My best micro hatch...
My best micro hatch is the Kia Picanto, not the Toyota Aygo/Citroen C1/Peugeot 107 family, which could have won had it not been for overpricing. Next up is the Renault Clio (small hatch), Honda Civic (mid-size) and Ford Focus ST (hot). Car about town is the Mini One. The Lexus RX400h (hybrid), Chrysler 300C (saloon), Audi A6 (estate) and Mazda 5 (six-seater) are all best in class. In the 4x4 sector, the Nissan X-Trail (SUV), Land Rover Discovery (off-roader) and Jeep Wrangler (icon) clean up.
Volvo"s C30 has been...
Volvo"s C30 has been handed a mid-life update with exterior tweaks and a new, greener engine.
A redesigned front end featuring new panels and a pair of restyled, longer headlamps gives the car a more dynamic and sporty look. Elsewhere, the rear remains relatively unchanged aside from a new "faux-diffuser" which can be colour-coded to the bodywork or in a contrasting colour.
Meanwhile, under the skin the facelifted C30 is available with an optional Sport chassis to give a sharper ride. With this option in place the car is lowered by 10mm and springs and dampers are stiffened to allow for a more precise and responsive ride.
Aside from the usual petrol and diesel engines, Volvo are offering the 1.6D DRIVe Start/Stop which claims economy figures of 72.4mpg (combined) and 104g/km of CO2.
The new C30 will be officially unveiled at next week"s Frankfurt Motor Show and full details and prices will be announced in closer to the on-sale date in 2010.