Estate

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

Hatchback

The Lexus CT is a hybrid hatchback that offers low emissions, but its ride and refinement leave a lot to be desired.

Used Lexus CT 2011-2021

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

Family

On paper, the idea of a small, premium hatchback like the Lexus CT, built by a reliable brand&nbsp;and harbouring a petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain underneath its compact bodyshell, seems like a very good idea indeed.

To combine modern technology with the reliability and luxury the Japanese firm is known for, and to be able to sidestep the fraught issue of diesel engines, seems very desirable in these uncertain times. But to succeed at this premium price level, a car must still be able to perform like a BMW, have the refinement of an Audi and be at least as desirable as either.

Alas, the CT, which shares much of its hybrid technology with the iconic Toyota Prius, drives rather poorly, with lacklustre performance from its 1.8-litre engine and electric motor which, combined with a CVT automatic gearbox, make the car noticeably unrefined when accelerating. True, it can cruise around town on electric power alone, but not for long, and when the engine joins in, things begin to get too noisy. Add in quite a lot of road noise and a choppy ride that on some of the trims with larger wheels is actually downright uncomfortable, and suddenly the CT seems to lose a lot of its on-paper charm.

Things aren’t much better, perhaps surprisingly, inside the car. It feels well-built and some of the materials look and feel of a high quality, but rivals from Audi and BMW still have it beaten for overall class and finish. There’s enough room up front, but rear passengers will be cramped, especially if they’re tall, and while the boot is a good size, it’s not as practical and as large as those of some rivals.

The CT is an expensive car, too, even when bought used, and although its claimed official average fuel consumption is a healthy 68.9mpg, our experience suggests that you won’t get anywhere near that figure in real-world use.

So, the CT, however well priced a good used example may be, appears to offer some of the refinements of an upmarket compact hatchback but in everyday use is compromised by its drivetrain and unable to match its rivals' better all-round abilities.

Its trump card is its outstanding reliability record, which means a used example should still be pretty dependable, and that peace of mind will be worth a great deal to a great many potential owners.

CT Hatchback

Saloon

Very generous standard equipment and hybrid power help the Lexus GS stand out, but it isn’t the best luxury car to drive

Used Lexus GS 2012-2018

<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

Standing out in the established luxury car class is hard. The Lexus GS has to compete with a number of premium rivals, such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/5-series/saloon/used-review/n991">BMW 5 Series</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a6/saloon/used-review/n894">Audi A6</a> and even the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/passat/saloon/used-review/n810">Volkswagen Passat</a>. With such a strong list of alternatives, it has to have a unique selling point in order for it to garner some attention. Fortunately, it does.

One of the major reasons you’d choose the GS over the competition is that it's available with a hybrid powertrain. This is good news for those who do most of their driving in congested town or city traffic, since the car can run for a limited time on electric power only, making it a very quiet way to get around.

The GS 300h is probably best for this, because it promises diesel-like economy. For those who need more power, there's also another hybrid that features a 292bhp 3.5-litre V6 (the GS 450h), as well as 220bhp 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the GS 250. There's also a range-topping 5.0-litre V8 petrol called the GS F. Unfortunately for some, there are no diesel engines available.

The entry-level trim equips the GS with a wealth of Lexus safety systems, 10-way adjustable front seats, a leather upholstery and a 12.3in screen infotainment system complete with sat nav, Bluetooth and DAB radio. Upgrade to the Luxury trim and the GS gets 18in alloy wheels and a rear-view camera, while the F-Sport trim adds adaptive suspension, heated and ventilated front sports seats and LED headlights. The range-topping Premier models get a touch more luxury, with premium leather and wood used on the interior, a head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, while the red hot GS F gets numerous sporting details and aerodynamic parts fitted, and a quad-exhaust system.

Hybrid GS models use a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-type-of-automatic-gearbox-should-i-buy/n17022">CVT gearbox</a>. This makes the driving experience a little odd, at least to begin with. When you put your foot down, instead of the 'box kicking down to a lower gear (because there aren't any), it increases the engine revs to the top of the power band to give the best acceleration. However, this should rarely happen at slower speeds, and you'll be treated to a very peaceful drive.

The calm and unflustered way&nbsp;the GS drives impresses. The ride is supple and composed, although F Sport models fidget a little. Body control is generally very good, although predictably cornering is improved by selecting the sportiest of modes in cars with adaptive suspension. The same can be said of the steering – nicely weighted, if a touch on the light side. Selecting 'Sport' adds 10 per cent more weight.

The GS F is a totally different animal, with a 5.0-litre V8 that springs into life above 3800rpm and revs all the way to 7300rpm, its growling bellow getting louder and more manic as it goes. It reaches 62mph in less than five seconds. With lots of performance-focused dynamic upgrades, it has a much firmer ride but changes direction with real athleticism. The suspension comes with switchable dampers that get firmer still in the sportier drive modes. While the ride gets harder, it’s never harsh and copes with bucking B roads surprisingly well. Its downfall is the indecisive eight-speed automatic gearbox, though, which fails to select the gear you want, when you want it, making it hard to get the best from the characterful engine.

The GS's interior is something special, featuring plenty of soft-touch plastics, real metal and supple leather.&nbsp;However, the infotainment system isn’t the easiest to use, because it's controlled by a trackpad that’s far too sensitive, meaning you often miss your intended icon, particularly when you're driving.

The hybrid system also robs the boot of space, and you can't get split-folding rear seats, whereas you can in most rival cars. This inflexibility hampers practicality greatly if you need to carry long items, such as a bicycle. Space in the rear seats isn’t that great, either, and the car's high window line can make the interior feel cramped. Room up front is better, and there's a wide range of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel – often electrically.

<a href="http://www.whatcar.com/classifieds/used-cars/lexus/gs">Find a used Lexus GS in the What Car? Classifieds here</a>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

It's the most refined car in its class

Used Lexus GS Saloon 2005 - 2012

It's an accomplished and comfortable cruiser, wafted along by a 3.0 V6 or 4.3 V8 linked to a six-speed auto gearbox. It feels serene, albeit with so little feedback you feel detached.

There's no wind noise up to the national speed limit, but you will hear a bit too much road noise. All the while, the gearchanges are fantastically smooth and the engines do little more than whisper, even when they're working hard.

Green-minded drivers may be attracted to the the petrol-electric hybrid GS450h, but with 35.8mpg overall, it's unlikely to find fans among environmentalists.

Inside, the cabin is roomy, but the shape of the driver's seat won't suit everyone and the siting of a few minor controls can prove confusing - not least because some are hidden in a panel that drops down from the dash. The boot is enormous but, to reach its farthest corners, you need to be tall.

A spacious luxury saloon lacking in soul

Used Lexus GS Saloon 1997 - 2005

While the styling may not be to everyone's taste, there's no arguing with the huge amount of space inside the GS. When this model was introduced in 1998, Lexus used a longer wheelbase than on the previous model, and that meant plenty of lounging room for all.

As you'd only expect, getting a good position behind the steering wheel is easy. In fact, every seat is comfortable and the overall feel is of a modern car with plenty of technology at your fingertips. Boot space is generous, too.

Even the mechanical parts are just as impressiev. The V8 engine, for example, idles so smoothly you almost have to rev it to check it's running, and the straight six is impressive, too.

Sadly, the chassis is not so good. The steering is slightly vague and turn-in to corners is not as crisp as it should be. While the chassis rides motorways well enough, things aren't so settled on twistier roads.

GS Saloon

The Lexus IS is stylish and beautifully put together, but struggles to compete with its executive car rivals

Used Lexus IS 2013-2021

You would think a luxurious and beautifully made <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/category/executive">compact executive car</a> with a prestigious badge and high-tech engineering would be a runaway winner in these status-conscious times, but the IS has never made the dent that <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/lexus">Lexus</a> has always hoped it would.

This third-generation model carries the same air of prestige the first <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/is/saloon/used-review/n437">two incarnations</a> displayed. But when it was launched in 2013, Lexus took the bold and potentially damaging decision to ditch its diesel-engined version and offer just petrol and petrol-electric hybrid models, believing – somewhat presciently, as it turns out – this the better option for the years ahead.

Two petrol variants in the form of the 245bhp 2.0-litre IS200t and 204bhp 2.5-litre IS250 were offered, however, they are very uncommon on the used market. What is widely available though, is the much more popular hybrid IS300h.&nbsp;

Underneath the eye-catching but orthodox four-door saloon bodyshell of the IS300h is a 2.5-litre petrol engine linked to an electric motor, driving the rear wheels through a CVT-style transmission. It has a total power output of 181bhp.&nbsp;

There are seven trim levels to choose from when looking at a used IS, with only three, Sport, F-Sport and Premier, available on the models fitted with a 2.0-litre petrol engine. Opt for an entry-level SE model and expect to find keyless entry, cruise control, dual-zone climate control and a 7.0in infotainment system with DAB radio. Upgrade to the fleet-friendly Executive Edition and you'll find sat-nav and leather seats included, while the Sport models get bigger alloys, parking sensors and auto wipers.

The mid-range Luxury models don't come with the sporty attire found on the Sport models, while the Advance IS gets electrically adjustable, heated and cooled front seats, and a reversing camera. The F-Sport models get a truly aggressive bodykit and styling inspired by the super-sporting and very expensive LFA coupe, while the range-topping Premier trim comes with a Mark Levinson stereo system and Lexus's premium navigation system including a DVD player.

Later models featured just the standard IS trim and the F-Sport version.&nbsp;

To drive, the IS is crisp and secure but a little uninspiring. Both versions are fairly refined on the move, with the hybrid able to run on electric-only power for short distances around town, although its refinement is spoiled a little by the occasional bellow from the engine under hard acceleration. It steers and handles well, but offers the driver not much in the way of involvement, while its ride is for the most part reasonably comfortable. The interior might lack panache, but it is beyond reproach in its build quality and in its use of high-quality materials. It’s well equipped, and its safety and security tech is top notch.

Thanks to its on-paper claimed fuel consumption – up to 67.3mpg – the IS300h is cheap to run and tax, and it made a lot of sense when new as a company car purchase. Now, as a used car, its reliability and unsurpassed dealer support network, not to mention its petrol-powered drivetrain, should be enough to tempt buyers away from its more familiar diesel-engined rivals from <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/bmw">BMW</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/mercedes-benz">Mercedes-Benz</a>.

If you're interested in buying a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/lexus/is?used=true&amp;nearlynew=true&amp;postCode=tw1%203sp">used Lexus IS</a>, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car classifieds site <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">here.</a>&nbsp;

Page 1 of 5

A fine car, but spoilt by the unsettled ride and noise

Used Lexus IS Saloon 2005 - 2013

Lexus listened to criticisms of the previous IS and set out to address them in this model. And, for the most part, it has been successful: this is a great-looking car with much stronger engines than before. The 2.5-litre V6 has performance on a par with swifter models in the BMW 3-Series range, while the quiet 2.2 turbodiesel has plenty of go, too.

However, the IS is still let down by steering that has neither the feel nor the accuracy of the 3 Series'. True enough, the IS grips well through corners, but its over-firm ride can't find a comfortable balance in town or on the motorway.

On the oter hand, the cabin is a fine place to be, with loads of standard equipment and safety kit. We think the dash is a little fussy and space in the back could be more generous, but there's no doubting the build quality.

It's a likeable compact executive car that's a sensible owning proposition, but dear to buy

Used Lexus IS Saloon 1999 - 2005

As far as value goes, the IS is the best way of owning a Lexus. But, don't think you're short-changing yourself by going for the company's cheapest model.

Like its bigger, more expensive brothers, the IS has a reputation for being utterly dependable, and is capable of racking up huge mileages without major repairs. Lexus dealers are known to work hard to keep customers happy - What Car? hears plenty of praise and scarcely a complaint.

The IS a fine car, too. It grips and steers well, although a little more feedback through the controls wouldn't go amiss, and the S and SE ride stiffly, while Sport models can be harsh.

The cabin looks good, the equipment levels easily beat those of rivals, and everything looks and feels well screwed together. There are some nice details, too, like the instruments that resemble an outsize designer watch and lift the looks of a dash that's plasticky to the touch.

There are no complaints about comfort up front, but space in the back is tight for adults, particularly when three sit abreast, and the boot isn't that big.

IS Saloon

It's a superbly refined limousine, but it's expensive to run and lacks personality

Used Lexus LS Saloon 2003 - 2006

<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

The LS is an anonymous-looking but very efficient luxury cruiser that wafts along on air springs, which can raise it by an inch to clear rough ground.

That's clever, but the most impressive thing is its refinement. The V8 engine runs in near-silence and, on the move, only a little noise from around the mirrors breaks the hush. Otherwise, you might as well be in a library, albeit one with good grip and little roll from the body. And, if there is a criticism, it's that the LS handles with composure rather than enthusiasm.

The cabin is vast and loaded with gadgets, so many that they risk distracting the driver. Items that are extras on other luxury cars are fitted as standard. It's beautifully fitted out using high-quality materials, and any complaints are nit-picking. Mid you, the wood trim on the dash and wheel is a bit bright for some tastes.

There's more room in the rear than any passenger could need, while the boot is generous, although the suspension layout intrudes, narrowing the available space.

LS Saloon

The ultra-reliable Lexus NX ticks a lot of sensible boxes, all the while being suitably premium and well-equipped.&nbsp;

Used Lexus NX 2021-present

<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

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX</a>&nbsp;is the Adam Sandler of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-suvs/n17116">family SUVs</a>, suddenly going from being panned by the critics to acclaimed.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;instead of starring in crime thriller&nbsp;Uncut Gems, the NX simply shot up in quality&nbsp;as it shifted to&nbsp;its second generation.&nbsp;

The first, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/used-review/n995">2014-2021 Lexus NX</a> was (and continues to be) a reliable buy, but key areas, such as&nbsp;the driving experience, left a lot to be desired. Thankfully, this&nbsp;latest NX&nbsp;avoids&nbsp;its predecessor's&nbsp;traps.&nbsp;

Engines &amp; Performance:&nbsp;When the NX 350h’s electric motor and 2.5-litre petrol engine work in unison, acceleration is satisfactory.

In four-wheel-drive form, the 0-62mph time comes in at&nbsp;7.7 seconds –&nbsp;significantly quicker than a petrol&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x3/4x4/review/n42">BMW X3</a>&nbsp;xDrive20i. If you opt for the entry-level front-wheel-drive version, that time increase to 8.7 seconds.&nbsp;The engine generally needs working harder to get up to speed, too.&nbsp;

The NX 450h plug-in hybrid (<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">PHEV</a>) pairs the same 2.5-litre petrol engine with a more powerful electric motor for a combined power output of 305bhp. That’s a pretty punchy combination – enough for a 0-60mph time of 5.8 seconds in our tests, beating the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/glc/4x4/review/n17345">Mercedes GLC</a> 300e by half a second and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/honda/cr-v/estate/review/n44">Honda CR-V</a>&nbsp;by more than two and a half seconds.&nbsp;

Officially, the 450h can travel up to 45 electric-only miles (it varies slightly depending on trim level), but on our real-world test route the engine triggered into life after 36.8 miles. That’s similar to what you’ll see from a CR-V or a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc60/estate/review/n17339">Volvo XC60</a>&nbsp;T6 Recharge, but much less than the 57&nbsp;miles we achieved in a&nbsp;GLC&nbsp;300e.

Ride&nbsp;&amp; Handling:&nbsp;Entry-level versions of the NX have 18in wheels, and they give you the most forgiving ride both around town and at higher speeds. The larger 20in wheels that come with&nbsp;F-Sport and Takumi models still ride comfortably at low speeds –&nbsp;even over potholes.&nbsp;

The NX is less impressive at motorway speeds, though – bumps can easily jostle&nbsp;you around,&nbsp;more so than some rivals like&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/q5/4x4/review/n41">Audi Q5</a> TFSIe.&nbsp;

The F-Sport gets adaptive sports suspension to tighten up the handling. Even with this firmer set-up, the NX is forgiving over ripples, expansion joints and potholes, being no worse than the GLC 300e.

The NX's cornering abilities are more than good enough. This isn’t a fun and sporty SUV, but it does grip the road well and there's not much body lean through corners.&nbsp;The heavier 450h PHEV feels a little less agile than the 350h, but the adaptive suspension on F-Sport models allows you to improve body control by firming it up at the touch of a button.

Interior&nbsp;&amp; Practicality:&nbsp;The front seats in the NX are some of the best you’ll find in a family SUV.&nbsp;They’re heavily bolstered and&nbsp;have a wide range of adjustments.

While the NX&nbsp;doesn't feel quite as solid inside as the Q5 or&nbsp;XC60, few cars do. Lexus gives you some suitably upmarket fixtures and fittings, plus everything feels well screwed together.&nbsp;Pretty much everything you touch feels ready to stand the test of time and the rigours of daily family use.

We’ve given Lexus some flack in the past for its overly complicated infotainment systems. Thankfully, the NX has a much more intuitive system that won’t leave you tearing your hair out. All models come with&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, too.

Due to the NX being a big car, you probably wouldn’t expect to struggle to fit in the front.&nbsp;Rear space in the NX is slightly better than in the rival Q5 but if you want limo-like leg room, take a look at the GLC and&nbsp;XC60.&nbsp;

There's 520 litres of boot space, which is average for the family SUV class. That allows it to swallow seven carry-on suitcases with the parcel shelf and rear seats in place – one more than the GLC 300e and matching the Q5 50 TFSIe, X3 xDrive30e and XC60 T6 Recharge.

Trims&nbsp;&amp; Equipment:&nbsp;Whatever model you go for, the kit list is impressive. The entry-level option, simply called NX, is only available on the 350h&nbsp;and comes with 18in wheels and&nbsp;heated faux-leather front seats.

Premium Pack (which is the entry-level trim for the 450h) adds keyless entry, privacy glass and wireless phone-charging. We recommend ticking the options box for Lexus Link Pro, which introduces built-in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-sat-nav-apps/n24915">sat-nav</a>&nbsp;and a larger touchscreen system. We wouldn't deter you from stepping up to F-Sport, either, if you want adaptive LED headlights, ventilated front seats, a head-up display and 20in wheels.

We don't recommend the range-topping Takumi trim. It comes with loads of luxuries, including some more upmarket interior finishes and a digital rear-view mirror, but we don't feel it's worth the extra cash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interested in buying a used&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus NX</a>? Visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Cars For Sale</a>&nbsp;pages to find lots of cars listed at great prices.

The Lexus NX is an immensely reliable used buy; it's just a shame it isn't slightly more fun to drive.

Used Lexus NX 2014-2021

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of space for all passengers</li> <li>Large boot with lots of clever storage solutions</li> <li>Good fuel economy and running costs</li> <li>All-round comfort</li> <li>High-quality interior finish</li></ul>

We define a large SUV as anything longer than 4.5 metres. These cars aren’t usually particularly cheap to buy or lease, so in return we expect a roomy cabin, a lengthy list of standard equipment and excellent cruising refinement.

A few models in this class are two-wheel drive, but the vast majority have four-wheel drive for at least a modicum of off-road ability.

Large SUV

There's no getting around the fact the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">Lexus&nbsp;NX</a>&nbsp;is the left-field choice in the typically German-led, premium <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/large-suvs/n17006">large SUV</a> market. It certainly stands out, though, not to mention this first-generation 2014-2021 model&nbsp;has a few tricks up its sleeve – one of which is its incredible dependability.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In contrast to most contemporary SUVs, there’s no diesel version available,&nbsp;Lexus&nbsp;elected instead to offer a hybrid model in the form of the NX 300h. In fact, there were only ever two engine options available, the other being the turbocharged, petrol-powered NX 200t, although even this was phased out in 2016 due to poor sales.

The short-lived S model, which was the cheapest in the range before it was axed at the same time as the NX 200t, gets dual-zone climate control and sat-nav, but it is only available with two-wheel drive; SE adds four-wheel drive and heated front seats. Luxury trim gives you leather seats and parking sensors, while F Sport features a more aggressive mesh grille and LED headlights. F Sport Premier brings&nbsp;a head-up display and an upgraded sound system, and the range tops out – slightly confusingly – with Premier,&nbsp;which gives you extra safety equipment, a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

The petrol NX is certainly potent, but it's marred by a sluggish six-speed automatic gearbox. Mind you, the chances are you’ll be choosing the hybrid version since there are far more of them around. It, too, feels rapid away from the line, but any sort of aggressive accelerator use results in a scream from the engine, due to the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-type-of-automatic-gearbox-should-i-buy/n17022">CVT gearbox</a>. In fairness, treated more gently, this does result in seamless acceleration with no gearchanges and, if you drive like a saint, the NX spends some of its time in electric-only mode, in which it's pleasingly quiet.

The NX's ride, too, can be smooth and usually feels relaxed when cruising along at high speed. Around town, though, it can be upset by smaller, sharper ruts, which send a shudder through the body. Expansion gaps on concrete sections of motorway have a similar effect.

Fancy a more spirited drive? Well, unfortunately, the NX’s uninspiring handling will dampen your fun. It feels very nose-heavy and tries to push on ahead if you corner too quickly. Then, when you can get it turned in, you’ll find the body leans over quite a bit, and if you’re trying to make sense of it all, you’ll get little help from the&nbsp;remote and uncommunicative steering. A <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x3/4x4/used-review/n829">BMW X3</a>, or even an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/q5/4x4/used-review/n889">Audi Q5</a>, is much more enjoyable to drive.

Inside, there are problems, too. The infotainment screen‘s controls are a nightmare to use and the menu system is intricate and complex, so you’ll soon find yourself avoiding them unless you absolutely have to. Some of the buttons used to control the heating and ventilation are a little fiddly, too. At least the seats are comfy.

The NX’s narrowness means interior space isn’t as good as its best rivals. Up front, you don’t feel too cramped, but in the rear seats, squeezing three adults abreast will result in plenty of shoulder-rubbing. Mind you, if you only have to carry two in the back, the flat floor means they’ll each get plenty of leg room, while the reclining seats are a nice touch.

In the boot, things are better, with a decent-sized space that’s sensibly shaped, and with a raised floor that means you can slide things in easily.

If you're interested in finding a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/lexus/nx?used=true&amp;nearlynew=true">used NX</a>, or any of the other cars&nbsp;mentioned here, head over to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Car Buying</a>&nbsp;pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Page 1 of 5

NX Estate

A comfortable and very reliable alternative to the usual luxury SUVs, the RX is well worth considering.

Used Lexus RX 2016-2022

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Logical and beautifully built interior, with great infotainment</li> <li>More than enough space for five passengers or, even better, seven</li> <li>Strong performance along with impressive efficiency</li> <li>Composed handling that limits any feeling of unwieldiness</li></ul>

We class a luxury SUV as being anything where our pick of the range costs more than £70,000 – and at this price point, buyers' expectations are high. So, as well as all of the qualities that make regular SUVs such well-rounded choices –&nbsp;such as decent space for passengers and luggage, a classy interior and robust materials – we also want a cosseting ride, the latest driver assistance technology and enough space to really stretch out.

The Land Rover Discovery proves that you don't need to spend a lot of money to get a luxurious SUV, but if you've got a bit more to spend, the Audi Q7 is perennially popular among buyers, and with good reason. Or, at the very top of this market, there are newer additions such as the BMW X7 to consider.

Luxury SUV

So, you want a used <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/luxury-suvs/n17036">luxury SUV</a> – but you also want to stand out from the crowd.

Not for you the German SUVs that dominate this sector; you want something a little different – something that feels just as upmarket but won’t make you look like a follower of the crowd. Maybe something that comes with hybrid power. And of course, something that’s efficient and dependable. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/review/n137">Lexus RX</a> looks like it could tick all of your boxes.

Most of the 2016-2022 RXs you’ll find on the used market are hybrids, combining a 3.5-litre V6 with two electric motors to produce 308bhp. They’re badged RX 450h, and Lexus sold them in lieu of a diesel model; there are no diesel versions available. However, if you don’t want the hybrid, you could always seek out the other engine option, a 225bhp 2.0-litre petrol turbo, which is badged RX 200t – although these are vanishingly rare.

Variants of the RX kicked off with the most basic S version and topped out with the luxurious Premier model, with SE, Luxury and F Sport versions filling in the middle ground. Hybrid models were also available in a version called F Sport Premier, which took the F Sport’s sporty styling and teamed it with the luxurious trimmings of the Premier model. Confusingly, Lexus also added a version called Sport to the range in 2018. Of these, it’s the Luxury version that was the most popular; expect leather upholstery with heated and cooled front seats, dual-zone climate control, an infotainment system with sat-nav and a 12.3in display, and a powered tailgate as standard, among other features.

The petrol version offers adequate performance, but you have to push it quite hard to extract it, at which point it gets rather noisy. That’s why we prefer the hybrid; it, too&nbsp;can be rather vocal if you accelerate hard, but&nbsp;it’s not an unpleasant sound.&nbsp;At a cruise it quietens down significantly, and around town the petrol motor can cut out altogether to leave you running on electricity only, keeping things even more tranquil.

The RX isn’t exactly a sports car – it leans over through bends and the steering is uninvolving – but it’s nevertheless light and easy to drive, and the soft suspension has it lolloping over all but the most sudden of bumps, smoothing them out nicely. The brakes in the hybrid version can sometimes be a little grabby, though, making smooth stops an art that must be mastered.

Inside, you’ll find a dashboard that feels incredibly solid and looks very appealing, with sweeping lines and some neat styling touches. A few of the materials are a little low-rent, and some of the switchgear is shared with lesser Toyotas, but on the whole the effect is upmarket enough, if not quite up there with the best luxury SUVs.

The same can be said for the seating; both the front and rear seats offer less room than you'll find in most rivals, and,&nbsp;while most SUVs of the Lexus’s size these days offer seating for seven, early RX buyers have to make do with five. The seven-seat RX L was introduced in 2018 and remedied this to a point, but there’s more room in the rearmost seats of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/q7/4x4/review/n87">Audi Q7</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volvo/xc90/4x4/review/n99">Volvo XC90</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/discovery/4x4/review/n17342">Land Rover Discovery</a>.

While most five-seat luxury SUVs make up for their less versatile seating arrangements with a big boot, not so the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/review/n137">Lexus RX</a>:&nbsp;you’ll fit far less in the back than you will in a contemporary <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/touareg/4x4/review/n199">Volkswagen Touareg</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x5/4x4/review/n38">BMW X5</a> – whether the seats are up or down.

If you're interested in finding a&nbsp;used RX, or any of the other cars mentioned here, head over to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Car Buying</a>&nbsp;pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Page 1 of 5

The Lexus RX is stylish, practical and well equipped, and supremely reliable

Used Lexus RX 2009-2016

By the time this third-generation Lexus RX was launched in 2009, its reputation for solidity and reliability went before it. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/used-review/n748">previous two models</a> had established a reputation for high build quality that had meant consistently high placings in a number of reliability and customer satisfaction surveys and, to cash in on then what was a mere twinkle in the Green Party’s eye, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/used-review/n748">second-gen model</a>&nbsp;also featured a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/category/hybrid">hybrid</a> version&nbsp;launched in 2005, which carried over into this newer car.&nbsp;

Indeed it was this petrol-electric hybrid that was the mainstay of this third-gen car’s range because by this time <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/lexus">Lexus</a> had turned its back on diesel-powered cars. It means the RX450h actually has quite a complicated system working away underneath its sober cab-forward styling. At the front is a 246bhp 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, mated to a CVT automatic gearbox and assisted by an electric motor rated at 165bhp. These two between them drive the front wheels, while at the rear is a second 67bhp electric motor that powers the rear wheels when it senses the extra power is needed. In fact, maximum power when all three are working together (the petrol engine and the two electric motors) is 295bhp.&nbsp;

Trim-wise, the RX came in a variety including Advance, SE, SE-L, SE-L Premier and F-Sport. Every model bar the base model got a decent sat-nav system (even if it is operated through the infuriating Remote Touch system), while top-spec cars got a stupendous Mark Levinson audio system and LED headlights. There’s even a head-up display on range-topping SE-L Premier models. The F-Sport trim featured a deeper, more vertical front bumper with a sporty mesh treatment, a more sophisticated damper arrangement and 19in alloy wheels.&nbsp;

On the road, the RX responds more than quick enough for most people’s needs. Be gentle on the throttle when pulling away and the RX450h will move off under electric power only, and with sufficient juice in the batteries and a gentle foot it calls on the petrol motor only when speeds exceed 30mph. Ask for a more urgent getaway and the petrol motor kicks in earlier, and if you extend the throttle fully the rear motor lends a hand to give a turn of speed beyond what you could normally expect of a 3.5-litre V6 hauling a 2.1-tonne car.

Other than boosting performance and fuel economy, the electric motors also allow hushed progress at slow speeds, but even with the petrol motor working the RX450h is impressively quiet. Only under prolonged full throttle, with the CVT transmission holding the engine at high revs, does the RX sound stressed.

Its forte is long-distance cruising, where it is stable (the air suspension automatically lowers at speed) and rides comfortably. What it isn’t, though, is particularly enjoyable to drive briskly, mostly because the electric steering is devoid of feel. Grip levels aren’t especially high from the eco tyres, either. But this shortcoming is unlikely to trouble many owners.

Its low-speed ride might be more of a cause for concern, though. Ridges and manhole covers are more readily felt than they should be. Admittedly, the intrusions are well insulated from the interior structure and the seats, so a jolt rarely becomes jarring, but the fact that the movement happens so quickly makes the RX feel unsettled.

Its interior is lovely, though, and has enough high-class materials and clever details to make the car feel suitably expensive. A typical SUV seating position has the driver sitting high on soft, flat-cushioned chairs that offer a very broad range of adjustability. Forward visibility is also good, although the clever side and rear cameras are welcome for judging the car’s bulbous shape in tight parking spots. Space front and rear is plentiful, if not extravagant.&nbsp;

Boot space with the rear seats up is just 496 litres. Even rivals with seven seats provide more room with the third row dropped, and despite the sliding rear seats that can fold 40/20/40 and also recline, some rivals are more practical.&nbsp;

If you're interested in finding a used <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/lexus/rx?used=true&amp;nearlynew=true&amp;postCode=tw1%203sp">RX</a>, or any of the other SUVs mentioned here, head over to the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Car Buying</a> pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Page 1 of 5

The RX offers the luxury and refinement you expect of a Lexus, but it's not the most practical SUV.

Used Lexus RX 2003 - 2009

Like the brand’s upmarket saloons, the Lexus RX is very refined: the engines are smooth and quiet, and wind and road noise are almost non-existent.

Comfort is a strong point, too, with an electrically adjustable driver's seat on all models, and decent space for five. However, the RX isn’t as big inside as a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/x5/4x4/review/n38">BMW X5</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/land-rover/discovery/4x4/review/n17342">Land Rover Discovery</a> and, unlike those rivals, it isn’t available with seven seats.

On the road, the RX's emphasis is on comfort, especially in cars with air suspension. If you want a sporty drive, the X5 will do a much better job.

The earliest RXs (badged RX 300) were offered with a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, and while this is the least powerful option, it still responds well enough. It was replaced in 2006 by the more powerful, yet more economical RX 350.

Usually, the alternative to a petrol engine would be a diesel, but in the RX it's the RX 400h petrol-electric hybrid. This is more efficient – not to mention less polluting – than diesel rivals in town and can give fuel economy of well over 30mpg if driven gently, although a diesel will be cheaper to run if you do a lot of motorway miles.

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RX 4x4

Sports

It's a bland, cumbersome car with limited rear space

Used Lexus SC430 Open 2001 - 2009

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 SC430 is a low-key offering. Its bulbous shape tells you that this is something Americans might like, but it's less likely to be the choice for Brits who prefer more sleek lines from their coupes.

With that in mind, it's odd that space is limited, particularly in the rear. The rear seats are virtually upright and so small as to be all-but useless.

The SC430 is powered by a smooth and refined 4.3-litre, 282bhp V8 and it will take you from 0-60mph in 6.2sec, which is plenty quick enough. But, other than that, the driving experience is bland and far from engaging. The automatic gearbox feels lazy and reluctant, and the engine note is a little disappointing.

On the open road, the suspension is too stodgy, the turn-in to corners lacks precision and you can feel the chassis flexing on bumpy roads. The dashboard controls, however, are easy to use, but the whole feel of the car is a little boring for an open-top that you might have expected to be a bit more sporting.

SC Sports

The stylish Lexus UX is ultra-reliable and relatively affordable, but it's not as practical as some of its rivals.

Used Lexus UX 2019-present

Foolish would be the mainstream manufacturer that doesn’t carry a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/family-suvs/n17116">family SUV</a> in its range these days.

Lexus seemed to cater pretty well for the affluent classes after a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/large-suvs/n17006">large SUV</a> and a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/luxury-suvs/n17036">luxury SUV</a> – with its <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/nx/estate/review/n132">NX</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/rx/4x4/review/n137">RX</a> models – but it took until the arrival of this <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/ux/hatchback/review/n17871">Lexus UX</a> in 2019 before it could snap up sales in the smaller class from families eager to sample its intriguing blend of petrol-electric, hybrid-powered opulence.&nbsp;

It certainly looks the part. It shares the creases and eye-catching style of its larger siblings but is better proportioned. Its hybrid drive means its rivals encapsulate both petrol and diesel family SUVs, and its reputation for luxury and reliability put it firmly into the premium market sector.&nbsp;

In 2021 it was also joined by a fully electric version, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/lexus/ux/hatchback/review/n22099">Lexus UX 300e</a>, which shares all the regular car's good features but comes with a slightly disappointing&nbsp;electric range of 196&nbsp;miles, way below the range offered by many of its rivals.&nbsp;

Under its origami-style bonnet is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor, producing a combined power output of 182bhp. It is a self-charging hybrid, rather than a plug-in one, and therefore can run for only short distances on electric power alone. A four-wheel-drive version, the E4, is available, with an extra electric motor driving the rear wheels.&nbsp;

Trim levels start with the standard level, which is reasonably well equipped, to which you then add a series of packs. It’s with these Premium, Premium Plus or Tech and Sound Packs that you start to build in the luxuries that count. For instance, the Premium Plus Pack includes leather seats, privacy glass, bigger 18in alloy wheels, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, keyless entry and a powered tailgate. The Tech and Sound pack includes parking sensors, electric seats and a high-end hi-fi.

The standalone trim F-Sport costs roughly the same as the standard UX with a Premium Plus Pack fitted, but still doesn't come quite as well equipped. You do get unique features, though, including sports suspension, sports seats and a black grille, bumpers and side sills. Takumi spec is focused on luxury and is equipped with a larger, 10.3in infotainment screen with DVD player, an upgraded sound system, head-up display, leather upholstery and a sunroof.

On the road, the UX is smother than a diesel, although it can grow noisy when you accelerate hard, due to the workings of its CVT gearbox. There’s also a fair amount of wind and road noise at motorway speeds. It always feels solidly planted, though, even if its ride, which is comfortable most of the time, can grow crashy on larger bumps and road imperfections.

The steering is light and fairly precise, while its cornering abilities, though unlikely to please a keen driver, are business-like rather than athletic. It would be fair to say that most of its rivals offer more enjoyment to the driver via more agile and nimble setups.&nbsp;

Inside, the driving position is excellent, and the seats, especially the sports seats in the F Sport trim, very comfortable. You sit lower than you do in some SUVs, and visibility is reasonable - all options come with a rear-view camera as standard.&nbsp;

You’d expect a Lexus to feel plush inside and to a certain degree the UX does, although there are one of two scratchier plastics on display than you’d find in the firm’s more expensive models.

Another major sticking point, common to other Lexus models, is the UX’s infotainment system. The standard 7.0in screen is tiny by class standard, and both it and the optional 10.3in display are of low resolution next to the sharp and clear screens found in nearly every other rival. The menus are overly complicated, too, and the whole thing fiddly to use, especially on the move.&nbsp;

Space up front is good, but rear-seat space is very compromised. There’s less space in the back than most of its rivals. The boot is usefully square but terribly small, especially for this class of car.&nbsp;

If you're interested in finding a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars/lexus/ux?used=true&amp;nearlynew=true">used UX</a>, or any of the other cars mentioned here, head over to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/used-cars">Used Car Buying</a>&nbsp;pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Page 1 of 5

UX Estate

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.

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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

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.

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

If you’re in the market for a pick-up truck, chances are you’ll have heard of Isuzu. The Japanese brand makes buses and lorries for markets all over the world, but it’s most famous for the D-Max.

A rival to the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Volkswagen Amarok, the D-Max pick-up is aimed at drivers who need rugged go-anywhere ability and lots of space, and for whom a conventional SUV just won’t cut it.

ISUZU

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

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

Formerly known as Ssangyong, KGM's range is dominated by&nbsp;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&nbsp;practicality they offer for the money.

The highlight of the current line-up is&nbsp;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 also&nbsp;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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