DoneDeal Car Advice

BEV, PHEV, HEV, MHEV: Every Type of Electric Car in Ireland Explained

If you are shopping for a new car in Ireland in 2026, you cannot avoid the acronyms. BEV, PHEV, HEV, MHEV — they appear on every forecourt, in every finance quote, and on every government grant page. They look similar. They are not the same. Choosing the wrong one for your lifestyle can mean hauling an uncharged battery around the country for years, or missing out on grants that could save you thousands.

Ireland's EV Scrappage Scheme Explained (ICE2EV 2026)

From 1 July 2026, Irish drivers with an older petrol or diesel car can claim up to €8,500 in government support when switching to a new electric vehicle. Here's exactly what the ICE2EV scheme is, who qualifies, how to apply — and what to watch out for before you rush to the front of the queue.

Ireland's Driving Test Is Changing: Everything You Need to Know

A loophole that let drivers stay on a learner permit forever is finally closing. Here's what's changing, when it kicks in, and what it means for you — whether you're a learner driver or selling your car to one.

Motor Tax in Ireland Explained

Everything Irish drivers need to know about motor tax — what you pay, why you pay it, and how to avoid paying more than you should.

Best Car Finance Options in Ireland

Nearly half of all car buyers browsing DoneDeal Cars consider using some form of finance. It makes sense — cars are expensive, and spreading the cost over three to five years makes a wide range of vehicles accessible without wiping out your savings in one go. But car finance in Ireland is not a single product. It is a menu of very different options, each with its own rules around ownership, flexibility, and total cost. Choosing the wrong one can cost you thousands more than you needed to spend, or leave you locked into terms that don’t suit your life. This guide covers every mainstream finance option available to Irish buyers, explains the risks that most sources gloss over, and gives you the tools to walk into any dealership — or approach any lender — knowing exactly what you are signing up for.