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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

3.4/5 stars

Geely EX5 (2025) Review

If you think Geely is just another in a raft of new Chinese manufacturers to land in the UK, think again. The brand dates back 40 years, has strong links with Volvo, Smart, Lotus and Polestar, and just happens to be one of the top 10 automotive brands in the world. The EX5 is a great introduction to the Geely name – and its low price could make it really stand out from the crowd.

By Maxine Ashford | 13-11-2025

4/5 stars

Kia EV4 Review 2025

In an age when every EV coming to market seems to feature SUV styling cues, Kia has bucked that trend with its new hatchback and saloon EV4 models. Find out why the fully electric EV4 has got all bases covered when it comes to style and practicality.

By Maxine Ashford | 11-11-2025

3.8/5 stars

SEAT Ibiza 2025 Review

The SEAT Ibiza seems to have had more facelifts than a Hollywood film star, but will the latest one launch it back into the spotlight?

By Maxine Ashford | 30-10-2025

3.8/5 stars

Honda Prelude Review 2025

After a quarter of a century Honda has welcomed back the Prelude into the fold – it’s a stunning two-door coupe that will leave onlookers green with envy. Car of the Year contender? It just might be.

By Maxine Ashford | 30-10-2025

4.1/5 stars

Nissan Leaf (2025) Review

Nissan is building on its legacy as the creator of the first mass-produced EV with the development of the third-generation Leaf. It’s bolder, bigger and better – and exceeds all expectations.

By Maxine Ashford | 15-10-2025

4.1/5 stars

Kia Sportage (2025) Review

The Kia Sportage is a bit like a best friend that’s been around forever, but just keeps getting better with age. It’s reliable, fun, practical and always eager to please.

By Maxine Ashford | 14-10-2025

3.5/5 stars

KGM Musso EV 2025 Review

The pick-up sector could be hotting up if KGM decides to go ahead and launch its all-electric Musso here in the UK – and we really hope that it does!

By Maxine Ashford | 03-10-2025

4.3/5 stars

Nissan Micra (2025) Review

Nissan’s all-new sixth generation Micral is moving into the modern era with full electrification. Here we argue why the Micra makes a mature alternative to the Renault 5.

By Maxine Ashford | 30-09-2025