In-depth reviews

The big Hyundai is detached, dull and hard to recommend.

Top value alternative to mainstream compact family hatchbacks from Hyundai.

The Materia looks unique, but the way it drives lets it down.

A great cruiser, the Peugeot is nevertheless outclassed by German alternatives in terms of image and quality.

The R32 has oodles of appeal and a cracking chassis – but the standard GTI is as fast…

We’re astounded by the GTC’s abilities, although beneath the veneer are less characterful VW roots

The Jetta is not the most charismatic product, but it is extremely practical.

Brash and crude, the SRT-8 is good on straights, but less so in corners.

The MINI is charming, but has an ugly and cumbersome roof design.

The Audi RS4 makes every journey enjoyable and its performance is mind-blowing

While huge, the Vectra estate can’t match the talents of its key rivals.

The facelifted Ford brings an even higher quality to the market.

With bags of character, the 350Z is still one of our favourite coupes.

The i is clever and funky, but its steep list price counts against it.

The Spider's style and character make it a worthy contender, though it is flawed

The latest X5 remains a fine car, with a welcome increase in practicality.

The Hyundai promises much but fails to deliver. It’s not a well-rounded car.

The 1-Series has plenty of real-world appeal, despite high prices.

Oh dear, Ford. The Focus CC comes across as a half-hearted effort that falls short in looks.

Hot hatch fans shouldn’t ignore the Cupra. It has great acceleration and grip.

The SRX is has a high-quality cabin and is adept on twisty roads and motorways.

Subtle updates have really helped keep the entry-level Boxster Mk2 at the top of its game for a decade

There's more to the SLK than its clever roof - it's fast, well designed and is a relaxed cruiser. However, it doesn't relish hard driving.

The drop-top TT is beautifully designed and a great car to own. With a grippy chassis and superb cabin, It's our class leader

The Honda is well equipped, but its anonymous styling, limited practicality and disappointing engine and gearbox count against it.

The 911 Turbo is an incredible piece of technology, yet is as easy to live with as any other Porsche

Expensive yet worth every penny, the Golf feels more upmarket and desirable than any rival. Comfort is a particular strong point.

The Cee'd is a fine all-rounder. It's easy to see potential family hatch buyers being tempted by the package on offer

The Touran looks dull and won't fire up enthusiasts, but it's a fine family car. It's versatile and the strong cabin can handle anything.

The Civic Type R is not only better to drive than the old car, but out paces its rivals, too.

Hardcore fan shouldn't dismiss the Cooper S as a town car. It is a superb entertainer and a great investment.

The Range Rover remains highly desirable. It has a feel good factor other models lack, and the TDV8 is the best engine available for it.

The 100HP has claws. The styling has been cleverly executed and the tuned suspension has raised the fun factor massively.

The S3 can't match the handling finesse, steering feel or silky engine of the best premium hot hatches

The Passat is stylish and good to drive, with top build quality and an excellent diesel range.

The superb Honda Civic makes all its rivals feel mundane.