What Car? Q&A - What car for my son?

Q: I am buying a car for my 17-year-old son for Christmas, and have spent a lot of time considering what would be suitable. I have narrowed my decision to the Peugeot 307, Renault Megane and Vauxhall Astra. I want a sturdy car but not too big, and my son would prefer a three-door model. Which one would you recommend?
Marcella Robertson

A: From the selection on offer, we would opt for the Vauxhall Astra. For a younger driver, the 1.4 16v Expression is probably the best bet, but it is only available as a five-door. It has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and is classified as insurance group four. After three years, it should retain 45% of its value and will cost roughly £600 to service over the same time. The list price for the Astra 1.4 16v Expression is £10,995, but dealers prepared to do a deal may drop to the What Car? Target Price of £10,070.