The new Mitsubishi Lancer saloon and Sportback range look good and offer impressive standard specifications, but drivability on the Evo-related model really lets the side down.
The new Citroen C5 Tourer estate is a serious proposition and a big step up from the outgoing model in terms of design, quality, comfort and pricing.
The new Hyundai i30 Estate comes highly recommended, especially in diesel format, with plenty of interior space, high kit levels, a good price and five-year warranty.
The latest Honda Accord is arguably the best value for money in the series but it’s also one of the best handling for enthusiastic drivers.
The new Ford Focus ECOnetic proves its worth during a week of fuel protests, but does it make any more financial or environmental sense than a clean diesel model?
Fiat joins the green rush by launching low-consumption, low-emissions Bravo hatchback models, but can the Italian manufacturer match the other 'green' models on the block?
The new Hyundai i10 supermini is a sensible choice: cheap to buy and run and packed with kit, and it doesn't lose out too much as a fun city car either.
The new Audi A4 Avant has more passenger and load space and a wide choice of engines, but practicality and the cost of options count against the premium estate.
It's not the best drive on the road, but the Mercedes B-Class mini-MPV is spacious and flexible.
The new Mercedes A-Class is improved in nearly aspect for the same price, but may still be too expensive for a small car.
The Peugeot 308 SW is spacious, well-specced, comfortable and practical but it comes at a price and does not match up to out-and-out MPVs.
Kia's three-door Pro-cee'd model is less practical than the five-door even though it's the same price. So is the drive and styling good enough to make up for the premium?
