car reviews

Latest CR-V remains a sensible buy in the sector, but there are more exciting options out there

Clever engines and an upmarket cabin make the Mazda 3 a superb family hatch contender

Fresh design inside and out, with quality execution, lots of tech and more competent dynamics

VW’s coupe-crossover competitor will win some fans for its sportier looks, but otherwise it’s easily forgettable

The Euro-spec fifth-gen Sportage strikes a neat balance between practicality and style. Like the looks? You'll be a fan

A supremely desirable, futuristic supermini with a powertrain for everyone. Just beware the firm ride

The Honda Civic brings some welcome colour to a sensible part of the market. Not perfect, but very interesting

Neither revolutionary in style nor the most exciting to drive, but a very mature car

Lexus presents a hybrid alternative to the standard premium-crossover fare

BMW may have made the switch to front-wheel drive, but the 1 Series doesn’t suffer (too much) because of it

Buy it for the looks and lifestyle, then put up with the flaws. Likeable, but irrational

The Arona is perfectly ok, but Seat found it too easy to leap on the small-crossover bandwagon. They just faxed it in. Get a Leon instead

Honda's new HR-V is a decent all-round package with some thoughtful touches

Y’know the latest Clio, yeah? Like that. But bigger. Roomier. And more expensive

Another worthy crossover. Comfy, roomy, but not especially interesting

Not the most compelling hatch, but as a car for real family life, it could be brilliant

Jaguar’s little crossover is broadly competitive but loses out overall to Volvo's XC40

Skoda might just have turned things on its head. You’d now recommend an Octavia over the Golf or Leon

Does most of the everyday stuff nicely while looking like a bulldog wearing a crash helmet

In standard form, the i30 is as comfy and effortless to own as small hatchbacks get, if not very entertaining to drive. Mild-hybrid tech is smoothly integrated

Citroen's hatch isn't like all the rest and plays big on comfort. Plus, it's not a crossover