Lexus Naas is expected to open in 2027, a new retailer location for the luxury brand in Kildare

New Lexus Naas showroom to open in 2027

Lexus Naas is expected to open in 2027, a new retailer location for the luxury brand in Kildare
Lexus Naas is expected to open in 2027, a new retailer location for the luxury brand in Kildare

New Lexus Naas showroom to open in 2027

Lexus Ireland has just confirmed that Toyota Naas has been appointed as the new Lexus Retailer for Kildare. The announcement comes as part of a development of a new state-of-the-art premises, located at Junction 10 on the N7. The new Lexus Naas showroom is expected to open in April of next year.

Liam Fitzpatrick, Dealer Principal, has represented Toyota in Naas, County Kildare, since 2012, with an outstanding reputation as a trusted, family-owned dealership focused on providing an excellent customer experience.

The Fitzpatrick family have a long and successful history in the Irish motor industry since the foundation of Monasterevin Motors over 72 years ago.

Ian Corbett, Head of Lexus Ireland commented:

“We are delighted to appoint Liam Fitzpatrick and Toyota Naas as a Lexus Retailer in County Kildare. Lexus has experienced significant growth over the last number of years and with the arrival of further new models into our range we have no doubt that Lexus will achieve continued success in Naas also."

Growing Lexus range in Ireland

The Lexus range has been bolstered in Ireland in recent years with the arrival of the LBX, its most compact model yet, as well as popular models like the NX and RX hybrid SUVs that continue to be among its bestsellers.

A new NX is expected to arrive shortly, while the brand will expand its presence in 2027 with the arrival of the new Lexus TZ luxury, electric six-seat SUV.

____________________________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The new Cupra Raval is on sale in Ireland nowThe new Cupra Raval is on sale in Ireland now

Cupra Raval arrives in Ireland | Price, Range & Equipment

The new Cupra Raval is on sale in Ireland nowThe new Cupra Raval is on sale in Ireland now
The new Cupra Raval is on sale in Ireland now, its new small electric hatchback

Cupra's sporty new Raval electric hatchback on sale

The new Cupra Raval has arrived in Ireland, marking the brand's first move into the small hatchback class.

The sporty electric hatchback will slot into the range below the popular Cupra Born and take on rivals such as the Renault 5, Nissan Micra and soon-to-arrive Volkswagen ID.Polo.

There is the choice of two different batteries: a more town-focused 37kWh (LFP) with up to 311 kilometres range and the larger 52kWh (NMC) with a maximum 443 kilometre range.

It features bold, sporty design that has become the brand's signature style. All versions come with LED headlights and an illuminated Cupra logo at the back, while alloy wheel sizes vary from 17- up to 19-inch.

Standard equipment includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.25-inch digital driver display, climate control, rear parking sensors and a suite of driver assistance systems, including Rear Traffic Alert and Side/Exit Assist.

With seating for five and a generous 441-litre boot, it's a practical option too for buyers in the market for an electric hatchback.

A high-performance Raval VZ also joins the line-up with numerous sporty upgrades and 226hp.

Cupra Raval Pricing

RAVAL URBAN V1 | From €23,495

37kWh battery, 116hp and up to 311km range (WLTP).

RAVAL URBAN V2 | From €28,960

37kWh battery, 135hp and up to 326km range (WLTP).

RAVAL ENDURANCE V1  | From €32,125

52kWh battery, 211hp and up to 443km range (WLTP).

RAVAL ENDURANCE V2 | From €33,110

52kWh battery, 211hp and up to 443km range (WLTP).

RAVAL VZ | From €36,825

52kWh battery, 226hp and up to 443km range (WLTP).

Marcelino Villalobos, Brand Director at Cupra Ireland, said:

"The arrival of the all-new Cupra Raval marks an exciting new chapter for Cupra in Ireland. It brings everything our brand stands for – distinctive design, dynamic performance and a bold approach to electrification – to a new generation of drivers."

The arrival of the new Raval will boost Cupra's growth in Ireland alongside its many other popular models: the Born, Tavascan, Terramar, Formentor and Leon.

Cupra currently sells more electric cars in Ireland than any other fuel type, representing 41% of its overall sales. The new Cupra Raval gives the brand a valuable presence in the compact segment, while also being its most affordable car to date.

____________________________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The new Kia Seltos is expected in Ireland later this year

New Kia Seltos Hybrid: Pricing and specs for Ireland

The new Kia Seltos is expected in Ireland later this year
The new Kia Seltos is expected in Ireland later this year

The new Kia Seltos is officially coming to Ireland, and we now have full details on Irish pricing, specifications and the hybrid powertrain.

Kia Ireland has confirmed that the second-generation Seltos will arrive in Irish dealerships in December, ahead of the 271 registration plate. It will be available exclusively as a 1.6-litre full hybrid, with four trim levels and a starting price of €39,500.

The Seltos is Kia's second best-selling model globally, and its arrival gives the brand another option in Ireland's highly competitive compact SUV market, sitting below the larger Sportage.

Kia dealers around Ireland have already received Seltos display models, giving prospective buyers an opportunity to see the new SUV ahead of the hybrid's arrival later this year.

Kia Seltos Price & Trims for Ireland

Seltos is available in four trims: K2, K3, GT Line and GT Line Plus.

The K2 model starts from €39,500. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, dual panoramic displays, smart cruise control, heated front seats/heated steering wheel, reversing camera and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.

The K3 is available from €42,500. It adds features like 18-inch alloys, synthetic leather seats, ambient lighting, privacy glass and wireless phone charging.

The GT-Line is available from €45,000. It adds sportier interior and exterior GT-Line styling, as well as 360-degree surround-view camera, blind spot monitor, powered tailgate and remote park assist.

The range-topping GT-Line Plus comes in at €48,000 and adds a sunroof, premium relaxation seat for the driver, Harmon Kardon sound system, ventilated front seats, head-up display and a Vehicle-to-Load feature to power other devices from the hybrid battery.

Is the Kia Seltos bigger than the Sportage?

The Seltos sits in the compact SUV segment, similar in positioning to the Kia Sportage, but slightly smaller. It measures around 4.4 metres in length. However, it still offers seating for five and a generous 536-litre boot, making it useful for family life, while the rear seats can be folded to increase capacity.

The new Seltos also gets a powered tailgate on higher-specification versions..

The cabin of the new Kia Seltos
The cabin of the new Kia Seltos

What engine options will the Kia Seltos have?

In some markets the Seltos is available with a petrol engine but in Ireland we will be getting the new 1.6-litre hybrid exclusively. It has 154hp, 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds and a towing capacity of up to 910kg.

When is the Kia Seltos coming to Ireland?

The first Kia Seltos models will arrive in Ireland in December 2026, ahead of the 271 registration period.

Kia dealerships have already received display vehicles. However, because of staggered drivetrain production, these initial display cars are 1.6-litre manual petrol models, while the Irish customer launch will be based around the 1.6-litre HEV.

This means Irish buyers can get an early look at the new Seltos in dealerships before the hybrid versions arrive.

Kia Seltos: what does it compete with?

The Seltos enters one of the most competitive parts of the Irish new car market. It will rival other SUVs like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Dacia Bigster and the Renault Symbioz. It’s aimed at buyers who want SUV style, practicality and space combined with the efficiency of a hybrid.

For Kia, the Seltos fills an interesting gap in the range. The smaller crossover market is covered by models such as the Stonic, while the Sportage is a larger family SUV and one of Ireland's bestselling cars. The Seltos sits between the two, offering a more compact alternative to the Sportage while retaining five seats and a practical boot.

Kia Ireland's decision to offer the Seltos exclusively as a hybrid also gives it a clear position within the company's increasingly electrified Irish line-up, while still offering buyers an alternative to going fully electric.

The Kia Seltos will offer space and hybrid efficiency in a compact SUV
The Kia Seltos will offer space and hybrid efficiency in a compact SUV

___________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The new Audi Q7 has arrived in Ireland

New Audi Q7 diesel launches in Ireland with hybrid to follow

The new Audi Q7 has arrived in Ireland
The new Audi Q7 has arrived in Ireland

The new, third-generation Audi Q7 has officially launched in Ireland, with the German brand also using the Irish press launch to reveal some details of the new Audi A6 Allroad.

The new Q7 is bigger and taller than its predecessor, although it is slightly shorter overall, with a longer wheelbase for a more spacious interior. It will be offered with seven seats as standard, with a six-seat configuration also available.

At launch, Irish buyers will have a choice of two 3.0-litre V6 diesel engines producing 245hp and 299hp respectively. Both feature mild-hybrid technology and are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Audi is putting a strong emphasis on comfort and refinement, with adaptive air suspension capable of varying the Q7’s ride height by up to 90mm. All-wheel steering is also available, while the Q7 can tow up to 3.5 tonnes.

Other highlights include 21- to 23-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable seats, and a range of driver assistance and lighting technologies.

Prices start for the diesel at €122,050 and €127,050, depending on power output. Audi is also offering a limited S line diesel Launch Edition with special introductory pricing: €122,055 and €127,055.

An even more significant addition to the Q7 range will arrive in the first quarter of 2027, when a Q7 plug-in hybrid is due to join the line-up. Audi expects the PHEV version to become the volume seller for Irish customers thanks to its lower starting price.

New Audi A6 allroad confirmed for Ireland

The Audi A6 Allroad is sold exclusively as a plug-in hybrid in Ireland
The Audi A6 Allroad is sold exclusively as a plug-in hybrid in Ireland

Audi is also introducing the new-generation A6 Allroad to Ireland exclusively as a plug-in hybrid, marking the first time the Allroad has been offered with PHEV technology.

The A6 Allroad name dates back to 1999, and the latest model will be based on the fifth-generation A6. Unlike the standard A6 Avant, the Allroad gets more distinctive wide body styling.

It features black exterior trim, dedicated Allroad alloy wheels, adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering and Matrix LED headlights. A surround-view camera and sports seats also feature.

The A6 Allroad e-hybrid is priced from €88,150 in Ireland and offers up to 102 kilometres of electric range. It will cost around €4,000 more than the equivalent A6 Avant e-hybrid.

The new Allroad forms part of an expanding electrified Audi line-up in Ireland, with the company also preparing a number of other new and updated models. An A3 facelift is expected in October, the new Q9 arrives in November, while an A2 e-tron is planned for December.

Audi remains Ireland’s number one premium car brand in 2026, while demand for its electrified models continues to grow. The brand reports a 55% increase in EV sales, alongside a 173% increase in plug-in hybrid sales.

_______________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The 2027 Volvo EX40 has been updated

Volvo EX40 (2027): Price, Range and Key Updates

2027 Volvo EX40: Price, Range and Key Updates

The 2027 Volvo EX40 gets a useful refresh with updated styling, new safety technology and a bigger infotainment screen. But is it still competitive with newer electric SUVs?

Watch the video find out!

How much is the Volvo EX40 in Ireland?

Pricing starts from:

  • EX40 P5: €48,460 (70kWh), up to 474km range

  • EX40 P5 Long Range: €54,485 (82kWh), up to 570km range

  • EX40 P8 AWD: €67,635 (82kWh), up to 523km range

What's new for 2027?

The EX40 gets a refreshed look with a new bonnet, new wings, Matrix LED headlights with updated Thor's Hammer light signature, new rear lights, new tailgate and bumpers.

Inside, there's a new 11.2-inch infotainment screen from Volvo's larger SUVs, updated software and Google's next-generation Gemini AI assistant, as well as a few new material finishes.

What about safety?

Safety technology gets a major upgrade, with new front and rear radars, a new front camera, 12 ultrasonic sensors and upgraded parking camera.

There's also a new Door Opening Alert, which can warn occupants about cyclists or traffic approaching from behind.

What's the range and charging time?

The Long Range version can travel up to 570km on a charge.

DC charging is available at up to 205kW, depending on the version, with a 10-80% charge taking less than 30 minutes.

Is the EX40 practical?

The EX40 has a 410-litre boot, plus more storage under the bonnet.

It's comfortable for family use, although rivals such as the Audi Q4 e-tron offer more boot and interior space.

What are the alternatives?

The main rivals include the BMW iX1 and Audi Q4 e-tron, while newer electric SUVs such as the DS N°7 are also entering the market.

Is the Volvo EX40 still worth considering?

Yes, the 2027 updates help keep the EX40 competitive despite it being an older model in this increasingly crowded class.

Its design, interior quality, safety technology and range remain key selling points, while the new infotainment system addresses one of the areas where the car was beginning to feel dated.

_______________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The 2027 Volvo XC60 now offers up to 200 kilometres of range from a bigger battery

Volvo XC60 PHEV (2027) | 200km range!

2027 Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid: Everything You Need to Know

The Volvo XC60 has been one of Ireland's most popular premium SUVs for years, but this latest update could be its most significant yet.

While the basic XC60 formula remains the same - comfort, safety and Scandinavian design - Volvo has made a major change to its plug-in hybrid system.

The new long-range XC60 gets a 41.2kWh battery and up to 200km of claimed electric range.

That's a dramatic increase over the previous model's approximately 79km and could make the XC60 a much more convincing plug-in hybrid for Irish buyers.

Watch my full video for a closer look at the new Volvo XC60, and everything you need to know:

What is new on the 2027 Volvo XC60?

The biggest change is the new long-range plug-in hybrid system, but Volvo has also updated the exterior, interior and safety technology.

There's a redesigned front end with new grille design, bonnet, wings, matrix LED headlights and updated Thor's hammer light signature. The back has also been updated with a new light design and smoother tailgate. There are also new 20- and 21-inch alloy wheel designs.

Inside there's an updated dashboard with new materials and lighting. Since the 2025 update, the XC60 has had the brand's latest 11.2-inch touchscreen with Google Gemini.

What is the electric range?

The previous XC60 plug-in hybrid had an 18.8kWh battery and around 79km of official electric range.

The new model uses a 41.2kWh battery integrated into the floor and more powerful electric motors.

Volvo quotes up to:

XC60 T6 AWD: 200km electric range

XC60 T8 AWD: 189km electric range

That's more than double the previous model's range and potentially enough for many owners to complete most everyday driving entirely on electric power.

How does it compare with the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC?

Electric range is where the new XC60 has a major advantage. The BMW X3 plug-in hybrid offers around 90km of electric range, while the Audi Q5 is around the 100km mark. Mercedes-Benz has also pushed plug-in hybrid range significantly with the latest GLC, offering up to around 129km.

With up to 200km claimed, the XC60 is now class-leading.

What engine does the XC60 PHEV use?

Both the T6 and T8 use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with the battery and electric motor.

What's the interior like?

The XC60 retains Volvo's calm, minimalist Scandinavian interior.

There's a redesigned dashboard and door panels, new wood trim and premium materials, including Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather on higher-spec versions.

The 11.2-inch infotainment screen introduced with the previous update remains, with Google's software and Gemini providing more natural voice interaction.

The system can help with navigation, finding places to stop and managing messages while you're driving.

Is the XC60 practical?

The plug-in hybrid XC60 has 468 litres of boot space, putting it broadly in line with its main premium SUV competitors.

There's also good space for rear passengers, although the transmission tunnel makes the middle rear seat less practical.

If you need seven seats or substantially more interior space, the larger XC90 PHEV has also been updated with a bigger battery and more EV range (160km up from 69km).

What safety technology does it have?

Safety remains a major part of the XC60's appeal. The latest model gets upgraded cameras, radar and other sensors, along with active safety systems designed to warn the driver and intervene where necessary. Features include automatic emergency steering, lane-change assist and a new 3D 360-degree camera. There's also technology designed to warn occupants about approaching cyclists before opening a door.

How much will the 2027 Volvo XC60 cost in Ireland?

This is the detail we're still waiting to find out. The current XC60 starts at around €67,145, but the price of the new long-range model will be crucial.

The XC60 now has the electric range to compete very strongly with its premium PHEV rivals. The question is whether Volvo can deliver that extra capability without pushing the price too far above the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

_______________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The Leapmotor B05 has arrived in Ireland

Leapmotor B05 on sale in Ireland

The new Leapmotor B05 has arrived in Ireland, priced from €28,998. It's the brand's fourth car to go on sale here, following the T03 electric city car, as well as the popular B10 compact SUV and C10 large family SUV.

The B05 is a compact electric hatchback offering the choice of two different LFP batteries and two different trim levels, with the top of the range Design expected to be the volume seller.

Leapmotor B05 Trims & Battery Options

  • B05 Style, 56.2 kWh battery: up to 401 km WLTP range (from €28,998)
  • B05 Style, 67.1 kWh battery: up to 485 km WLTP range (from €31,487)
  • B05 Design, 67.1 kWh battery: up to 485 km WLTP range (from €32,984)

Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, stylish frameless doors and LED automatic headlights. Inside there is a 14.6-inch central touchscreen that controls most of the car's features, as well as an 8.8-inch digital display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless phone charging.

Other features include automatic air conditioning, V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and a 360° parking camera.

The Design adds even more desirable features like a panoramic sunroof, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats with power adjustment, heated steering wheel, ambient lighting and a 12-speaker audio system.

Inside there is seating for five and generous legroom, as well as a 345-litre boot.

Tuned for Europe

The B05 hatchback has been tuned for European roads to offer a better drive. Its rear-mounted electric motor delivers 218hp, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.

DC fast charging is up to 168kW for the larger battery, giving a 30% to 80% charge in about 17 minutes.

Stephen McGrath, Brand Manager of Leapmotor Ireland, commented: 

“B05 takes Leapmotor into the very heart of the Irish market. The C-Segment hatchback is where a huge number of Irish drivers shop, and until now the fully electric options in that segment have asked people to pay a significant premium for the privilege. B05 does not. It is rear-wheel drive, a genuinely enjoyable drive, and arrives with the specification most brands treat as an optional extra, all from just €28,998.

We launched this brand in Ireland less than a year ago with two models. By early next year we will have six, supported by ten dealer partners, the Gowan Auto parts and aftersales network behind us and a six-year warranty as standard. Choice, value and reassurance are what persuade Irish buyers to ‘Take The Leap’, and B05 delivers on all three.”

The B05 offers stylish good looks, battery range and technology
The B05 offers stylish good looks, battery range and technology

Leapmotor continues to go from strength to strength in the Irish market since its 2025 launch, with over 450 registrations this year alone and plenty of new models expected in the coming months.

The Chinese car brand's Irish retail network continues to grow with currently ten franchise dealers across eight counties, following the appointment of Lynn Motors in Dundalk, Co. Louth last month.

A compact B03X SUV is arriving later this year and B03 hatchback in early 2027.


The 2026 Nissan Leaf has even more range, faster charging and trendy crossover design

2026 Nissan Leaf arrives in Ireland | Price, battery and range

The 2026 Nissan Leaf has even more range, faster charging and trendy crossover design
The 2026 Nissan Leaf has even more range, faster charging and trendy crossover design

The 2026 Nissan Leaf has arrived in Ireland, the third generation of Nissan's iconic electric car that has been reinvented as a trendy crossover to appeal to a new cohort of car buyers.

Its launch marks the return of one of the world's most famous electric cars and Nissan has set its sights on being the number one EV brand in Ireland. Worldwide, close to 700,000 have been sold since its debut in 2010.

To that end, pricing starts from an eye-catching €36,095 for the 52kWh battery that promises range up to 424km (WLTP) and offers the best value. It's available in Engage, Engage+, Advance and Evolve trim levels.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, full digital display and touchscreen, 11kW AC charging, heat pump and vehicle to load capability.

For buyers seeking even more range, there is a larger 75kWh battery with up to 622km, though it does get considerably more expensive as you go up the trim levels. Pricing starts from €39,995.

Both variants support DC fast-charging up to 105kW and 150kW respectively, for a 20-80% charge in about 30 minutes.

The arrival of the Leaf will strengthen Nissan's position in Ireland's growing EV market. It joins the new, all-electric Nissan Micra and a facelifted Ariya SUV, all now available from Nissan dealers. The Leaf offers seating for five and a generous 437-litre boot with practical features like a split, two-position boot floor.

Other highlights include a new infotainment system with Google built-in, offering Google Maps with Route Planner, Google Assistant and Google Play, as well as a suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features.

Seamus Morgan, Managing Director of Nissan Ireland, said:

“The all-new Nissan Leaf is a standout EV on every level. It looks amazing. It goes further on one charge. It charges faster when you need to recharge. It is packed with technology that is seamlessly integrated for today’s connected driver, and it has plenty of space to meet the everyday needs of modern families."

“This is the EV that buyers have been waiting for. They trust the Nissan Leaf nameplate and know that this is the world’s first, third generation EV. This unique combination of heritage and expertise gives buyers the confidence to make the switch to electric driving in the all-new Nissan Leaf and this is proven by the phenomenal interest in this EV across the Nissan dealer network,” he continued.


The Toyota Corolla still impresses Irish motorists in 2026

Ireland’s Bestselling Cars (2026): Top Models Revealed

New car registrations data for Ireland for the first seven months of 2026 has been released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). The figures give us information on how the Irish new car market is doing and what are the most popular car brands and models.

The Irish new car market continued to grow in 2026 by 5.2% overall, with around 114,000 new cars registered so far this year.

Electric vehicle registrations have grown 61% year-on-year, with interest driven by unstable fuel prices, more visible charging infrastructure and grants like the Irish Government's EV Scrappage Scheme. They now hold a record 26% of the Irish new car market, with the rest made up of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, diesel and petrol.

Ireland's bestselling cars show a preference for SUVs and crossovers, with top brands including Toyota, Skoda, Hyundai and Kia. Here's a list of the most popular new cars in Ireland in 2026:

1. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross has charged ahead in 2026 to take the top spot as Ireland's bestselling car. Toyota's small SUV has been an amazing success for the brand since it launched a few years ago. Its move to #1 shows Ireland's changing preferences for efficient, small hybrid cars with chunky crossover styling. Sharing many components with the long-standing Toyota Yaris hatchback, the Yaris Cross offers a frugal hybrid powertrain at a good price, along with style, practicality and a compact size.

The Toyota Yaris Cross is the most popular small SUV in Ireland
The Toyota Yaris Cross is the most popular car in Ireland in 2026

2. Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson was Ireland’s most popular car in 2025 and a consistent bestseller for the Korean car brand into 2026. The facelifted Tucson remains a solid choice for families and commuters alike looking for a stylish SUV that's a good all-rounder for Irish roads. There's plenty of choice in the range, from diesel to petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

The Hyundai Tucson has been a great success for Hyundai in Ireland
The Hyundai Tucson has been a great success for Hyundai in Ireland

3. Toyota Corolla

The second of two Toyotas in our list, the Toyota Corolla is a stalwart of Irish roads, and much-loved for its practicality and reliability. In recent years, it's also added a lot more style to the mix and its fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain is one of the best around in a family car. Available as a hatchback, saloon or estate, there really is a Corolla for everyone and that's why it continues to impress in 2026.

The Toyota Corolla still impresses Irish motorists in 2026
The Toyota Corolla still impresses Irish motorists in 2026

4. Skoda Octavia

The Octavia is a frequent visitor to the bestselling cars in Ireland. It still manages to offer good value in the market, while being exceptionally spacious compared to traditional compact hatchbacks. There are a number of trim levels available and the choice of well-proven petrol or diesel engines.

The Skoda Octavia remains one of Ireland's favourite cars
The Skoda Octavia remains one of Ireland's favourite cars

5. Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage holds firm as one of the top choices in the compact SUV segment for Irish buyers in 2026. It's been a hit for many years, and the new one is the most stylish yet. Recently facelifted, it offers distinctive design, practicality and good levels of equipment. It's competitively priced for a family SUV, with plenty of choice: diesel, hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

The Sportage is a bestseller for Kia in Ireland
The Sportage is a bestseller for Kia in Ireland

6. Skoda Kodiaq

The Skoda Kodiaq has climbed the ranks in 2026 to become Ireland's sixth bestselling car. That's no mean feat but the Kodiaq's enduring popularity among Irish motorists is hard to beat. Available as a five- or seven-seater, there are several powertrains to choose from including diesel, petrol and plug-in hybrid. It's a sensible family car with plenty of space on offer, while being highly desirable for comfort and many practical features that make it ideal for Irish families in 2026.

The Skoda Kodiaq is an ideal family car with five- or seven seats
The Skoda Kodiaq is an ideal family car with five- or seven seats

_______________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year


The Volkswagen ID.4 was the bestselling electric car in Ireland in 2025

Ireland’s Top Electric Cars (2026)

Thinking of buying an electric car this year and curious about what are the most popular models among Irish motorists? In this article you'll find a list of the bestselling electric cars so far in Ireland in 2026.

Electric vehicles are showing strong growth in 2026, with nearly 30,000 new EVs registered already, up 61% on last year. This is against the backdrop of a good year for new car registrations, up 5.2%, reaching about 114,000 units according to figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).

Rising fuel costs, growing awareness of climate change, combined with expanding charging infrastructure and new government incentives like the 'green flash' number plate for EVs and new EV Scrappage Scheme are helping to drive consumer interest in electric vehicles.

Lower running costs, zero tailpipe emissions and an increasingly competitive range of models have made EVs a viable alternative to petrol and diesel cars for more buyers across the country, with all counties showing growth in EV sales in 2026.

As more drivers make the switch to cleaner zero-emissions motoring, a few standout models are doing very well in the Irish market. Here are the top electric vehicles in Ireland in 2026:

1. Volkswagen ID.4

Holding firm in the top spot, the Volkswagen ID.4 was Ireland’s most popular electric vehicle last year and continues the trend in 2026. With good pricing and a few battery options available with up to 566 kilometres of range, the ID.4 hits a sweet spot for Irish buyers thanks to a combination of space, practicality and comfort. Even better, it's now more affordable than ever.

The Volkswagen ID.4 was the bestselling electric car in Ireland in 2025
The Volkswagen ID.4 is Ireland's bestselling electric car in 2026

2. Toyota BZ

The Toyota BZ has received a raft of improvements for 2026 that sees it sail up the sales charts to become Ireland's second bestselling electric car. Loved by taxi drivers and private buyers alike, it boasts a big boot, spacious cabin and typical Toyota quality. SUV looks also help it to stand out as does the high standard specification and good value pricing. Toyota has just added the BZ Touring with even more space and range.

The Toyota BZ is proving a hit among Irish EV buyers in 2026
The Toyota BZ is proving a hit among Irish EV buyers in 2026

3. Skoda Enyaq

The Skoda Enyaq continues to impress Irish car buyers thanks to the space and practicality it offers, which makes it ideal for families and commuters. There are a few different battery options including the high performance Skoda Enyaq RS. It ticks the boxes for range and efficiency, while being a great all-rounder and in high demand on both the new and used EV market.

The 2026 Skoda Enyaq RS is on sale in Ireland
The 2026 Skoda Enyaq RS is on sale in Ireland

4. Tesla Model Y

Tesla's electric SUV comes in just behind the Model 3 and adds even more space and family-friendly practicality. The Tesla Model Y comes in a variety of variants including standard and long range battery versions boasting range up to 609km. Like the Model 3, it has top-tier technology and charging speeds, making it one of the best electric SUVs you can buy right now.

The Model Y is one of Ireland's favourite electric SUVs
The Model Y is one of Ireland's favourite electric SUVs

5. Skoda Elroq

The Skoda Elroq has done very well since it launched in Ireland last year, already finding itself among the bestselling electric cars in the country. Smaller and more compact than the Enyaq, it offers an even more affordable entry point into an electric Skoda. It has lots of practical features, seating for five, as well as trendy crossover looks and even a sporty, performance Elroq RS. Just like the Enyaq, there are great battery options and it drives well on Irish roads.

The Skoda Elroq RS is available now in Ireland

6. Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 continues to sell well in 2026. Tesla's electric saloon has been the benchmark in electric vehicles for a long time. With excellent range and efficiency, it's ideal for long journeys across Ireland. It comes with excellent in-car tech and there's lots of choice when it comes to standard range and long range battery versions with up to 750km range, as well as the option of powerful all wheel drive models and the awesome Tesla Model 3 Performance.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance
The Tesla Model 3 Performance

_______________

Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year