Car Reviews | AA Cars

Volkswagen Golf

4/5

There is a Volkswagen Golf for everyone. Whether you prefer petrol, hybrid, or diesel, the Golf offers understated design, well-built cabin, modern features, mature ride and handling, along with effortless engine options. There's little to fault with the Golf, and as a car that can do it all, it remains a top pick.
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BMW 1 Series

4.2/5

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MG HS

4.0/5

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Toyota Aygo X

4.2/5

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Mazda MX5

4.5/5

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Kia Niro

4.0/5

Kia’s Niro is an example of just how far this Korean brand has come. Far from feeling low-rent in places, the Niro’s quality and robustness show that it has really come to play with the big-hitters. Plus, Kia’s approach to the Niro has been to offer an electrified powertrain to suit all types of drivers, which is why you’ll find this car available with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups, as well as a pure electric model.

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Volvo XC60

4.2/5

Understated and stylish, the Volvo XC60 has long been an appealing option in the premium mid-size SUV market even if it’s one of the oldest models in its class. But while it may have been around for a while, the XC60 isn’t outdated nor outclassed, with timeless Scandinavian design and sophistication, advanced safety features and a versatile engine range. It builds on Volvo’s core strengths of comfort, safety, and understated luxury, while adding efficient hybrid technology and cutting-edge infotainment to the mix.

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Tesla Model 3

4.1/5

Tesla is arguably the pioneer of mainstream electric movement and the Model 3 has rapidly cemented itself as one of the best-selling EVs in the world. Its compact proportions, excellent efficiency and Tesla’s highly convenient network of Superchargers make it an obvious choice for those thinking of making the switch to an electric car.

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SEAT Arona

3.9/5

Seat sought to capitalise on the Ateca’s success with the smaller Arona in 2017, and hoped to take sales away from the likes of Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Citroen C3 Aircross and Kia Stonic. The Arona has proved to be popular in the UK. A comprehensive facelift arrived in 2021, bringing refreshed looks and new technology. The Spanish car maker has even revealed an updated version for 2025 to keep the Arona feeling fresh against much newer competition.

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Mazda 3

4.3/5

While cars like the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus tend to dominate the family hatchback space, the Mazda 3 thrives in the background. It doesn't grab the spotlight, but concentrates on offering something unique. The current, fourth-generation Mazda 3 appeared in 2019 and marked something of a departure for the Japanese brand. Mazda elevated the 3 into a semi-premium space, making it a rival for not just the established competition like the Volkswagen Golf, but also other hatchbacks.

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Toyota RAV4

4.2/5

With the first version of the model introduced over 30 years ago, the Toyota RAV4 is rightly seen as one of the pioneers of the compact family SUV market. A global best-seller and now in its fifth generation, with a newcomer on the horizon, the RAV4 continues to set benchmarks for reliability, practicality, and efficiency. It's designed to suit a wide range of drivers, from families to those needing something a little more rugged and capable of handling light terrain.

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