What Car?'s best comparison tests

* Key models compared in detail * Best-sellers from VW, Ford, Vauxhall and BMW * Compare between makes, and vehicle sizes...

What Car?'s best comparison tests

The differences between many of the new cars on the market have never been smaller, not only when you compare rivals produced by different manufacturers, but also when you look within the line-ups of the makers themselves.

If you're in the market for a small car, for example, do you compare a VW Polo with a Ford Fiesta, decide to go for the Ford, and then wonder when you reach the dealership if an entry-level Focus would be a better buy?

Fortunately, we've pieced together useful comparisons between many of the most popular models on sale. Here are a few of the most popular comparisons.

VW Polo vs Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Corsa

The Ford FiestaVauxhall Corsa and VW Polo are giants among superminis. Frequently among the best-selling cars in Britain, they are a popular choice for everyone from small families to learner drivers.

Choosing between these cars has become harder as their ranges have diversified. So, we've picked out the best models and options to go for.

BMW 3 Series GT vs rivals

BMW's new 3 Series Gran Turismo promises more space and versatility than a regular 3 Series, along with more dramatic styling. To find out if this makes the 3 GT a better all-rounder than an estate, we're testing it against the 3 Series Touring – and to establish if it can win on the style front, we'll compare it with an Audi A5 Sportback. Read on to find out the verdict.

VW Polo vs VW Golf

The Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo are two of the best-selling cars in Britain. These days, though, which should you choose? If you're in the market for a VW family car, do you really need the larger Golf or is its baby brother an effective (and cheaper) solution? Here's all you need to know.

Range Rover vs Range Rover Sport

The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are two of the most desirable SUVs on sale, but with these all-new models, the differences between the two are smaller than ever, making it tricky to decide which would better suit your purposes. If you’re in this enviable position, read on to find out the pros and cons of these aristocratic off-roaders.

Vauxhall Adam vs Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa has been a consistent best-seller in the UK since it went on sale back in 2006. However, with one eye on the success of the Mini, Vauxhall introduced another small car – the Adam – in 2012. Here, space and practicality come second to style and customisation, but the Adam is competitively priced, well equipped and classy inside.

So which Vauxhall is the better buy? We've compared them in the areas that matter.

Skoda Octavia vs Skoda Superb

The Skoda Octavia and Skoda Superb are two of the roomiest family cars you can buy. The Octavia is cheaper than a Volkswagen Golf and about the same size as a Ford Mondeo, while the Superb comes in at Mondeo prices and offers limo-like accommodation.

So, which is the better buy? If you’re undecided, here’s everything you need to know to choose between the two.

VW Golf vs Ford Focus vs Vauxhall Astra

The Volkswagen GolfFord Focus and Vauxhall Astra have been Britain's top family cars for generations. All offer a compact size that feels at home on UK roads, but with enough practicality and dynamic ability to cope with everyday life and offer at least some entertainment on the right roads. Which is best, though? Read on to find out.