The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) held its second SMMT Drive Live 2026event in late September at the picturesque Stanbrook Abbey Hotel in Worcestershire. The invite-only test-drive experience followed a successful May gathering at the Millbrook proving ground in Bedfordshire.
I attended the event, which brought together dozens of journalists and content creators, along with representatives from more than 30 automotive brands, for a day of driving, networking and industry insight. For many attendees, it was their first time at an SMMT Drive Live event.
What Is SMMT Drive Live?
SMMT Drive Live is designed to help media professionals access a wide range of vehicles, technologies and industry expertise in a single, efficient setting.
The event combines hands-on driving on purpose-planned real-world routes with opportunities for photography, filming and social content creation. It also gives attendees time to engage directly with manufacturers and technical specialists.
Brands and attendees at Drive Live 2026
Attendance is managed through an accreditation process based on the quality, relevance and reach of recent automotive content. This helps ensure a productive experience for everyone involved.
Brands attending SMMT Drive Live 2026 included:
Abarth, AION, Alfa Romeo, BMW, BYD, Chery, Citroen, DS, Fiat, Ford, Geely Auto, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, INEOS, Jaecoo, Jeep, Kia UK, Leapmotor, LEPAS, Lexus, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Omoda, Peugeot, Polestar, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Urban Automotive and Vauxhall.
Cars driven at SMMT Drive Live
There were many vehicles available to test, and I managed to get into around half a dozen.
MINI Countryman E
Refined, quiet and comfortable, this large premium MINI feels relaxed rather than sporty. It is a MINI name with maxi proportions.
Mitsubishi L200
The big pickup is back in the UK, joined by the Outlander hybrid SUV. It feels every bit as good as its predecessors.
Nissan Micra
A familiar name returning to the compact car market with a sporty drive and striking profile.
Chery Tiggo 4
The newest offering from the Chinese brand, signalling its growing UK ambitions and a bargain price.
Ford Capri
The iconic nameplate reborn for the electric age. But will it become as iconic as the original?
Honda Prelude
Bucking the SUV trend with the return of this sporty saloon — stylish looks and plenty of performance.
Why SMMT Drive Live matters for the industry
Without doubt, the event was an excellent chance to sample a number of vehicles. The SMMT organisers did a brilliant job, appreciated by both journalists and manufacturers.
SMMT Drive Live allows brands to showcase their latest models to a wide group of motoring writers, even if the drives themselves are short. For media professionals, it offers efficient access to new cars, new technology and direct conversations with the people behind them.
Final thoughts
The SMMT event proved why it has become a key date for automotive media. With more than 30 brands, a strong line-up of new models and a focused test-drive format, it delivered valuable access and insight in one day.
For journalists, content creators and manufacturers, SMMT Drive Live remains a smart, efficient way to connect with the latest developments in the UK automotive industry.
