My judgement is based on following grounds:

VW Polo
Brings to the super minis quality levels usually only found in the segment above. Best in class ride/handling compromise. Small engines, but with good performance and fuel consumption. I specially like the 1.2 TSI.  Bluemotion version is a landmark and program for future versions looks promising. The timing is perfect, for what is a downsized Golf.

Citroën C3 Picasso
It resurrected a forgotten sub-segment and brought along with it some welcome “chic”. Nice to look at and practical too. Excellent compromise between exterior dimensions and interior room. Good versatility, not found before in this class. Rides well and is very easy to drive and to live with. Diesel engines have nice performance but could do with better fuel consumption. Lacks some more engine options.

Peugeot 3008
Pragmatic is the word that best says what this car is all about. Why 4WD if FWD can do the job?... Very ergonomic and high quality looking facia, excellent driving position and curious gadgets like the head up display. Interesting technical solution for the optional rear suspension guarantees handling above what would be expected for a car this height. Ample room in the rear seat with three real places. Exterior style is a mess, though.

Opel Astra
Until new engines arrive to this range, the present ones (1.7 CDTI in particular) are the downside in a car that has changed for the better. Very clever technical solution for the rear suspension: effective and cheap to make. Some ergonomic troubles inside and style not very inspired. Still lives in the shadow of the mighty VW Golf.

Skoda Yeti
Practical, functional, rational: it has all the qualities I do not appreciate in a car. But I found myself actually enjoying driving this one. Totally unpretentious but, nevertheless, does a good job as a no frills mini-SUV. Very good with the 1.2 TSI engine but it really misses the 1.6 TDI for the range to be complete.

Toyota iQ
The right car at the wrong time, and at the wrong price. Clever engineering concerning the engine/gearbox packaging. Good performance from petrol and Diesel engines, handles far better then it should, considering the short wheelbase. But I’m not sure if four seats and no luggage compartment is the most practical idea for a daily car... It improves in many aspects on the smart fortwo but, somehow it spoils the concept in the end. Too pricey.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class
It’s like an expensive suit: gives you exactly what you were expecting. Nothing else. Maybe it’s what it’s customers want but, from Mercedes-Benz, I’m always expecting something more. Not only because of it’s price positioning but also because the brand has brought some truly innovative cars in the last few years. Mere competence when I was expecting for some brilliancy.