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Honest Car Reviews, Car Reviews, Car News Jim Starling Honest Car Reviews, Car Reviews, Car News Jim Starling

BYD Sealion 5 DM-i First Impressions Review

The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i is a clear signal of how aggressively the brand intends to compete in the UK’s most hotly contested segment. By offering a well-equipped plug-in hybrid SUV from under £30,000, BYD has effectively removed the price premium that usually accompanies electrification. The headline electric-only range of up to 53 miles is particularly significant, as it allows many owners to complete day-to-day driving without engaging the petrol engine at all, while still retaining the flexibility of long-distance capability.

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Car News, Alternative Fuels Jim Starling Car News, Alternative Fuels Jim Starling

Tesla Model Y Standard Review (2026)

The new Tesla Model Y Standard is Tesla’s most affordable SUV yet, arriving in the UK at just under £42,000. While it trims back a few features to hit that price point, the fundamentals remain intact: excellent efficiency, strong real-world range, outstanding software, and the best phone app in the business. Aside from a more basic suspension setup and a visibly cheaper frunk, it still feels very much like a Model Y — and for many buyers, this stripped-back version may actually be the smartest choice in the range.

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Car News, Alternative Fuels, Electric Vehicles Jim Starling Car News, Alternative Fuels, Electric Vehicles Jim Starling

Kia Announces First Vehicles Eligible for the UK EV Grant

Kia UK has announced that the EV4 and PV5 Passenger are the brand’s first models to qualify for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant. Eligible EV4 ‘Air’ and PV5 Passenger ‘Essential’ and ‘Plus’ grades now benefit from £1,500 off the on-the-road price, making the switch to electric driving more accessible than ever. With impressive driving ranges, advanced technology, and Kia’s industry-leading warranty, these latest electric models underline Kia’s commitment to affordable, sustainable mobility.

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Car News, Blog Jim Starling Car News, Blog Jim Starling

Chery’s User Summit in China comes with a free crystal ball for the car industry

As I’ve immersed myself in China’s vibrant automotive scene, one thing is crystal clear: Chery is shaping the future of mobility today. With groundbreaking innovations in software-defined vehicles, solid-state batteries, and advanced safety technologies—including vehicles that withstand 60 mph crash tests—Chery is not just keeping pace; they’re leading the charge. Their global reach, rapid sales growth—two million cars in 2025 alone—and commitment to making life easier and safer with AI-driven robotics and multi-language voice assistants paint a compelling picture. While some messaging may be a little cringey, the underlying message is straightforward: Chery is delivering smarter, more efficient, and more connected cars that appeal to every need—from fun entry-level EVs to luxurious range-toppers. Stay tuned as I dive deeper into what Chery’s brands—CHERY, OMODA, and JAECOO—are bringing to the UK market.

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Car News Jim Starling Car News Jim Starling

OMODA 4 Debuts

The Omoda 4 was unveiled to the world’s media today in at the CHERY GLOBAL USER SUMMIT 2025 in Wuhu, China. I was lucky enough to have a ringside seat at the launch of this cyber-mecha inspired B-segment crossover. 

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Car News Jim Starling Car News Jim Starling

Chery Arrives in the UK

Chery UK has officially launched, bringing one of China’s biggest automotive brands to British roads. With a portfolio of stylish SUVs, competitive pricing, and a seven-year warranty, Chery is positioning itself as a serious alternative to established players such as Volkswagen, Hyundai and Kia.

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Car News Jim Starling Car News Jim Starling

Volkswagen Golf GTI EDITION 50: Half a Century of Swagger, Speed, and Subtle Red Lines

To mark 50 years of the iconic Golf GTI, Volkswagen has released the most powerful GTI yet — the Edition 50. Packing 325 PS and boasting a Nürburgring lap time of 7 minutes 47 seconds, this special model blends everyday usability with serious track performance. But with electrification looming, could this be the swansong for the classic petrol GTI?

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