My judgement is based on following grounds:

VW Polo

A small Golf in almost every respect, the new compact VW offers a convincing mix of quality, performance and looks. In addition, it drives remarkably well, feels good, oozes solidity, is comfortable and refined. Priced quite attractively, the Polo - which will over time evelove into a family of models - is a commendably sophisticated piece of kit which can be had with a choice of downsized turbo-charged engines, a pace-setting dual clutch gearbox and the highly efficient Blue Motion package.  

Skoda Yeti

A truly modern crossover, the Yeti incorporates plenty of SUV assets while avoiding most of the drawbacks. Strong points include optional four-wheel drive capability, flexible and space-efficient packageing, decent ride and handling, good value for money and that quality feel. Just about the only downside concerns the rough and no longer trend-setting 2.0litre diesel and the fact that none of the 4WD models can be had in combination with the desirable DSG transmission.

Opel Astra

It´s a good car, the new Astra. Quite a bit larger outside and more spacious inside, very comfortable, sure-footed, well equipped and keenly priced. It looks and feels classy, too, despite the overcrowded centre stack. But it could be an even better car, that new Astra, if it was equipped with a less artificial steering, if the engine range was more state-of-the-art, if options like 4WD or dual clutch transmission were available. Once these gaps are closed, the Golf class may well have to be renamed.

Mercedes E-class

With the 5series about to be replaced and the A6 getting long in the tooth, the new midliner from Stuttgart should have this segment all to itself. In terms of comfort, space, active and passive safety, quality and green technology, the E is indeed the undisputed leader of the pack. But the design polarizes more than it should, the ancient five-speed automatic should no longer be part of the portfolio, and after all those years we are still waiting for a mix of four-pot engine and 4Matic 4WD.    

Citroën C3 Picasso

As far as microvans go, this odd-looking holdall is, somewhat surprisingly, the vehicle of choice. It packs more people and luggage than a full-size estate, rides well, costs - in diesel form - peanuts to run, and is much better to drive than the narrow and upright proportions suggests. Better build, better quality materials, better seats and a better steering would have added at least one more point. But is this really the right design language for a brand that gave us icons such as 2CV, GS, DS and SM?

Toyota iQ

The iQ beats the smart hands down, but then it is quite a bit longer and wider. The choppy ride, the suspicious stability in the wet, the awkward handling at the limit, the indifferent steering, the hesitant CVT box, the low-rent cabin trim and the compromised seating arrangement all speak against the Toyota. But the ingenious drivetrain packageing and the super-tight turning circle are undisputed assets. So is the innovative concept - which would have deserved a more careful execution.