My judgement is based on following grounds:

Toyota IQ

Toyota’s IQ is a marvel, deserving of far more attention than it has garnered so far. For a start, there’s the spaciousness: This is a car that’s little bigger than the much-heralded Smart car, yet manages to accommodate three adults. It pops along at 120km/h without a worry. It’s simply fantastic when you consider its size. It’s also eco-friendly and has secured a five-star EuroNCAP rating despite its size.

VW Polo

Volkswagen’s Polo might not initially seem to revolutionise the world of motoring, but it’s got three things going for it: size, performance and price. You have to put all memories of previous Polos out of your mind. This might carry the small-car badge but it’s a Golf in everything but name. It’s a great little car that’s a match for its main rival, the Ford Fiesta, while offering some of the middle-class cachet that has made VW so popular in the past.

Mercedes E-Class

The Mercedes E-Class may seem a little conservative in its styling, but it’s nothing of the sort. This is a thoroughbred competitor and not just as a mile-munching motorway runner, its star loses none of its shine on twisting back roads. Credit lies with the engineers for not only repairing the damage to the brand from the model launched in 2001, but also closing right up against the once invincible BMW 5 Series.

Peugeot 3008

When Peugeot announced it was adding to the ranks of small hatchbacks bulked up to look a bit like SUVs, we were not exactly giddy with excitement. When eventually we hopped into the driving seat then, our preconceptions were shot through. While the exterior is a bit bland, the interior is arguably the best we’ve seen from Peugeot.

Skoda Yeti

Skoda’s Yeti is aiming for a similar market as the 3008, but with a little more exterior character and flair. It’s a well-built hatchback that’s a little more rugged and with a set of foglights set prominently on the front. Its biggest boon is its ride quality. A strong effort that sees off several other similar newcomers.

Opel Astra

Opel’s new Astra takes its cue from the outgoing Car of the Year, the Opel Insignia. This car follows suit. The cabin has received a massive revamp that kicks it up towards the top of the segment, even if the handling is still not a match for its two main rivals.