Car jargon explained

There are a lot of terms used in the car industry that can be confusing. Whether it's a new piece of car safety or entertainment technology, or how a car works, our experts are here to explain it all.

• 

  Company cars: everything you need to know

  Whether you've already had several company cars, or are looking to get your first one, we answer all the questions you might have, including what a...

  Advice7 years ago

• 

  What is a Cat A, Cat B, Cat S or Cat N write-off? (2026)

  Learn the difference between Category S and Category N cars, whether you can drive them after they’ve been written off and what you should consider...

  Advice7 years ago

• 

  What is a crossover car?

  You may have heard how well SUVs and crossover cars are selling, but wondered what they are. Let us help...

  Advice7 years ago

• 

  The range explained... Kia

  Don't know your Stonic from your Sportage, or your Venga from your Carens? Then let our handy guide inform you about everything from Korean carmaker...

  Feature7 years ago

• 

  The range explained… DS Automobiles

  What's the difference between a DS 3 and DS 5? What's a Crossback? Find out all about cars from DS Automobiles in our handy guide.

  Feature8 years ago

• 

  What is DAB digital radio in your car?

  More than 80% of new cars in the UK now come with DAB as standard, and this figure is only set to increase.

  Advice9 years ago

• 

  What is Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink?

  We explain the most common systems for linking your smartphone to your car.

  Advice9 years ago

• 

  What is Isofix in a car?

  Isofix is an international standard for fixing child car seats in place using a pair of metal mounts attached directly to the car’s chassis. How...

  Advice9 years ago

• 

  What are horsepower, bhp and torque in a car? 2025 update

  If you’re not already confused by terms like horsepower and torque, then acronyms like HP, BHP, PS and Nm might see you off. So, what do they all...

  Advice9 years ago

• 

  What is Bluetooth in a car?

  Most new cars with an infotainment system will have Bluetooth connection capability. Let us explain how it works...

  Advice9 years ago

• 

  What is a wireless phone charger in my car?

  Quite simply, a wireless phone charger is a way of charging your smartphone in the car, wirelessly.

  Advice9 years ago