Michael Sheridan

The President-elect and his Chinese opponent have made a fist of playing buddies. But Trump has vowed to raise tariffs on Chinese imports – and Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un are cosying up to China. Michael Sheridan asks if this could put a major roadblock in the way of cordial East-West politics...

Nissan’s ‘next gen’ Interstar takes the large van class to new heights. This comes as no surprise as Interstar is the Japanese firm’s version of the Renault Master – the reigning European Van of the Year! We’ve been testing it in Northern Spain prior to its arrival in Ireland in early 2025. In short, Nissan has a gem of a commercial vehicle with its new Interstar.

Need a Mercedes-Benz MPV but don’t want a huge V-Class? The T-Class could be the answer. The large and luxurious V-Class and Vito Tourer are based on the Vito van, whereas the new T-Class is based on the Citan van (Irish Van of the Year 2024). The T-Class comes as a five-seater with sliding side doors and a huge boot. An even more accommodating seven-seater is available by special order and features a stretched body.

The Chinese giant’s first plug-in hybrid sold in Ireland is a comprehensively equipped mid-size SUV. Available in front or all wheel drive variants ‘Seal U’, not to be confused with the Scottish greeting “See-you Jimmy’ is a five-seat family car that is big on space and value for money. Pricing starts from €42,150 (FWD Boost) and range topping Design with more power, toys and dual electric motor AWD traction.

Biden got the wrathful Red Emperor – and Starmer the impassive statesman. But make no mistake, writes Michael Sheridan, Xi’s ‘red lines’ apply as much to Britain as they do to America

Keir Starmer attends a bilateral meeting with Xi Jinping recently at the Sheraton Hotel, as he attends the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Reuters

Examination of Chinese small print reveals reasons for optimism in restraining Russian but worse news on its nuclear doctrine.

We’re testing a truly iconic car this week. The Toyota Land Cruiser is famed the world over for its durability, reliability and off road ability. There isn’t a farmer on the island who doesn’t have one, or want one! The horsey set love them even more than the loyal trades people who swear by the model. So no pressure with the new one Toyota!

China’s espionage network is assiduously preparing the ground – not to strike at the United Kingdom, NATO or their allies – but to ensure their passivity in the event of war against the United States, writes Michael Sheridan

No citizen of the People’s Republic acquires the status and wealth which he boasts without approval or instructions from on high, writes China expert Michael Sheridan. He may be a man in a suit, but behind him stands the authority of the party and the army