2022 Nissan
Qashqai
47,790 milesAutomaticPetrol1.3L
Cash £18,364
2022 Nissan
Leaf
44,500 milesAutomaticElectric
Cash £13,491
2022 Peugeot
208
9,036 milesManualPetrol1.2L
Cash £15,897
Tester’s notes
The Abarth 600e isn’t brimming with feel and feedback, but we like how it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The fake engine noise will divide opinion – some of us loved it, some of us found it really irritating – but if you’re in the latter camp, you can turn it off and enjoy the car’s quick steering and strong performance.
The Scorpionissima is fun to drive, but the stiff suspension will be a dealbreaker for many drivers – just a little more sophistication to the ride would massively add to the car’s appeal.
All versions of the Abarth 600e get a 10.25-inch central touchscreen, a seven-inch digital driver’s display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sabelt sports seats, keyless go and the basic safety systems. To get a rear-view camera, a heated windscreen, sat-nav and cruise control, you have to go for the 600e Scorpionissima model.
This version gets this added kit plus extra driver-assistance tech, a wireless smartphone charging pad and a sound generator that mimics the exhaust note of Abarth’s petrol cars.
Volvo EX30
| Model: | Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Plus |
| Price: | £39,850 |
| Powertrain: | 1x electric motor, 69kWh battery, 268bhp |
| 0-62mph: | 5.2 seconds |
| Test efficiency: | 3.5 miles/kWh |
| Official range: | 296 miles |
| Annual VED: | £195 |
The Volvo EX30 costs £39,850 in Single Motor Extended Range Plus trim, but the car in our pictures is a higher-spec Ultra model. Unlike the front-driven Abarth, it’s rear-wheel drive, and the 268bhp motor gives plenty of performance. It’s not as flashy as the 600e, but it’s one of our favourites in this class. It has a great balance of abilities, including practicality and comfort, plus it’s well equipped and has a longer driving range than the 600e, so the newcomer has a tough battle ahead.
