In-depth reviews

Undercooked and irritating in equal measure, the Mk8 Golf R’s execution is left wanting, and it’s a loss for the class

The four-pots are disappointing, but with a six in the middle this is about as good as cars get

Recently updated, the Porsche Macan is still the class champion and unlike most rivals a genuinely captivating drive

The A45 proves Mercedes-AMG has found the formula for not just a fast hot hatchback, but a genuinely involving one

A class stalwart, maybe, but the Fiesta ST drives with real enthusiasm, engagement and sophistication

Toyota’s new road-going rally special is a great driver’s car of the type we worried we’d never see again. It’s a little gem.

The large hatchback and estate aren’t cool: fact. But the Skoda Superb is a great car in spite of it

Intense, charismatic and far more resolved than its former self, the Evo is a brilliant supercar dominated by that superb V10 engine

It was designed to take on the BMW M3, but stole our hearts along the way – the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is masterpiece

The Civic Type R is one of the most alluring performance cars on sale regardless of price

It might be the entry-level car in Volkswagen’s GTI range, but the Up GTI has masses of charm

The SEAT Leon Cupra is at the end of its lifespan, but has only become better with age

There are few more distinctive cars on the road, and the GT S continues to entertain and engage, despite its flaws

The updated Q5 does what it says on the tin. Well built, dependable, solid to drive, but for an edgier SUV look elsewhere

The new Defender isn’t a typical evo car, but it's something we’d gladly have sat in the garage next to one

Can the Tesla Model 3 really be a willing alternative to a typical executive car? It makes a great go at it, but there are compromises.

The Bentley Continental GT is not just an excellent cruiser, but now one with real ability, poise and even some engagement

The Taycan steers better, accelerates harder and is built better than the competition, but its weight ultimately undoes its claim as a sports car

The XF’s impressive chassis is now joined by a plush new interior and slick tech, but powertrains remain a significant weakness 

A strong combination of full-size Range Rover elements in a more attainable package, but objectively it’s no class-leader

The Lexus RC F might seem old fashioned, but its recipe still holds lots of appeal

Charismatic, challenging, distinctive and above all fun to drive – the LC500 is a triumph that shows up more expensive and extroverted rivals

The third-generation Porsche Cayenne has the goods as an SUV, but talent is not spread evenly across the range

Not quite a class leader, and surprisingly expensive, but the latest Focus ST can be great fun on the right roads

The engine dominates what is a captivating and distinctive performance car awash with character.

The Audi TT is still sharp to look at and comes with a lovely interior, but still doesn't hit the right notes on a twisting road

The NSX melds technology and tactility to impressive effect, but still lacks the ultimate emotional appeal of the best supercars

More than just an X5 XL, the X7 adds luxury, a little more space and a satisfying driving experience

The latest Porsche 911 is more complete than ever, but it takes time to discover its character

VW's Polo GTI is polished and capable, but lacks the intensity of most rivals

More agile and involving than before, and more affordable than its rivals, the RS7 is quite the usurper

A fast and competent sports car, but short on that final element of engagement that defines a great driver’s car

Flawed, fun and fast - Mustang's not a great sports car, but it's a great muscle car

Mini’s middle-ground hot hatch is fun, but keen drivers will get more from a Ford Fiesta ST