Alex joined Haymarket, the publisher of Autocar, in 2023. A car fanatic, he loves to delve into the spec-sheet, especially when it concerns something obscure or quirky. He drives a 1992 British Open Classic Rover Mini, or when it is not working so well, a Ford Fiesta.
In his current position, as syndication editor, Alex mainly assists in managing Autocar and What Car?’s presence online.
Alex is an expert in:
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Used car advice
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New car advice
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Classic Minis
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Car news
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Car specifications
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Estate cars
Alex Wolstenholme Q&A
What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a car buyer?
Spend time deciding on which fuel type is right for you. In 2023 many people will automatically shun diesels, but they still make sense for those who cover more than average miles, especially when used because they can be picked up for less than petrol equivalents. Equally, some people are still sceptical of electric cars, but for those able to charge at home their initial price premium can be recouped in running cost savings. They also make bargain used buys.
What’s the best car you’ve ever driven?
Nothing brings a smile to my face as much as my 1992 Mini, although, admittedly, the crashy suspension and noisy engine can get tiresome on a long journey. On the other end of the spectrum, the Volvo V60 is an effortless long-distance companion and can also hide a surprising turn of pace in the 5-cylinder example I tried.
What will the car market look like in 20 years?
This seems harder to answer now than it was 5 years ago. The 2023 pushback by the government comes at a time when the growth in electric car sales is losing its exponentiality. Still, I can't see a future without electric cars playing a major role, which is no bad thing, but I wouldn’t rule out a slim market for hydrogen and synthetically fuelled cars. I hold out hope for a challenge to stop the SUV onslaught too.
