This week on Driver’s Republic, we’re diving into some exciting automotive news and adventures. From the rugged landscapes of Iceland to the design studio of Nissan, there’s a lot to cover. We’ve got insights into the redesigned Nissan Leaf, a test drive of the Ford Ranger PHEV in Iceland, and even a listener gatecrashing the show!
The New Toyota Land Cruiser: A First Look
We kicked things off sitting in the passenger version of the new Toyota Land Cruiser. Paddy was immediately impressed by the comfort, especially the chilled seats, which are a real treat. The vehicle itself has a strong, imposing presence with a lovely retro, almost Tonka toy-like vibe. It’s big, but not overwhelmingly so, and looks very utilitarian. While the commercial version is available in a sand color, the passenger model comes in this gunmetal gray. Under the hood, it’s a 2.8-liter diesel engine with just under 200 horsepower, but it can tow a massive three and a half tons. The price, however, is quite steep, coming in around €140,000 before extras. Toyota Ireland used to sell very few passenger versions, but the commercial model was a big seller, especially among farmers. The Morocco drive showcased its incredible off-road capabilities, making its presence in Portmarnock feel almost understated.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of physical buttons and a not-too-big screen, which is a welcome change. There are plenty of USB-C ports, an HDMI input (for what, we’re still wondering – maybe an Xbox?), and a cool chassis view camera that shows your wheels. While it’s in Range Rover territory price-wise, its legendary durability and ability to last for years, even being passed down through families, make it a unique proposition. The 2.8 diesel engine is a bit clattery, focusing on torque for towing rather than speed, but its build quality is something else.
Skoda Enyaq RS: More Than Just a Trim?
We then shifted gears to discuss the Skoda Enyaq RS. While it’s undeniably grippy and predictable, there’s a feeling that it might be more of a trim level than a truly hardcore performance version. We’re seeing EVs like the Alpine A110 E-tern and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N making EVs fun, and the Enyaq RS, while faster and grippier than a standard Enyaq, lacks that extra special something. It comes with a lot of standard features, like matrix headlights and dynamic chassis control, making it a good value proposition if you’re considering the Sportline anyway. However, for an RS model, a few more performance-oriented touches, like simulated engine sounds or a lap timer, wouldn’t go amiss. Skoda is holding back some of its RS heritage for a special event in Wales, which might explain the current approach.
A Treasure Trove of Classics at Auction
Paddy shared his experience at Anglia Car Auctions in the UK. It’s a fantastic day out, offering an eclectic mix of cars, often from the 1960s onwards. He highlighted some incredible deals, like two Bentley Turbo R models going for under £10,000. There were also some interesting Saabs, including a 9000 Aero and a Carlson edition, and a Ford Escort RS Turbo that fetched a surprisingly high price. The UK MOT system provides detailed history, which is a big plus. For those interested, the auction site allows you to view past catalogs and results. It’s a great way to potentially snag a bargain, though Paddy advises caution with cars under 30 years old due to VRT uncertainties in Ireland.
Ford Ranger PHEV: Tackling Iceland’s Terrain
Mark recounted his trip to Iceland to test the Ford Ranger PHEV. Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes of volcanoes and fjords, provided the perfect backdrop. The Ranger PHEV can still tow three and a half tons and boasts impressive torque. Its electric-only range is around 43 km, which is enough for many daily tasks. It can also power tools and equipment with its 7kW onboard charger. The drive included wading through rivers and tackling steep climbs, proving the Ranger’s off-road prowess. While the PHEV system is designed to lower emissions and potentially offer tax benefits, the question remains whether it’s more about tax efficiency or genuine consumer benefit. The Ranger is a popular choice in Europe, Australia, and the US, and this PHEV version aims to cater to a growing demand for electrified utility vehicles.
The Reimagined Nissan Leaf
Finally, we discussed the all-new Nissan Leaf. After 700,000 sales of the previous generations, Nissan has given the Leaf a radical redesign. The new model boasts a larger battery offering up to 604 km of range (WLTP), with a more realistic 330 km at motorway speeds. Fast charging is also significantly improved, with the larger battery capable of recovering up to 417 km in just 30 minutes. The design takes inspiration from 90s gaming and Japanese culture, featuring a distinctive rear light graphic and an electro-dimming glass roof with a subtle ‘Leaf’ pattern. Inside, there’s a focus on comfort and technology, including games playable on the central screen. Nissan is aiming for this new Leaf to be a benchmark for the next five to six years, competing strongly in a segment that has become much more crowded.
Key Takeaways:
- The new Toyota Land Cruiser is a capable, durable, but expensive vehicle.
- The Skoda Enyaq RS offers good value as a trim level but might lack true RS performance.
- Classic car auctions in the UK are a great place to find unique vehicles at potentially good prices.
- The Ford Ranger PHEV is a capable off-roader with a focus on efficiency and utility.
- The redesigned Nissan Leaf is a significant step forward, with improved range, charging, and styling.
It was a packed show with plenty of automotive insights and adventures!