Independent Reviews of New and Used Cars

This improved version of the MK8 Volkswagen Passat dials up the finesse still further and looks to build on its predecessor's phenomenal success. Jonathan Crouch reports.

"Over the course of the year, we had plenty of tiny citycars that haven't been able to replicate the running cost returns of my V40."

This fifth generation Audi A4 now features a sharper look and continues to claim to be class-leading in nearly all the areas that really matter to business buyers in the compact executive segment. That means efficiency, cabin quality, practicality and technology. As a result, it'll be hard to ignore if you're looking for a car of this kind. The external changes made to this fifth generation A4 are relatively slight. The full-LED headlamps have been re-designed and flank a broader, flatter Singeframe grille complemented by re-sculpted bumpers. Prices have inevitably risen slightly, but still occupy much the same bracket as before, so expect to be paying somewhere between £30,000 and £40,000 for most models, with a premium of £1,400 for the Avant estate bodystyle. Audi is gradually introducing its mild hybrid 48-volt technology across the four and six cylinder petrol and diesel engines in the A4 line-up. Their power outputs range from 150PS to 347PS - from the Audi A4 35 TFSI up to the Audi S4 TDI, that S4 now featuring diesel power for the first time.

The BMW 3 Series Touring is back for those who don't pack light. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

The BMW 3 Series is at its most competitive in 320d guise. Jonathan Crouch takes a drive.