Car reviews

Volkswagen Passat R-Line TDI Review

The Volkswagen Passat has always been the sensible choice for Irish buyers who need space without the SUV premium, and the latest R-Line estate builds on that with a genuinely enormous boot, a well-equipped cabin and diesel running costs that still make sense for high-mileage drivers. It isn't the last word in driving excitement, and the options list can push the price up quickly — but for anyone covering serious motorway miles, this is one of the most convincing all-round estates on sale in Ireland.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 EV Review

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 with EQ Technology is the entry point into Mercedes's first car built from the ground up as an EV, and it punches well above its position in the range. Its standout feature is software, not hardware: a charging system clever enough to work out exactly how much energy you need for the rest of your journey and stop there, rather than habitually filling to 100%. Add genuinely quick DC charging and motorway comfort that holds up over real distance, and the CLA 200 makes a strong case as a daily long-haul EV. The catch is that Mercedes's most digital car yet arrives without Apple CarPlay, and the price climbs quickly once AMG Line trim and a few options are added. For motorway-heavy drivers happy to lean on Mercedes's own software, it's an easy car to recommend; for CarPlay loyalists, it's worth a test drive before you commit.

Leapmotor T03 Review

The Leapmotor T03 is the first Chinese electric car to reach Ireland under the Stellantis umbrella, and it arrives with a clear pitch: EV motoring for less than €19,000 after grants. Distributed by Gowan Auto and backed by a six-year unlimited-mileage warranty, the T03 aims to open up electric car ownership to Irish buyers who have so far been priced out of the market. We tested the single available trim to see whether affordable EV motoring also means acceptable EV motoring.

Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 TSI R-Line

Europe's best-selling SUV has been completely rebuilt — and the all-new T-Roc R-Line is the best version of it yet. Longer, more practical, with a genuinely premium interior and class-leading safety technology, it makes the strongest case for a compact petrol SUV in Ireland right now. It is not cheap, but at €46,980 on the road it earns the money.

Toyota Bz Sport Review

The Toyota bZ4X is a well-rounded family SUV that arrives with Toyota's reputation for reliability baked in and a genuinely competitive range on paper. It's not the most exciting car in the segment, and a taller driver will notice the compromises in driving position, but if badge trust and long-term peace of mind are high on your list, it makes a strong case.

Lexus RZ500e Review: DoneDeal Cars

The Lexus RZ500e is the most driver-focused electric SUV in Ireland right now, and it makes no apology for it. Twin motors, a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and the sharpest steering in the segment add up to a premium EV that genuinely rewards the person behind the wheel. Running costs are competitive, the cabin is exceptional, and the long Lexus reliability record provides reassurance that some newer EV brands simply cannot match. Its range lags the class leaders and the price is steep — but for buyers who want an electric car that feels engineered rather than just assembled, the RZ500e is worth every cent.

Kia PV5

Kia's PV5 Passenger is one of the most genuinely useful family cars to arrive in Ireland this year. Built on a dedicated electric platform, it offers more boot space than most large SUVs, sliding rear doors that make car parks and car seats stress-free, and running costs that put it firmly in the value column. It is not without compromises — but for the right buyer, the trade-offs are well worth making.

Kia K4 Review

The Kia K4 is one of the most convincing arguments for the compact saloon you'll find on Irish roads right now. Fresh from a ground-up redesign, it offers a genuinely spacious cabin, a ride quality that irons out the worst of our roads, and a level of standard equipment that makes rivals look underdressed. It lacks the high-riding stance that Irish buyers have convinced themselves they need but for those willing to look past the SUV obsession, it rewards handsomely.

Toyota Aygo X GR Sport Review

The Toyota Aygo X GR Sport is one of the most entertaining small cars you can buy in Ireland right now. Built on Toyota's TNGA platform with a self-charging hybrid powertrain, it punches well above its city-car classification, delivering genuine driving fun, eye-catching looks and some of the lowest running costs in its segment. It is not a car without limitations, but for Irish city commuters who want a bit of personality with their practicality, it makes a very strong case.