My judgement is based on following grounds:

Mercedes E: This typically German large sedan represents the quintessence of the expertise of the star-emblem brand. Statutory to perfection, luxurious, comfortable, safe, homogeneous, it is well designed and remarkably produced. It is perhaps not very fun to drive, but it disconnects you completely from the road. This outstanding car drives you towards a genuine equanimity. It may well be the supreme stage of automotive refinement. Excellent for covering thousands of  kilometers without feeling tired. With limited fuel consumption. Its numerous safety features can sometimes be exasperating.

Peugeot 3008: If keeping to purely rational criteria, the 3008 does not necessarily serve great purpose, since it is neither a true compact MPV nor a four-wheel drive vehicle. However, it is so successful in reconciling contradictions that it is appealing. This model is driven exactly like a car. Precise, easy to handle, lively, remarkably stable and safe, it also offers a highly satisfactory level of comfort (except with the 18’’ wheels). Its powertrains are smooth and effective enough, the transmissions well adapted. It has a pleasant design, even if the finish does not equal that of the best models. The luminosity generated by the transparent panoramic roof (on the higher grades) makes the 3008 very enjoyable.

Volkswagen Polo: If homogeneity would be the sole basis for choice, the Polo would take first prize. Lively, fuel efficient, spacious, agile and stable, it is the best small car on the current market. With, as bonus, workmanship of excellent quality which relegates its top competitors. It is strong and reliable. But this unquestionable precision is obtained to the detriment of originality. Rigorous, even austere, the Polo does not provide any really new solution. Even if it is a wise choice for the consumer 

Toyota iQ: The engineers have achieved an incredible prowess: to produce a true car less than 3 metres in length. This three-seater (plus a stopgap seat) is highly welcoming (at the front). It holds the road relatively well at low and medium speeds, despite its short wheelbase, and breaks safely. In addition, it looks sturdy. Toyota has therefore displayed unparalleled ingenuity. This distinctive model is certainly the most innovative this year. Unfortunately, it has limits…linked to its size. Noisy, the iQ lacks comfort, the price to pay for its stability. And its cost seems high.

Citroën C3 Picasso: A friendly car with bulbous shapes, enjoying an exceptional roominess-compactness ratio, welcoming, cheery and functional, it is the most accomplished mini MPV currently in production. But its road behaviour (slightly clumsy) and substantial weight don’t make it fun to drive.

Skoda Yeti: With its original shapes, the Yeti is no Abominable Snowman. Stocky, fairly squat, with soft and simple lines, well protected, the small Czech 4WD is without arrogance. Well finished, rather economical and pretty convenient, it is meant to be the representative of a new trend in non aggressive all-road vehicles. But its running proves unsmooth (engines, gearbox).