Chevrolet’s new car is a traditionally-styled saloon pitched at an attractively low price, says motoring editor Peter Carroll. So how does the Cruze stack up in one of the most hotly contested areas of the market?

It’s cute and it’s clever – but how does Toyota’s diminutive iQ fare when it comes to ‘real world’ practicality?

It was understandable that MG should want to mark its return to business in the UK last year by launching a comprehensively-equipped version of the TF sports car, in the form of the LE 500, writes Peter Carroll.

The sharper-suited version of the well-established V70 estate should broaden the car’s appeal, says Peter Carroll. And those who prefer the traditional estate car format may be more interested in another recent addition to the Swedes’ range: the V70 R-Design estate.

Anyone looking for sporting greatness on a budget, a B-road king or a track day star might want to check out the Lotus Elise.

BMW marketers asked customers what they wanted from a new Z4. They were quite emphatic – a car that offered security, safety and style, one that was more practical with a more forgiving ride, a larger cockpit and yes, a folding hardtop like the Mercedes SLK.

Apart from one uncharacteristically racy phase during the 1960s, when its glamorous P1800 coupe was the vehicle of choice for TV’s The Saint, Volvo has preferred to emphasize more down-to-earth qualities like comfort, space and, of course, safety, when selling its cars.

The new scrappage scheme and general move away from larger cars ought to be a boon for a firm like Daihatsu, which specialises in small urban vehicles.

Volkswagen will later this year launch a 265hp version of its stylish coupe with a new engine, hotter handling – and even sharper styling. Read Peter Carroll’s review and see more pictures in our gallery.

Launched in the UK last summer, SEAT’s new Ibiza still appears to be taking on its rivals with one hand tied behind its back.