Saloon

DS has only existed as a standalone manufacturer since 2015&nbsp;(prior to that the badge was used on upmarket&nbsp;Citroëns), but it is now the premium brand in the Stellantis group, which also includes&nbsp;Citroën, Peugeot and Vauxhall.

The first DS models were essentially rebadged Citroëns, but more recently its cars are now standalone models in their own right. Yet under the skin, they're still very closely related.

Its models are&nbsp;influenced by the French fashion industry and are designed&nbsp;to take on the ubiquitous offerings of Audi, BMW and Mercedes.

DS 9

Hatchback

DS 3

The DS 3 has smart styling and eager engines. However, its poor ride and handling stop it from beating the best superminis

Used DS 3 2015-present

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Spacious enough for four adults to sit comfortably</li> <li>Logically laid-out interior that doesn’t</li> <li>feel too cheap</li> <li>Mature driving manners </li> <li>Decent-sized boot</li> <li>Competitive buying and running costs</li></ul>

Small cars, or superminis as they’re also known, used to be bought almost exclusively as first cars or by people with no children – but the likes of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/fiesta/hatchback/review/n106">Ford Fiesta</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/seat/ibiza/hatchback/review/n17359">Seat Ibiza</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/polo/hatchback/review/n83">Volkswagen Polo</a> have grown to the point where they can be considered all-round family transport, albeit with the odd compromise.

Small

Those in search of a fashionable supermini have a number of interesting options: there’s the indomitable <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mini/hatchback/hatchback/used-review/n906">Mini</a>, the iconic <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/500/hatchback/used-review/n323">Fiat 500</a> and this alluring DS 3, for starters.

It actually began life as the Citroën DS3, but a midlife change of heart by the French firm meant DS became a brand in its own right as Citroën hoped to add a bit more pizzazz to the range and distance it from the bargain-basement image of existing models from the parent company. The updated DS 3 looks sharp, distinctive and carries with it the air of a premium product.

A range of lively petrol and strong diesel engines are available, all of which provide the 3 with a good turn of pace. Even the smallest units – three-cylinder petrols with 81bhp, 109bhp or 128bhp – make the 3 usefully nippy around town, although the least powerful version runs out of oomph at higher speed. The two 1.6 HDi diesel engines – in 99bhp or 118bhp form – are flexible and suit the 3’s dynamic character. There’s even a Performance model with a turbocharged 207bhp petrol engine that will whiz you to 62mph in a smoking 6.5sec, which is slightly quicker than a Mini Cooper S.

The 3 has a number of well-equipped trim options, too, starting with the entry-level Chic, which gets a 7.0in touchscreen, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and air-con, with the luxurious Prestige and sporting Performance trims at the top.

On top of the liveliness offered by the engines, the 3 is agile through bends. The steering responds quickly, so the car turns in to corners sharply and feels impressively nimble around town. At higher speeds, the tyres grip well and body movement is reasonably well controlled, although it has to be noted the 3 is nowhere near as composed or engaging to drive as a Mini.

The 3 can also ride a little too firmly over broken surfaces, although it’s reasonably civilised inside, the only intrusions being a little wind or road noise and the occasional gruffness of the diesel engines.

An imaginatively styled dashboard with chrome-rimmed dials and colour-coded panels gives the DS 3's interior real panache, with some plush materials and appealing finishes. The driving position is good, although visibility is hampered slightly by the stylised thick pillars. Inevitably, some of the switchgear and more functional parts are shared with Citroën’s mainstream models and, as a result, the 3’s interior doesn’t have the bespoke feel that a Mini’s does.

On top of that, rear space is distinctly limited, with two a squeeze and three very much a crowd, although its boot is larger than both the Mini’s and Fiat 500’s.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/classifieds/used-cars/citroen/ds3">Find a used DS 3 in the What Car? Classifieds here</a>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

DS 3 Hatchback

Sports

The DS 3 Cabrio is stylish, spacious and surprisingly practical, but a poor ride stops it from being a really good used buy.&nbsp;

Used DS 3 Cabrio 2015-2022

What we're looking for:<ul><li>Wind-in-the-hair excitement</li> <li>Roof that’s quick and easy to raise and lower</li> <li>Comfortable seating for four adults</li> <li>Sufficient practicality for everyday use</li> <li>Little wind buffeting</li> <li>Quietness, whether the roof is up or down</li> <li>Minimal shaking and shimmying over bumps</li></ul>

Despite the British weather, UK car buyers are among the biggest enthusiasts for wind-in-your-hair motoring, so convertibles have always been surprisingly popular here. It’s best to be able to react to the fickle climate, though, so a roof that opens (and closes) quickly is every bit as important as good top-down cruising refinement.

There are precious few bespoke drop-tops these days, so your choice of models is generally limited to soft-top versions of existing models. But there are still some fantastic options out there.

Convertible

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ds/ds-3/hatchback/review/n17340">DS 3</a>&nbsp;is the smallest car in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/citroen">Citroën’s</a>&nbsp;premium&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/ds">DS</a>&nbsp;range. It's a neat three-door hatchback, but for those after a bit of wind-in-the-hair fun, there's also this Cabrio derivative, which has a retractable fabric roof. It was on sale as a new car from 2015 to 2022.

The DS 3 Cabrio isn't a full-blown convertible, due to the fact that its roof pillars remain in place when the hood is retracted. This approach has two&nbsp;advantages: it helps to keep the body rigid without resorting to expensive re-engineering, and it allows the driver to operate the roof at speeds of up to 75mph.

As well as the roof, a number of small styling tweaks help to differentiate the DS 3 Cabrio from its hard-top sibling. DS also offers a huge selection of trims and colour options so that buyers can create their own personalised look. Contrasting panels, door mirrors, wheels and interior panels, along with a range of decals, can be colour-coordinated to help your DS 3 stand out.

Its biggest rival on the used market is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mini/convertible/sports/review/n17156">Mini Convertible</a>, which is similarly priced despite being a full convertible&nbsp;and having a more upmarket interior. Other rivals include the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/500/sports/review/n17176">Fiat 500C</a>, which doesn’t offer the same performance as the DS 3 Cabrio but is drastically cheaper, and the bigger <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/beetle/sports/used-review/n18171">VW Beetle Cabriolet</a>, which also offers similarly cheerful soft-top motoring within a similar used car price range to the DS.

A range of free-revving petrol engines and strong diesels is available, all of which provide the DS 3 with a good turn of pace. Even the smallest units – three-cylinder petrols with either 80 or 109bhp – make the car usefully nippy around town, although the lesser engine runs out of oomph at higher speeds.

A four-cylinder, 118bhp 1.6 petrol provides impressive acceleration and decent all-round flexibility, while the turbocharged 161bhp THP model is warm-hatch quick. The two 1.6 HDi diesel engines – in either 91 or 118bhp form – also feel strong and suit the DS 3’s dynamic character well.

However, if you’re after a more engaging experience, the Performance is the most focused variant of DS 3. The Performance Cabrio receives a 205bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder THP engine, a six-speed manual gearbox and a revised chassis.

In any of its guises, the DS 3 Cabrio has never been as dynamically polished as the competition, though. The steering is decidedly vague, the ride is crashy over poor road surfaces and a surprising amount of body flex detracts from everyday comfort.

That said, when you'd rather just cruise around sedately and soak up some sun, the DS 3 Cabrio is a good companion. It protects you (and your passengers) well from wind buffeting – thanks largely to a wind deflector on top of the windscreen – and is small and easy to manoeuvre&nbsp;in the city.

DS is Citroën’s premium brand, and the DS 3 Cabrio does enough to justify that status. An imaginatively styled dashboard with chrome-rimmed dials and colour-coded panels gives the DS 3's cabin real panache, and the interior quality is a cut above the Citroën C3 on which it’s based, with plusher materials and more appealing finishes. However, some of the switchgear and more functional parts are shared with Citroën’s mainstream models, preventing the DS 3 from having the same bespoke feel that you get in a Mini.

An awkward driving position also impacts on your experience behind the wheel. You sit a long way back from the windscreen and the pedals are noticeably offset. Granted, the steering wheel adjusts for reach and height on all models, but you might struggle to&nbsp;feel truly comfortable.

Ergonomically, the dashboard layout is pretty user-friendly, but the central digital readout can be hard to decipher at a glance and the stereo is unhelpfully low on the centre console. All models come with steering column-mounted audio controls that are helpful, because the stereo has small, fiddly buttons that can be difficult to locate on the move.

The DS 3 Cabrio has a rakish roofline, but there’s plenty of head room in the front and only the very tall are likely to feel hemmed in. A height-adjustable driver’s seat is standard for all models; cheaper versions miss out on a height-adjustable passenger’s seat.

Storage space for clutter is adequate&nbsp;but nothing more. The door bins are a useful size and have a special section to hold a bottle of water, but the glovebox is tiny and the cubbies built into the centre console are small. The centre armrest on pricier versions adds a small, lidded cubby, while a cupholder insert for the centre console is an accessory.

As with most two-door convertibles,&nbsp;access to&nbsp;the rear seats of the DS 3 requires a bit of dexterity, and space isn’t that generous when you’re there. With the roof closed, head room is tight for six-footers, particularly towards the outer edges of the car, and leg room is restrictive. However, the DS 3 features three seats in the rear (whereas the 500C and Mini have only two).

Unsurprisingly, you don't get as much boot space as you do in the DS 3 hatch, but there's more than in the&nbsp;500C and Mini. The whole tailgate rises vertically without a pivot point, giving good access in tight parking spaces. Irritatingly, though, once open, it blocks your view into the boot, so you have to stoop down to see where you're putting things.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/classifieds/used-cars/citroen/ds3">If you're interested in buying a used DS 3 Cabrio, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out the What Car? Classifieds here</a>

Page 1 of 5

DS 3 Sports

DS 4

Plentiful equipment and unique styling aren't enough to eradicate the DS 4's&nbsp;inadequacies in refinement and driving dynamics.

Used DS 4 2015-2018

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Comfortable ride </li> <li>Feature-filled infotainment </li> <li>Space for child seats </li> <li>Robust build quality </li> <li>Practical storage spaces </li> <li>A boot fit for a family holiday </li> <li>Fuel-efficient engines</li></ul>

While we define a small SUV&nbsp;as something&nbsp;less than 4.3 metres long and a large SUV as measuring more than 4.5 metres, family SUVs tread the middle ground.

As the name suggests, the vast majority are&nbsp;designed for family duties rather than serious off-roading, so practicality is paramount. However, that&nbsp;shouldn't come at the expense of a decent drive; the best examples combine tidy handling with smooth engines&nbsp;and a ride that's comfortable&nbsp;enough to ensure the kids aren't left feeling queasy.

&nbsp;

Family SUV

Family SUVs seem to be flooding the used market these days, but truly premium ones aren't quite so prevalent. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x1/estate/used-review/n812">BMW X1</a> was one of the first, but it’s still quite a pricey car. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-reviews/make/ds">DS</a> 4, however, has been around a while and was even sold as a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-reviews/make/citroen">Citroën</a> before being rebranded in 2015, so there are plenty of second-hand examples to choose from.

The 4 offers two petrol and three diesel engines. Everyday driving is well catered for by the 128bhp 1.2-litre turbo petrol, but there’s also a 207bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol if you need more performance. Likewise, the 118bhp 1.6-litre diesel has plenty of torque for relaxed cruising, but there are&nbsp;a 2.0-litre units with 148bhp and 178bhp that offer similar running costs.

As long as you’re just pottering, the 4 is okay to drive. Demand more from it and its soft suspension will make you experience body roll around even fairly shallow corners. Potholes also pose a problem, because they send shocks straight into the interior. On faster roads, the 4 floats a lot, and its slow steering means you’ll have to make plenty of additional adjustments to keep it on the right path.

In isolation, you’ll probably find the 128bhp 1.2-litre turbo petrol to be an agreeable engine, and it’s true that it doesn’t feel lacking in performance in regular driving, thanks to&nbsp;the relatively short gearing. However, it isn’t the most refined unit out there, and it sends&nbsp;plenty of vibrations through the pedals, steering wheel and seats. Wind and road noise are also very noticeable at speed, to the point that you&nbsp;will have to crank up the volume on the stereo.

Practicality is another weak point of the 4, because while those in the front seats have plenty of adjustment and there’s a nice panoramic windscreen that allows in plenty of light, the rear seats are very cramped for taller passengers&nbsp;and the door openings are very narrow, restricting&nbsp;access. Head room isn’t good enough&nbsp;either, due to the sloping roofline. To top it all off, the rear windows don’t open at all, which makes the air conditioning a necessity in even mild weather.

 
The boot is similar to that of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf/hatchback/used-review/n776">Volkswagen Golf</a>, but there’s a significant load lip and the rear seats&nbsp;don't fold flat, making it awkward to load longer items. You do get plenty of tie-downs and a handy rechargeable torch, though (make sure the previous owner of the car you're looking at hasn’t half-inched the latter). 
 
Page 1 of 5

DS 4 Hatchback

DS 5

The DS 5 has plenty of style, but it falls short of its established rivals in nearly every area

Used DS 5 2016-present

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes.

Executive

Citroën first introduced its upmarket DS brand to the world in 2009, originally with the cars still badged primarily as Citroën.

The firm’s aim was to imbue these new models with some of the style and the technical innovation of the legendary 1955 Citroën DS. However, in a bid to distance the new brand from Citroën’s present-day discount-store image, DS cars were split off into their own brand.

This dramatically styled DS 5 is an executive rival to the likes of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a4/saloon/used-review/n787">Audi A4</a> and the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/used-review/n801">BMW 3 Series</a>, but it offers something a little different to those saloons by being more of a high-roofed hatchback, with hints of coupé and sporting SUV. To succeed, it needed to offer something very special in this premium class, and if that criteria were based solely on looks, it would certainly be getting off to a good start.

The 5's engine line-up includes three diesel and two petrol units, plus a diesel-electric hybrid with all-wheel drive, although poor sales put an end to this model in 2016.

There are three trim levels on offer, with entry-level Elegance very well equipped with sat-nav, climate control and a three-part glass roof with electric sunblinds. The ante is upped further in Performance Line and the top-of-the-range and handsomely equipped Prestige trim.

On the road, the 5 is a bit of a mixed bag. It’s the diesel engines that are the biggest sellers here, and if the entry-level 1.6-litre BlueHDi 120 doesn't feel powerful enough for a car of this size, the 2.0-litre HDi 150 and 180 versions are both smooth and punchy.

Alas, the 5 is very far from matching the smooth ride and sharp handling of its top rivals, and its steering, vague, lifeless and rather heavy. It also suffers from a fairly firm ride that's easily caught out by imperfect surfaces, and that means it’s not the most relaxing executive car to drive or be driven in. On top of that, refinement is reasonable around town, but wind and road noise intrude at higher speeds.

The 5 has a striking interior with an eye-catching centre console and some very flamboyant design touches, but in terms of perceived quality, the materials used still trail those of German rivals by quite some margin.

The driving position is good and the seats are comfortable, and there’s plenty of room up front, but space in the rear is rather cramped, due to the car’s stylish sloping roofline, and the boot is a little smaller than most rivals’. The 5’s fashionable shape also means that visibility is a little limited, especially to the sides and the rear.

So, the 5 is clearly a stand-out and individualistic design in a staid class, with many likeable qualities. It's not the last word in driving sophistication, and its prices when new were disturbingly high, but discounts were on offer and its used prices could yet persuade you to take a look and maybe take the plunge.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/classifieds/used-cars/citroen/ds5">Find a used DS 5 in the What Car? Classifieds here</a>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

DS 5 Hatchback

While there are faults to be found in its execution, a used DS 9 offers unprecedented value for money.

Used DS 9 2021-present

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plush ride and the ability to cruise in near-silence </li> <li>Powerful and efficient engine</li> <li>Space for passengers to stretch out in the rear seats</li> <li>Exquisite materials and build quality</li> <li>Endless luxuries on the options list</li> <li>Sensible fuel and tax bills</li></ul>

If you’re in the market for a luxury car, you’ll be after a sumptuous interior, a ride that can soak up the worst of the UK’s pockmarked roads and supreme refinement that allows you to travel at speed in near-silence.

Luxury

Tempting people away from tradition isn't an easy job, but it's one the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ds/ds-9/saloon/review/n23085">DS 9</a> takes on.&nbsp;It's a left-field <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/luxury-cars/n17020">luxury car</a>&nbsp;competing with a sea of popular German rivals, many of which excel in both the new and used car markets – think&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/5-series/saloon/review/n63">BMW 5 Series</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/saloon/review/n17174">Mercedes E-Class</a>.

However, to be&nbsp;frank, the DS 9 doesn't really cut it&nbsp;as a new car, mainly because it isn't competitively priced. Specifically, you'll need in excess of £50,000 to afford one. The used market, on the other hand, is a different story...&nbsp;

The most affordable DS 9 models&nbsp;are either the 1.6 PureTech 225 or 1.6 E-Tense 225 versions. They each have&nbsp;a 1.6-litre petrol engine, front-wheel drive and a 0-62mph time&nbsp;just beyond the eight-second mark, but the E-Tense is a plug-in hybrid. It has a 11.9kWh battery and an electric motor for 38 miles (officially) of electric-only range.&nbsp;

These two variants were soon discontinued after launch, with the model range revised to comprise&nbsp;a 1.6 E-Tense 250 and a 1.6 E-Tense 4x4 360. The former is much like the 225, but gains some extra power – though it only matches the 225's 0-62mph time – and electric-only range, courtesy of a larger, 15.6kWh battery. Officially, you'll go 46&nbsp;miles before running out of juice and that's an impressive figure.&nbsp;

The 360 is the closest thing we have to a fully-fledged DS 9 <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/performance-cars/n23035">performance car</a>, although its straight-line speed isn't&nbsp;anything to write home about next to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a6/saloon/review/n19445">Audi S6</a>, for example. The 360&nbsp;completes the 0-62mph sprint in 5.6sec, aided by four-wheel drive.

As for the DS 9's other variants and their&nbsp;performance, you won't find them lacking if you're upgrading from, say, an everyday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-cars/n16996">family car</a>. If you've come from an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/executive-cars/n2004">executive car</a> or something like a 5 Series or E-Class, you might be disappointed – the DS 9 isn't especially punchy in the context of its key rivals, unfortunately.&nbsp;

It's a similar story in regards to handling. Yes, next to a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/astra/hatchback/review/n17347">Vauxhall Astra</a>, it's quite capable in the corners, with good grip and minimal body roll. However,&nbsp;hop in a DS 9 after driving a 5 Series and you'll find it a clear step down. From its steering to its body control, the DS 9 isn't as sharp and confidence-inspiring.&nbsp;

As for comfort – a priority for a luxury car to get right – the DS 9 yet again proves good, not great. The ride is supple at speed on smooth roads, but it’s still easily unsettled by imperfections in the road. On a more positive note,&nbsp;the DS 9 does an excellent job of isolating you from wind and road noise.&nbsp;

The hushed driving experience compliments the model's posh interior. Depending on your chosen trim, it's covered in plenty of suave materials, from leather to Alcantara. There are some welcome details dotted around the place, too, such as a clock that reveals itself upon a&nbsp;press of the start&nbsp;button.&nbsp;

Its Stellantis – parent company of manufacturers like <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/citroen">Citroën</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/peugeot">Peugeot</a> – roots are present, mind you. Some of the DS 9's buttons and controls, even though they aren't bargain-bin material, aren't quite on the same level as the rest of the interior and the model's luxury car status. This is because they've been lifted straight out of&nbsp;a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/308/hatchback/review/n17380">Peugeot 308</a>.&nbsp;

The 12in touchscreen infotainment system comes with sat-nav, but isn't very intuitive to use and responds sluggishly to prods. All things considered, it's one of the least impressive systems in the class, although you do at least get plenty of gadgets, including wireless&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-android-auto/n1194">Android Auto</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-apple-carplay/n1193">Apple CarPlay</a>&nbsp;smartphone mirroring.&nbsp;

Speaking of equipment, the entry-level Performance Line + trim gets things like heated, electrically adjustable front seats with adjustable lumbar support, as well as automatic windscreen wipers. Step up to Rivoli+ and you've got pretty much every piece of kit under the sun, including&nbsp;massaging front seats. If you must go further, there's Opera, which has a heated windscreen, heated and ventilated rear seats with massaging function, an electric boot lid, an upgraded stereo system and even nicer interior materials.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rear space is reasonable rather than outstanding. If your passengers are tall, their heads will be in close proximity to the ceiling (especially those sitting in the slightly raised middle seat) and while leg room is decent, there's not much foot space under the front seats. Indeed, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a6/saloon/review/n61">Audi A6</a>&nbsp;is more generous on rear seat space.&nbsp;

Things are better when you look at boot space, though, with the DS 9 giving you 510 litres of space (473-litres if you go for the Opera trim level, or get an example with&nbsp;the optional-from-new&nbsp;Focal Electra sound system on Rivoli+ trim) compared with 410 litres in the&nbsp;BMW 5 Series&nbsp;530e and 370-litres in the&nbsp;Mercedes E-Class&nbsp;E300e.

Interested in buying a used <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ds/ds-9/saloon/review/n23085">DS 9</a>? Visit our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Cars For Sale</a> pages to find lots of cars listed at great prices.

Page 1 of 5

DS 9 Saloon

A former motorsport team and independent tuning company, Abarth has long&nbsp;produced high performance versions of Fiat's cars.

In recent years, Abarth has been established&nbsp;as a standalone brand – in the same way that Citroën split off its DS luxury division several years ago. However, the major difference is that DS cars look completely different from the Citroëns on which they’re based, whereas Abarths rely on bodykits and big wheels to mark them out.

The Abarth 500e is a sporty version of the Fiat 500 Electric, whilst the Abarth 595 is a beefed-up version of the older Fiat 500 hatchback.

ABARTH

Alfa Romeo now has one of its strongest-ever model line-ups, after years of living off past glories.

The BMW 3 Series-rivalling Giulia executive saloon is one of the best cars in its class to drive, while the closely related Stelvio and smaller Tonale both competes in the booming SUV class.

It’s all a long way from the days when Alfa Romeo just had a couple of dated hatchbacks (the Mito and Giulietta) and the niche 4C sports car in its range.

ALFA ROMEO

Alpine (pronounced 'Al-peen') only makes one model, but if you’re in the market for a sports car, this French brand is worthy of your attention.

Its A110 is one of the best-handling cars on sale today. And while it’s not especially powerful, it’s still properly quick, thanks to its low weight.

The looks and character of today’s A110 were inspired by a legendary namesake that won the first ever World Rally Championship back in 1973. But the new car is undoubtedly a worthy successor.

ALPINE

Yes, Aston Martin is the preferred manufacturer of a certain (not so) secret agent, but its latest cars offer a lot more than the chance to indulge your Bond fantasies.

The DB12 is a very fast and very luxurious long distance cruiser, and the DBS is arguably one of the most glamorous cars around.

Proving it's not afraid to move with the times, Aston has also embraced&nbsp;the march of the SUV; its DBX707 is a stunning example of what's possible when building a fast, expensive and sporty SUV.

ASTON MARTIN

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV are all common - yet upmarket - sights on UK roads.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

In many ways, modern Bentleys offer the best of both worlds, blending traditional British craftsmanship with modern mechanicals developed with the help of the company’s owner, Volkswagen.

The Bentayga SUV, for example, is closely related to Audi’s brilliantly engineered Q7 (another VW Group car). Yet the Bentayga still feels every inch a Bentley, thanks to its hand-finished interior and sonorous V8 engine.

Other Bentleys you can buy today include the Flying Spur&nbsp;saloon&nbsp;and the Continental GT coupé and convertible.

BENTLEY

Munich-based BMW is most famous for its sports saloons, in particular the 3 Series and 5 Series. However, it actually builds almost every type of car imaginable: everything from two-seat convertibles to seven-seat MPVs.

The cheapest model in the BMW range is the 1 Series hatchback, which is a rival to the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf. Meanwhile, at the other extreme is the M8&nbsp;grand tourer, which costs more than £120,000.

BMW was also quick to capitalise on the rise of the SUV and now has ten in its range: the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7 and XM, plus the electric iX3 and iX.

All of this makes it one of the big three German prestige brands, along with Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

Chevrolet in the UK has been through several incarnations. In the 2000s, it brought its evocative&nbsp;name to bear on a series of rather humdrum Vauxhall-derived hatchbacks and SUVs.

Chevrolet largely&nbsp;withdrew from Europe in 2015 after struggling to make an impact, but used examples do at least have the virtue of being incredibly cheap.

Today, the only 'Chevy' you can buy in the UK&nbsp;is the Corvette - a sports car that has all the emotion and drama you'd expect.

&nbsp;

CHEVROLET

Chrysler has built an eclectic range of cars over the years – everything from radically styled hatchbacks and brash, all-American saloons, to small family cars and boxy yet hugely practical people carriers.

It decided to pull out of the UK in 2015, after struggling with declining sales. However, there are still some Chrysler models that are worth considering if you’re buying used.

The Grand Voyager, for example, is one of the few MPVs that has room for luggage even when all seven of its seats are occupied, while the 300C – based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class – is a refreshing alternative to the traditional executive saloon choices.

CHRYSLER

Citroën is probably most famous for its quirky design, and the latest cars from the brand live up to this tradition. In fact, it&nbsp;tends to keep away from sportiness altogether and instead tries to put comfort first.

Value (but not cheapness) is also key to the appeal of most Citroëns. And the company’s range includes everything from a tiny EV (the Ami) through to the C3 small hatchback and&nbsp;the large van-based&nbsp;Spacetourer MPV.

Its range of SUVs are all badged Aircross, and like the rest of its range place emphasis on comfort, not speed.

CITROEN

The sportiest Seats have long used the&nbsp;Cupra name, but it's now been turned into a standalone sub-brand, in much the same way as Fiat's sportiest models are badged as Abarths.

Like Abarth, some of Cupra's models including the Ateca and Leon are extensively reworked Seats, but models such as the Born and Formentor are exclusive to Cupra.

Whilst Cupras are closely related to equivalent models from Seat and Volkswagen, they are generally tuned to provide a more engaging driving experience.

CUPRA

If you want a new car but would rather not spend much, Dacia is a great place to start your search.

This budget brand builds some of Britain’s cheapest new cars, including the Sandero hatchback. And don’t think cheap automatically means corners have been cut, because the Sandero has been commended at the annual What Car? Car of the Year awards on numerous occasions.

Other Dacia models include the&nbsp;higher-riding Sandero Stepway, seven-seat Jogger, and rugged Duster SUV. And while these cost slightly more than the Sandero, they’re still priced aggressively enough that they’re really only competing directly with used cars.

Dacia manages this by borrowing mechanicals and technology from its owner, Renault, to minimise development costs.

DACIA

Daihatsu specialises in building small, budget cars, and while it pulled out of the UK market in 2011 when the strong yen made it impossible for it to make a profit here, there are still plenty of its models on the used market.

The best of the lot is the Charade hatchback, which feels perfectly suited to city driving and is surprisingly spacious for something so small. However, its back catalogue also includes the tiny Terios and Fourtrak SUVs and the Copen convertible, which featured a Mercedes-Benz SLK-style folding metal roof.

DAIHATSU

One of the world’s most famous brands and an integral part of the Formula 1 grid since the first championship in 1950, Ferrari fully lives up to its exalted reputation, producing some of the best sports cars money can buy.

Its entry-level model (although that term hardly seems appropriate) is the Portofino convertible, which is powered by a twin-turbo V8 and capable of blasting from 0-62mph in 3.5sec.

Then further up the range you find the mid-engined 488s, in coupé and Spider forms, and two GT cars: the GTC4 Lusso and the appropriately named 812 Superfast, a V12 monster that can hit 211mph.

FERRARI

Modern Fiats fall into two categories: the retro models and those with more functional designs.

Cars in the first camp appeal to the heart and include the 124 Spider sports car and the 500 series: a hatchback, a convertible, an SUV and two MPVs.

By contrast, the remaining models rely on their practicality and attractive pricing, with the Panda city car, Tipo hatchback and Fullback pick-up truck all prime examples.

Fiat can trace its roots back to the 19th century but is now part of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group, along with Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati.

FIAT

Ford builds some of the most popular cars in the UK, including the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.

This success is partly down to longevity and the fact that there’s a Ford dealer around every corner. However, it’s also because Fords tend to offer good value and be among the best cars in their respective classes to drive.

The company’s huge range also helps; it offers everything from the small – but surprisingly practical – Ka+ to the large and lavishly equipped Edge SUV.

Meanwhile, other highlights of the range include the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers, the Mondeo executive car and the Ranger pick-up.

FORD

Honda is a company that doesn’t like to follow the crowd. So, while it competes in most of the traditional sectors of the car market, in each case it does something a little bit different.

The Jazz, for example, might look like just another rival to Britain’s best-selling car, the Ford Fiesta, but it’s actually much more practical than its rivals, with a flexible boot and Tardis-like interior.

The bigger Civic is also a practical choice, but it’s mainly distinguished by having eye-catching, love-it-or-hate-it styling, despite competing in a sector of the market that’s usually more conservative than a blue rosette.

And while it may not seem so radical now, Honda’s large SUV, the CR-V, was one of the first to forego any pretence of being an off-roader and instead focus on on-road driving dynamics.

HONDA

Hyundai has transformed itself from a maker of oddball hatchbacks that sold in small numbers in the UK, to a major rival to the likes of Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen.

The Korean firm’s Ioniq Hybrid is particularly impressive, having beaten the trend-setting Toyota Prius when we tested the cars back to back.

Meanwhile, at the extremes of the Hyundai range you find the tiny i10 city car – a four-time What Car? award winner – and the stylish yet family-friendly Santa Fe SUV.

As a bonus, all of these cars come with the reassurance of a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, whereas most of Hyundai’s rivals offer only three years and 60,000 miles of cover.

HYUNDAI

Infiniti is to Nissan what Lexus is to Toyota: the premium arm of a mainstream car maker.

Infiniti’s current model range includes the Q30 hatchback, Q50 executive saloon and Q60 coupé, all of which go head to head with cars from the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. There’s also the QX30, a small SUV.

The brand has so far struggled to make a big impact on British buyers due to high prices, but most of the time that’s partially offset by a long list of standard equipment.

Future plans include a new range of electric vehicles and a smart petrol engine that is said to offer diesel-like fuel economy.

INFINITI

Jaguars are consistently among the best-handling cars of their kind, with the firm’s model range encompassing the XE, XF and XJ saloons, the F-Type sports cars and multiple SUVs.

Jaguar was actually relatively late to launch its first SUV, the F-Pace, but it quickly followed it up with the smaller E-Pace and the all-electric I-Pace.

That SUV range will keep growing, too, with larger and more luxurious SUVs planned to take on the Porsche Cayenne and the Range Rover from sister brand Land Rover.

JAGUAR

Jeep only makes SUVs, but it has plenty of them for you to choose from. So, whether you want something rugged enough to ford streams and climb mountains, or a more luxurious and family-friendly car, it has something to suit you.

Despite its all-American image, Jeep is actually owned by Fiat, meaning Jeeps often share parts with cars from the Italian giant; the entry-level Renegade, for example, has plenty in common with Fiat’s 500X.

However, perhaps the most widely recognised Jeep is the Wrangler, a model that has a dedicated fan base and which closely resembles the original Jeep which saw service in World War 2.

The brand’s future plans include new small and large SUVs, plus the introduction of fully electric models.

JEEP

Buyers seeking value for money should have Kia towards the top of their shopping list.

Although once a niche brand in the UK, today Kia outsells many more established brands, helped by its market-leading seven-year warranty and a strong reputation for reliability; in fact, Kia regularly finishes towards the top of our reliability surveys.

There are plenty of models to choose from, too, ranging from the small Picanto city car to the Ceed family hatchback and the Sorento large SUV. The Picanto was the first Kia to win its class at the What Car? Car of the Year awards.

Lamborghinis have been adorning bedroom posters since the mid-1960s. Not bad for a company whose origins lie in making tractors.

Today, Lamborghini is part of the Volkswagen Group, and as well as bolstering its core sports car portfolio, it has branched out to launch the Urus – a luxurious SUV that’s a rival to the similarly rapid Bentley Bentayga W12 and Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

LAMBORGHINI

Land Rover is synonymous with SUVs, and especially with the Defender – the rugged runabout that has seen service in war zones across the world, but also as part of the Queen’s personal garage.

If off-road prowess is one of Land Rover’s core values, though, the other is luxury. Indeed, the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Velar are among the best luxury SUVs you can buy.

The Discovery, meanwhile, is a practical rival for the Audi Q7 and BMW X5, while the stylish Evoque (which is available as a three-door convertible as well as a traditional SUV) goes head to head with Audi’s Q3 and BMW’s X1.

In the coming years, we’ll see a new road-biased ‘Road Rover’ as well as an all-new Defender.

LAND ROVER

In the same way that Infiniti acts as Nissan’s premium arm, Lexus has a similar tie-in with Toyota. And since most of Toyota’s models are offered as hybrids, it’s no surprise to see the same from Lexus, although there are some traditional petrol engines, too.

The brand focuses heavily on SUVs – namely the NX and RX – but also has the CT hatchback, ES executive saloon and LS luxury car among its portfolio. More small and large SUVs are expected in the future.

Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.

LEXUS

Fancy something small, lightweight and fast? Then Lotus possibly has the right car for you. In fact ‘simplify then add lightness’ was the mantra of company founder Colin Chapman as far back as 1952.

These days, Lotus sells four models, with the core of the range being the Elise. Then there’s the more hardcore 3-Eleven, the sporty Exige and the Evora – which is pitched as a rival to the Porsche Cayman.

Big changes are afoot, though, because Lotus plans to build its own SUV in the near future, with the hope of broadening the brand’s appeal to families. The planned car will use Volvo underpinnings and will tackle rivals such as the Porsche Macan and Maserati Levante.

LOTUS

Do you look at the models of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz and find them all a bit too… common? Well then, Maserati might be up your street.

This Italian car maker has one SUV in its line-up – the Porsche Cayenne-rivalling Levante – but also the Ghibli and Quattroporte saloons, GranTurismo coupé and GranCabrio drop-top.

Despite its long history, Maserati has been through several periods of inactivity but is now in better health thanks to being part of the large Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group.

In the future, we’re expecting to see Maserati grow its SUV range with new models to sit above and below the Levante, as well as a new range-topping sports car.

MASERATI

These days, Maybach exists as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz and focuses on adding even more luxury to the already opulent S-Class saloon and G-Class SUV.

In the case of the S-Class, for example, Maybach adds more space inside, a V12 petrol engine and a list of standard equipment that’s as long as your arm.

As you might expect, Maybach models cost considerably more than the cars on which they’re based – and at this price point, buyers expect ultimate luxury whether they’re driving or being driven.

We’re expecting Mercedes-Maybach to return to its roots, however, and create its own bespoke model. This car, which is expected to take the form of an electric SUV, would do battle with premium rivals such as the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

MAYBACH

Mazda can be summed up in a single word: bold. Not only do its cars generally look like nothing else on the market, but it’s also invested heavily in innovative engine technology.

So, while many car makers have moved to smaller turbocharged engines, Mazda instead offers larger motors that are still efficient. For example, the entry-level petrol option in the Mazda 3 is a 2.0-litre unit –&nbsp;far larger than what you’ll find in most rivals – but it remains very clean.

Highlights of Mazda’s line-up include the MX-5 sports car, which has won our Convertible of the Year Award multiple times, and the CX-5 large SUV, which was named as our inaugural best car for dog owners.

MAZDA

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

One of the most famous names on British roads, MG is owned by Chinese firm SAIC these days and it's slowly beginning to rebuild its model line-up.

At present, just two cars are offered: the MG 6, which aims to match cars like the Skoda Octavia on space while beating them on price, and the Ford Fiesta-rivalling MG 3. Both cars look good value for money, but resale values have been an issue, as well as cabin quality and the tax bills created by relatively high CO2 emissions.

Things could improve with the arrival of the GS, a Nissan Qashqai-rivalling SUV that will bring a new transmission and new turbocharged petrol engines, as well as a revised diesel motor. It's scheduled to go on sale in 2016 - although it wouldn't be the first MG to have been delayed during the brand's rebirth.

MG has a long heritage in the UK, and while these days it is owned by Chinese firm SAIC, it is slowly but surely beefing up its model range.

Kicking things off is the MG 3, a rival for affordable hatchbacks such as the Dacia Sandero and Skoda Fabia. Then there’s the ZS small SUV, which faces off against the likes of the Renault Captur and Seat Arona. And at the top of the range is the GS, which goes up against Dacia’s Duster and the Ssangyong Tivoli.

While any future MG products are likely to be introduced in China before coming to the UK, design work is still undertaken in the UK. MG’s design studio is based at Longbridge, where the brand made its name with models such as the MGB GT.

MG MOTOR UK

Talk about taking an idea and running with it. The big-selling Mini hatchback is still at the core of the firm’s range, but its cute styling and relatively compact dimensions have been spun off into an estate (the Clubman) and an SUV (the Countryman), as well as a convertible.

Despite its small size, the Mini is a firmly premium product, and the three-door hatchback counts the Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo among its key rivals.

The fact that Mini is owned by BMW brings some big advantages –&nbsp;not least the fact that its infotainment system is based on BMW’s industry-leading iDrive.

MINI

While Mitsubishi sells both the Mirage hatchback and the L200 pick-up truck in the UK, the core of its range is in SUVs – handy, since this is one of the largest markets worldwide.

There’s an SUV to suit everyone, too. If you’re a company car driver, the Outlander PHEV mixes low fuel bills with a spacious interior. The ASX, meanwhile, is attractively priced against key rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai and Seat Ateca. Or, if you prefer mud to asphalt, the Shogun offers genuine off-road ability.

More SUVs are on the way, too, including one that’s rumoured to bring back the ‘Evo’ name made famous in rallying.

MITSUBISHI

Nissan turned up early to the SUV party, with its Qashqai paving the way for the countless models we see today. The Qashqai continues to sell in big numbers in the UK, too, and was also our overall Car of the Year in 2014.

Don’t think Nissan is just about SUVs, though. As well as the Qashqai, the smaller Juke and the larger X-Trail, the Japanese brand has the Micra hatchback, GT-R sports car and Navara pick-up truck.

Nissan was also one of the first big car makers to launch a fully electric car, with its latest Leaf being one of the best on the market.

Despite being based in Japan, Nissan has long committed to building cars in the UK, making several of its best-selling models at a huge factory in Sunderland.

NISSAN

Peugeot has its strongest model line-up for some years, with some of its cars now rated by our testers as being among the very best available.

Highlights focus around the firm’s newest SUVs, the 3008 and 5008. The 5008 was named Large SUV of the Year at the 2018 What Car? Awards, thanks to its appealing blend of space, interior quality and low running costs.

That bodes well for future launches, too, because many of the learnings from these cars will be passed on as new versions of existing cars are launched – something that could take many years, because the Peugeot range is so big, ranging from an entry-level supermini with the 108 to an executive saloon with the 508, up into the SUV range and also vans.

Buyers should evaluate some of the lower-rated cars in the range more carefully, though. Some are now quite old, and are subsequently left behind in terms of quality when compared with the opposition, making them below-average buys, in our estimation.

PEUGEOT

Polestar is a relative newcomer to the new car market, having been born as a motorsport team later bought by Volvo. Today it produces a range of upmarket, fully-electric vehicles and as a brand now sits independently of Volvo.

Its models are given numerical names, and unusually these don’t denote the size of the model, rather they indicate the order in which they’re launched. The now-discontinued Polestar 1 was the firm’s first model and the Polestar 2 is an executive hatchback which is a direct rival for the Tesla Model 3. The Polestar 3 is an electric SUV, Polestar 4 a coupé and Polestar 5 a performance car.

Polestar has a focus on sustainability: in 2020 was the first car maker to release a study to show the carbon footprint of its cars, and in 2021 it started a project to ensure rare-Earth materials such as cobalt – used in many electric car batteries – are sourced responsibly.

POLESTAR

Porsche is best known as the quintessential sports car maker, but its line-up is increasingly diverse, interesting and successful, from its SUV family to the Panamera hatchback and shooting brake and, in time, a planned family of electric vehicles.

Whatever your choice, What Car?’s testers rate the cars highly; Porsche has an unusually high percentage of five and four-star cars.

Without exception, its sports cars are class leaders or among the class leaders, standing out for combining driving thrills with surprising luxury and comfort. Likewise, its SUVs are among the sharpest handling, as well as offering high levels of practicality and quality. Meanwhile, the Panamera is a true rival to the very best large executive saloons.

Porsche also sees itself as an electric car pioneer and has already enjoyed sales success with its plug-in hybrid range. Its first all-electric sports car is imminent, signalling the firm’s intent to stay relevant for many years to come.

PORSCHE

When Proton sold cars in the UK, it highlighted their low-cost, no-nonsense appeal. Sadly for them, neither What Car?’s testers nor many buyers were won over – but that does mean that those now found on the used market can be exceptionally cheap to both buy and run.

Buyers are most likely investigating one of a trio of different-sized hatchbacks (the Satria, Neo or Savvy) or two saloons: the even more oddly named Impian and Wira.

Highlights beyond the low asking prices include the fact that the cars were often generously equipped compared with rivals, in a bid to woo buyers, and sometimes comparatively spacious too.

While used cars for sale now will be out of warranty, Proton offered generous cover on its cars when they were new, suggesting that it was confident they would last. Anecdotal evidence supports this claim, although not enough owners have responded to the annual What Car? Reliability Survey for us to offer a verified view.

PROTON

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

When it comes to making a statement about how successful you are, there is no brand that shouts “I’ve made it!” more emphatically than Rolls-Royce.

If that’s all you want from your car, look no further. The firm has expanded its range in recent years, with the top-of-the-range Phantom saloon being joined by the Cullinan SUV, and other models including the Wraith and Ghost.

Whichever way you go, if you have to ask how much it costs, the chances are you can’t afford it. And, even then, the base price is unlikely to be what you end up spending, such is the list of alluring options on offer.

It’s also a moot point whether the cars themselves – rather than the image they portray – represents the very best way to spend your money. What Car?’s testers rate all of them positively but reckon that – if you’re buying with your head rather than your heart – there are other cars that you should also consider.

ROLLS-ROYCE

Once a bastion of the British car industry, Rover is no longer a going concern anywhere but in the used car market.

For the canny buyer, that can be as good news as it is for the enthusiastic collectors of the firm’s finer models. Some of the cars from its later history remain in reasonable supply, can prove mechanically sound and come at rock-bottom prices.

Most collectable of them all is the Rover Mini, but for those looking to buy some no-nonsense transport for pocket money, the likes of the 25, 75, CityRover and Streetwise can make sound investments, especially if you can find later examples that aren’t yet overwhelmed by having covered giant mileages.

ROVER

Find a good example and Saabs make famously great used cars; they are generally well priced, well equipped and reliable.

The firm was declared bankrupt in 2012, so any used models on the market are now generally old and at the budget end of the spectrum.

Barring collectors’ curiosities, you’ll find the 9-3 and larger 9-5 filling the classifieds, in saloon, estate and convertible variants. Petrol and diesel options are available, and the brand’s long-time link-up with parent firm General Motors means that they were generally well equipped.

Prices vary significantly according to age, mileage and condition, but there are certainly some bargains to be had if you compare what your money will buy you against that of comparable rivals.

SAAB

Today, the resurgent Seat brand is selling better cars than at any time in its history.

In large part, that’s because it is one of the brands owned by the VW Group. Underneath, all of the cars it sells are strongly related to similar models sold by Volkswagen itself, or the likes of Skoda and even Audi. If you are buying a Leon, for example, the hardware will be similar to that of the Golf, Octavia and A3.

But while Seat makes the most of this tie-up to offer everything from city, small and family cars, including estates, through to a full range of SUVs, it also adds in its own slice of character, both with its distinctive styling approach and because its engineers generally tune the cars to deliver sportier handling.

While all of its cars are decent, it is the SUVs that stand out. The Arona and Ateca are among the class leaders and have enjoyed triumphs at the What Car? Awards.

SEAT

One of the greatest success stories in the car world of recent decades is Skoda’s rise to become a hugely credible mainstream maker of good-value, good-sense cars.

Central to that success has been its place within the VW Group, alongside the Volkswagen brand itself, plus the likes of Seat and Audi. That has given it access to exactly the same underpinnings for its cars as the other brands, and it has complemented this by adding its own developments, from the way the cars drive and ride through to the features they have and the pricing.

The result is a range that extends from a city car to a large executive saloon, with family and large seven-seat SUVs too. There’s a wide variety of petrol and diesel engines, all of which are competitive for the class.

As a result, Skoda has a range of cars that is almost entirely class-leading or among the class leaders, and it has enjoyed long-time success at the What Car? Awards as a result.

SKODA

Owned by Mercedes-Benz and with a reputation for making small, clever cars, Smart offers a striking, upmarket alternative to more conventional rivals.

It currently has a two-car line-up, the smaller of the two being the distinctive Fortwo, which, as its name suggests, is an ultra-short two-seater that uses an unusual rear-engined configuration to deliver the sort of turning circle that even London taxis can only dream of. It's a doddle to park in small spaces, too.

Smart's 'family car' is the Forfour, which is little more than a stretched version of the Fortwo, with a second row of seats and a larger boot. It's more of a natural rival for cars like the Hyundai i10 or Kia Picanto.

On paper, both cars come at a considerable price premium when compared with rivals, something it says is justified by its badge appeal and the technology in the cars.&nbsp;However, sales have been slow and there are often keen Target Price deals to be found.

SMART

Ssangyong has made giant strides in recent years, after it was taken over by a new owner and given a injection of investment to help its bid to become a credible car maker.

The result so far is a range of cars dominated by SUVs (as well as a single pick-up), most of which are below the class average standard but all of which have merits, including the amount of space and practicality they offer for the money.

The highlight in the range is currently the Korando, a Nissan Qashqai rival that offers all the space of that car but for a price closer to the much smaller Nissan Juke’s. It is very roomy and has decent engines, but it’s let down a bit by interior quality, high running costs and poor resale values.

SSANGYONG

Once best known for its flame-spitting, rally-bred Imprezas, Subaru’s focus now is on cars that will appeal to a far wider audience, and especially one that values go-anywhere ability and no-nonsense values above all others.

The result is a mixed bag of offerings, none of which rise beyond being average in their class but most of which have facets that make them stand out from their rivals. Core to its range are the Forester and Outback SUVs, while the Levorg is a more conventional estate.

At other extremes, there’s also the BRZ, an entertaining coupé that is let down by its price and resale values, and of course the Impreza, which comes in a variety of forms, including a hot model.

SUBARU

Suzuki is well known as a motorcycle manufacturer, but the car brand has been enjoying decent success in recent years, thanks to a line-up of neat, well-equipped and keenly priced models.

Its expertise focuses on smaller cars, although its high-riding SUV range is also hugely credible, especially the Ignis and Vitara, which are both rated highly by What Car?’s testers and which have enjoyed success at the What Car? Awards as a result.

Well priced, decent to drive and full of useful tech, Suzuki’s cars also generally stand out for delivering good fuel economy. The Ignis, Celerio and Baleno have all stood head and shoulders above the competition during our True MPG testing.

SUZUKI

Tesla is a US brand&nbsp;that revolutionised&nbsp;the car industry, putting <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/best-electric-cars-2022/n17000">electric cars</a> in the limelight&nbsp;for the first time – helped by the personality and profile of boss Elon Musk.

Today, Tesla has a broader&nbsp;line-up than ever, with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-3/saloon/review/n19010">Tesla Model 3</a> saloon&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-y/hatchback/review/n23624">Tesla Model Y</a> SUV the company's cheapest models. For those with bigger budgets or a need for more space, there's the larger <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-s/hatchback/review/n150">Tesla Model S</a> saloon and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-x/hatchback/review/n161">Tesla&nbsp;Model X</a> SUV.&nbsp;A&nbsp;new Roadster, complete with supercar-beating acceleration, is also in the works.

&nbsp;

TESLA

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

Vauxhall has an incredibly diverse range of cars on sale, a few of which stand out above the class average. Add in the fact that it still offers some of the largest Target Price discounts in the market (something it is trying, without huge success, to cut back on), and there are very good reasons to consider buying one of its better models.

However, you need to choose carefully, because it is also a brand in transition. It has a newish parent company – the same one that owns Citroën, DS and Peugeot. And while Vauxhall’s newer models tend to be competitive, some of the others feel dated; a quick check of our star ratings will reveal which is which.

Still, given the recent success of sister brands Citroën and especially Peugeot, each new launch should make its range more appealing to buyers.

VAUXHALL

The VW Group famously spends more money on research and development than any rival – and as a result, perhaps it should be no surprise that our testers rate its cars so consistently highly.

The fact that many of those cars use the same underpinnings also helps, because it means that if they get it right once, they have the foundations to keep on getting it right.

However, the Volkswagen brand faces plenty of tough competition, often from within, because the rapidly rising Seat and Skoda brands that are also part of the group have access to the same technology.

VOLKSWAGEN

Volvo is now a true rival to the likes of Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, offering an alternative take on premium executive cars to a rapidly growing fanbase.

After a string of strong launches – notably with the Mk2 XC90 and XC60 SUVs – it struck gold in early 2018 when it launched its smallest SUV, the XC40. When our testers compared the car with its rivals, they concluded that it was the best launch of the previous 12 months, earning it our coveted overall Car of the Year Award.

The good news is that, like many car makers, Volvo now uses the same structure underneath most of its cars – so if they get it right on one model, it usually bodes well for the rest. That’s the case here, with Volvo’s subsequent saloon and estate launches complementing the SUVs and making for a generally extremely appealing line-up.

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