Geraldine Herbert

6 days ago | independent.ie | Geraldine Herbert

This no-nonsense family hauler has a rugged, go-anywhere swagger and roomy interior – but without the premium price tagImagine being a fly on the wall in Dacia’s headquarters, where marketing minds and product developers gathered to christen their latest big SUV. One can only guess that there were PowerPoint slides, animated debates and then, finally, someone leaning in and declaring: “Let’s call it... Bigster.” A moment of triumph, no doubt, as though they’d just reinvented wheels and vowels.

6 days ago | independent.ie | Geraldine Herbert

Start by setting a realistic budget – but it’s important to think beyond the purchase price. Consider long-term costs like fuel, insurance, tax and servicing. Some campervans may seem pricey upfront, but hold their value better over time. Others are budget-friendly to buy, but might cost more to run or sell for less later. How can I ensure I’m getting good value for money? Consider the overall package. Does the campervan offer useful features for the price? Will it meet your lifestyle needs?

1 week ago | independent.ie | Geraldine Herbert

Set to go on sale in Europe in spring 2026, the Leaf was first launched in 2010, when it made history as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle. To date, Nissan has sold close to 700,000 units globally. There will be two battery sizes to choose from: a 52kWh unit offering up to 436km WLTP, and a larger 75kWh pack capable of up to 604km. Nissan claims that the longer-range version can recharge up to 417 km in 30 minutes via DC fast charging at 150 kW.

1 week ago | independent.ie | Geraldine Herbert

Stop-start systems automatically shut off your engine when the car is stationary. So if you are at traffic lights or in congestion, it works and then it will restart the car when you take your foot off the brake if driving an automatic, or when you press the clutch in a manual car. The technology is designed to reduce idling, save fuel and cut emissions without drivers needing to do anything. How exactly does it work?

1 week ago | independent.ie | Geraldine Herbert

The new EV is focused on signature Lexus style with a premium feel and a comfortable driveIn an industry where everyone seems to be shouting “sustainability” into their faux-leather-trimmed steering wheels, Lexus has taken a more measured approach, refusing to commit to a single powertrain. While rival marques cling tightly to one solution, Lexus is curating its line-up with hybrids for the hesitant, BEVs for the fully committed, and something in-between for anyone else.