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Maxine Ashford

Maxine Ashford

Automotive Journalist & Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Judge

Maxine Ashford has written for national and regional newspapers, websites and specialist magazines, as well as some work for BBC radio. She's a regular contributor to The Independent's motoring section. She was awarded the Guild of Motoring Writer's Feature Writer of the Year in 2024 and is one of two UK judges for Women's Worldwide Car of the Year. Maxine has been working in journalism since the late 1980s and has been specialising in motoring since the turn of the Century. She relishes the opportunity to drive all the latest models both here in the UK and overseas, as well as interviewing the specialists and engineers behind all the innovative technology as we move towards a fully electrified world of driving. She is also an avid rugby fan (watching not playing!).

Articles by Maxine Ashford

Reviews by Maxine Ashford

4.5/5 stars

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N (2026) Review

The buzz and excitement surrounding the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N SUV in 2023 was unmatched – it was ‘the’ car to be driven and it didn’t disappoint, with its blistering pace and outrageous handling ability. Now we get the Ioniq 6 N saloon, which Hyundai claims is even better. And we think they’ve got a point.

By Maxine Ashford | 18-06-2026

3.4/5 stars

MG S9 (2026) Review

At a time when every penny counts, getting the best value for money when searching for a new car is paramount. Enter the new MG S9 – a spacious seven-seat plug-in hybrid that’s practical, well equipped as standard, and which also boasts a tempting asking price. If you’re in the market for a family-sized SUV, the MG S9 has much to offer.

By Maxine Ashford | 09-06-2026

4/5 stars

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio (2026) Review

Performance and practicality don’t usually go hand in hand, but the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio manages to blend the two with remarkable success. For a while, it looked likely the Stelvio and its cousin, the Giulia, would be consigned to the history books, but thankfully the Italian marque has made a very welcome U-turn on that decision.

By Maxine Ashford | 05-06-2026

3.5/5 stars

Kia EV5 (2026) Review

Place the Kia EV5 alongside the Kia Sportage and it’s almost a case of spot the difference. And that is a deliberate ploy by Kia as the Sportage is the company’s best-selling car. However, the big question is can the all-electric newcomer replicate the remarkable sales success of its combustion-powered sibling? In our view, the Kia EV5 is every bit as compelling as its family-friendly stablemate.

By Maxine Ashford | 28-05-2026

3.9/5 stars

Volvo ES90 (2026) Review

Volvo has unleashed its all-new ES90 electric model that boasts a mix of saloon, fastback and SUV styling traits. It certainly looks the business and if you’re uncertain what to call it, just settle for high-end executive car.

By Maxine Ashford | 27-04-2026

3.5 /5 stars

Alfa Romeo Giulia (2026) Review

It looked likely the stylish Giulia would be disappearing into the darkest depths with more of an EV-focused future on the cards for Alfa Romeo. Now, in a dramatic U-turn, the order books have been reopened and extended into 2027 to the delight of would-be buyers or lease customers. But is the elegant saloon looking a little too dated for the modern era?

By Maxine Ashford | 23-04-2026

4.8/5 stars

Kia EV2 (2026) Review - Select Car Leasing

Kia has an enviable track record when it comes to developing top-notch electric vehicles that appeal to the masses. And they are really raising the bar with the smallest model yet – the compact EV2. Game on!

By Maxine Ashford | 30-03-2026

3.5/5 stars

Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric (2026) Review

Vauxhall has given its eighth-generation Astra a mid-life refresh that sees all-round improvements in range, performance and styling. And with a choice of trims, body styles and powertrains, including fully electric, there just might be a model to suit all needs and budgets.

By Maxine Ashford | 25-03-2026