It might be the big smoky sideways shots that get autocar.co.uk’s readers interested, but when it comes to the crunch, it’s the real-world reviews of the most popular cars on sale that get you clicking.
To round off the most important – and busiest – year in the history of Autocar’s website, here are the reviews that you’ve enjoyed reading the most.
It's one of our favourite hatchbacks, thanks to a wide and varied range including sporting models that endlessly reward and some exceptionally frugal diesels. The enduring appeal of that blue and white roundel in a reasonably practical package helps too.
One of this year’s most important – and impressive – new car launches was the seventh-generation Golf. We said the new model was a “damnably difficult car to criticise," and that’s high praise indeed. Key to the car’s huge ability is the new MQB platform, which saves around 100kg, and a range of new or revised engines. It has set new class standards.
With all the attention lavished on the Golf and its siblings, it could be easy to forget the Focus’ talents. An excellent 1.0-litre three-pot engine has helped it grab headlines, but in spite of steering that lacks the involvement of previous models, big-car tech and superb fit and finish means it is still the big-seller in the UK C-segment.
Earlier this year, we described the latest F30 generation of the BMW 3-series as the best car in the real world. It retains the huge appeal of its predecessors, but adds more poise, precision and adjustability than ever. Not that that means a stern ride – it feels more grown up, and the 320d offers genuine 50mpg-plus capability.
Stylish, practical, economical, refined, and beneath it all the V40 still bleeds the blue and yellow of Volvo’s idiosyncratic personality. Handsome looks and an elegant interior give the V40 real driveway appeal that means Volvo can realistically compete with the premium German establishment for the first time.
The Evoque was core to Land Rover’s brand extension and growth strategy. Doubters thought it an exercise in style over substance, but in the opinion of our road testers, it has the ability to satisfy in most areas. The Evoque is a landmark moment in Land Rover’s history – it’s the car that has finally, deliberately, taken the brand out of the field and into the consciousness of the style elite.
Join the debate
Add your comment
The top 10 of 2012
I like all the cars in the Autocar's biggest car reviews of 2012. But I'd like to re-arrange the list a little.
Toyota GT 86 - affordable fun. Period.
VW Golf - affordable luxury on top models
Mazda CX-5 - clean, pleasant drive
Peugeot 208 - looks better, drops size
Range Rover Evoque - master of bling
Mercedes A-Class - radically improved looks
Ford Focus - can't argue with numbers. It sells
BMW 3-Series - the car defines its class
BMW 1-Series - stands out in the class
Volvo V40 - takes safety to new levels