BEST CARS OF 2010 (PART 4)

Opel Astra

We loved this car at first sight. Styled along the lines of the new Insignia, the Astra is a quiet but very capable. From where we sit, it is now a more mature drive, very refined and stylish, no longer the little boy racer that was the old Kadett. We’d actually say it’s the most stylish car in its class today. Those little engines are serious performers too, while the interior appointments only increase its appeal.

Peugeot RCZ

Giant slayer that is the RCZ is probably the surprise package of the year 2010. That’s because very few ever gave it half a chance, given competitors like the Audi TT. Nevertheless it turned out even better than some of them, flipping out a seriously satisfying chassis, strong engines and a looker above the skin. Peugeot is back in the sports car league and by the looks of things, here to stay.

Porsche Panamera

Porsche’s four-door coupe was done right first time out. Although the design doesn’t brew universal appeal, it does grow on one over time. Engines are superb, especially that 368kW Turbo unit. Handling is in the same league as the 7 Series, XJ and new A8, so fun is not traded for size. And don’t think luxury was compromised either. Porsche went to town with high quality materials, comfort creatures like the awesome 1000W, 16-speaker Burmester sound system.

Renault Megane RS Cup

We thought the all-new Megane Renault Sport would be incredible. It is. We thought it would be powerful. It is (184kW). We thought it would punch above its weight. It does. In Cup guise it becomes the class benchmark as far as performance goes. We thought Renault can build memorable sports hatches. We now know for sure that they only build the best.

Volkswagen Amarok

VW’s initiation into the full-sized double cab market drew mixed feelings in the media. That was until we drove the thing. Large is an understatement. The Amarok is the largest vehicle in its class and even has a rear load bay wide enough take French palates! Engines have been criticised for being small, but they match major rivals’ and are said to be more fuel efficient. Model looks and rugged abilities don’t normally go together. However with the Amarok that combination is guaranteed.