Skip advert
Advertisement

Unsung Heroes

Meet the best-kept secrets in Britain’s new car showrooms. None of our 10 models is likely to feature at the top of your shopping list – we reveal exactly why they should...

Unsung 01

We all know someone who works hard or acts bravely and gets little recognition. Or does great things without shouting about it.

A number of cars share this trait – they are models that hide their light under a bushel or excel in a particular area. So here we have lined up our top 10 unsung heroes. While they are not the most dynamic or glitzy machines in their class, they don’t deserve to be overlooked – as each has a strength that could be ideal for your needs.

Our rundown takes in everything from the Skoda Octavia vRS – which combines hot hatch pace with unbeatable practicality – to the Mercedes R-Class: a people carrier/SUV which is a much better premium family car than many high-profile competitors.

Some of our top 10 are great all-rounders; others excel at certain tasks. But the one thing they have in common is that they are largely ignored alongside more glamorous metal.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,295
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £25,915Avg. savings £1,803 off RRP*Used from £21,461
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £2,598 off RRP*Used from £7,250
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper

The modern-day Super Cinq comes with a super price. It’s our Deal of the Day for 14 May
News
14 May 2025
Want a new small car? You probably can’t afford one and car bosses blame the EU
Luca de Meo - Renault 5

Want a new small car? You probably can’t afford one and car bosses blame the EU

Renault and Stellantis bosses demand changes to the emissions rules driving up new car prices
News
15 May 2025
Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy
Best electric cars header

Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy

Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? Here are the EVs that should be on your shortlist, and why…
Best cars & vans
14 May 2025