CAR (UK)

It’s been e-motional

A car with character.

- By Ben Whitworth @benwhitwor­th

The Zoe’s list of irritants is growing. I’ve previously mentioned the harsh ride and high driving position. To this you can add the infotainme­nt system’s occasional refusal to recognise my phone; the ease with which you can snag yourself on the sharp leading edges of the doors; the rear door handles that easily defeat smaller hands; and the tough cabin plastics.

But all of this is forgiven and forgotten the moment the Zoe zips off at the start of another journey. Why? Because the Zoe is full of tail-up and zesty character.

It feels chic, effervesce­nt and savvy – a refreshing riposte to the many bland boxes that all too often get bought instead.

Very few long-term test cars that I’ve had the privilege of running can match the Zoe’s generosity of character and charm. It joins the select group alongside the

Caterham 160, Mazda RX-8, Renault Clio Trophy and Volvo XC70. It also means the Zoe can be judged, driven and enjoyed without any caveat around its power source. It’s not an excellent little supermini despite being electric. It’s just an excellent little supermini.

 ??  ?? ‘No phone’? We beg to di er
‘No phone’? We beg to di er

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom