First drives

First Drive

Lexus GS 450h SE-L first drive

This is the first chance we’ve had to sample Lexus’s much-anticipated new GS hybrid in the UK.

12 June 2006

Lexus GS 450h SE-L first drive

First Drive

Lamborghini Murciélago LP640

A definite step forward over the old Murcielago, the LP640 has astounding grunt and levels of grip, blended with old-school Lamborghini qualities. Hugely desirable.

9 June 2006

Lamborghini Murciélago LP640

First Drive

Kia Sorento 2.5 CRDi XS

A revamped version of Kia’s popular Sorento SUV — Kia’s pre-emptive strike at the new Land Rover Freelander, due in November.

6 June 2006

Kia Sorento 2.5 CRDi XS

First Drive

Volvo C70 D5 SE

Cheaper than the Mercedes CLK, but still not cheap, the D5 diesel engine is refined enough and neatly suits the C70's cruising ability.

5 June 2006

Volvo C70 D5 SE

3.2-litre DSG-boxed quattro version has 247bhp on tap

First Drive

Audi TT 3.2 V6 S-tronic

A leap forward over the old model; so much so, in fact, that it places the TT as a genuinely compelling rival to the Porsche Cayman.

3 June 2006

Audi TT 3.2 V6 S-tronic

Steering a little lifeless, not as quick as Alfa norm

First Drive

Alfa Romeo 159 3.2 V6

The Alfa Romeo 159 Q4 is the top-of-the-line 159, with a new 3.2-litre V6 and four-wheel drive

31 May 2006

Alfa Romeo 159 3.2 V6

First Drive

Subaru Impreza 2.5T JDM STI CZS

A Subaru Impreza STi that puts the official WRX STi PPP in the shade. With ‘around 350bhp’ and at least 355lb ft it offers more power than the official Prodrive-fettled car, and yet is still offered with a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty

31 May 2006

Subaru Impreza 2.5T JDM STI CZS