Author: PA Media

The 80s. In car-terms, it was a time of big arches, wide bodykits and out-there decals. It was also a period which saw the launch of the hot hatch, and also some of the greatest supercars we’ve ever seen.

Nowadays, these icons still get the heart of many a petrolhead beating a little quicker. Fortunately enough, 80s cars can be found on a decent budget – £15,000, in our case. Let’s see what’s out there.

Ford Capri MK3

There are few ‘everyday’ 80s cars quite as iconic as the boxy Ford Capri. The third-generation model in particular (as it was the one built during the 80s) brought a slice of Americana to UK streets.

It was an affordable way to get into a muscle car-style two-door, and decent examples can be fetched for under £15,000 too – though prices are climbing every day.

Mitsubishi Starion

The market for Japanese sports cars of the 80s and 90s is skyrocketing right now as nostalgia begins to hit millennials with money to burn. Though the likes of a Toyota Corolla AE86 or Nissan’s Z-Cars were once available for pennies, rising prices have seen them exceed £20k and skyrocket above that for the tidiest of examples.

That said, some sports machines from the Far East have managed to slip under the radar, for now at least, and the Mitsubishi Starion is one of those. Though it had all the typical 80s boxy styling and boasts of affordable performance, stronger lust for the likes of the Ford Capri, Toyota Supra and other sports coupes of the era has seen the Starion often overlooked. Though examples rarely come up for sale, this does mean that when they do they can be had for a relatively reasonable fee of around £10k for clean examples — and it’s likely that’s only heading up.

Peugeot 205 GTI

The dinky little Peugeot 205 GTI was one of the first proper examples of a small, French hot hatch. It was initially offered with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, which was later bumped up to a more powerful 1.9-litre – but this was a car more about cornering than outright pace.

Prices are surging upwards on these though, so while examples can be found for under £15,000, we’d advise to get your hands on one now, if you can.

BMW E30 3 Series

Boxy and almost perfectly proportioned, the E30 BMW 3 Series is surely one of the most iconic cars of the 1980s. Built with a variety of different engines, from small-capacity petrols to fire-breathing units in the high-end M3, the E30 3 Series really was all things to all people.

Now we’ll be the first to admit that you’re unlikely to find an M3 for our £15,000 budget, but you’ll easily bag yourself a good example of a lower-powered model.

Volkswagen Golf GTI MK2

The original MK1 Golf GTI was a tough act to follow, but somehow Volkswagen managed to do just that with the MK2. A little bit larger, but no less engaging, the MK2 was a firecracker to drive – and most people wished that Volkswagen hadn’t changed the formula so much with the MK3.

Prices for these are rising, so get your hands on one while they’re under our budget.

Renault 5

Renault has always been pretty adept at making small city cars, and the Renault 5 hit the nail on the head yet again. Light and nimble yet efficient, the 5 has gone down as one of the all-time small car classics. It did spawn performance versions – the Renault 5 Turbo was a particular highlight – but unfortunately these far exceed our £15,000 budget now.

You’ll be able to pick up a regular model for within our price ceiling, though watch out for rust – the 5s are incredibly susceptible to it.

Porsche 944

“It’s not a real Porsche”, many purists would scream — but they are wrong. Ok, so the 944 never quite hit the heights of the 911, but it certainly offers an engaging driving experience while looking monumentally cool. Its lack of popularity has seen values plummet though, meaning a well looked after example can be comfortably had for under £15k.

Mercedes-Benz SL

Mercedes SL models have, throughout their lifespan, been some of the prettiest models the German manufacturer produced. The late 80s drop-top was arguably one of its most brash thanks to square, blocky styling and a real ‘look at me’ attitude.

Mini

It’s hard not to call the Mini anything but iconic, isn’t it? Small but undoubtedly characterful, the Mini represents urban mobility at its very best. By the 80s the Mini had evolved, but still kept true to its dinky roots.

Again, like many cars on this list, prices are rising – so we’d advise to grab one while you can.

Mazda MX-5

Introduced in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 only just sneaks into this category — but it’s a worthy inclusion. The widely-loved sports car nailed the low weight, low power, maximum fun formula since day one, going on to carve itself out as a legend.

Though older tidy models are much harder to come by today thanks to notorious rust problems, the fact they’re easy to modify and that many have simply been crashed, they still remain fairly reasonable value — with the best examples still not quite at the £10k mark yet. This is another case of a car only appreciating though, and quickly at that, so it might be best to jump on the wagon while it’s still just about in town.

Car security is an issue which affects all motorists. Various tips and tricks can help ensure your vehicle is as safe as possible, whether you’re parking it on the drive or on the street.

A recent poll of 2,079 UK car owners has revealed that one in five motorists don’t use any security precautions on their car, while 43 per cent don’t even pull the door handle to check that it’s locked.

The research, revealed by Halfords, also showed that 42 per cent of people leave car ownership documents in their car, and 43 per cent don’t attempt to hide their keys at home.

However, security expert Michael Fraser has presented some tips on how to make sure a car is a safe as possible – and ways to deter thieves from even attempting to access your vehicle.

Keep your car tidy

Making sure your car isn’t strewn with belongings is a sure-fire way of making your car less attractive to thieves. Remove valuables from the vehicle, and make sure that there’s nothing to catch the eye of passers-by.

It’s also a good idea to remove loose change from any cubbies or bins throughout the car, too.

Use dash cams with motion sensors

Dash cams have come on in leaps and bounds in recent years – and they’ve fallen in price too. Fitting one means you’ve got an eye on the car at all times, and most are activated by motion, too.

It means that should a thief approach your car and attempt to gain entry, the camera will spring into life and record anything that could happen.

Turn your wheels into the kerb

Turning a car’s wheels towards the kerb may sound like a recipe for damaged wheels, but it’s actually a simple and very effective way of stopping a thief. It means that should they access the car – and are able to start it, too – they’ll have to perform a manoeuvre in order to get away from the kerb.

It takes two seconds to do, but could slow down a thief’s escape considerably.

Don’t rely on factory-fitted systems

Though factory-fitted security systems are an initial line of defence for most vehicles, they’re sometimes not enough to stop intruders. Extra processes can make things even safer.

A wheel lock, for instance, provides an instant deterrent for thieves and proves to those looking inside the car that some extra protection has been fitted.

Keep your keys safe

Your car’s keys are easy to snatch in a break-in, and with new ‘keyless entry’ technology, easy to intercept signals from, too. To make things safer, it’s best to place them in an RFID wallet, which blocks the signals sent from the keys and prevents thieves from intercepting and using them to access a vehicle remotely.

Just make sure it’s locked

Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But just checking that your car is actually locked can make a difference. A quick pull of the handle could make all the difference – and it only takes a second, too.

Car design is in an ever-evolving state as designers look to find the next trends that will capture the minds and wallets of customers across the world. Though this results in new and often improved machines as time goes on, some creations are often fondly remembered to the point that their crafters will revisit them for new models — bringing a fresh twist on classic designs.

Here, we’ve picked out the best examples of when manufacturers dug into their backlogs to inspire new cars on sale today…

Mini

The ‘new’ Mini is one of the best-known (and best-selling) retro-inspired cars you can buy. Introduced in 2001, it was soon after BMW had taken ownership of the brand, and focused on that retro flair to appeal to buyers.

Though the car didn’t have the practicality or utilitarianism of the classic model, it did have charm in spades – plus a fun driving experience, superb interior and loads of personalisation. The new Mini is now in its third generation, and though it’s become more mature, it’s still as retro and quirky as it ever was.

Fiat 500

Keeping in line with the Italian image of style, the original Fiat 500 was a hit. The dinky city car was a revolution — fast becoming a must-have fashion accessory.

Today, things remain pretty much the same — only in a much bigger, but also much safer, car. The latest Fiat 500 is sought after by fashionistas across the globe, and it’s easy to see why — retaining the cute and chic visuals the original car had in a market full of pretty average looking machines.

Toyota GT86

Toyota’s ‘AE86’ Corolla is one of the legends of the Japanese car scene. The humble coupe gained a name in the ‘80s for its impressive driving dynamics, created by low weight, near 50/50 weight balance and a tasty but not overly powerful four-cylinder engine.

Fast forward to today, and it offers a car inspired directly by the AE86 — the GT86. It takes the same formula of low-weight and balance above all but brings a modern level of performance with it. It’s a formula very rarely seen in new cars today, but one we’re grateful is around.

Abarth 124 Spider

Take the Mazda MX-5, and re-wrap it in an edgy, Italian design and what do you have? That’d be the Abarth 124 Spider. In fairness, the Scorpion-badged two-seater does benefit from a turbocharged engine (compared to the MX-5 naturally aspirated one), as well as an exhaust that’ll have people noticing two postcodes away.

Its retro credentials come from the inspiration for its design – the original Fiat 124 Spider. That car was one of the prettiest ever made, and though this new version is larger, wider and heavier, it’s still quite the looker too.

Ferrari Monza SP1

Rewind to the middle of the last century and to the heydays of GT racing, when Ferrari was one of the kings of the class. Its speedsters of the day, such as the 166 M, 750 Monza and 250 Testa Rossa, were dominant on the racetrack while holding a prestige among the wealthy as a result of their stunning looks and exclusivity.

Ferrari has revived some of that spirit with the modern-day SP1 Monza, and it’s sibling the SP2. Loosely based on the 812 Superfast, these incredibly rare machines bring back the classic look of a speedster but add in brutal modern-day performance.

VW California

The Volkswagen Camper is an iconic image of freedom, and early models based on the T1 and T2 Microbus are hugely desirable today. The original California name, though, was first applied to a T3 model — built by specialists Westfalia and cementing the brand’s appeal for campervan enthusiasts.

The contemporary T6 model may do without the air-cooled, rear-engined layout of the original, but Volkswagen knows how to appeal to retro enthusiasts. It’s possible to spec your sleek, stylish California in a variety of vintage two-tone colour schemes, and even apply polished alloy wheels that ape the originals. These charming nods back only add to the California’s desirability.

Suzuki Jimny

Whereas the previous-generation Suzuki Jimny moved things on when it came to styling, the latest incarnation certainly makes the most of its heritage and is the spitting image of the original Suzuki Samurai. Dinky proportions and perfectly circular headlights give the Jimny a cutesy appearance – one which almost everyone notices out on the road.

Though it may be larger than that original Samurai, the new Jimny still looks tiny on the road, where it puts grins on anyone it passes.

Mercedes G-Class

These days, when thinking of the G-Class, it can be easy to think of flashy, chrome-festooned AMG models roaming the wilds of Kensington high street, as cracks, pops and warbles emit from an exhaust the size of your fist.

However, the original G-Class was the epitome of off-road worthiness – no frills inside and out, with its iconic boxy design and go-anywhere capability. That ability never went anywhere, even as the G became better associated with glitz and glamour, largely because beneath the skin very little had changed since it was introduced in 1979…

Finally, in 2018, Mercedes-Benz brought out a second-generation model, which retained the legendary shape but with substantial technical modifications such as independent front suspension and vast swathes of driver assistance systems. The interior also got Mercedes’ new dual-screen LCD set-up inside. Updating an icon is tough, but the German manufacturer nailed the G’s overhaul.

Alpine A110

French brand Alpine isn’t the best-known around, having a small portfolio of quirky, sporty yet ultimately ill-fated cars. The A110, though, is a real return to form, and one of the best small coupes on sale for keen drivers.

Its success is in the way it borrows the formula of its predecessor, also named the A110. A low kerb weight, a peppy four-cylinder, mid-mounted engine and not too much in the way of technology ensures this little car is an absolute riot to drive. Alpine nailed it with the styling, too, hitting all the retro design cues without becoming a pastiche. Watch out, Porsche Cayman – this retro-styled masterpiece is coming for your turf.

Jeep Gladiator

The original Jeep Gladiator was a pickup truck based on the Wagoneer, built from the early 60s until the mid-80s. From then, it appeared that the Gladiator name wouldn’t appear again until a concept appeared in 2007.

It’s taken up until now for that concept to be realised in production form. It appears to be worth the wait – there are few cars that we’ve seen with as much presence. We’ll wait with baited breath to see whether or not it’s destined for UK roads, and not just American ones.

Coupes are the poster stars of the motoring world. Sleek, compact and designed with style in mind, it’s little wonder why so many people strive to get their hands on the keys to one. And though they’re usually expensive to buy new, they can prove tempting on the used market.

We’ve set ourselves a budget of £15,000, and scoured the classifieds to find some of the very best sports coupes you can find for this figure or under.

Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ

Back in the ‘80s, Toyota nailed the budget sports coupe formula with the now legendary ‘AE86’ Corolla. It had the perfect balance of low weight, compact dimensions and enough power to get a little sideways on demand, making it an automotive icon in the years to follow.

After years of teasers, it followed up with the GT86, taking the same formula, developing it with Subaru (which sells the car as the BRZ) and creating a modern car for the enthusiast. It’s now in its seventh year of production and has gained huge popularity, resulting in plenty of clean, well-maintained examples available for good prices. For £15k you can pick up a seriously good condition, pre-facelift machine.

Nissan 370Z

Nissan’s 370Z took on the firm’s legendary ‘Z’ moniker, continuing a line of much-loved performance cars. Though in production for some time, the sleek two-seater managed to fend off many rivals, and represents a good option in the used market.

A 3.7-litre V6 engine is one of the best aspects of the 370Z, providing the car with plenty of punch and a great soundtrack too.

BMW Z4 M

Though now sold exclusively as a convertible, there was a time when BMW had a fixed hard-top roof on its Z4 sports car — and let the engineering minds of its performance-focused M division loose on it too.

With a 3.2-litre straight-six engine sending almost 340bhp to the rear wheels via a manual gearbox — yes, a manual M car — it had the crisp driving experience to match its drop-dead gorgeous looks. Though £15k just about brings cars that could do with some TLC into the fray, values are only heading one way, so now might be the time to cash in on this future classic.

Ford Racing Puma

The humble Ford Puma may have featured sporty styling, but it was the Racing Puma which really lived up to the car’s go-faster design. Thanks to a wider front and rear track, the Puma was both more accomplished in the bends than the standard version, while looking meaner too.

Just 500 were made in total – but some examples can still be purchased for under our £15,000 budget. Get in there quick, though – these prices are likely to rise.

Porsche 911 Carrera (996)

It’s a bit mad to think that a Porsche 911, widely regarded as the benchmark for all sports cars, can be had for such a low price. But the 996 is something of an ugly duckling here, disregarded by many Porsche purists for its ‘fried egg’ headlights, move away from air-cooled engines, and its ability to grenade its own powertrain at any given moment.

The result though is a car that’s not appreciating and can be had for a very good price. It still offers that trademark Porsche driving experience, blending perfect handling with genuine daily usability. Before purchasing though, check the car has had its factory IMS bearing switched out for a more robust unit — or there’s a lengthy repair bill waiting to happen.

Jaguar XKR

Jaguar knows a thing or two about making sleek, performance-orientated two-doors, and the XKR was a fine example of this. Building on the already pacey XK8, the XKR brings with it a 4.2-litre supercharged V8 packing 420bhp. It’s more than enough to give the Jaguar acceleration that’ll scare most supercars.

Running costs will be high owing to the car’s poor fuel economy, as well as the cost of maintenance, but get yourself a well-cared-for example and you’re unlikely to regret the decision.

Volkswagen Scirocco R

Though the Volkswagen Golf R is often regarded as the ‘do-it-all’ hot hatch that now has a huge following, its coupe-hatch sibling in the Scirocco R is one that’s often overlooked.

It’s not too hard to see why — though using the same engine, it puts out less power at 261bhp and sends that to only the front wheels rather than all four, making it a bit more of a handful to drive. That said, it still offers an engaging experience once tamed — and still outclasses many rivals. Prices for good examples are comfortably within our £15k budget today.

Peugeot RCZ

Peugeot’s curvy, bubble-domed RCZ made quite the impression when it was released, and broke the mould in terms of the way ‘regular’ coupes should look. The interior may have been standard-fit Peugeot, but the exterior looked like few other cars on the road – and remains that way.

The RCZ is a great buy on the used market, too. You’ll be able to find plenty of examples for our £15,000 budget – and running costs won’t be too scary, either.

Honda CR-Z

The CR-Z is a striking coupe from Honda, and features a hybrid powertrain too. It means that as well as costing well under £15,000 used, the CR-Z will cost very little to run – and it has a proven track-record when it comes to reliability, too.

It’s nippy and fun to drive, and could be the ideal choice for those who want to inject a little bit of fun into their daily drive, without adding an increase in running costs.

Maserati 3200

Think that an all-Italian sports coupe would be well out of reach at £15,000? Think again. Maserati’s elegant 3200 can be had for under our budget, and it’s easily one of the most striking cars to feature on this list.

It uses a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, and it’ll hit 60mph from a dead stop in around six seconds. Of course, reliability and running costs will likely prove to be headache-worthy, but find a well-looked-after example and there’s no reason why the 3200 can’t be enjoyed in a (relatively) small budget.

Spring is well and truly upon us. The clocks have gone forward, the days are longer and – for the most part – there’s a little more sunshine to enjoy. And now that the worst of the weather is behind us, it’s time to make the most of the open road again.

But what to do it in? Well, we’ve put together some of the best cars to exploit it in — all for under £5,000. Take your pick…

Audi A4 Convertible

 

The Audi A4 Convertible may not be the most exciting of cars, but it ticks all of the boxes for a springtime special. There’s plenty of space for four people to enjoy the journey, and it won’t be expensive to run, either. Plus, because it’s a convertible, you’re free to enjoy the very best of the weather. And, if it turns particularly British, the folding roof does a good job of insulating the cabin from the outside.

Renaultsport Clio

As the roads get clearer, conditions dry out and the sun begins to shine there’s one thing on the minds of most motoring enthusiasts — finding some good roads and going for a proper drive. What better car to do that in than possibly the definitive hot hatch of the last decade? Renaultsport is adored for its incredibly engaging cars, and the Clio is no exception in any form — and better yet, there are loads and they’re cheap.

Mazda MX-5

One of the most famous roadsters of all time, there’s good reason why the Mazda MX-5 is so popular with enthusiasts; it’s a lot of fun, plus cheap to repair and cheap to run too. What’s more, you’ll get a tidy example for our £5,000 budget.

Toyota MR2

The Toyota MR2 follows in a similar vein to the MX-5; it’s lightweight, cheap to run and inexpensive to buy. It doesn’t offer the same practicality levels as the little Mazda, but it’ll still put a huge grin on whoever is behind the wheel. Plus, well-known Toyota build quality means you shouldn’t have too many reliability issues with an MR2 either.

Mini Cooper S

If you’re looking for fun in the springtime sun, then it’s hard to ignore the Mini Cooper S. We’re talking about the R53 Mini here; it was the first ‘new’ performance car from the brand, and proved an immediate hit thanks to sharp handling and near never-ending grip levels. Plus, it’s relatively practical too — and is still quick by new car standards.

Fiat Panda 100HP

As far as giant-killers go, the Fiat Panda 100HP is right up there. Don’t let its dinky dimensions fool you, the 100HP is an engaging, feisty and hard-cornering little sports hatch, and will provide more fun than cars costing three times the price. They also offer excellent value on the used market, and won’t cost the earth to run, either.

VW Golf R32

Back before the arrival of the now-famous Golf R, if you wanted a little more performance from your Volkswagen hatchback — over the standard GTI, that is — there was the R32. The first-generation, based on the MK4 Golf, may not have been the most accurate of cars but it was fast – and ideal for blasting away the winter cobwebs.

Jeep Wrangler

Whereas some cars on this list offer speed, and others driver involvement, the Jeep Wrangler is just about fun — plain and simple. With the roof off and the doors detached, this is one car to fully make use of the drier weather in, and it’ll handle any terrain you can throw at it.

Though it seems like we only just had the 68-plate arrive, it’s time for another new one. On March 1, the new 19 plate change will hit new cars across the UK.

But what are the best cars to get with this shiny new number plate? Let’s take a look.

Audi

A1

The dinky A1’s seen a sharp-edged makeover, and now tops the Volkswagen Group’s supermini family above the Skoda Fabia, Seat Ibiza and Volkswagen Polo.

A7

A huge limo with coupe-like styling, powerful engines and four-wheel drive? Sign us up. The A7’s getting on a bit now but new plug-in hybrid options due later this year should freshen things up a bit.

Bentley

Continental GT Convertible

Two words should endear the new Continental GT Convertible to you – tweed hood. Of course, the W12 engine, wealth of interior technology and impressive performance are all pluses as well…

BMW

3 Series

We’re glad to report that the latest generation of BMW 3 Series is a worthy example of the breed – inheriting its predecessor’s brilliant dynamics and efficient engines.

X3/X4

BMW arguably helped make the compact premium SUV segment what it is today, and luckily for buyers of the new X3 and its related X4 sister, it’s not forgotten how to make these big cars handle like sports saloons.

X5

Your thoughts about the big grille aside, the new X5 is a deeply impressive beast. Amazingly dainty on its feet for something so big, it’s also premium, comfortable and packed with tech.

Citroen

C5 Aircross

Could this be the car that best encompasses the spirit of Citroens of old? The C5 Aircross is the quirky option in the SUV sector and comes with the brand’s ‘Advanced Comfort’ suspension and seats.

C4 Cactus

If the C5 Aircross is the modern-day CX, then the Cactus is the 2CV. It puts its focus on simplicity and practicality, though the second-generation model is a little more conventional than its barmy predecessor.

Dacia

Sandero

We couldn’t not suggest you buy a Dacia Sandero – after all, it’s the cheapest new car on sale by a big margin. And for its price, it’s actually very good thanks to modern powertrains mated to last-generation’s tech in a bid to keep costs down.

DS

DS 3 Crossback

We’re quite excited for this one – it’s only DS’s second purpose-built car since the brand spun off from Citroen a few years ago. It’s also going to be offered with petrol, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.

Ferrari

Portofino

Ditching the California for the far more attractively named (and styled) Portofino was a great move for Ferrari. The new car may not be a track-honed monster, but it’s everything you want from a convertible GT.

Honda

CR-V Hybrid

Having an electrified SUV in the range is quickly becoming a necessity for manufacturers, so it’s a good thing Honda got in relatively early with the comfortable and easy-to-drive CR-V Hybrid.

Hyundai

Kona Electric

Electric cars are becoming more usable all the time, but with over 250 miles on a single charge and an affordable price tag Hyundai took a big leap with the Kona Electric. Get in quick, as it’s proven so in demand that Hyundai’s struggling to fill orders.

Jeep

Wrangler

Reviving an icon’s always difficult but Jeep managed it with the Wrangler. It’s still as classic as ever – and brilliant off-road – but has enough modern tech to keep millennials happy.

Kia

Proceed

A stylish, swooping shooting brake? Who else but Kia? Anyone, in fact – nobody really expected the Proceed, but now it’s here, it’s proven to be a great combination of good looks and superbly practical underpinnings.

Ceed GT

So the Ceed range may not yet have a true hot hatch to rival sister brand Hyundai’s i30N, but the Ceed GT gets quite close. It’s a good-looking mid-sized hatch with just over 200bhp – plenty for most people!

Land Rover

Range Rover Evoque

The current Evoque’s been on sale for ages and the time’s right for a replacement, even if that replacement looks virtually the same. It’s all change under the skin though, with new engines and tech.

Lexus

ES

We don’t traditionally buy big saloons in the UK unless they’re German, but the Lexus ES might help change that. It’s not exciting, but it’s supremely relaxing and should be painless to own.

UX

Small, premium SUVs are hot, hot, hot – and Lexus is finally entering the segment with its dinky UX. It offers striking looks and hybrid powertrains, hopefully making for low running costs.

Mazda

3

The family hatchback may have a new class leader in the Mazda 3, which is a brilliant car held back only by its limited engine range. That should change with the introduction of the groundbreaking SkyActiv-X unit, though.

CX-3

We’re big fans of the Mazda CX-3 – a crossover that drives like a beautifully sorted hatchback. It’s also elegantly styled and efficient too, with plenty of petrol and diesel engines to choose from. It’s an impressive good car to drive, too – meaning you don’t have to forsake driver enjoyment for practicality.

McLaren

720s Spider

The 720s Spider is a drop-top version of the firm’s acclaimed supercar. With a turbocharged V8 engine and as much horsepower as you could possibly want, it’s for people who want the McLaren experience with the wind-in-your-hair factor too.

Mercedes

AMG A 35

Mercedes has proven itself unexpectedly good at making hot hatchbacks, and the A 35 is no exception. Very powerful but superbly composed, with a wild streak that’s very appealing – we can’t wait for its more potent A 45 sibling to arrive.

EQC

Mercedes latest electrified offering is the all-electric EQC – based on the GLC platform and delivering a 250-mile range and more than 400bhp.

Nissan

Micra

The Micra was a fairly mediocre car at launch, but thanks to a mid-life update with new tech and brand-new engines it’s got a new lease of life. Customers can also opt for a sporty N-Sport model with a bespoke body kit and more powerful engine.

Peugeot

508 SW

Peugeot’s 508 Fastback is a real stunner, and the brand’s stylists have worked their magic on the estate, too. It’s not the most practical in its class, sure, but it’s definitely one of the best-looking – and it’s also great to drive.

Porsche

911

The arrival of a new 911 is always an exciting thing, and fortunately this latest version has managed to live up to the reputation of its predecessor. More of an evolution than a revolution, but you can’t fault the way the new 911 steers, accelerates and looks, too.

Seat

Tarraco

Yes, it’s another SUV, but the Seat Tarraco is one well worth opting for. Sharp looking and with a range of efficient engines, it’s been designed to take on the likes of the Nissan X-Trail and Kia Sorento. It also comes with the option of seven seats, so it’s ideal for larger families.

Skoda

Scala

Contrasting the huge wave of SUVs hitting the market is this, Skoda’s Scala hatchback. Going up against the Ford Focus, the Scala is built on the same MQB A0 platform as the Volkswagen T-Roc and Seat Ibiza. It’s efficient, spacious and – in our eyes – good looking, too.

Suzuki

Jimny

Replacing the old Jimny after nearly two decades was never going to be an easy job, but Suzuki’s tactic of sticking to the old recipe served it very well. If you can get one of these on a 19 plate, then DO – stocks are low and used prices are already rocketing.

Toyota

Corolla

The Corolla nameplate is one of the best-known – ever – in the car world, and Toyota’s brought it back to Europe to adorn this new, 12th-generation model. It offers a choice of two hybrid powertrains as well as a more conventional cabin shaped by customer feedback.

RAV4

The RAV4 has gone through a bit of a murky patch of late, but now there’s a new one to rectify things. Available with a hybrid powertrain only, it’s a fine option for those who want the high ride height of a compact SUV, but with lower running costs better suited for urban drivers.

Volvo

Volvo V60

Volvo’s new V60 is the latest addition to the Swedish firm’s range of estate cars, and aims to match the popularity of the larger V90. A range of petrol or diesel powertrains are available, and they’re backed by excellent build quality and typically Scandinavian looks too.

It’s almost that time of the year again — the Geneva Motor Show. Taking place from March 5 to 17, it sees manufacturers flocking to the Swiss city to showcase all of its latest production models, concept machinery and innovative technology.

What will this year bring? We’ve picked out some of the expected stars…

Lagonda All-Terrain Concept

We’ve already had a look at the regular Lagonda concept, but this is an extension of that – the Lagonda All-Terrain Concept. Like the previous Lagonda model, it’s electric – but now has the capability to go here, there and everywhere.

Mazda CX-4

Mazda is set to bring a new SUV to the Geneva Motor Show, and it’s believed to be the CX-4. It’s likely to use the latest-generation 3 as its underpinnings and could benefit from new Skyactiv-X technology.

Bentley Continental centenary special

British luxury firm Bentley is celebrating 100 years in existence this year and is creating a special centenary model to celebrate. Thought to be a unique version of the Continental GT, expect this to sport a look harking back through Bentley’s history.

Honda Urban EV

Honda showcased the Urban EV Concept at Geneva last time around to rapturous applause, and this year will see the production version break cover. Expect it to retain a lot of the character of the concept, albeit toned down to meet cost restrictions and road legality.

Morgan wide body

It’s big news when Morgan makes a new car — so rare is the occasion. Don’t expect looks to be revolutionary on the car widely referred to as the ‘wide body’, but it’s thought to be the start of a new era of six-cylinder powered Morgans.

Polestar 2

The aptly-named Polestar 2 will be making its public debut at Geneva, following on from the Polestar 1. It will be the first all-electric car from the Volvo spin-off firm and is set to take on the much-hyped Tesla Model 3 in the compact luxury EV saloon segment.

Kia crossover

Kia will be using Geneva as an opportunity to reveal a new vehicle, likely to be a hatch-turned-SUV variant of the Ceed to take on the likes of the Ford Focus Active.

Porsche Cayman GT4

2015’s Porsche Cayman GT4 was met with adornment from enthusiasts, so it’s no surprise that excitement is drumming up for a successor. It hasn’t been officially confirmed, but it’s a strong possibility that the new GT4 will be making a Geneva appearance.

Skoda Kamiq

Coming as the next model in Skoda’s SUV offensive, the Kamiq will show its face to the public for the first time at Geneva. We’ve already been given glimpses of the interior and badging, but this will be the car’s reveal in full – a big moment for Skoda.

Subaru electrified cars

Subaru is expected to reveal not one but two electrified concepts at Geneva this year, with each utilising a hybrid version of its traditional Boxer engine. It’ll be the first time we’ll have seen an electrified Subaru in Europe – a Forester Advance Sport Concept used an electrified powertrain and was revealed at the recent Tokyo Auto Salon.

BMW M8

We’ve already been treated to BMW’s 8 Series grand tourer, but this is the first time we’ll get to see the out-and-out M8 performance version. Topping the current list of M-cars, the M8 will pack a turbocharged V8 engine, along with plenty of tweaks and additions to the mechanicals over the regular 8 Series.

Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept

Ignore the strange name for a second — this concept from Mitsubishi could be a revolutionary machine for the firm. It’ll showcase new EV technology from the Japanese manufacturer, along with ‘further developments of SUV styling’.

Pininfarina Battista

Italian design house Pininfarina has been making a lot of noise about a new, all-conquering supercar — and it’ll reveal its hard work at Geneva. Set to boast an unbelievable 1,900bhp, it could set a new benchmark of performance.

BMW 3 Series Touring

What’s more exciting than the arrival of a new BMW wagon? Not much, really. But Geneva marks the return of the 3 Series Touring – arguably one of the best load-luggers out there. We’ve got some idea about the way it’ll look, but we’ll only see the final design execution when it heads out into the halls.

Citroen centenary concept

Citroen celebrates 100 years in business this year, and to commemorate the event it’s producing a pair of concepts – one for the Paris Motor Show in May, and the other for Geneva. The one featuring at the Geneva Motor Show will likely give an insight into Citroen’s ‘future of mobility’.

Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

Merc’s previous-generation CLA Shooting Brake wasn’t a common sight on UK roads, yet Mercedes is choosing to persevere and bring an all-new one to market. It’ll pack all the same technology we’ve seen in the A-Class, but in a sleeker, more tapered bodystyle.

Renault Clio

Renault’s Clio is a bread-and-butter car; there are few other as recognisable both in name and design as the French manufacturer’s compact hatchback. But given the rise of crossover in recent years, this latest Clio has to be very good indeed to fend off rivals coming from all angles.

Ssangyong Korando

Ssangyong’s all-new mid-size SUV will get its full reveal at Geneva this year, having been teased already by the e-SIV concept released at last year’s show. It’s designed to take on the likes of Nissan’s Qashqai, so expect family-friendly design touches and a range of efficient engines.

VW I.D. Buggy

Potentially stealing the show will be the Volkswagen I.D. Buggy. This all-electric off-road concept probably won’t make it to production, but it will take inspiration from the iconic Californian buggies of the past.

Vauxhall Corsa

A new version of one of Britain’s most popular hatches is likely to be making an appearance at Geneva. Teased so far in a sole image of its LED headlight, expect to hear information on an electric version alongside a full reveal.

Peugeot 208

Likely to use the same platform as its PSA stablemate Corsa, the new Peugeot 208 is also thought to be coming to Geneva. It could make use of the same electric powertrain that is being earmarked for the Vauxhall hatch too.

McLaren Senna GTR

Last year, McLaren showcased a concept track-only GTR at Geneva — and a production version is to follow this year. Limited to just 75 units, this track-only monster will build on the Senna hypercar with aggressive aerodynamics and tons of track-oriented tech.

It’s easy to assume that car manufacturing in Britain is a bit-player in the country’s secondary industrial landscape. But nothing could be further from the truth – and despite doom and gloom surrounding Brexit as well as falling demand for diesel vehicles, the UK’s manufacturing plants are still humming along very nicely, thank you.

It is true that most historic UK brands are now under foreign ownership – only three ‘major’ manufacturers that build in the country are actually UK-owned companies, and even then, they’re small potatoes at most. But with major manufacturers such as Toyota, Nissan and Jaguar Land Rover still operating a significant presence in the UK, it’s fair to say that UK manufacturing is still going strong.

Though there are challenges ahead, with the threat of a poor Brexit deal that could impact deliveries, apply import tariffs or make it difficult to build cars at all, car manufacturing in the UK looks set to continue for many years yet. Here are all the major manufacturers who build cars in the UK:

Aston Martin

You couldn’t have a list of the best British-built cars without featuring Aston Martin, surely?

It’s a firm as well associated with our shores as tea, driving on the correct side and being knocked out of the World Cup prematurely. Finding fame as the choice machine of super spy James Bond, it has grown to become a worldwide statement of luxury.

Better yet, every car it makes is produced here in Britain. Its current offerings are created in Gaydon, while Newport Pagnell plays host to its classic restoration arm. There aren’t any signs of it going anywhere either, with a new facility in St Athan, Wales, soon opening as the home of the DBX SUV.

Morgan

Doesn’t get more British than Morgan, does it? Hand-crafted in the Malvern hills, these cars have been around for an awfully long time – and they haven’t changed an awful lot since they were first put together, in fact. Yes, they use wood in their construction, but this is put alongside lightweight aluminium components and beautiful, hand-rolled body panels.

A new range-topping Plus 8 model is on the horizon – so keep your eyes sharp for a new generation of Morgan car. Just don’t expect it to be completely modern in its design.

Caterham

Enthusiasts claim that the Caterham Seven is as close to driving nirvana as it’s possible to get. We’d have to agree; there’s little not to love about the way these two-seaters drive, with their immediate steering and energetic range of engines. They’re quick, too – the range-topping 620R will crack 0-60mph in under three seconds, in fact.

And they’re still hand-built in the UK too – though of course, there is the option to build them yourself at home. It just depends on how confident you are with the spanners.

McLaren

When thinking of a supercar, most will imagine an exotic Italian machine, clinical German bruiser or maybe even something big and American. But one of the best manufacturers in the segment builds its cars in the unlikely town of Woking in Surrey — McLaren.

Since 2009, McLaren Automotive has gone from a newcomer to a heavyweight in the high-end market. All of its cars are handbuilt in Britain, with chassis and carbon fibre components produced at a new facility in Sheffield shipped to Woking for final assembly.

Mini

Mini’s been trading on its British identity since it was reborn in 2001 under BMW ownership – the latest models even have Union flags in the taillights. Though the brand may be German-owned, it’s not all toot, either – Mini produces its signature Hatch, Convertible, Clubman and Countryman models in the UK.

Engines are made at a plant in Hams Hall, Birmingham, body assemblies and subframes are made at a plant in Swindon and the whole lot comes together for final assembly at the flagship plant in Cowley, Oxfordshire.

Honda

The Honda Civic is one of, if not the, most iconic nameplates for the Japanese manufacturer — but it might surprise you to learn that most examples of the machine are made here in the UK.

Since 1994, Civics destined for the European market have been built in Swindon, including the high-performance Type R — which has even been exported to Honda’s homeland. The plant has also previously produced the CR-V, Accord and Jazz for Europe.

Toyota

Toyota’s been producing cars in the UK for longer than you might realise – its first model, a Carina E, rolled off the assembly line at Burnaston, Derbyshire in 1992 and is now proudly displayed in the British Motor Museum, Gaydon.

Since then, the Avensis saloon and Corolla and Auris hatchbacks – some of Toyota’s biggest-selling models – have been made at the plant. The brand’s commitment to manufacturing cars in the UK remains strong, too, with production of the all-new Corolla now taking place in Burnaston.

Nissan

While Nissan may have recently announced plans to can plans of producing the X-Trail at its plant in Sunderland, it’s not all doom-and-gloom for the Japanese firm’s operations in the UK.

The firm has had a presence on Wearside since 1984, with its factory up north producing cars for global markets — including Nissan’s home country. Currently, it builds the Qashqai SUV, Juke crossover and all-electric Leaf hatchback alongside sister-brand Infiniti’s Q30 and QX30.

Lotus 

Lotus may now be under the ownership of Chinese automotive giant Geely, but production remains in the same place it has always been — Hethel, Norfolk.

While it may not be a major player in the wider motoring scale, there’s plenty to celebrate in Lotus’ British engineering and production. Currently, it offers the Elise, Evora and Exige — all in various guises — and is showing no signs of going anywhere.

Bentley

A plant in Crewe is where Bentley, despite being under the ownership of the Volkswagen Group, chooses to hand-build its entire model line-up. The Continental, Flying Spur, Mulsanne and Bentayga all begin life in Crewe before being shipped out worldwide.

Rolls-Royce

Arguably the best-known luxury brand in the world, Rolls-Royce is, like Mini, owned by BMW – but that hasn’t stopped it from remaining thoroughly red, white and blue through and through.

The brand employs superior craftsmen and women at its plant in Goodwood, Sussex, controlling everything from the woodgrain used for the interior facings to the bespoke engines under the bonnet.

Jaguar Land Rover

Indian steel giant Tata owns Jaguar Land Rover, but operates most of its production lines in the UK. With the exception of the I-Pace and E-Pace, which are built at the Austrian Magna Steyr plant, and the Discovery, which has recently moved to a new plant in Slovakia, all of JLR’s models are built in Halewood, Merseyside, Castle Bromwich and Solihull in the West Midlands. Design and development takes place in Gaydon, a stone’s throw from the British Motor Museum, while Headquarters and Classic are based in Coventry.

Vauxhall

Despite being under the ownership of American GM for a large portion of its history and now being under the control of the French PSA Group, Vauxhall still has a manufacturing presence here in the UK.

Ellesmere Port in Cheshire is responsible for building the Astra in both Vauxhall and Opel guises. Uncertainty over the plants future has grown over the past few years, with job cuts by the hundreds, but for now at least it’s still going.

It’s fair to say that one of the most eagerly anticipated cars of recent times wasn’t a high-performance sports car, or a super-expensive luxury saloon. It was in fact the humble Suzuki Jimny – a tiny off-roader with barely 100bhp and the sort of design a five-year-old might come up with if you asked them to draw a car.

But one should never underestimate the value of rugged capability and sheer charm, because the Jimny has already proven wildly popular. In fact, with Suzuki in Japan allocating just 1,200 units a year to the UK, and well over 10,000 orders taken already, buyers may be in for a hefty wait if they want to get their hands on this pint-sized 4×4.

However, if you’re just after an exceptional off-roader but don’t want to pay the many thousands for a brand-new Range Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser, don’t fear – here are some of the best models you can pick up for the £15,499 price of a Jimny. Just without the wait.

Toyota Land Cruiser

There are many aspects of car ownership to be concerned about, but when looking into Land Cruisers you can at least rest easy that reliability isn’t one of them. These beasts can look pricey against similar vehicles of an equivalent age and condition, but in a nutshell a properly maintained Land Cruiser is likely to outlast the stable orbit of the moon.

They’re also near-unbeatable off-road and, in the era we’re buying from, packed with enough kit to keep most people happy. Expect leather upholstery and electric everything.

Land Rover Discovery

In contrast to the Land Cruiser, Land Rovers aren’t known for being endlessly reliable – but a few gremlins here and there are no reason to dismiss the Discovery. For a start, they’re fantastic family cars – the Discovery ‘4’ that we’re looking at will seat seven adults with ease.

Thanks to Land Rover’s clever ‘Terrain Response’ system, heading off-road need be no more difficult than simply flicking a switch and turning a dial – and soon, you’ll be happily plugging through the mud all the while ensconced in leather and wood. Lovely.

Jeep Wrangler

Jeep’s Wrangler shares a similar appeal to the Jimny, in that it offers old-school looks with a slightly more modern driving experience. At this price point you’ll be able to nab a decent example (though they do tend to command quite high prices used) but be warned – as good as they are on the rough stuff, they do tend to be quite wearing to drive on-road.

Nissan Patrol

The Nissan Patrol is big, brash and impeccably good off-road, making it a real contender against a new Jimny. For the same cost as the little Suzuki you’ll be able to grab a low-mileage example, powered by a 3.0-litre turbodiesel. With space for five and a big boot, it’s very practical too.

Old Suzuki Jimny

If you can’t deal with waiting for the new Jimny, why not just go for the previous model? Used prices have already started to creep up in response to the new car’s massive waiting lists, but you can still net yourself an absolute bargain. Prices range from a few hundred quid for well-loved older models to around £14,000 for a nearly brand-new example.

Clearly, the Jimny’s on-road manners leave much to be desired, but these little terriers will keep up with any larger machine on the rough stuff, and have proven truly tough over their two decades on sale.

Range Rover

The Range Rover was a bid to take the Land Rover formula of rugged off-road ability and give it a tickle to make it as good on the tarmac as a conventional car.

Nearly five decades of fettling later and the modern Range Rover is a genuinely wonderful thing – easily capable of competing with both a hardcore off-roader and a luxury limousine. Opt for service history before age and you’ll mitigate as many reliability woes as possible.

Subaru Forester

Think Subaru, and you’ll imagine one of two things. The first is probably images of youths in a McDonald’s car park revving their souped-up Imprezas — but perhaps also of cars that can tackle anything thrown its way.

Enter the Forester, a classic example of basic-but-reliable engineering. Over its two-decade life cycle, it’s gained a reputation as a machine for tackling mud, snow, shallow rivers and even Tesco car parks without so much as a problematic start up. Thanks to its popularity in the UK, early examples can be had for mere pennies — while late, low-mileage cars still come well into budget.

Fiat Fullback

Fiat and dependable off-roader might not be the choice play in a game of word association, but the Fullback certainly files under the category. That’s thanks to its Mitsubishi underpinnings, effectively being little more than a rebadged L200, this Thai-built machine has the ability to take on even the toughest terrains.

It’s also still a fairly new machine too, having been in production since 2016. Despite this, prices have fallen below the £15k mark towards the lower end of the market — meaning it’s possible to get a virtually new, larger machine than a Jimny for the same price.

Mitsubishi Shogun

The Shogun name has been applied to quite a few vehicles over the years, so it’s important to know that you’re buying the correct one. While Shogun Sports and Shogun Pinins are all interesting cars, it’s the big daddy we’re interested in – the full-sized Shogun.

Powered by a massive diesel engine, based on a super-tough ladder frame and with a boxy, no-nonsense body on top, the Shogun is a classic case of the rugged off-roader done right. The current model’s been around for donkey’s years, so your budget will grab you a car that doesn’t even look too out-of-date.

Convertible ownership in the UK brings its challenges. Sure, it’s wonderful for the handful of sunny days we see in August — but with the weather so temperamental for the rest of the year, a slow-acting roof can be the difference between a soaking and staying totally dry, or even missing a brief catch of the rays.

While the obvious solution may seem to be to opt for a manual closing roof, many can be difficult or even impossible to close on the move. That said, speed can be everything with an electrically operated alternative — so we’ve listed the quickest power-folding roofs on sale today…

BMW i8 Roadster — 15 seconds

It took a while for BMW to finally bring the i8 Roadster into production, but it still manages to look light years ahead of rivals in its segment. And what better way to enjoy it than with the roof down? With a 15 second opening and closing time, the roof even has the speed to match the i8’s performance.

Audi A5 Cabriolet — 15 seconds

Audi’s A5 Cabriolet may be one of the more mundane soft-tops on our list, but that doesn’t stop it from qualifying in roof-lowering times. Fifteen seconds is on the slower end of the scale here, but it’s still quick enough to avoid getting soaked in a rain shower.

Ferrari Portofino — 14 seconds

Folding hard-tops often have a tougher job than fabric roofs, with a difficult origami involved in fitting a bulky metal roof into a small compartment at the rear. They’re also pretty weighty compared to a fabric roof too, leading them to be slower. Despite this, the Ferrari Portofino manages to retract its canopy in just 14 seconds, at speeds of up to 25mph. Not bad for a supposed ‘budget’ Ferrari. Oh, did we mention it’ll also do nearly 200mph?

Aston Martin DB11 Volante — 14 seconds

Aston Martin’s convertible cars are, if anything, even better-looking than their hard-roofed counterparts – and the DB11 Volante is no exception. It’s truly gorgeous roof up or down. Luckily, you won’t have to worry about switching between the two – folding and unfolding the eight-layer fabric roof takes just 14 seconds, at speeds of up to 31mph. No drama if it starts raining while you’re boulevard cruising, then.

Mazda MX-5 RF — 13 seconds

The Mazda MX-5 has long been one of — if not the — most popular convertibles to make it to the UK. It’s perhaps surprising the Japanese took them until 2016 to introduce a folding hard-top variant of the car, but it arrived with sharp looks and a respectable folding time of 13 seconds. That said, it is hindered slightly by only being to operate at speeds up to 6mph.

Porsche 911 Cabriolet — 12 seconds

The old Porsche 911 Cabriolet didn’t exactly have a slow power-folding roof — registering a 13 second time — but the latest version has still managed to improve on it. With a 12 second open/shut time, the 992 911 is perfect for going fast while rapidly taking advantage of sunshine bursts.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible — 12 seconds

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible does well in the roof closing and raising race, with its time of 12 seconds close to the top of our list here. It’s also a pretty car with the roof up or down, meaning you don’t have to compromise on style with either configuration.

Audi TT Roadster — 10 seconds

The Audi TT Roadster has been one of the go-to premium drop-tops for some time now, and its roof operating time of 10 seconds is yet another reason to choose it. Available with a variety of engines, the TT Roadster is a convertible you can use every day – and it looks good, too.

Porsche 718 Boxster — 9 seconds

The Boxster may sit underneath the 911 in the Porsche range, but it at least has one thing over its bigger brother — roof speed. In just nine seconds, the roof of the Boxster can be opened or closed. Who needs more horsepower, anyway?

Ford Mustang Convertible — 7 seconds

Topping the list of fastest convertibles might be the car everyone thinks of when it comes to capturing the sun in a real drop-top cruiser — the Mustang Convertible. While driving it on a summer’s day in California might mean the roof will never have to go up, it’s handy to know it’ll only take seven seconds to do so if you’re heading around Hull on a patchy day.