My judgement is based on following grounds:

Citroën C3 Picasso visualizes a new approach to the family car. Upright, but not severe, on the contrary very charming, inviting and above all: easy to use. Not overdone, but just what the young family needs. The seats fold in a whiff if needed and if not there is space for luggage within the 408 cm in overall length. Ample light in the cabin due to a generous glass surface make every passenger fell good and the driver will find pleasure behind the steering wheel. A programme of frugal engines, high level of equipment with a touch of luxury at an affordable price make Citroën C3 Picasso my winner with a total of 10 point.

Opel Astra is the logic follower of last year’s winner Insignia. Astra proves the Insignia was not a “flash in the pan”, more the beginning of a new era for Opel. The new Astra is so good, that even the early cars available for testing, showed a quality in the cabin to match VW Golf in a less sombre atmosphere and this is transferred into the chassis. The new Astra is nothing less than a joy to drive as well as to look at. All 6 points are well deserved.

Volkswagen Polo is synonym with “seen before”, even with the Scirocco face, but deserves nevertheless respect for a built quality on par with Golf and for the offers in environmental friendliness. Much appreciated, but in every day driving the Polo is just a Polo and not more frugal than many competitors. Emission of less CO2 is at a surcharge. This earns 4 point.

Toyota iQ is the outsider as the tiny car challenging both brains and heart within a length of one centimetre less than three meters. I have spent time with iQ and must admit I miss the plot. What does the iQ do better than the full four seater Fiat Panda of 3,5 meter? Nothing in my book other than being different and having a tiny turning circle that makes iQ nippy in the city. Thank you for trying. It is worth 3 point.

Skoda Yeti is the funny way to drive VW Tiguan. The design is very nice and smooth without the macho approach of a 4x4. The interior has got the Roomster touch and the built quality is good. Engines and DSG gearbox from the family pool does a lot of good for Yeti. 2 points.