Skoda Octavia vRS estate

Power comes from the 197bhp 2.0-litre T FSI unit, which debuted in parent firm VW's Golf GTI. Available as both an estate and a saloon, the vRS accelerates from 0-60mph in around 7.5 seconds.

Beefier brakes and lowered, stiffened suspension mean stopping and cornering are a match for this pace. However, the Skoda is more a fast tourer than a sports car, with the front wheels losing grip if you push too hard. Fuel economy of 35.8mpg compensates, though.

On the outside, the bodykit and 17-inch alloys look great, while inside, vRS logos appear on the sports seats. There's also a new three-spoke leather steering wheel and lots of aluminium trim.

Saloons will cost ΂£17,500, with the estate at ΂£18,200. But whichever you choose, the vRS is a great value all-rounder. It's faster, more spacious and better equipped than, say, a BMW 525i Touring - yet costs ΂£14,500 less.