 generation and the newest incarnations of the so-called best Audis have been uncaged on the road and track to deliver the best-ever performance that will leave them driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them. Let's investigate more on the all-new RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback.

2020 Audi RS6 Avant

2020 Audi RS7 Sportback

The all-new RS6 Avant, priced at 124260 Euros plus on-road costs, and the all-new RS7 Sportback, priced at 127,720 Euros plus on-road costs, are the best Audis aimed squarely at the opposition with its dynamics and performance that will push them beyond their limits.

Both of them are powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with a 48-volt electrical system and cylinder-on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. This engine produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. Stats like these will make them as fast as those from the AMG stable, especially their prime targets such as the E63S and the GT63S.

Unlike their AMG rivals, both the RS6 and RS7 don't have special witchcraft that makes them behave like rear-wheel drive monsters instead, both come with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control, allowing them to misbehave like the drivers want while keeping them enjoyable to drive on the road and track, even on gravel and snow thanks to its Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. 

Yes, they're not as mad as the AMGs but they're way beyond Subaru WRX STi levels of enjoyment and these best Audis are sure to give drivers a fresh new take on dynamic driving for all seasons. 

Such enjoyment will leave the others driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them, and boy, they just did. And apart from being as mad as they look, their interior smells manly enough to get accommodated with. It even has good space in the back as well just like the normal ones.

The new RS6 and RS7 may not be as good as the AMG rivals because of the fact that they don't have rear-wheel drive witchcraft on their all-wheel drive systems but with numerous improvements tinkered inside out, these best Audis are simply the best Audis you really wish to want one. If you want one, so be it.

Photo: Audi AG

Second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake

The CLA Shooting Brake is made for those who believe the boot space of the normal CLA wasn't big enough for their camping gear to carry and with the advent of the second-generation model, this new CLA Shooting Brake is going to be as spacious as today's A-Class hatchback for all the mixed reasons.

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Shooting Brake

The Shooting Brake variant returns on the second-generation CLA-Class from Mercedes-Benz and with prices start at around 32,313.30 Euros plus OTR, it's still cheaper to own than any Mercedes estate wagons bigger than this, although most Europeans began shying away from estates in favor for crossovers. Anyway, the new CLA Shooting Brake promises to be the most spacious in its class and with more space to fill than the previous Shooting Brake, you can store lots of things as possible depending on what fits in your schedule.

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA35 Shooting Brake

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Shooting Brake

Like its four-door equivalent, the new CLA Shooting Brake handles well, cruises well, more refined, more quiet, and more subtle compared to the previous model. It also offers the same choice of engines as its four-door equivalent such as the M282 four-cylinder petrol engine with cylinder shutoff, M260 petrol engine with variable valve timing system, Euro 6d-certified OM 654q diesel engine, and the entry-level OM 608 diesel engine, the one to avoid for diesel-sceptic Europeans.

Of course, for those who want more muscle, there are AMG versions offered on the Shooting Brake such as the AMG 35 4MATIC with the 306PS 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-speed double-clutch gearbox, capable of going 0-100kph in less than five seconds and top speed limited to 250kph, and the ultimate CLA45 with the brand new M139 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo 4-cylinder engine which, in the range topping S variants, produces 421PS of power and 500Nm of torque and when mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G, it goes from 0-100kph in less than four seconds and a top speed of 270kph.

The CLA Shooting Brake is the most affordable Mercedes estate offered and with the second-generation, there's a lot of unanswered questions about the second addition to the latest CLA but it's best to leave it for now.

Photo: Daimler AG

Audi S6 C8 and S7 C8

Audi's S6 range and the S7 Sportback are back for their latest generation but they're not what you think because what's underneath them is a different story that's going to be worth an argument heard round the world because for the first time, all of them are powered by a 3.0 TDi diesel engine, which is going to be irrelevant in today's Europe. but in such interest, let's investigate the whys of the S6 range and the S7 Sportback.

2020 Audi S6

2020 Audi S6 Avant

2020 Audi S7 Sportback

Back on their C8 outing, the new S6 range and S7 Sportback ups the ante with its sporty exterior styling, sporty handling, sporty interior, and same tech from its normal A6/A7 derivatives, but the most questionable of all is the engine that powers it. Yep, the new S6/S7 is powered by a new 3.0L V6 TDi engine, a semi-high performance diesel engine that is deemed irrelevant in today's diesel-sceptic Europe, but for such curiosity, let's get to know the diesel engine that powers it.

The 3.0L V6 TDi diesel engine that powers it comes from the A6 allroad and it is fitted with a 48-volt primary electrical system capable of producing 350PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it is capable of going 0-100kph in five seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. Now that is something else for these diesel-powered sport saloons despite being carried from a pseudo-crossover wagon relative of the A6 C8 family tree.

With the diesel engine sorted, let's investigate more on the basic stuff of the S6/S7 range. On the exterior design, the sporty exterior really is like a businessman in a track suit jogging at the park on a Sunday morning, although the rear is somewhat questionable due to its fake exhaust tips, but either way, the new S6/S7 really means business in a nearly athletic way and the dark-themed interior really smells like aftershave everytime you get in and out of the familiar cabin that comes with all of the familiar toys and comforts from the standard A6/A7.

At the dynamics section, the S6/S7 possess sportscar-like handling like every S model in the Audi catalog and although it feels rather mild but menacing, the dynamic all-wheel steering and optional ceramic brake system adds some dramatic feel to these models, making them solid all-rounder that balances the right things and the wrong things in a timely manner. Although not quite as impressive as its M Performance variants from BMW or the AMG 35 range from Mercedes but the new S6/S7 feels nearly addictive to drive.

The S6 range starts at 76,500 Euros plus tax and delivery while the S7 starts at 82,750 Euros plus tax and delivery. Yes, they really are expensive but feel free to get to know them if you got the time.

Photo: Audi AG

BMW 3-Series G20 Touring

The latest-generation BMW 3-Series delivered the packaging, the dynamics, and the efficiency really made it a class apart from the rest and with the Touring variant, this adds more ways to enjoy the latest-generation better.

2020 BMW 3-Series Touring

The new 3-Series Touring, starting at 39,400 Euros plus on road costs, delivers all the same stuff the sedan offered with the added space in the back for the most important things life a typical workaholic mom would do.

First and foremost, the 3-Series Touring, like its sedan equivalent, promises to deliver the checks and balances of what it should be; technologically advanced inside out, relatively superior comfort, sporty dynamics, performance, and economy, all in one clever but enjoyable package.

On the design department, the latest 3-Series Touring is nothing more of a mini-me 5-Series Touring and when parked alongside with it, you can't really tell the difference between this and that but on the plus side, it looks better than the previous model it replaces and the new LED headlights with BMW Laserlight adds a nice touch to it.

The sedan version offers some tech and comfort on the interior and the Touring is no exception. With five litres more than the previous 3-Series Touring, you can expect fitting almost everything you need for your everyday basis. Be it grocery, thrift store, any leisure activity you know, the boot space is always here when you need it.

The engine lineup on the 3-Series Touring is almost identical to the ones offered in the sedan equivalent. from petrol engines to not-friendly-to-Europeans-today diesel engines. The range-topping M340i xDrive with its 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo 6-cylinder engine produces 374PS of power and 500Nm, and when mated to an 8-speed AT, it does 0-100kph in 4.4 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph.

Like the sedan, the Touring is becoming livelier to drive thanks to its lightweight construction, sport-tuned suspension setup, variable sport steering, and the first-ever lift-related dampers, among many others. Add some M Sport upgrades underneath and the result is a more sportscar-like agility that can be somewhat enjoyable for you on the open road but a bit cranky on city traffic per se. It even comes with a wide array of safety tech as well.

Would you consider the Touring version of the G20 3-Series over the sedan?

Photo: BMW AG

Audi A6 C8 allroad

The Audi A6 allroad is now based on the same underpinnings as the latest C8 A6 range and this new generation offers the same stuff that you get from today's Audi A6, now in an increased ground clearance and some extra cladding to make it look rugged and outgoing like a cameraman going out on the woods for some wildlife photography.

2020 Audi A6 allroad

It's been two decades since the original Audi allroad quattro went on sale and with the advent of the latest generation, the Audi A6 allroad continues to blend the right balance between the ruggedness of an SUV and the riding comfort of a luxury car, or be it an Audi A6 Avant perhaps, making this sport utility wagon one step ahead of the rest, although this new model wants to play hide and seek against the Mercedes E-Class All Terrain, which is its main rival.

With prices start at 61,500 Euros plus taxes and delivery, the new A6 allroad is surprisingly more expensive than the Mercedes E-AT and because it's an Audi, most speedo boys would be better off with the Mercedes instead because Audis are like the antithesis in the German luxury car wars. They're like sober people who went out from their rehabs and behave with all of the good manners and right conduct intended.

2020 Audi A6 allroad interior

Speaking of good manners and right conduct, the new A6 allroad is surprisingly an Audi A6 Avant with some increased ground clearance and some extra cladding to make it look rugged and dependable and because it's based on the A6 Avant, you can expect boot space fit enough for your mountain bike and some camping essentials on the trip to one of Europe's most scenic landscapes for your healing vlog purposes.

Under the hood, this sport utility wagon never learned a bit because the new A6 allroad is powered by a 3.0L TDi engine paired with a mild hybrid system, with the highest bearing 350PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it is capable of going 0-100kph in 5.2 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. I know that most Europeans are not welcomed but considering how much power and torque the top-end A6 allroad possess, that's something you would really want to play tug of war against the E-Class All Terrain and because it can tow up of 2.5 tons, it's capable of towing caravans, which is going to be a menace for speedo boys everywhere. Who cares? You're in an Audi, of course, and the A6 allroad is the perfect caravane people's car to cause so much misery for the speedo boys, unless if they are fighting like tigers in a battle.

On the road, the A6 allroad works like an Audi A6 Avant, especially when it comes with a wide array of driving assists, but when taken off the road, it really is like a bear in a battle when the adaptive air suspension is raised to make it more enjoyable on the dirt, although not intended to be taken out for cross-country purposes like every crossover drivers heard of today. Because it comes with the Audi drive select offroad mode, the new A6 allroad really works like an elephant in the room and this is going to be one of the most enjoyable allroad you can try if you can afford the massive pricetag.

From tarmac, gravel, and snow, the all-new Audi A6 allroad is now worthy enough to follow the footsteps of the original allroad quattro 20 years ago and whether you love it or hate it, this sport utility vehicle is the ideal antidote for those who are raging against crossovers but don't worry because this is just a station wagon disguised as a crossover and you should thank Audi for that, whatever it takes.

Photo: Audi AG

MAZDA6 (GJ) and MAZDA2 (DJ)

The Mazda Atenza and the Mazda Demio are now discontinued and replaced by the new MAZDA6 and the new MAZDA2, marking them the first time adopting international names since the latest-generation MAZDA3. While they look the same as the Atenza and the Demio models they've replaced, these two new models will find some slight changes around here.

2020 Mazda 6

2020 Mazda 6

Starting with the MAZDA6 and with prices starting below the three million yen mark, it comes with two different body styles; a 4-door sedan and a 5-door station wagon. At first glance, the MAZDA6 looks a lot like last year's Atenza minor change and even after being renamed, the design is distinctively Mazda and because last year's Atenza minor change is the best-looking Atenza ever, perhaps the rename never harmed the looks at all.

2020 Mazda 6 interior

The same story goes for the interior and like last year's Atenza minor change, the MAZDA6 features a wooden trim on the dashboard, the Active Driving Display on the windscreen, and others. Although being driver-focused, it still feels like a luxury car, which is not bad for a reasonably-priced midsize saloon of this caliber, and in the case of the wagon, it's surprisingly spacious at the back.

2020 Mazda 6

While the MAZDA6 retains the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L and 2.5L petrol engines and the SKYACTIV-D 2.2L diesel engine from last year's Atenza minor change, the biggest addition to the MAZDA6 is the SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine with Dynamic Pressure Turbo System. First applied on the CX-5 and the CX-8 crossovers, this turbocharged engine produces 230PS of power, 420Nm of torque, and 12.4km/L of fuel economy in the WLTP scale. Like before, petrol engines are mated exclusively with a SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6AT while the diesel engine is mated with either this or the 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT.

With G-Vectoring Control and i-ACTIV AWD at hand, in addition to Mazda's i-ACTIVSENSE suite of safety systems, not only does the MAZDA6 feel good to drive full stop but it's reliable and safer to drive on the journey home from another day at the office. 

2020 Mazda 2

Next up, the MAZDA2, and it's now slightly better looking than the Demio it was replaced with a new front face, new wheel designs, and a revised rear design. With prices starting at the 1.6 million yen mark, it's still a smart buy for a hatchback that feels like a world-class hatchback rather than being Japanesey.

2020 Mazda 2 interior

Apart from the revised exterior, the interior's slightly revised to make it more usable for the customers and while it still works pretty much like the Demio it replaces, it's still decently comfortable and spacious for a hatchback of that size.

2020 Mazda 2

The MAZDA2 is offered with a choice of a SKYACTIV-G 1.5L petrol engine and a 1.5L SKYACTIV-D diesel turbo engine, both are revised to meet WLTP standards and can be mated with a choice of a SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6AT or a SKYACTIV-MT 6MT respectively. The petrol one promises up to 19.8km/L of combined fuel economy on the WLTP scale, while the diesel one promises up to 25.2km/L of combined fuel economy on the WLTP scale. 

Apart from the engine choices, the MAZDA2 comes with a G-Vectoring Control as well as the available i-ACTIV AWD, giving owners plenty of reasons why the MAZDA2 is one of the best compact hatchbacks to own today because of its driving character that is unmistakably Mazda, and lastly, the i-ACTIVSENSE suite of safety features that will give them a peace of mind while driving.

Even with a name change, both the MAZDA6 and the MAZDA2 still have a lot of work to do that their predecessors left for them, which is promising customers the Mazda way.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

12th Generation Toyota Corolla range

The Auris-replacing Corolla Sport from last year truly is a prologue for what is known to be the 12th generation of a globally ubiquitous household name in the motoring world, the Toyota Corolla. Now larger than the previous model's Axio and Fielder it replaces, the new and larger Corolla range; in sedan and Touring wagon, promises to be the most advanced Corolla ever with its TNGA platform, fuel-efficient engines, and cutting-edge technology that will keep them prepared in this ever-changing world where SUVs are treated like superhero movies in terms of sales.

2020 Toyota Corolla

2020 Toyota Corolla Touring

Although they're now bigger than the Axio and Fielder models they've replaced, the new Corolla sedan and Corolla Touring Wagon are still sized just right to accommodate just about every corner of the planet and with prices slotted at the two million yen mark, they're still reasonably priced as the other fellows, be it the Honda Civic or the Subaru Impreza perhaps.

2020 Toyota Corolla

2020 Toyota Corolla Touring

Like last year's Corolla Sport hatchback, the new models' aggressive styling really means intimidation from such an innocent-looking city-class midsize vehicle the rearview tells a different story because the sedan has a more dramatic rear view compared to the Touring wagon, which still has the Astra-like rear lamps of course.

2020 Toyota Corolla Touring interior

2020 Toyota Corolla interior

Although the new interior is almost as similar to last year's Corolla Sport hatchback, the new Corolla range is designed with commoners in mind, and thanks to dimension changes compared to its predecessors, this spells a lot of room for Mom and Dad at the front and you at the back, knowing that you will still have that sweet spot for you to get in and out of. In the case of the Touring wagon, it has a spacious rear room fit enough for stuff you've nabbed from the rummage sale of course.

2020 Toyota Corolla

2020 Toyota Corolla Touring

Thanks to its TNGA-C platform, the new Corolla is now better handling and fuel-efficient than before. Having demonstrated from the Sport hatchback last year, the sedan and Touring wagon variants do come with the front MacPherson strut and rear double-wishbone suspension, Active Cornering Assist, and Adaptive Variable Suspension. While they don't behave like their European competition, the new Corolla gives them more time to enjoy their driving pleasure at work or at play, especially on the weekends. Yes, exactly.

Under the hood, the Corolla is offered with a wide range of engines such as the 2ZR-FAE 1.8L petrol engine mated to a Super CVT-i with seven simulated gears, and a 1.2L 8NR-FTS turbocharged engine mated to either a 10-speed Super CVT-i or a more joyful 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission that works in tandem with different drive modes. Speedo boys might be tempted to get the turbo variant with the 6-speed MT but who cares?

Oh, I forgot to mention the hybrid variants that come with the 2ZR-FXE 1.8L petrol engine connected to an electric motor and the nickel-metal hydride battery Toyota still uses as of now. Fuel efficiency is a combined 29kmpl in the WLTP scale for front-wheel-drive variants.

Promising to be the most high-tech Corolla to date, the new models come with the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense with new active-safety technologies and capabilities that enhance protection. These features are Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed DRCC, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam, and Lane Tracing Assist, among many others.

So, what can I say about the new Corolla? Well, in an era where SUVs are treated like superhero movies in terms of sales, the new Corolla range still has an uphill battle to win back the masses and with its TNGA platform, fuel-efficient engines, and cutting-edge technology, the new models will try to show the world that the Corolla is still the king of the world, although it's no longer one because of today's motoring climate, see if we care.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation