Summary

The Range Rover Velar is a magnificent-looking car, with jaw-dropping exterior styling and a cabin that blends innovative gadgetry and high-quality materials. There are several engines to choose from, but the D300 is one that stands out; with power, refinement and, surprisingly, efficiency too. Big wheels somewhat hinder the ride, and the Velar is rather expensive, but that doesn’t stop you loving it. Nor does it stop you wanting one.

Summary

Here in Britain we love an SUV, so it was inevitable that niches within the SUV market would appear. The latest is ‘hot’ SUVs, and the Cupra Ateca demonstrates why this is such an enticing proposition. Space, practicality and usability on one hand; blistering performance on the other. The Cupra is one of the best at the ‘affordable’ end with bold styling, high-quality cabin and impressive tech levels. It just needs more ‘Cupra’-ness.

Summary

Summary

Despite sharing many mechanical components with the VW Golf R, the Seat Leon ST 300 Cupra has its own identity. Sporty flair on the outside, and familiarity on the inside. Blistering performance lacks, unfortunately, noise to accompany it. Grip is sublime, thanks to a 4DRIVE system. Being the estate this is a vastly practical family car, and it costs a few grand less than the equivalent Golf R. You’ll struggle not to love it.

Summary

The Kia Stinger with the 2.0 T-GDi petrol engine is the pick of the bunch. It may not have the same power – or alloy wheels – as the potent GT S, but it makes so much more sense in just about every way. It still looks every bit as sleek, and is plenty fast enough. But it’s more economical and cheaper to run. It’s cheaper to buy too, keeping it out of the firing line of more expensive rivals. This is a Stinger you could really be tempted to buy…

Summary

Sitting at the budget end of the family hatchback market, the Fiat Tipo brings a surprising sense of style in S-Design trim. Inside, questionable materials and a monotonous colour scheme spoil the party. The 1.4-litre turbocharged T-Jet engine lacks both performance and economy: we expect the Multijet diesel to be more popular. Equipment levels are good, but a lack of more modern technology makes the Tipo feel behind the times. It’s cheap to buy, but we’d be concerned about total cost of ownership: notably depreciation.

Summary

Although the Skoda Superb SportLine Plus looks sporty, it does well to hide its true athleticism. With a 280PS petrol engine hiding under the bonnet this is a car that can cause an upset at the traffic lights. But the performance in no way hinders what is a spacious, practical and sensible family estate car. With the optional Dynamic Chassis Control it handles well in all situations. This is one of the best all-rounders you’ll find.

Summary

The previous king of cheap thrills – the Suzuki Swift Sport – now has a price tag too high to be considered ‘cheap’. Cue the Kia Picanto GT Line S. With a rev-happy 1.0-litre turbocharged engine and 1,020kg kerb weight, it zips around with glee. What’s more, it has cheeky styling to match, Kia’s usual generous array of equipment, and carries a price tag of £15,000. The only drawback is limited space, being a supermini.

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The new Fiesta ST had to be good to live up to its predecessor. Ford Performance developed this car, and have delivered an absolute gem. Despite having a rather un-hot-hatch 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine it manages to be faster, louder and more fun than the previous car. It’s more economical too! In addition, sleeker exterior lines and a more premium cabin finish ensure that the new Fiesta ST is better in every way.

Summary

The new Ford Focus looks fantastic. By far the biggest improvement is the cabin quality: it’s on a par with the VW Golf and Mercedes A-Class. There are a host of new engines, and a new 8-speed automatic gearbox you’d actually want to choose. Space is in plentiful supply, especially in the back. The only downside: the price is also on a par with the VW Golf and Mercedes A-Class. And the options lists are longer – and pricier – than before.