Skip advert
Advertisement

Driving aids tested

We ask a panel of readers to test the latest driving aids and in-car gadgets, then tell us which they’d pay extra for

Porsche 911

Technology with a ‘wow’ factor is now an option on even the most humble cars. Sophisticated but relatively cheap cameras and sensors allow everything from self-braking to hands-free parking. But would you pay extra for these driver aids?

We gathered a varied group of readers (below) at the Porsche Experience 
at Silverstone, Northants, to try some of the top tech on a range of cars. 
So would they take it or leave it?

Introducing our panel of readers

Aaron Smith, 23Digital printing technician from Sheldon, W MidsDrives: Vauxhall Astra

Advertisement - Article continues below

Phil Evans, 44Rail maintenance planner from Walsall, W MidsDrives: Fiat Punto Evo

Pete Alan, 44Optician from Huntington, StaffsDrives: BMW 320d

Mike Stevenson, 49Design engineer from Sutton Coldfield, W MidsDrives: Honda Civic

Sam Gale, 24Video editor from Rugby, WarwickshireDrives: Ford Fiesta ST

Peter Takacs, 39Acquisitions manager, Milton Keynes, BucksDrives: BMW 325i

Nathan Dale, 21Student from Mansfield, NottsDrives: Toyota Celica

Where we carried out our tests

Porsche set up its Experience Centre in 2008 alongside Silverstone’s Hangar Straight. It has a 3.1km sequence of tracks where buyers can try out the brand’s latest cars – a clever bit of salesmanship, as customers who’ve ordered a Porsche are shown the advantages of extras like carbon ceramic brakes. The facility also runs Porsche’s track experiences, starting from £275 for a 90-minute session.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,362 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,200
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,157
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,700
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front cornering left 1

Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month

The Golf GTI has been a classic from day one – and it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 July.
News
8 Jul 2025