SYDNEY — The Kia K4 has been named Australia’s best affordable small car in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards, beating out strong competition from the Hyundai i30 Sedan and Mazda 3 in a closely watched annual evaluation of new vehicles.

The award marks a significant achievement for Kia, which improved upon its runner-up position from the inaugural awards last year. Judges praised the K4 for its stylish interior, advanced technology, refined driving dynamics and value across its full model range, from the entry-level S grade to the flagship GT-Line.

Since the previous awards, Kia has introduced a more efficient and smoother base powertrain for the K4, along with a practical and distinctive hatchback body style that expands its appeal. The updates have helped the K4 stand out in a competitive segment where buyers seek a balance of practicality, comfort and modern features without premium pricing.

The K4 impressed evaluators with its well-appointed cabin that feels more upscale than its price point suggests. High-quality materials, intuitive infotainment systems and generous standard equipment across all grades contributed to its strong showing. Whether equipped with the base engine or the more powerful turbocharged option in higher trims, the K4 delivers composed handling and a comfortable ride suitable for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

CarExpert’s judging panel highlighted the K4’s versatility. The sedan and hatchback variants offer flexible cargo space and passenger comfort, making the model suitable for young families, first-time buyers and urban professionals. Advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping features, come standard or as affordable options, enhancing safety and convenience.

The win comes at a time when the affordable small car segment is evolving rapidly. Buyers increasingly demand vehicles that combine efficiency, technology and style while remaining accessible. The K4’s success demonstrates Kia’s ability to meet these expectations through thoughtful design and engineering improvements.

In comparison, the Hyundai i30 Sedan, last year’s winner, remains a formidable contender with its refined ride and strong value proposition. However, judges noted the K4’s fresher interior design and updated powertrain gave it a slight edge in overall refinement and feature content. The Mazda 3, known for its premium feel and engaging dynamics, finished as a finalist but was edged out by the K4’s broader practicality and technology offerings.

Kia has positioned the K4 as a direct rival to established players in the small car market. Its bold exterior styling, inspired by the brand’s evolving design language, helps it stand out visually. Inside, the cabin benefits from a minimalist yet functional layout with high-resolution displays and seamless smartphone integration.

Fuel efficiency has also improved with the new base engine, appealing to cost-conscious buyers facing rising operating expenses. Higher-grade models with the turbocharged engine offer stronger performance for those seeking more engaging driving dynamics without sacrificing everyday usability.

The CarExpert Choice Awards evaluate vehicles across multiple criteria, including value for money, driving experience, interior quality, safety features and ownership costs. The judging process involves extensive real-world testing and comparison across categories to identify standout models in each segment.

This year’s awards reflect shifting consumer preferences toward vehicles that offer more than basic transportation. Buyers in the affordable small car segment increasingly prioritize technology, comfort and design, areas where the K4 excels. Its comprehensive warranty and strong resale value further enhance its attractiveness.

Kia’s success with the K4 builds on the brand’s broader momentum in Australia. The company has gained market share through consistent product improvements and competitive pricing strategies. The K4’s award is expected to boost its visibility and sales in a segment that remains popular among first-time buyers and downsizers.

Industry analysts note that the small car category faces challenges from the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs. However, models like the K4 continue to attract buyers who prefer the handling and efficiency of traditional sedans and hatchbacks. Its competitive pricing positions it well against both domestic and imported rivals.

The K4’s interior stands out for its attention to detail. Soft-touch materials, ambient lighting and ergonomic seating create a premium atmosphere. Technology features such as wireless charging, a large touchscreen infotainment system and over-the-air update capability keep the model feeling contemporary.

Safety remains a priority. The K4 includes a full suite of advanced driver assistance features, contributing to strong ratings in independent safety assessments. This focus on protection appeals to families and safety-conscious buyers in the segment.

Driving impressions highlight the K4’s balanced chassis tuning. It offers a comfortable ride over varied road surfaces while maintaining composure during cornering. The steering provides good feedback, and the available turbo engine delivers responsive performance when needed.

For buyers considering the K4, the full model range offers options to suit different budgets and needs. Entry-level variants provide excellent value with generous standard equipment, while higher trims add luxury touches and performance enhancements.

The CarExpert Choice Awards serve as an important guide for Australian car buyers. By recognizing standout models in each category, the awards help consumers navigate an increasingly complex market filled with choices across brands and vehicle types.

Kia’s victory in the affordable small car segment underscores the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement. The K4’s success is likely to influence competitors to refine their offerings in response to changing buyer expectations.

As the automotive industry evolves toward greater efficiency and technology integration, models like the K4 demonstrate that affordable small cars can deliver premium experiences without premium prices. Its recognition in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards cements its position as a leader in the segment.

Australian buyers seeking a stylish, well-equipped and enjoyable small car now have a clear recommendation in the Kia K4. Its combination of design, technology and driving refinement makes it a compelling choice for those entering the market or upgrading from older vehicles.

The awards process involved detailed testing and comparison by experienced automotive journalists. Their assessment considered real-world usability, long-term ownership costs and overall value, ensuring the winner represents a well-rounded recommendation for consumers.

Kia has expressed pride in the K4’s achievement. The company views the award as validation of its product development strategy and commitment to the Australian market. Strong sales are expected to follow as awareness of the K4’s capabilities grows.

For the broader automotive sector, the K4’s success highlights the ongoing relevance of small cars in a market shifting toward SUVs. Manufacturers that deliver engaging, practical and affordable options continue to find success among discerning buyers.

As 2026 progresses, the K4 will face continued competition from updated rivals. However, its current strengths position it well to maintain leadership in the affordable small car segment.

The CarExpert Choice Awards continue to serve as a trusted resource for Australian car buyers. By highlighting excellence across categories, they help consumers make informed decisions in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.

The Kia K4’s victory in the best affordable small car category for 2026 reflects its ability to exceed expectations and deliver meaningful improvements over its predecessor. For buyers in this segment, it represents a smart, stylish and satisfying choice.

ICICI Bank is well-positioned to sustain sector leadership with a healthy growth outlook and robust asset quality, said Motilal Oswal Financial Services while naming the heavyweight private lender its top ‘Buy’ within the banking sector even after the stock tumbled 10% in six months.

The shares of ICICI Bank gained over 1% on Thursday to trade at Rs 1,258.40 apiece on NSE. The stock has however fallen over 1% in one week and 6% in 2026 so far. The stock has fallen more than 12% in one year.

Despite the muted returns, Motilal Oswal maintained its bullish call for the shares of ICICI Bank. The domestic brokerage said that the private lender is well-positioned to sustain its growth momentum while maintaining profitability benchmarks. It expects the bank to deliver a 16% loan CAGR over FY26-FY28, led by strong growth in business banking and PL, while the corporate segment is also expected to witness healthy traction, supported by working capital demand.

ICICI Bank’s liability franchise continues to remain best-in-class, supported by diversified acquisition engines and a rapidly expanding physical network, Motilal said. With a domestic CD ratio of 85.5% and LCR of 126%, the brokerage added that the bank is well placed to capitalize on growth opportunities compared to peers.

“ICICI Bank is likely to maintain cost leadership despite meaningful investments in technology, customer delivery, analytics, and talent. ICICIBC’s asset quality remains robust, supported by disciplined underwriting, continued monitoring, and strong recoveries, while the bank maintains a healthy contingency buffer (0.9% of loans). The bank currently does not face additional portfolio stress from the West Asia crisis or ECL transition. Credit costs are, thus, expected to remain contained, with GNPA/NNPA improving to ~1.4%/0.3% by FY28E,” Motilal said.

Motilal Oswal on ICICI Bank share price

The brokerage acknowledged that ICICI Bank shares have delivered tepid performance over the past year, reflecting broader derating across large banking stocks amid persistent FII selling. However, with operating performance holding strong and sustained market share gains across key lending segments, Motilal expects a gradual rerating.

It maintained its ‘Buy’ call on the stock, with a target price of Rs 1,750 apiece. This implies an upside potential of nearly 41% from the stock’s previous closing price of Rs 1,242 apiece on NSE.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

The closure will be in effect from late July until early September

A vital road crossing the Somerset Levels is set to close for the entire summer holidays to enable the replacement of traffic lights. The A361 serves as a crucial link between Taunton and numerous Somerset villages, connecting with both the A39 to Street and Glastonbury and the A372 towards Langport.

As part of its continuing programme to upgrade traffic signals across the county, Somerset Council plans to close the A361 Main Road in the village of Burrowbridge, in order to replace the lights on the bridge spanning the River Parrett.

The closure will be in effect from late July until early September – covering the entire summer school holidays – and will require a considerable diversion for motorists.

The existing traffic signals on both approaches to the bridge are over 30 years old and are nearing the end of their operational lifespan – as was the case with the lights at the Dunster Steep junction near Minehead and on the A39 Westway in Street, both of which were recently upgraded.

Without replacement, the lights risk failing and causing significant disruption for both drivers and pedestrians on one of rural Somerset’s busiest roads.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for highways and transport, said: “This is about replacing end of life equipment, so doing nothing is not an option.

“There is never a good time to do this. During the summer holidays when schools are not operating and the route is quieter is the most suitable time.”

The council’s highways team hosted a public drop-in event at Burrowbridge Coronation Hall on Tuesday (June 2), giving local residents further information about the proposed scheme.

Under the plans, a section of the existing kerbs near the bridge will be widened, creating additional space for pedestrians where the main road meets the River Parrett Trail long-distance walking route.

The existing signalised crossing on the western side of the bridge is set to be replaced and upgraded, while battered kerbs on the eastern approach to the bridge will also be repaired or renewed.

A lengthy stretch of the A361 will be resurfaced upon completion of the scheme, offering motorists a smoother drive through the village and on the approach to Burrow Mump (which is operated by the National Trust).

Work is due to start on June 29, under temporary traffic lights, with access maintained as usual in all directions.

During this initial phase, occasional closures will be necessary between 6pm and 6am, which will be publicised in advance.

Between July 23 and September, this entire section of the A361 will be shut in both directions continuously – though crossing facilities will remain in place and access for residents and businesses (including The King Alfred Inn) will be maintained at all times.

Mr Wilkins (who represents the neighbouring Curry Rivel and Langport division) added: “We know businesses and residents will be concerned about the potential disruption caused, and we will be ensuring signage is in place underlining that Burrowbridge businesses are open as usual during these works.

“Rest assured out team will be working at pace to get this work done and to minimise disruption as much as possible.”

For the duration of the road closure, traffic seeking to reach villages east of Burrowbridge will be redirected along the A361 to the Walford Cross junction, turning right onto the A38 through North Petherton, continuing through Bridgwater town centre before taking the A372 towards Westonzoyland and Othery.

Motorists heading to Taunton from the eastern side of Burrowbridge will follow the same diversion in reverse, adding up to 21 miles to journeys in each direction.

While smaller vehicles may be able to navigate local roads for a shorter route, these alternatives will not be officially promoted as part of any formal diversion.

The Cardiff headquartered business is the UK’s fastest-growing taxi business

Cardiff headquartered and the UK’s fastest-growing private hire vehicle venture, Veezu, has acquired a stake in leading booking and dispatch technology provider Cab9.

London-MMbased Cab9, which provides its tech platform to hire and taxi operators across the UK and internationally, will continue to operate under its existing brand and leadership, with chief executive Tarpit Grover remaining in position.

Mr Grover also remains a significant shareholder. The value of the investment and Veezu’s stake in the business has not been disclosed. Acquisitive Veezu partners with 16,00 drivers across the UK and handles around 25 million journeys a year.

Through its latest investment, Veezu, which is backed by private equity firm MML Capital, said it will support the development of AI and automation technologies to enhance Cab9’s ability to provide innovative, reliable and cost-efficient solutions for customers to accelerate growth and increase service provision.

It will also provide additional investment to support the continued development of Cab9’s platform and services, while maintaining its focus on delivering technology solutions for operators.

Mr Grover, CEO of Cab9, said: “This is an exciting next chapter for Cab9 and the strongest leap forward in our journey so far. Over the last decade, we have built technology with purpose, care and a belief that the industry deserves better. That does not change. The people, passion and product thinking behind Cab9 are not going away – they are being strengthened. I am delighted to continue leading

Cab9 and look forward to working closely with the Veezu team as we build on our strong foundations and take the business into its next stage of growth.”

Co-founder and chief executive of Veezu, Nathan Bowles, said: “Cab9 has built an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality technology to operators across the sector. As Veezu has grown nationally, technology has become increasingly important to our long-term strategy and ability to serve passengers, driver partners and business customers.

“We are excited to be supporting the next stage of Cab9’s growth and look forward to working closely with Tarpit and the team in the years ahead.”

Established in 2013, Veezu now operates in hundreds of towns and cities across UK and is licensed by 63 local authorities.

It also recently acquired the largest private hire operator in Bedfordshire, Go Cars.

On that deal and its wider acquisition strategy, Mr Bowles said: “We’ve always been clear in our ambition to build a truly national network, with a Veezu flag in every region of the UK. Our expansion into Luton is a strong example of that in action, as we continue to grow a network of local transport hubs while delivering the dependable, community-focused service passengers rely on every day.”

“India’s transition is more concentrated in high-utilisation, cost-sensitive categories such as three-wheelers, suggesting that the adoption curve is likely to be non-linear, with PV and two-wheeler penetration accelerating over time as affordability improves, charging infrastructure expands, and policy support strengthens,” Nomura says.

NEW YORK — Kim Kardashian has officially confirmed her romance with Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, sharing a series of intimate bikini photos and a candid couple snapshot on Instagram that quickly captured global attention.

The 45-year-old reality star and entrepreneur posted a carousel of images on Wednesday under the simple caption “lately,” offering fans a glimpse into her recent life. Among the photos were striking bikini shots, family moments, travel scenes and, most notably, the first image of her and Hamilton together on her personal feed.

In one bikini photo, Kardashian lounged on a tan chair in a white string bikini, partially covered by a black sheet, with her eyes closed and hand over her face. Another showed her in a sauna wearing a black bikini, smiling with her tongue out and flashing her middle finger at the camera. The post also included a picture of the couple riding bikes, with Hamilton in a white jersey and cap, and Kardashian in a blue windbreaker and slicked-back braid. A short video captured her playfully nearly running into him while he posed for a selfie.

The couple first sparked dating rumors in February and went Instagram official in April on Hamilton’s account, with a video of them driving his Ferrari F40 at a track in Tokyo. Since then, they have been photographed together at events including Coachella and around Los Angeles, but Kardashian’s latest post marks her first public acknowledgment on her own platform.

Celebrity matchmaker Alessandra Conti told Fox News Digital in May that the pairing feels natural. “There are certain couples that just make sense and feel natural,” Conti said. “I love this pair because they are both at the top of their careers, and although incredibly famous, they are in industries that are different but complimentary. Kim is notorious for having very public relationships, while Lewis is known for being private. They both deeply value ambition and living a fully packed, jet-setting lifestyle.”

Kardashian’s sisters and fans quickly reacted in the comments. Her sister Khloe Kardashian wrote, “You are literally the cutest!!” Other responses included “So happy for you mommy” and “So cute & happy love the positive vibes.”

The relationship has generated significant public interest, blending two high-profile worlds: Kardashian’s reality television and business empire and Hamilton’s record-breaking Formula 1 career. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, is known for his activism, fashion influence and privacy, while Kardashian has built a global brand through her family’s reality show and ventures like SKIMS and KKW Beauty.

Their pairing comes after Kardashian’s high-profile divorce from Kanye West and Hamilton’s long-term single status. Sources close to the couple describe them as bonding over shared experiences with fame, philanthropy and a desire for balance between public life and personal privacy.

Kardashian has been open about her personal growth in recent years, focusing on co-parenting her four children and expanding her businesses. Hamilton, who recently joined Ferrari after years with Mercedes, has spoken about seeking fulfillment beyond racing. Friends say the two complement each other’s lifestyles, with travel, fitness and ambition as common threads.

The Instagram post reflects Kardashian’s continued mastery of personal branding. By mixing casual family photos with glamorous bikini shots and the new relationship reveal, she maintains engagement with her massive following while controlling the narrative around her personal life.

Public reaction has been largely positive, with many fans expressing support for the couple’s happiness. Some commentators noted the visual contrast between Kardashian’s polished aesthetic and Hamilton’s understated style, calling it a refreshing dynamic in celebrity relationships.

The timing of the post coincides with a busy period for both. Kardashian continues developing SKIMS collections and reality television projects, while Hamilton prepares for the intense Formula 1 season. Their ability to navigate demanding schedules has been cited as a strength of the relationship.

Industry observers suggest the pairing could have commercial implications. Kardashian’s influence in fashion and beauty combined with Hamilton’s global reach in motorsport creates potential for future collaborations, though neither has commented on such possibilities.

For now, the focus remains on their blossoming romance. The couple has been spotted at high-profile events and enjoying low-key moments, signaling a balance between public interest and private connection. Kardashian’s decision to share the bike photo on her feed represents a deliberate step in making the relationship more visible on her terms.

As one of the most followed celebrities in the world, Kardashian’s personal updates often generate millions of interactions. Wednesday’s post was no exception, quickly becoming one of her most engaged recent shares. The inclusion of Hamilton marks a new chapter in her public romantic life following several years of focusing primarily on family and business.

Hamilton’s fans have also embraced the news, appreciating his happiness after years of prioritizing career and advocacy. The driver has been open about mental health and work-life balance, and sources say the relationship provides a supportive dynamic that aligns with his current priorities.

The couple’s story reflects broader trends in celebrity relationships, where high-achieving individuals from different fields find common ground despite demanding public schedules. Their shared experiences with intense media scrutiny may help them navigate challenges together.

As summer approaches, fans will likely see more glimpses of the couple through social media and public appearances. For Kardashian and Hamilton, the relationship represents both personal joy and a new layer of public fascination.

Kardashian’s latest post reinforces her status as a cultural trendsetter who continues to evolve while maintaining strong connections with her audience. By blending vulnerability, glamour and relationship updates, she keeps fans invested in her journey.

The romance with Hamilton adds an exciting dimension to both their public narratives. As they continue balancing high-profile careers with their personal connection, the world will be watching to see how this pairing develops in the months ahead.

The company said its performance was ‘underpinned’ by strategic investment

South West brewery group Butcombe has hailed an “exceptionally strong” year after seeing growth across its pub estate.

The business reported underlying group EBITDA – a measure of performance – of £15m, for the year ended January 31, 2026, up 9.1 per cent on a year earlier.

Managed pub EBITA for the period jumped 23 per cent, with like-for-like sales up eight per cent, while its boutique inns offering delivered 12.5 per cent like-for-like growth.

Elsewhere brewing and drink sales rose five per cent over the year.

Jonathan Lawson, chief executive of Butcombe Group, said: “The 12-month period to the end of January 2026 was a very strong year for Butcombe Group. The growth that we delivered was all-the-more impressive, in that it followed a prior year of significant growth and momentum for the business.

“We continue to build a leading, premium pubs and boutique inns business, allied to a first-class beer, brands and drinks operation, all underpinned by operational excellence, innovation and strategic investment, with strong momentum as we head into our new financial year.”

But the brewery group, which has 118 pubs and inns and employs more than 1,800 people, said the current trading environment was “less certain” than six months ago.

It warned of low consumer confidence and the likelihood of rising inflation in the second half of the year, particularly on food.

“We will do our best to protect our customers from these pressures and take a long-term view on what is the right thing for our business, an approach that has served us well over the last five years with the support of Caledonia,” the company said.

Trading in the first quarter of the current financial year is in line with expectations, Butcombe said.

The company’s managed pubs delivered like-for-like growth of 3.6 per cent in the first quarter, with 3.7 per cent growth on food, 3.1 per cent on drink and 5.8 per cent on accommodation.

Looking at accommodation, Butcombe said it had achieved occupancy of 74 per cent – up 1.6 per cent on last year.

In May, Butcombe was named among the 22 best companies to work for in the West of England by the Sunday Times.