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Buying a car can feel overwhelming. Even after you've found a match, questions remain: which engine should you buy, is electric right for you, and which trim offers the best value? Our car reviews answer these clearly and honestly, so you can enjoy the journey to your next car.

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  • Polestar 2

    Polestar 2

    4.0/5

    Launched in 2020 and updated in 2024, the Polestar 2 is the Swedish brand’s flagship electric saloon, positioned as a direct rival to the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4, and Hyundai Ioniq 6. It stands out due to its clean, fuss-free Scandinavian design, heavily influenced by sister-brand Volvo, and is marketed as a car with advanced technology and engaging dynamics as core to its appeal. Although a relatively new brand, Polestar’s affinity with Volvo means that it’s also one of the most desirable EV-only brands and enjoys stronger residual values than many rivals.

  • Skoda Karoq

    Skoda Karoq

    4.1/5

    The Karoq was the second SUV to join the Skoda line-up and is the company’s compact mid-size offering, which goes up against models such as the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008 and Volkswagen Tiguan. It’s a popular SUV in the class, with a decent blend of spaciousness, comfort and value, making it a strong contender for young families and those seeking a capable all-rounder. Available exclusively as a five-door SUV, the Karoq is a traditional offering and not as cutting-edge as some rivals, but is nevertheless a capable model in a very crowded class.

  • Renault Arkana

    Renault Arkana

    3.5/5

    The Renault Arkana wasn’t on sale in the UK for long, with a production run of just three years between 2021 and 2024. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to premium coupé-crossover rivals, the Renault Arkana targeted urban drivers and young families seeking a blend of bold design, practicality and efficient hybrid powertrains. Even today, the Arkana doesn’t feel outdated alongside rival models such as the Nissan Ariya, Toyota C-HR, Kia Niro, Hyundai Kona, and Peugeot 3008. Even though it is no longer on sale, its relative rarity makes it a curiously interesting option for those who want something a little bit different from the norm.

  • BMW M5

    BMW M5

    4.0/5

    The BMW M5 is the firm’s flagship saloon car, offering huge levels of performance alongside lots of practicality. For this latest generation, BMW ripped up the rulebook and introduced a plug-in hybrid M5 which as well as impressive acceleration, brings scope for far lower running costs than your typical performance car.

  • BMW 2 Series

    BMW 2 Series

    4.0/5

    In a world of SUVs and electric cars, the BMW 2 Series is refreshingly old-school. It's a two-door, four-seater car, with rear-wheel drive, a low driving position, and a pure focus on handling balance. It offers more practicality than a sports car like the Mazda MX-5, but offers a more engaging drive than hot hatchbacks. Over the years, BMW has expanded the 2 Series into a family of models. Alongside the coupe there's the MPV-like Active Tourer and four-door Gran Coupe. We have separate in-depth reviews on both of those cars – here we're focusing on the coupe.

  • Dacia Bigster

    Dacia Bigster

    4.0/5

    Dacia might be known for its range of value-focused models like the Sandero and Duster, but the Romanian firm is punching into the premium sector with the Bigster. While still keeping a competitive price, the Bigster brings more space and features that families would want.

Meet our authors

  • Adithya Gopal

    Adithya Gopal

    Motoring Journalist/Content Editor

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  • Tony Rich

    Tony Rich

    Public Relations Manager/ Ex- AA patrol of the year

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  • Jack Evans

    Jack Evans

    Motoring Journalist/Contributor

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  • James Hosking

    James Hosking

    AA Cars Managing Director

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