The August 2026 issue of CAR magazine is now available, offering performance reviews, historical retrospectives, and head-to-head comparisons. A free digital preview can be accessed through the magazine’s app, while full access requires a subscription.
AMG’s electric gamble: The new GT four-door EV
The cover story focuses on Mercedes-AMG’s latest model, the AMG GT four-door EV. Described as bold and divisive, the car challenges the brand’s performance heritage. The review compares it to legendary Mercedes and AMG models to determine whether it meets expectations.
Subscribers can read the full analysis, which includes performance data and design evaluations. The article also discusses how electrification changes the traditional AMG approach, a shift that has sparked debate among fans.
Kia K4 challenges the VW Golf’s dominance
For years, the Volkswagen Golf has led the compact family hatchback segment. Kia now introduces the K4, a petrol-powered rival aiming to compete. The comparison test assesses whether the K4 matches the Golf’s balance of quality, usability, and driving feel.
The K4 adopts a conventional design but offers competitive pricing and a strong warranty. The test suggests the competition will be tighter than anticipated.
Related: First drive of the new Range Rover GT
This isn’t the first attempt to unseat the Golf, but Kia has the resources to succeed.
Ford Fiesta’s 50-year legacy revisited
The Ford Fiesta celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and CAR honors the milestone with a retrospective by design critic Stephen Bayley. The article tracks the car’s journey from its 1976 launch to its final production in 2023, highlighting its impact on small-car design and city driving.
Bayley notes the Fiesta’s success came from more than just affordability. Its clever packaging, responsive handling, and timeless styling set it apart. The piece contrasts Ford’s current lineup, which has largely abandoned the segment, with the enduring popularity of the Fiesta among drivers and collectors.
The car outlasted its manufacturer’s interest, securing its place in automotive history even as Ford moved on.
Polestar 5 takes on the Taycan in a 300-mile test
The Polestar 5 enters the electric grand tourer market, and CAR tested it over 300 miles to compare it with the Porsche Taycan. The review examines long-distance comfort, charging speed, and whether the Polestar’s bold design delivers a more engaging experience.
Related: New EV Outshines Porsche Taycan in Price Speed
The Polestar 5 performs well, particularly in interior space and software. Yet the Taycan’s refinement and prestige remain strong advantages. The test doesn’t pick a winner but shows how quickly the EV market is evolving beyond early leaders.
Subscription perks and back catalog access
A Print+ Subscription to CAR includes early digital access, exclusive media, and a monthly Supercharged email with EV comparisons and drive stories. Digital-only subscribers unlock a decade of back issues, plus discounts on automotive experiences and travel.
The magazine, founded in 1962, prioritizes original reporting and high-quality photography. Subscribers also receive an app with additional rewards, though the core value lies in the journalism. The preview issue demonstrates what full access offers.
If the free content sparks interest, a subscription provides enough material to satisfy serious enthusiasts.
