Tim Barnes-Clay

Tim Barnes-Clay is a freelance journalist with more than three decades worth of industry experience under his belt. He test-drives the latest cars and attends new vehicle press launches around the world. The dad-of-three has a postgraduate diploma in broadcast journalism and has been a presenter and producer at ITV. He has also worked as a radio reporter and continues to present videos and record voiceovers.

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Articles by Tim Barnes-Clay

Kia Sportage 2026: The big questions answered!

Kia has given its popular Sportage a big upgrade – but does it make a huge difference?

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 28-10-2025

Reviews by Tim Barnes-Clay

3.6 /5 stars

Chery Tiggo 9 (2026) Review

Chery is building up its UK SUV inventory with its largest one yet – but is it good enough to displace well-established seven-seaters? Overall, it’s so well-priced that it’s impossible not to consider the Tiggo 9 a bargain.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 20-01-2026

4/5 stars

Alpine A390 (2026) Review

Renault's performance brand, Alpine, has a new electric vehicle - and it’s an impressive contender among premium rivals.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 19-01-2026

3.6/5 stars

Jeep Compass (2026) Review

Jeep’s Compass SUV has been redesigned and relaunched – but can it follow in the footsteps of its successful sibling, the Avenger? Overall, the latest Compass brings big improvements across the board.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 15-01-2026

3.8/5 stars

Toyota Hilux Hybrid (2025) Review

Toyota’s Hilux is now a hybrid – but does it add anything to the legendary pick-up truck’s arsenal? In short, the 48V Hybrid powertrain is a must if you’re adventuring off the beaten track.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 17-11-2025

3.9/5 stars

Citroën C3 Aircross (2025) Review

Citroën's C3 Aircross has been redesigned – offering hybridity and the possibility of seven seats, if you desire – but is it any good? Overall, the C3 Aircross offers great value for money, with few other 7-seat vehicles available at the same leasing price point.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 17-11-2025

3.4/5 stars

Alfa Romeo Tonale (2025) Review

The most unlikely Alfa Romeo has its mid-life overhaul – but does it make the Tonale SUV more appealing? Overall, it’s still a car that you lease with your heart rather than your head, but that’s all part and parcel of the unique Alfa charm.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 13-11-2025

3.7/5 stars

Citroen C5 Aircross (2025) Review

Citroen has launched a brand-new version of the C5 Aircross – but with a choice of hybrids and now an electric version, which one should you go for?

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 07-11-2025

3.8/5 stars

Lexus LBX (2025) Review

Lexus's award-winning new mini-SUV crossover promises premium creature comforts at a reasonable price – and it could be a genuine rival for the German big boys.

By Tim Barnes-Clay | 03-11-2025