Skip advert
Advertisement

Road tests of the year 2012: August

August was an interesting month for road tests, here are our best

Volvo V40 vs Volkswagen Golf vs BMW 1 Series

BMW 1 Series vs VW Golf and Volvo V40

Winner: BMW 1 Series Read the full test >>

When a car maker bills a new model as its most important in 20 years, you sit up and take notice. That’s exactly how Volvo described the new V40, so we picked a pair of tough rivals for its first test: the BMW 1 Series and VW Golf.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The V40 was extremely strong, and came very close to stealing victory, thanks to its appealing blend of stylish looks, comfortable cabin, outstanding safety kit and low running costs. However, while it easily beat the ageing MkVI Golf, a small boot and slightly less involving driving experience meant it had to narrowly give second best to the excellent 116d EfficientDynamics.

Renault Twizy vs car vs scooter vs public transport

Public transport vs Renault Twizy, Piaggio MP3 Yourban 300 LT and Skoda Citigo

Winner: Skoda Citigo Read the full test >>

The Renault Twizy is breaking the mould of urban commuting, so we compared it to three different travel options – rating it against a Skoda Citigo and a Piaggio scooter, as well as public transport.

Our starting point was Cobham in Surrey, and we timed each method of transport on a journey to our Central London offices. Of course, the results of such a test will be determined by your commute, but the Twizy impressed. It was cheaper and faster than public transport, and offered better weather protection than the rapid scooter. But with its rigid ride and limited practicality, the Renault finished second to the all-conquering Citigo.

Mercedes SL63 AMG vs Jag. XKR-S Convertible vs BMW M6 Convertible

BMW M6 Convertible vs Jaguar XKR-S and Mercedes SL 63 AMG

Winner: Mercedes SL63 AMG Read the full test >>

High-performance open-top sports cars were our focus in late August, as we drove a trio of V8 rear-drive machines in beautiful sunshine.

All three had their talents: the Jaguar XK was huge fun and sounded great, the BMW M6 Convertible had space for four and a hi-tech chassis, while the Mercedes SL delivered sharp handling to go with its stomping straight-line pace.

But the heavyweight M6 wasn’t as agile as its rivals here, and the XKR-S didn’t offer much over the cheaper XK-R. That left the SL63 AMG as the winner, albeit a pricey one at £123,000.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,700
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,464 off RRP*Used from £10,695
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* 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: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!
Skoda Octavia vRS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!

A three-time Auto Express Family Car of the Year winner, paired with Golf GTI power, is our Deal of the Day for 6 July
News
6 Jul 2025