Independent Reviews of New and Used Cars

ŠKODA has upped the ante with this improved version of its third-generation Fabia, introducing sharper, more assertive styling and clever tech that has been bringing down the average age of its customers. With plenty of space inside and improved levels of safety and media connectivity, the Fabia seems to be getting the basics spot on these days and further benefits from an impressive 1.0-litre TSI three cylinder powerplant. In design terms, this Fabia's changed - but certainly not beyond recognition. Front and rear design updates deliver a smarter appearance and there are more stylish wheel designs of up to 18-inches in size. Shaplier headlights and front fog lights with sleeker outlines and state-of-the-art lighting technology also freshen up the look, LED headlights and LED rear lights being offered for the first time. Inside, there's a redesigned instrument cluster, smarter trim strips for the dashboard and two-tone finishes for the seats to update the interior. As before, there's a five-door Hatch bodystyle, or an Estate with a class-leading 530-litre boot capacity.

SEAT's Leon looks tempting in sporty FR Black Edition trim. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Volkswagen's considered entry into the supermini-based SUV sector, the T-Cross, should find a ready market, thinks Jonathan Crouch

In second generation form, the four-door CLA Coupe continues to inject an extra dose of style into Mercedes' compact model line-up. Jonathan Crouch reports

The third generation 1 Series looks to establish itself as the premium hatch of choice in a hotly-contested sector. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.