Kia EV6

Kia EV6 GT

Kia Sorento

Kia Sportage

Kia Niro EV

Kia Niro 

Kia Rio

2023-what-car-car-of-the-year-awards-the-contenders-continued

Estate

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.

City-Car

Citroën is probably most famous for its quirky design, and the latest cars from the brand live up to this tradition, featuring paintwork-protecting ‘Airbumps’ and eschewing the sporty looks favoured by most rivals.

Indeed, Citroën 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 small hatchbacks (such as the C1 and C3) to big, family-friendly seven-seaters (the Spacetourer and Grand C4 Spacetourer).

The C3 Aircross SUV is another of its popular models, while a larger C5 Aircross is planned.

CITROEN

Electric vehicles don’t get much smaller than the Ami, and that makes it ideal for city driving. Just bear in mind that its 28mph top speed limits its usability outside of urban areas.

List price from £7695

Target Price from £7695

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/ami/city-car/review/n23515">Read our full Citroën Ami&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

SMALL ELECTRIC CAR: Citroën Ami

Hatchback

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.

There's just one car in the line-up at the moment: the Cupra Ateca SUV. However, Cupra versions of the Ibiza and Leon hatchbacks are also planned, as is a bespoke model which –&nbsp;initially, at least –&nbsp;won't be offered in regular Seat from.

Don't think that the first Cupra is just an Ateca with a bit more power and a sporty bodykit, either. Its&nbsp;engine, gearbox and four-wheel drive system are actually very similar to what you'll find in Volkswagen's flagship Golf R hot hatch, and the car can hit 62mph in just 5.4sec.

CUPRA

BORN

The Cupra Born took home our Small Electric Car trophy last year. As before, it takes all the good bits from the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/id3/hatchback/review/n21832">Volkswagen ID 3</a>, but adds a sharper driving experience, a slightly smarter interior and an upgraded infotainment system.&nbsp;

List price from £36,475

Target Price from £36,475

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/cupra/born/hatchback/review/n23703">Read our full Cupra Born review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/cupra/born/hatchback/deals?id=n23703">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Cupra Born &gt;&gt;</a>

Cupra Born

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

If you’re worried about electric cars being too expensive, then you haven’t encountered the MG4 yet. It’s staggering value for money – particularly the entry-level SE version.

List price from £25,995

Target Price from £25,995

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/mg4/hatchback/review/n24916">Read our full MG4 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mg-motor-uk/mg4/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on an MG4 &gt;&gt;</a>

Hatchbacks, SUVs, fast cars, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of them all is the design, with its cars now having a distinctive look that has won the firm a legion of fans for its flair and charm.

To drive and to own, the line-up is typically decent rather than outstanding. Best of the cars when they are rated against rivals are the Kadjar SUV, the fast RS models and the electric Zoe.

With new and used pricing also keen – and Target Price discounts through our New Car Buying marketplace usually more generous than most – there is the opportunity to negotiate an appealing price.

RENAULT

MEGANE E-TECH

The Renault Megane E-Tech offers a comfortable ride, fantastic cruising manners and a competitive range. In fact, we reckon it’s currently Renault's best car.

List price from £36,995

Target Price from £36,995

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/megane-e-tech/hatchback/review/n24175">Read our full Renault Megane E-Tech review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/renault/megane-e-tech/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Renault Megane E-Tech &gt;&gt;</a>

Renault Megane E-Tech

Saloon

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

IONIQ 6

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has its sight firmly set on the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-3/saloon/review/n19010">Tesla Model 3</a>, combining sleek looks with a comfortable interior and next-generation battery technology.

List price from £46,745

Target Price from £46,745

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/2023-hyundai-ioniq-6-review-price-specs-and-release-date/n24863">Read our full Hyundai Ioniq 6 review &gt;&gt;</a>

LARGE ELECTRIC CAR: Hyundai Ioniq 6

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

The Mercedes EQE stands out for its enormous 384-mile official range, comfortable ride and tech-filled interior.&nbsp;

List price from £74,345

Target Price from £74,345

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/eqe/saloon/review/n25101">Read our full Mercedes EQE review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz/eqe/saloon/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Mercedes EQE &gt;&gt;</a>

Mercedes EQE

The MG5 is a refreshingly conventional electric car, and it now wears a new look both inside and out. As before, though, it’s great value and comes loaded with kit.

List price from £30,995

Target Price from £30,995

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/mg5/hatchback/review/n22011">Read our full MG5&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

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

MODEL 3

Our defending champion in the large electric car class, the Tesla Model 3 is good to drive, practical and very quick – even in entry-level RWD guise. The infotainment system is also packed with features and is very intuitive.

List price from £48,490

Target Price from £48,490

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-3/saloon/review/n19010">Read our full Tesla Model 3&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/tesla/model-3/saloon/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Tesla Model 3 &gt;&gt;</a>

Tesla Model 3

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

ID.BUZZ

The Volkswagen ID Buzz has been well worth the wait; it’s brilliant to drive, hugely practical and very refined. Factor in a decent range and strong resale values, and it’s a very alluring package.

List price from £57,115

Target Price from £57,115

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/idbuzz/mpv/review/n24946">Read our full Volkswagen ID Buzz&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volkswagen/idbuzz/mpv/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volkswagen ID Buzz &gt;&gt;</a>

Volkswagen ID Buzz

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 i8 plug-in hybrid sports car, which costs more than £100,000.

BMW was also quick to capitalise on the rise of the SUV and now has six in its range: the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6.

All of this makes it one of the big three German prestige brands, along with Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

3 SERIES

If you enjoy driving, then there are few estate cars that can top the BMW 3 Series Touring. It’s fantastic to drive thanks to its agile handling and accurate steering, and it’s also very smart inside.

List price from £41,000

Target Price from £39,815

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/estate/review/n108">Read our full BMW 3 Series Touring&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/3-series/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW 3 Series Touring &gt;&gt;</a>

ESTATE CAR: BMW 3 Series Touring

C5 X

The Citroën C5 X mixes the silhouette of an estate car with the ride height of an SUV. While unconventional, the combination works well: it's very spacious and comfortable.

List price from £27,900

Target Price from £25,953

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/c5-x/estate/review/n24291">Read our full Citroën C5 X&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/citroen/c5-x/estate/deals?id=n24291">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Citroën C5 X &gt;&gt;</a>

Citroën C5 X

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

FOCUS

In estate from, the sharp handling of the Focus is complemented by generous passenger space and a huge boot.

List price from £28,220

Target Price from £26,753

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/focus/estate/review/n8">Read our full Ford Focus Estate&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/ford/focus/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Ford Focus Estate &gt;&gt;</a>

Ford Focus Estate

C CLASS

The new Mercedes C-Class might not be the biggest of estate cars, but it’s very versatile and comes with an impressive range of engines and cutting-edge technology.

List price from £46,155

Target Price from £45,037

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/c-class/estate/review/n17346">Read our full Mercedes C-Class Estate&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz/c-class/estate/deals?id=n17346">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Mercedes C-Class Estate &gt;&gt;</a>

Mercedes C-Class Estate

If you’re looking for an electric estate car you aren’t exactly spoilt for choice. So, it’s lucky that the MG5 is as good as it is, with a long range, spacious interior and high level of standard kit.

List price from £30,995

Target Price from £30,995

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mg-motor-uk/mg5/hatchback/review/n22011">Read our full MG5 review &gt;&gt;</a>

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

The Peugeot 308 SW is another compelling option, mixing a big boot, smart interior and head-turning looks. It’s also very well equipped.

List price from £28,330

Target Price from £26,758

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/308/estate/review/n17314">Read our full Peugeot 308 SW&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/peugeot/308/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Peugeot 308 SW &gt;&gt;</a>

Peugeot 308 SW

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

SUPERB

Last year’s winner in this category, the Skoda Superb Estate is hugely practical, well-equipped, nicely made and very good value. Can it hold on to its title?

List price from £31,505

Target Price from £29,898

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/superb/estate/review/n17344">Read our full Skoda Superb Estate review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/skoda/superb/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Skoda Superb Estate &gt;&gt;</a>

Skoda Superb Estate

Coupe

2 SERIES

The BMW 2 Series ticks all of the key coupé boxes, including a great range of engines, sharp handling and a smart interior.

List price from £36,710

Target Price from £35,821

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/2-series/coupe/review/n125">Read our full BMW 2 Series&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/2-series/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW 2 Series &gt;&gt;</a>

COUPÉ: BMW 2 Series Coupé

4 SERIES

Our 2022 Coupé of the Year, the BMW 4 Series is a lot more fun to drive than its direct rivals, and also surprisingly spacious in the back.

List price from £42,745

Target Price from £40,081

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/4-series/coupe/review/n62">Read our full BMW 4 Series&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/4-series/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW 4 Series &gt;&gt;</a>

BMW 4 Series Coupé

BMW ALPINA

Alpina has taken many of the things that make the regular 4 Series Gran Coupé so appealing and made them feel more special. Is it worth the premium that you pay?

List price from £65,700

Target Price from £65,700

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw-alpina/4-series/hatchback/review/n182">Read our full Alpina B4 Gran Coupé&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw-alpina/4-series/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on an Alpina B4 Gran Coupé &gt;&gt;</a>

Alpina B4 Gran Coupé

ENYAQ COUPE

A more rakishly styled version of the regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/enyaq/estate/review/n22909">Enyaq iV</a>, the Coupé is also comfortable, well made and practical.

List price from £54,370

Target Price from £54,370

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/enyaq-coupe/coupe/review/n24254">Read our full Skoda Enyaq iV&nbsp;Coupé&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé

ID.5

Think coupés aren’t very practical? Well, the Volkswagen ID 5 proves that’s not always the case, plus it’s very well equipped and safe.

List price from £50,625

Target Price from £50,126

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/id5/coupe/review/n24518">Read our full Volkswagen ID 5 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volkswagen/id5/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volkswagen ID 5 &gt;&gt;</a>

Volkswagen ID 5

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.

VOLVO

The Volvo C40 is a sleeker, coupé version of the electric XC40 Recharge, meaning that it’s just as refined and good to drive as that car. However, thanks to its more aerodynamic shape it can go slightly farther between charges.

List price from £47,100

Target Price from £47,100

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/c40/estate/review/n23649">Read our full Volvo C40 Recharge review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volvo/c40/estate/deals?id=n23649">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volvo C40 Recharge &gt;&gt;</a>

Volvo C40 Recharge

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 the fact that it’s available with Bentley’s outrageous W12 engine.

Other Bentleys you can buy today include the Flying Spur and Mulsanne saloons and the Continental GT coupé.

BENTLEY

CONTINENTAL GT

Convertibles don’t get much more luxurious than the Bentley Continental GT Convertible. Our preferred version has the 4.0-litre V8 that sounds great and pulls very strongly. In fact, it can move the GT Convertible from 0-60mph in just 4.0sec.

List price from £196,420

Target Price from £196,420

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bentley/continental-gt/sports/review/n24424">Read our full Bentley Continental GT Convertible&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

CONVERTIBLE: Bentley Continental GT Convertible

Sports

Convertibles can often be poor to drive, but this isn’t the case with the BMW 4 Series Convertible. Thanks to its stiffened structure, it handles superbly and rides very well, especially with the M Sport Pro Pack fitted. It’s the car to beat in this category.

List price from £48,100

Target Price from £43,687

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/4-series/sports/review/n173">Read our full BMW 4 Series Convertible&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/4-series/sports/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW 4 Series Convertible &gt;&gt;</a>

BMW 4 Series Convertible

SL CLASS

The latest Mercedes SL gets much sharper looks than its predecessor, plus the addition of two small rear seats that make it much more practical than before. Behind the wheel it’s also much more engaging than its predecessor, while still offering good levels of comfort.

List price from £108,030

Target Price from £108,030

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/sl-class/sports/review/n17206">Read our full Mercedes-AMG SL&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz/sl-class/sports/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Mercedes-AMG SL &gt;&gt;</a>

Mercedes-AMG SL

T-ROC

Convertible SUVs are few and far between, but the Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet is one of them. As such, it offers a lofty driving position, a comfortable ride and more rear seat space than rivals.

List price from £31,820

Target Price from £30,893

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/t-roc/sports/review/n21188">Read our full Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volkswagen/t-roc/sports/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet &gt;&gt;</a>

Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet

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

A110

The Alpine A110&nbsp;is an ultra-lightweight sports car that, despite its relatively small engine, offers incredible performance. At the same time, it returns surprisingly good fuel economy and feels incredibly nimble.

List price from £49,035

Target Price from £49,035

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/alpine/a110/coupe/review/n185">Read our full Alpine A110 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/alpine/a110/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on an Alpine A110 &gt;&gt;</a>

SPORTS CAR: Alpine A110

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 have all won their classes at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in recent years, while the TT coupé is the most decorated car in the history of the ceremony.

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

The Audi R8 is the last of a dying breed with its monstrous 5.2-litre V10. With such an engine, not only does it sound brilliant, but it’s also rampantly quick.

List price from £134,805

Target Price from £133,488

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/r8/coupe/review/n124">Read our full Audi R8 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi/r8/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on an Audi R8 &gt;&gt;</a>

Audi R8

Picture a Chevrolet and chances are something huge and all-American springs to mind. However, in reality, the cars sold on these shores were all a sensible size, aimed at budget-conscious buyers.

The early cars, for example, started life as Daewoos but were rebranded after Chevrolet’s owner, General Motors, bought the ailing South Korean firm’s car division. Meanwhile, later models were based on Vauxhalls.

Chevrolet withdrew from Europe in 2015 after struggling to make an impact, but used examples do at least have the virtue of being incredibly cheap.

CHEVROLET

CORVETTE

With its smart interior, effortless performance and competitive list price, the Chevrolet Corvette finally feels like it can take on the best from Europe. And, for the first time ever, it’s available in right-hand drive.

List price from £77,320

Target Price from £77,320

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/chevrolet/corvette/sports/review/n23612">Read our full Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/chevrolet/corvette/sports/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Chevrolet Corvette &gt;&gt;</a>

Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray

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

EMIRA

The Lotus Emira impresses with its striking looks, fine handling and luxurious interior. Is Lotus finally back in the big time?

List price from £79,515

Target Price from £79,515

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lotus/emira/coupe/review/n25278">Read our full Lotus Emira review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/lotus/emira/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Lotus Emira &gt;&gt;</a>

Lotus Emira

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

The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS has a wonderful 394bhp six-cylinder engine that brilliantly matches the car’s driving dynamics. It’s our defending champion.

List price from £70,770

Target Price from £70,770

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/porsche/cayman/coupe/review/n17361">Read our full Porsche 718 Cayman&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/porsche/cayman/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Porsche 718 Cayman &gt;&gt;</a>

Porsche 718 Cayman GTS

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

GR86

The sequel to the GT86, the Toyota GR86 consists of a very similar recipe with its competitive pricing, nimble handling and no-nonsense nature. However, the GR86 is a much better all-round car, thanks in part to a more powerful 2.4-litre engine.

List price from £29,995

Target Price from £29,995

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/gr86/coupe/review/n24631">Read our full Toyota GR86 review &gt;&gt;</a>

Toyota GR86

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 DB11 grand tourer, for example, won its price point at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards, thanks to its beautifully crafted interior and the fact that it’s both fun in the corners and a convincing long-distance cruiser. Meanwhile, the latest Vantage is Aston Martin’s best sports car to date.

The modern Aston Martin isn’t afraid to move with the times, either, with a luxury SUV part of its future model plans.

ASTON MARTIN

The DBX 707 is the most powerful version of Aston Martin’s sports SUV, and features a 4.0-litre V8 that produces a mighty 697bhp. This means it’s startlingly quick in a straight line, while a sportier suspension set-up means it’s extraordinarily good in the corners, too.&nbsp;

List price from £192,420

Target Price from £192,420

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/aston-martin/dbx/estate/review/n21787">Read our full Aston Martin DBX review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/aston-martin/dbx/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on an Aston Martin DBX &gt;&gt;</a>

SPORTS SUV: Aston Martin DBX 707

PUMA

The Ford Puma ST is our defending champion in this class, and in our book it’s everything a fast Ford should be: great fun and fantastic value. Does it have what it takes to beat this year's contenders?

List price from £31,045

Target Price from £29,355

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/puma/hatchback/review/n22293">Read our full Ford Puma ST review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/ford/puma/hatchback/deals?trim=st">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Ford Puma ST &gt;&gt;</a>

Ford Puma ST

CAYENNE

The Turbo GT is the quickest version of the Porsche Cayenne Coupé, and also the most expensive. Mind you, the extensive suspension, engine and software upgrades help justify the price.

List price from £152,920

Target Price from £152,920

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/porsche/cayenne/coupe/review/n19924">Read our full Porsche Cayenne Coupé&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/porsche/cayenne/coupe/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Porsche Cayenne Coupé &gt;&gt;</a>

Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

MACAN

The Porsche Macan is equally at home on the motorway as it is on a twisty back road. It’s brilliant to drive everyday, and the high-quality interior and comfortable driving position only add to its appeal.

List price from £57,870

Target Price from £57,870

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/porsche/macan/4x4/review/n52">Read our full Porsche Macan review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/porsche/macan/4x4/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Porsche Macan &gt;&gt;</a>

Porsche Macan T

The BMW M240i is a very appealing performance car, thanks in part to the 368bhp 3.0-litre straight-six engine that sits under the bonnet.

List price from £48,430

Target Price from £47,266

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/2-series/coupe/review/n17235">Read our full BMW M240i&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/2-series/coupe/deals?trim=m240i">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW M240i &gt;&gt;</a>

PERFORMANCE CAR: BMW M240i

The BMW M4 CSL offers the same staggering engine as the regular M4, yet is 100kg lighter and more powerful. The result is an incredibly capable road car.

List price from £128,255

Target Price from £128,255

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/2022-bmw-m4-csl-review-price-specs-and-release-date/n24984">Read our full BMW M4 CSL review &gt;&gt;</a>

BMW M4 CSL

BMW’s M4 Convertible successfully delivers the same driving thrills as the M4 Coupé, but with the added benefit of being closer to the elements – and the sound of the 503bhp 3.0-litre engine.

List price from £87,540

Target Price from £87,540

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/2022-bmw-m4-competition-convertible-review-price-specs-and-release-date/n24417">Read our full BMW M4 Convertible&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

BMW M4 Convertible

TAYCAN

Our defending champion, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo offers the ultimate electric vehicle driving experience, but still has a big boot and roomy rear seats.

List price from £76,555

Target Price from £76,555

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/porsche/taycan/estate/review/n22960">Read our full Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/porsche/taycan/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo &gt;&gt;</a>

Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

BMW’s iX3 is one of the more conventional looking electric SUVs, but also one of the best. It’s good to drive and practical, and has a better range than many of its closest rivals.

List price from £67,165

Target Price from £65,343

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/ix3/4x4/review/n22236">Read our full BMW iX3 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw/ix3/4x4/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a BMW iX3 &gt;&gt;</a>

ELECTRIC SUV: BMW iX3

IONIQ 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 combines sci-fi looks with a good range, peaceful cruising manners and a spacious, practical interior. It’s a fine electric car.

List price from £43,150

Target Price from £43,150

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/ioniq-5/hatchback/review/n22944">Read our full Hyundai Ioniq 5&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/hyundai/ioniq-5/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Hyundai Ioniq 5 &gt;&gt;</a>

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The other contenders on this list have a lot to live up to, because they’re up against the Kia EV6 – our 2022 Car of the Year. It’s one of the best all-round electric cars you can buy with its long range, quick charging speeds and a spacious interior. It’s a great car to drive, too.

List price from £45,245

Target Price from £45,245

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/ev6/estate/review/n23462">Read our full Kia EV6 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/kia/ev6/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Kia EV6 &gt;&gt;</a>

NIRO

The previous generation Kia Niro EV (then called the e-Niro) was our 2019 Car of the Year, but can this new version live up to that history? Well, with its practical interior, strong performance and comfortable ride, it’s certainly a strong contender.

List price from £36,795

Target price from £36,254

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/niro/estate/review/n24582">Read our full Kia Niro EV&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/kia/niro/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Kia Niro EV &gt;&gt;</a>

GENESIS

GV60

The GV60 is the best car yet from Genesis. You get a wonderful, spacious interior with a brilliant infotainment system, plus it’s very refined and has a long range in RWD form.

List price from £53,905

Target Price from £53,905

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/genesis/gv60/estate/review/n24373">Read our full Genesis GV60 review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/genesis/gv60/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Genesis GV60 &gt;&gt;</a>

Genesis GV60

Electrified GV70

The GV70 Electrified does exactly what it says on the tin, because it’s the electric version of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/genesis/gv70/estate/review/n23431">GV70</a>. It’s blisteringly quick and good to drive, plus being electric it fixes some of the refinement issues of the combustion-powered car.

List price from £64,405

Target Price from £64,405

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/genesis/electrified-gv70/4x4/review/n25030">Read our full Genesis GV70 Electrified&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

Genesis GV70 Electrified

You might choose an EQB simply because it’s the only new seven-seat electric SUV you can, but it’s also well priced and refined.&nbsp;

List price from £55,310

Target Price from £55,310

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/eqb/estate/review/n24403">Read our full Mercedes EQB review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz/eqb/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Mercedes EQB &gt;&gt;</a>

Mercedes EQB

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

ARIYA

The Ariya is Nissan’s second electric car and first electric SUV. The interior is spacious and the quality is impressive, plus it’s very easy to drive.

List price from £46,145

Target Price from £44,993

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/ariya/hatchback/review/n24303">Read our full Nissan Ariya review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/nissan/ariya/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Nissan Ariya &gt;&gt;</a>

Nissan Ariya

The Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé takes a lot of the elements we like about the regular <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/enyaq/estate/review/n22909">Skoda Enyaq</a>, but wraps them in a coupé body. It’s comfortable and good to drive, and despite the sloping roofline, it has a very spacious interior.

List price from £54,370

Target Price from £54,370

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/enyaq-coupe/coupe/review/n24254">Read our full Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé review &gt;&gt;</a>

BZ4X

The bZ4X is a fine all-rounder that’s good to drive, roomy in the back and reasonably priced. It’s surprisingly good off-road, too.

List price from £46,110

Target Price from £46,100

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/bz4x/hatchback/review/n24187">Read our full Toyota bZ4X review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/toyota/bz4x/hatchback/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Toyota bZ4X &gt;&gt;</a>

Toyota bZ4X

Volvo’s C40 is a stylish coupé electric SUV that stacks up very well against its competitors, especially in terms of performance and standard equipment.

List price from £47,100

Target Price from £47,100

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/c40/estate/review/n23649">Read our full Volvo C40 Recharge&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volvo/c40/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volvo C40 Recharge &gt;&gt;</a>

XC40 Recharge Pure Electric

This is an electric version of one of our favourite SUVs, which means it’s safe, practical and smart inside.

List price from £45,750

Target Price from £45,250

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc40/estate/review/n22063">Read our full Volvo XC40 Recharge&nbsp;review &gt;&gt;</a>

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volvo/xc40/estate/deals">Find a great cash or PCP finance deal on a Volvo XC40 Recharge &gt;&gt;</a>

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

<h2><a href="https://www.whatcar.com/awards/new-car-awards">Read more: see the winners of our Car of the Year Awards 2022 &gt;&gt;</a></h2>

Volvo XC40 Recharge (Single Motor)

2023 What Car? Car of the Year Awards: The contenders continued

In January, we'll reveal the best new cars in every category, plus our overall Car of the Year. These are the models in contention

2023 What Car? Car of the Year Awards: The contenders continued        

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 and has performed very well in the annual What Car? Reliability Survey, while the closely related Stelvio competes in the booming SUV class.

Smaller and larger SUVs are planned, as is a two-door coupé version of the Giulia that will take on the Audi A5, BMW 4 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé.

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

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 one of Britain’s cheapest new cars, 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 seven-seat Jogger, higher-riding Sandero Stepway, Logan estate and 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 platforms and technology from its owner, Renault, to minimise development costs.

DACIA

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

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

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.

2023 What Car? Car of the Year Awards: The contenders continued

In January, we'll reveal the best new cars in every category, plus our overall Car of the Year. These are the models in contention...

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