James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar’s acting magazine editor, and has more than 20 years of experience of working in automotive and motorsport journalism. He has been in his current role since June 2023, and is in charge of overseeing the day-to-day running of Autocar magazine, while regularly interviewing some of the biggest names in the industry to secures news and features

He joined Autocar in 2017 and worked as digital editor, deputy editor and executive editor before taking on a new challenge in 2021 as the launch editor of Move Electric, Haymarket’s website that covers all forms of e-mobility. 

Before moving into automotive, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalism, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, editing the latter title for three years. During that time he covered everything from club rallies to top-level international events, and interviewed many of the true greats of the sport. That included Porsche sportscar great Richard Attwood, who James is slightly disappointed to note is no relation.

James has also made regular media appearances on the BBC and other television and radio outlets. 

James graduated from Keele University with a degree in English and International Politics.

James is an expert in:

  • Global automotive industry news
  • Electric car news and reviews
  • Executive interviews
  • New car news
  • Micromobility, including e-bikes and e-scooters
  • Motorsport
  • New car reviews

James Attwood Q&A

What was your biggest news story?

While I’ve unearthed plenty of big news and scoops over the years, it seems my journalistic legacy will be the time I secured world exclusive access to make Volkswagen currywurst – the car giant’s legendary in-house sausage – for an Autocar feature. It took months of effort to secure access and a strong stomach to experience, but it resulted in a unique and memorable story.

What’s the best car you’ve ever driven?

Clearly it was my first car, a Peugeot 206 1.4 GL. At least that’s what my nostalgic memory insists. More seriously, I’m not sure I could name a singular ‘best’ car – it’s all about what your purpose is. Of recent drives, the Porsche Taycan stands out as particularly impressive. And I’ve got a serious soft spot for the Citroën Ami (which technically isn’t a car).

What will the car industry look like in 20 years?

It won’t be the car industry, for one thing: it’s the mobility industry. Don’t dismiss mobility as a trendy buzzword: it reflects the truth that in the age of electrification the car world is increasingly part of a wider ecosystem, with shared technology and more. There’s a reason Porsche is investing heavily in e-bikes, you know. But don’t fret that such moves will mean the end of the car: private mobility will remain a key requirement for many, and there will still be car that are designed to be fun to drive.

Opinion

Our favourite cars of 2024: Toyota GR Yaris Evo

You can take your dream car to the max without leaving second gear – you just need a frozen lake

Our favourite cars of 2024: Toyota GR Yaris Evo
News

Everything that will definitely, maybe happen in the car world in 2025

Autocar's James Attwood explains how 2025 might unfold for the motoring industry...

Everything that will definitely, maybe happen in the car world in 2025
News

Amazon, Brasilia, Calais… The A-Z of cars named after places

Many model names are inspired by places found on a map. With some lexicographic leaps of logic, we complete the alphabet

Amazon, Brasilia, Calais… The A-Z of cars named after places
News

Official: Honda and Nissan confirm merger plans

The two Japanese firms are in talks to join forces in new holding company that could also include Mitsubishi

Official: Honda and Nissan confirm merger plans
Opinion

Driving home for Christmas is anything but a pain in the Rea

Musical tradition signals the start of festivities for many up and down the country

Driving home for Christmas is anything but a pain in the Rea
Honda 0 Series preview
The SUV concept (right) will be showcased at CES alongside the Saloon prototype…
News

Honda to unveil 0 Series SUV concept next month

The SUV is one of seven planned 0 Series models set to arrive before the end of the decade

Honda to unveil 0 Series SUV concept next month
Honda Prelude camo front quarter
New Prelude will be based on the Civic, serving as a halo car for Honda's electrified tech
News

Confirmed: New Honda Prelude to feature simulated gearbox

Revived sports coupé will be launched in 2026 with new S+ Shift system and hybrid powertrain

Confirmed: New Honda Prelude to feature simulated gearbox
Embleme lead Vidal story
Embleme concept hints at new design language
News

Renault to introduce new shapes in move away from traditional SUVs

Renault design chief Gilles Vidal says next-gen EVs from 2028 will feature radical new bodystyles

Renault to introduce new shapes in move away from traditional SUVs
Car review

Vauxhall Frontera

The Frontera is back and spoiling for a fight with the Dacia Jogger

Vauxhall Frontera
Car review

Vauxhall Frontera Electric

Fresh cost-cutting platform enables new 188-mile compact crossover to undercut rivals and bigger siblings

Vauxhall Frontera Electric
News

Vauxhall: government should help affordable EV buyers, not company car users

UK boss says funds from company car tax should be used to provide incentives for cheaper EVs for private buyers

Vauxhall: government should help affordable EV buyers, not company car users

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