The sixth-generation VW Polo was updated in 2022, and prices have risen by almost $6000. The range starts at $25,990 for the 70kW 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo, fivespeed manual Life. The 85kW/seven-speed twin-clutch DSG transmission variant is $28

More compact than the recently superseded F48 X1, on which it’s based, BMW X2 prices start at $53,500 for the sDrive 18i. This front-wheel-drive X2 runs a 103kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol triple matched with a seven-speed double-clutch automatic. M Sport

The base model Audi A1 30 TFSi, priced at $34,250, is a redecorated Volkswagen Polo. Audi is a subsidiary brand of VW. Nearly all of the hardware, including the body, running gear and 85kW 1.0-litre three cylinder turbopetrol/seven speed dual clutch

As with its immediate predecessor, Honda’s sixth generation Civic Type R sits on the front row of the hot hatch grid, with Hyundai’s i30N and the VW Golf R. The Honda, though, is now the most expensive of the trio by a big margin. At $72,600 drive aw

The CX-60 is a mid-sized SUV that kicks off at $59,800 plus on-road costs for the Evolve G40E, with a new 209kW/450Nm 3.3-litre inline six-cylinder turbopetrol engine. Grab the 187kW/550Nm D50E turbodiesel (of the same straight six configuration) and

The Ford Puma is the smallest SUV in the brand’s line-up. There are three models: Puma (from $30,840), Puma ST-Line ($33,190) and Puma ST-Line V (from $36,390). All three models are powered by the same turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine (wi

Eight generations since its introduction in 1964, this 911 is more about luxurious grand touring and its raw, racy origins seem very long ago. Prices have risen by up to $35,000 in 2023. Carrera coupe, with a 283kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo six, costs $2

The X1 is the most affordable SUV from BMW. Now in its third generation, it’s priced from $60,400 plus on-road costs for the sDrive 18i, tested here, that gets a 115kW/230Nm, 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol engine driving the front wheels via a

The second generation Lexus NX makes several steps forward in terms of a more user-friendly infotainment system and advanced safety aids across the range. Build quality inside and out — as well as the overall presentation of the vehicle — remain firs

Honda’s sixth generation CRV, the largest to date, is available with five or seven seats, and front or all-wheel drivetrains. Start money is $44,500 drive away for the base VTi X, powered by a carryover 1.5-litre turbopetrol four with a healthy 140kW

BMW’s 2011-2019 One Series was the last rear wheel drive hatchback on the market. The latest 118i M Sport, tested here, uses the same body architecture and front wheel drivetrain as the five door Mini (a brand owned by BMW) and the X1/X2 small SUVs.

Peugeot’s latest 308 completes the French hatchback’s thirty year metamorphosis from affordable alternative to the Japanese brand leaders to expensive, design-driven luxury item. Pricing now starts at $43,990 for the GT hatch. By the time you pay the

Mini hiked starting prices by more than $6500 during 2021. Call it the Covid tax. And it added another $3500 or so in mid-2023. Maybe they should call it the Maxi instead? The Mini Cooper range now starts at $43,050 for the three door, seven-speed du

After a stalled start more than a decade ago, Chinese car giant Great Wall Motors is beginning to find traction in Australia. The company is now called GWM Haval, with utility vehicles wearing GWM badges and SUVs wearing both GWM and Haval logos. The

Nissan’s Juke is a compact SUV, close in size to the class best seller, Mitsubishi’s ASX. All variants are powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol engine with just 85kW of power – most rivals have 100kW or more. It’s matched to a sevenspeed